Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I note that under departmental objectives, that one of the objectives under sport and recreation is to develop a training program for Traditional Games Program organizers. I am aware, being an active participant in sport and recreation, and over the years, there has been an heavy emphasis on certification of coaches and instructors. The certification process involves using the sport Canada National Coaching Certification Program, and uses the national standards.
In regard to traditional games, many communities promote and host traditional games and events, and we have many people that are the organizers, coaches, and performers. Many of these people do not register under the National Coaching Certification Programs, many of them would be, because of literacy not able to pass the examines. I know there is a very rigid course outline and structure of the courses, and most of them are required to pass an exam, with a certain percentage mark. Many of them will not register under these programs because of that. However, and I mentioned this yesterday in terms of culture, and the cultural activities that people do, that this is one area that is a cultural activity, traditional games.
I think our government should have some kind of certification, or should have some kind of recognition for these people that do not register in the national programs. In every community we have all our native organizations, many of our people do these things, but they do not get that pat on the back or get recognition. I think we should have, because I think the north is very unique, some of our own standards, some of our own abilities to recognize these people, and certify them for what they do, and what they know, not necessary what their ability is to pass an exam with 70, 80 or 90 percent. It is a concern of mine. I think we should give recognition where it is due, and these people that promote, host, and coach traditional games should be recognized for their values to the community, and to Canada.