Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last May my constituents were shocked and saddened by the tragic death of a well-known native pilot, Billy Bourque, who owned and operated Loon Air.

Mr. Speaker, Billy Bourque was killed in Villeneuve, Alberta while he was doing a test flight with the new plane he had purchased for his company. Mr. Speaker, his death was not a result of pilot error. His death was due to the airline cables being incorrectly installed. The cables were installed backwards.

Billy had a unique personality which always allowed his generosity and sense of humour to shine. Mr. Speaker, Billy Bourque received his private pilot's license at 18 years of age. With further work, he obtained his commercial license in 1972, at age 21. In 1980, Billy established his own business which was called Loon Air, a name and a logo which truly reflects our north. His company had four planes at the time of his death.

Billy Bourque was born in Fort Chipewyan to his proud parents, Albertine and the late Joseph Bourque. He leaves behind his wife Heather, three sons: Troy, Ivan and Scottie, and his daughter Rene. Billy is also missed by six sisters, three brothers and many nieces and nephews, uncles and aunts. He lived most of his life in Fort Smith.

Billy Bourque was a man who was held in high regard by many people in the north, particularly in Fort Smith. He was a man who respected everyone, regardless of who they were or what they did.

Mr. Speaker, nothing would please my constituents more than having the new tanker base to be built in Fort Smith named in his honour. Mr. Speaker, I would encourage this government to call the new base, when it is built, the Billy Bourque Aviation Centre. Thank you.

---Applause