(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the spring of 1991, a report was prepared by the traditional knowledge working group and subsequently tabled in this House. Mr. Speaker, I am appalled at the lack of action that has followed the transmission of this important report. This was a significant project in which many northern elders and community representatives devoted hours of work. The Dene Cultural Institute, the Metis Heritage Association, the Inuvialuit social development program, the Inuit Cultural Institute and other organizations were directly involved.
The report which came out of this exercise should have been seized by the government as a valuable blueprint for incorporating the traditional wisdom of our communities within
the government framework. Instead, it has sat on the shelf. There has been no meaningful response from this government. The report has been neglected and the importance of traditional knowledge has been treated lightly. Mr. Speaker, I find that to be shameful.
Mr. Speaker, my honourable colleagues for Inuvik and Keewatin Central raised this issue back in June, 1992. Each time, the Minister of the day has indicated that government bureaucrats are preparing a paper about the report for review by Cabinet. I have never understood why that is necessary. The report is well written and the working group's recommendations stand on their own merits. I have also not understood why it has taken the Cabinet two years to deal with the report.
Clearly, the process of incorporating aboriginal wisdom and traditional knowledge within the workings of public government do not seem to be a priority of this government. It should be a priority, Mr. Speaker. I intend to pursue this matter until I am satisfied that the appropriate level of attention has been paid to it. Mahsi.