Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last Friday morning, 1.5 kilometres underground in the Mikasa Mine, a hard rock and deep gold mine near Kirkland Lake, Ontario, a rock burst occurred, trapping two miners behind a huge wall of rock. At this time, their fate is still unknown. Another 20 miners working in the area at the time escaped alive but with some minor injuries. Rescue efforts are continuing around the clock as workers move forward rock by rock and, at times, by hand.

Mr. Speaker, in Yellowknife, we live in the middle of a major mining zone. Yellowknife is predominantly a mining community and this accident has touched many of my constituents who live with the dangers of mining every day. We know that mine safety is critical to a safe work place and there should be no compromise in mine safety inspections and strict enforcement. But equally important is that the workers, as well, practice safe working habits. That combination will pay off. But, while there is every effort made to create a safe working environment, there is no accounting for natural events. Such was the case in the Mikasa Mine, where the very rock itself exploded inward due to the tremendous pressures found at 1500 metres or more underground.

At this time, we can only watch and hope. Our thoughts go to the families and to the co-workers of the two trapped men and that we pray for their safe deliverance. Thank you.