Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to make a brief Member's statement with respect to the recent announcement by the Hon. John Ningark resigning from his ministerial portfolio. I do want to tell him that, as a Member of this Assembly, I certainly have appreciated his efforts and his work that he has put into his responsibilities that have been placed on him. I know that he feels the pressure and the criticism may have been directed at him, and It is unfortunate that he felt that way. However, it is unfortunate at times that criticism has to be granted in order to get our points across.

I do know that Mr. Ningark, within time, if he would have allowed time, would have made an excellent Minister because of the fact that he is a very honest man; he is a very open man; and that is one of the fundamental things that you need to become a Minister. It is unfortunate that he did not allow for time to develop because I know he would have developed to be an excellent Minister representing all the people in the Territories.

With that, I wish you the very best with your family. I know it has been very difficult for you to be here in Yellowknife without your family at your side, and it has made it extremely difficult for you to continue with your work and the demands placed upon you and your office. But I thank you very much personally, for the work that you have given and shown to this Assembly.

-Applause