Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the NWT transportation strategy was tabled in this House in October of 1990, by the Honourable Gordon Wray. This strategy was presented as the first ever, comprehensive, long-term transportation plan for the north. Covering areas of federal as well as territorial responsibility, it was designed to respond to the needs and aspirations of the people of the Northwest Territories, into the 21 century.
Mr. Speaker, this is a fine piece of work. As Minister of Transportation, I want to go on the record as stating that I fully support the goals, principles and objectives of this strategy. I fully intend to build on the foundation laid by my predecessors.
I will begin by updating this transportation strategy. I believe it is timely to do so for a number of reasons. First, I believe it simply needs to be made current. A surprising number of the short-term priorities in the strategy have already been accomplished, particularly in the area of airport, highway and marine facility improvements. This will allow other priorities to be brought forward. Further analysis, new ideas and better cost estimates should be incorporated. The strategy must also recognize changing conditions and the fiscal realities on both the federal and territorial governments.
Secondly, I believe it is time to consult with our constituents to ensure that the strategy accurately reflects their needs and priorities. I know that the 1990 strategy has stimulated much thought and provoked many new ideas. I want to ensure that these ideas are captured and considered in our update.
Finally, I want our efforts to focus on clearly achievable short and medium term objectives. Some of the proposals in the strategy have been called too ambitious, perhaps unrealistic. We are tempted, after less than three years, to be disappointed with progress. Let us remember, however, that this strategy was intended to be visionary. It looked well into the future, 20 years and beyond. To some extent, I think it was too far-reaching for the federal government to accept.
I do not intend to rewrite the transportation strategy, nor do I intend a lengthy or costly process. I intend to clearly identify our realistic short and medium term objectives. We will do this in full consultation with northerners. The result will form the basis for negotiations with Ottawa.
I will be looking for the support and assistance of all Members to ensure that this transportation strategy update reflects the needs and aspirations of all northerners in all regions. I intend to keep transportation high on the northern agenda. I intend to get in on the federal agenda. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause