Madam Speaker, as seconder of the motion, I would like to provide a few brief remarks in support of the motion.
When the House reconvened on Wednesday, I made reference to the work that Minister Kakfwi and I have done over the summer months in inviting Minister Irwin to this House. As I stated in my remarks, we are concerned that various federal statements regarding self-government and treaty land entitlement in the western NWT have meant different things to different people and are creating a range of expectations. We need a greater degree of clarity and certainty about these matters. I went on to state that Minister Irwin has indicated his willingness to speak on the self-government matters and also on issues such as devolution, the evolution of public government in a western territory and the implementation of a Nunavut territory by April 1999.
Finally, Madam Speaker, given current fiscal realities, we should expect that Minister Irwin may also offer some thoughts on setting realistic expectations, particularly because of the federal program and budget reductions.
In closing, I want to advise Members that Minister Irwin was initially reluctant to appear before the House because he might be perceived as a federal governor directing the colonial administration on how to conduct itself.
Madam Speaker, I'm sure I speak for all Members in stating that this House has evolved to the stage where its status is not compromised by the offer of timely and welcome input by a Minister of the federal government. Madam Speaker, I urge all Members to support this motion. Thank you.