(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Recently I became very concerned about the frequency and number of adventurers who tried to make trips to the North Pole by various kinds of transportation, just to show the world they can achieve something. In 1992, there was a group who set out on foot to reach the North Pole. They did not want any help from anybody, and one of their members decided to turn back after they had gone a great distance. There was a great concern for his safety, and a search was initiated using an airplane and a helicopter. They did not find him right away, but when they did he was not in any immediate danger. It cost the taxpayers $200,000 to search for this individual.
I live in the High Arctic, and I know the area quite well. You have to be very well prepared to venture up there, and have training in survival, because of the harsh weather conditions and other dangers. I think it is time for the government to introduce legislation so these people who venture out to the North Pole are aware that there is a law that they have to follow if they want to venture out on their own. There is a danger not only to those who go out but to the people who go out to rescue them. We are concerned about the people who venture out to the North Pole. Before tragedy occurs or it is too late, the government should introduce legislation to make it mandatory for them to insure themselves before they venture out. It is time for our government to take the necessary steps to bring in legislation, as well as informing the federal government to introduce legislation for the benefit of those who venture out in a variety of ways to the North Pole.