Thank you. Madam Speaker, during our meetings with mining industry representatives, they outlined their acknowledgement and commitment to develop any proposed mining developments with the full involvement of northern and aboriginal people, the need to address environmental concerns and to satisfy northern interest. Their acknowledgement of these concerns is a positive sign. However, one must keep in mind that they have faced these issues before. Madam Speaker, once again, I will stress the need for our government, in full consultation with aboriginal groups, to continue pursuing the devolution of mining responsibilities from the federal government in order to ensure the interests of all northerners are respected. We, as legislators, must show our support to the GNWT in assuming these responsibilities as there is a

possibility of mineral developments in all of our regions in the future.

Madam Speaker, it will be a lot more responsive dealing with our government instead of the federal government to address any concerns respecting mining activities in the NWT, whether it be now, a year from now or in 1999 upon the creation of two new territories. Mahsi cho.

---Applause