Thank you, Madam Speaker. Over the past few weeks, we have heard speeches from both sides of the House on how we, as a government, must take control of the mineral resources of the Northwest Territories from the federal government if we are to have any hope of realizing any economic benefits from the diamond trade.

Madam Speaker, this government must ensure that economic benefits remain in the north as much as possible. However, Madam Speaker, having some say in the mineral policy in the Northwest Territories and ensuring economic spin-offs for residents are not the only responsibilities we, as a government, have. We must ensure, Madam Speaker, that the land is not scarred forever because of the exploration of minerals. We must make sure that caribou migration is not adversely affected. We must make sure, Madam Speaker, that this great land we call home is left as close as possible to its natural state for the future generations.

Madam Speaker, in this sluggish economy I realize that many people are very excited about the potential economic miracles about to occur in the Northwest Territories in diamonds. But I urge the Members and the government to temper this excitement with a little bit of foresight. Long after the diamonds are gone from the ground, people will still want to use the land to hunt and fish. We, as a government, must remember one important thing: this is our responsibility to ensure the maximum economic benefits for the development of such as the diamond play, as it is our responsibility to ensure that the land remains as close to being undisturbed as possible. We also have a responsibility for future generations. We have to make sure that the proper environmental reviews and studies are done. Mahsi cho, Madam Speaker.

---Applause