Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today to talk about the plight of Akaitcho Hall. When I look at the people of my generation, I am once again reminded of the importance of residential schools to the political development and people development of the Northwest Territories.

I, myself, believe I was fortunate to attend the Sacred Heart Mission in Fort Providence and Lapointe Hall Residential School in Fort Simpson during my formative years. I believe, Madam Speaker, that the discipline and preparedness I acquired during my stay in these residences was well worth the time away from home.

My major problem with the closure of Akaitcho Hall is that I believe a small group of persons are determining the direction of education in the Northwest Territories for the years to come. I do not believe, Madam Speaker, that the ordinary parents in a small community understand the ramifications of the closure of Akaitcho Hall and other similar facilities. They may understand that the local school is being upgraded to grade 12 and that their children do not have to leave their homes. But, Madam Speaker, what they may not understand is that by closing Akaitcho Hall we are limiting the opportunities for the future generation of leaders.

Madam Speaker, I do not believe that a child will be able to get the equivalent education in a small regional or local high school to what is available in Yellowknife.

I suppose, Madam Speaker, I may be out of line with this statement because I am ignoring the political realities of devolution. I, nonetheless, remain convinced that by closing residential facilities such as Akaitcho Hall we are robbing our children, particularly those of aboriginal descent, of the choice for a total education.

Madam Speaker, I spent ten months of the year away from my family when I was growing up and going to school. I was always happy to spend the two summer months of the year learning how to hunt and fish and helping my family prepare for the long winter. I am proud of my heritage as a Dene person, but nonetheless remain convinced that closing Akaitcho Hall is the wrong choice for the future generation of Dene and Inuit children. Mahsi cho.

---Applause