Thank you, Madam Speaker. It is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize a good friend of mine from Rankin Inlet, Mr. Moses Aliyak. The Deputy Commissioner, Helen Maksagak, announced in the throne speech earlier today that Mr. Aliyak would be receiving the Commissioner's Award for Bravery at the Highest Level.

Madam Speaker, this award is presented to residents of the NWT who voluntarily risk their lives to an extraordinary degree in saving or attempting to save the lives of others. This certainly describes the actions of Moses this past summer.

Madam Speaker, Mr. Aliyak was at his camp this past summer with his wife and his grandson when they were surprised by a polar bear. To protect his family, Mr. Aliyak reacted immediately; rushed to the polar bear and struck it over the head. Fortunately, Mr. Aliyak escaped with only minor bruises and cuts.

I'm sure the Members of this House will join me in recognizing the bravery and courage of Mr. Aliyak who unselfishly risked his own life for his family. Thank you.

---Applause