Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the people of my region were very glad to hear the announcement that the Colomac Gold Mine could be back in production some time in 1994. Mr. Speaker, you may recall that this mine at Indian Lake, which was shut down after only one year of operation, employed a number of workers from the Dogrib communities. Its re-opening will again allow residents of Snare Lake, Rae Lakes, Lac La Martre and Rae-Edzo to participate in the industrial development of our region. To young families in Dogrib communities, this means more than just jobs, Mr. Speaker. It also means skill training and career advancement possibilities.

For the region, it provides a focus for the emerging infrastructure that will go hand in hand with further mineral developments. These include, of course, recent initiatives for hydro development now under negotiations between the NWT Power Corporation and the Dogrib nation and initiatives outlined by the Minister of Transportation in his announcement earlier this session. Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories can be an important partner in turning this mineral development potential into a reality. An assessment of training needs in Dogrib communities aimed at identifying the kinds of programs which will better prepare local workers to work in the mining industry should be undertaken by Arctic College. The Department of Economic Development and Tourism should be aware and be gearing up to provide incentives and other support for local contractors who will be available to deliver services once the mine is up and running. Consultation, Mr. Speaker, should begin immediately between the mine owners and the Dogrib leadership to better plan for the success which eluded us in an earlier venture. I believe the Department of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources can also be an important partner in this.

Mr. Speaker, may I seek unanimous consent to conclude?