Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to congratulate the Inuit of Nunavut on two important events that occurred during this summer while the Legislative Assembly was not in session

The first was the successful completion over the summer of the TFN claim. I'm sure that the celebration in Coppermine on July 9 will be long remembered by residents of Nunavut, as this represented the culmination of nearly 20 years of hard work by many dedicated people. Now the challenge is in making the claim work and ensuring that the terms of the agreement are met by the parties involved in the negotiations. I'm confident that there will be appreciable change in the life of Nunavut residents once the claim has been fully implemented.

Of equal importance, the passage of the Nunavut Act was given royal assent on June 10 by the Governor General. This act sets the stage for the division of what we know today as the Northwest Territories, into two new territories. This has long been a dream of many of the Nunavut residents, and required much hard work by them as they steadily worked toward the goal of Nunavut. I congratulate all those involved in this task.

A major change in the north will occur on April 1, 1999 when division will take place. There is much to be done by both the people of Nunavut and by those of us who live in the western Arctic. We must begin our work immediately and with integrity as we set our houses in order before division takes place. In the meantime, as we work in this Legislative Assembly, we must continue to work toward common goals. The most important goal is that of delivering the best possible government for the residents of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Western Caucus and the Western Constitutional Steering Development Committee, I once again commend the Inuit for their achievements and assure them our full support in achieving their dreams. Qujannamiik. Mahsi cho.

---Applause