Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I have a question for the Minister responsible for Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources in regard to the Northern Accord. I have been told that the status of negotiations on the Northern Accord has been suspended with the federal government. At the present time, since 1988, there was an enabling agreement to formulate, or bring about the Northern Accord regarding natural resources.

This is devolution of jurisdiction from the federal government to G.N.W.T. in terms of the ownership and management of natural resources in the N.W.T. I understand, since 1988, there have been negotiations and at this point I have been told that these negotiations have been suspended. I was wondering if the Minister responsible could explain to the House the status of negotiations on the Northern Accord at this time? Thank you.