... where 70 percent of the students are aboriginal. Without this program, Gwich'in and Inuvialuit will continue to see drop-outs. Government, before getting approval for funding priorities, has stopped any further TEP initiatives without consultation from this Assembly.
The Town of Inuvik, the Gwich'in and Inuvialuit organizations have also decided to participate in fund-raising efforts to build a recreation centre. This long overdue project is in Inuvik's capital plan. However, the current allocation is totally inadequate to build a skating rink, let alone a recreation centre. When the Legislative Assembly considers the capital budget, I hope Members will take into consideration that the existing facilities are condemned and may be closed in the next year or two. The community is willing to provide their fair share of funds to build a recreation facility which should serve Inuvik for many years.
On another initiative, the Town of Inuvik and other tourism organizations, including the two aboriginal groups, formed a steering committee to assist the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the development of a tourism visitors' centre. The centre will provide regional focus to a tourism industry that is rapidly creating a new economic base. The Inuvialuit and Gwich'in have entered into a joint ownership arrangement for the project. Ownership will ensure that aboriginal heritage is presented in a truly northern fashion.
Mr. Speaker, these initiatives are paving the way for a new partnership among all the ethnic groups in Inuvik, and I look forward to working with the Inuvik partners, which are creating a healthy working environment for the political, social and economic development of the community. Mahsi.
--- Applause