Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, the summer of 1994 will go down in history as one of the most memorable summers on record. Here in Yellowknife or in the south part of the territories we had diamond fever, high employment, labour peace, the royal visit, no mosquitoes, and thanks to the meteorological phenomenon known as the "Arctic high," one of the hottest, longest, driest spells for some time. The campers were happy. The boaters were happy. The water bomber crews were happy. The road builders were happy. The house builders were happy. It was a very memorable summer to say the least. Now the downside.

While we were enjoying this bug-free summer, we also noticed that the rivers, streams and lake levels were dropping. We also noticed the highest number of forest fires we have seen for quite some time because of their smoke. Here in Yellowknife, we also noticed that the Jackfish Lake diesel plant was running all engines almost full time. Madam Speaker, that was very concerning to many people here in this city. The concern is valid. While we still bask in the warmth of summer, we still remember last winter, the coldest in decades. The people here are concerned that if the diesels were running full out, when their role on this system at this time was to be stand-by, emergency or for peak periods, what will happen when the demands are highest?

There are many families and businesses concerned and even worried about black-outs and brown-outs. A secure power supply is among the most important things to all northerners, not only here in the Snare/Yellowknife system, but all over the north. We have every confidence and trust in the Power Corporation staff, management and equipment. All we are asking and all we need at this time, as winter approaches, is reassurance. Thank you.

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