Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. The department is doing a little here and a little there for aboriginal language and culture. But it seems to be ad hoc with no comprehensive plan or strategy. The government needs to develop a strategy, and there must be greater community control in this area. This is where the traditional knowledge working group and the aboriginal languages conference recommendations are invaluable.
In light of the constitutional developments and the now direction throughout the country to recognize the aboriginal inherent right to self-government, this government should move toward devolving Dene and Inuit cultural programs to the proper recognized aboriginal authority. It is time that this government too, recognized and supported the right to self-government. The plan of this government to reshape northern government should include a strong commitment to further the self-government of aboriginal people. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.