Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The heritage resources of the Northwest Territories are important non-renewable assets that require comprehensive legislation to ensure their protection and preservation for future generations. Existing legislation has become seriously outdated, particularly in light of new directions in the heritage field, current political and economic realities, land settlement agreements and modern land development practices.

To address these issues, my department is developing new heritage legislation. After considerable research and consultation with other departments, Education, Culture and Employment has developed a number of options for this legislation.

These options are presented for discussion in a paper which will be used for consultation this winter with claimant groups, and other established culture and heritage groups in the Northwest Territories. I will provide a copy of this document to each Member of the Assembly. The department will use the information received through consultation, to develop a legislative action paper. The department is prepared to start consultation with interest groups. I expect to table the action paper proposing specific recommendations for new legislation, during the next session of the Legislative Assembly. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.