Thank you, Madam Speaker. Last week I attended, as an observer, a meeting of the municipal advisory committee of the town of Iqaluit. I was very impressed with the businesslike manner with which a number of critical issues were dealt with on which decisive recommendations were made to Mr. Beaumont, the municipal administrator.

The first issue dealt with was the finances of the town. The committee reported to the public that, with the forgiveness of interest by the GNWT, the town can cover the costs of the land debenture. In fact, if the committee is able to proceed with its plans to make additional land available for construction this summer, given the high demand for land in Iqaluit, then even more revenues could be obtained to accelerate repayment of the debenture loan.

As far as the town's general financial situation is concerned, committee members reported their opinion, after studying the matter, that the town's financial situation was secure.

Other issues discussed on which recommendations were made to Mr. Beaumont were evaluation of management staff; reinstating a contract to develop a town general plan, which was inexplicably cancelled when the council was dissolved; the need to hire a lands officer with continued financial assistance to be sought from the Minister of MACA; the need to get a report from the GNWT lands division on available commercial and residential lots which would then lead to a ballot draw by March 31; recommended process to hire a new senior administrative officer; the appropriate composition of the town's collective bargaining committee; the satisfactory status of the coming year's social services funding agreement; and, the most effective uses for the funds allocated for capital improvements for recreational facilities for Iqaluit in the coming fiscal year.

The most important discussion concerned the need for an early election. Members of the advisory committee are doing their best but realize they are only an appointed body. They are as anxious as anyone to see an elected council in place. Important decisions are being made this year concerning the implementation of land claims and the planning for the new Nunavut government which will affect the community for many years to come. The Queen of England is making a return visit to Iqaluit this summer. The advisory committee would like to see an election held before the end of the school year. They have my full support in this request.

Later on, Madam Speaker, I will be beseeching the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs to restore democracy in Iqaluit as soon as possible.

---Applause

Thank you. Qujannamiik.