Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I would like to say that in Fort Simpson last week, March 23 to 25, there was a conference on family violence and sexual abuse. This conference was very well attended by approximately 100 delegates from a number of communities throughout the north, and people from as far as Spence Bay and the Delta participated. I would like to thank them for coming to Fort Simpson and participating in this conference.
The comments I heard about the conference was that it was worth it, and that especially the healing part of the conference, the healing circle it is called, was worth it and the people who participated feel that it was a very good experience for them. The information and plan of action from this conference will be gathered, recommendations will come from that and a plan of action will be developed. Because we will be concluded this Friday and we will not be getting back together until next fall, I wanted to thank the Minister who is responsible for Social Services, the Honourable Rebecca Mike, for coming to Fort Simpson last Thursday and participating in the feast and drum dance.
---Applause
On behalf of my constituents, it was important that you, as the Minister of Social Services, came to this conference and made a statement to the people on the position of the government with regard to the whole area of sexual abuse and family violence. The people who participated felt it was worth it for you to come to Fort Simpson, and I appreciate that.
(Translation) What I am trying to say is, last weekend there was a meeting in Fort Simpson. Many people from different regions and areas were involved. Rebecca Mike, Minister of Social Services, attended the drum dance and the feast, and she talked to the delegates there. I would like to thank her for attending this conference. (Translation ends)
...developing recommendations. Through the spring and summer you will hear about the recommendations and follow up on this course of action. Mahsi.
