Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to congratulate the following people for successfully completing the three week level I guide training program from January 14 to February 4, under the capable tutelage of Master Guide, Clayton Bourque of Fort Smith. Rudolph Landry, John George Landry, Michael John Squirrel, Edward Gargan, Gregory Alizy, Lawrence Denetre, Robert Sambali, Maurice Minoza, Arthur Alizy and Vern Minoza. I applaud the efforts of the government in this regard and hope the government will continue to support these individuals when they go for their level II guide training this fall.

However, Madam Speaker, at the same time, I must also stress my concern that the Deh Cho region is being neglected by the Big River Tourism Association and GNWT programs in the area of training and promotions. It seems to me, Madam Speaker, the smaller communities such as Fort Providence and Kakisa, are about ten years behind in the development of a tourism industry compared to the larger centres in the Northwest Territories.

There are fantastic opportunities within the Deh Cho region for tourism. We have a rich, cultural tradition to share with southern visitors and some of the best trophy hunting anywhere in the world. Madam Speaker, I urge the government to work with the smaller communities, regional tribal councils and the Northwest Territories Guide Association to develop these valuable tools and marketing opportunities and strategy.

I have heard rumours, Madam Speaker, that the Arctic College is considering moving the guide training program from Fort Smith to Yellowknife. I do not believe, Madam Speaker, that this initiative will accomplish anything, given the proven success of the residents of Fort Smith, who are presently running the course. I would urge the Minister to reconsider this move and leave this successful program in Fort Smith.

Madam Speaker, once again, I would like to congratulate the young men who completed the level I guide training program and thank the government and Clayton Bourque for making this possible. Thank you, Madam Speaker, and happy Valentine's day.

---Applause