Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My Speaker, it's my distinct pleasure to stand today to congratulate the Member from Pond Inlet, for Nunatsiaq, Jack Anawak, on his appointment as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister officially announced this appointment yesterday, through the Minister of DIAND, during
the annual general meeting of the Nunavut Tunngavik group in Rankin Inlet.
Mr. Speaker, as Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Anawak will assist the Honourable Ron Irwin with both his parliamentary and departmental responsibilities. Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity to meet with the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Mr. Anawak this week, in Rankin Inlet. It was obvious, from our meetings and our private conversations, of the value that Mr. Irwin places on Mr. Anawak's opinion, particularly with regard to northern issues. I am confident that with the new responsibilities given to Mr. Anawak, the views of the Northwest Territories will be well represented with both the Minister and the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. The appointment of Mr. Anawak to this influential position, as well as the appointment last month of the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew as Minister of State, sends a clear message of the importance that the Prime Minister places on the north. It also signals the tremendously able representation of the Northwest Territories by both Members of this Parliament. Mr. Speaker, I know that other Members of this House will join me in congratulating Mr. Anawak in this important appointment.
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