Mahsi. Mr. Speaker, I feel that the Gwich'in have a vision for the future that is reflected in their agreement and this must be respected.
Currently discussions are proceeding to develop legislative drafting guidelines that shall create a land and water regulatory system for the Gwich'in settlement area and an environmental assessment and review process that shall recommend terms and conditions for development in the Mackenzie Valley. Clarity of the regulatory process shall provide the degree of certainty that developers need in order to invest in the north and ensure that development is sustainable for our future generations.
The Gwich'in tribal council's goal is to continue to build on their aboriginal and treaty rights. This requires the Gwich'in to work hard during land claim implementation as well as develop and deliver programs and services to their people who are culturally relevant and community based. I hope that government will support the Gwich'in's initiatives. It is this independence and control that our community members requested and demanded for many years.
Strength and determination of the Gwich'in leadership and personnel are a testimony to the community's unity. A conviction of their vision for the future created a focus that was never distracted by difficult negotiations, and now they have the tool to implement their vision. The vision of the future is outlined in the Gwich'in tribal council's mission statement, "Gwich'in land, culture and economy for a better future." All of this effort, in 15 years of negotiations, is for the purpose of improving the quality of life of the Gwich'in.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Gwich'in, thank the Government Leader, and other government officials, for their efforts in completing this historic legislation. I would also like to thank Minister Siddon, and his officials, for having the foresight and determination to settle this land claim. Mahsi Cho.
---Applause