Madam Speaker, I have indicated that I don't know the details of what has happened. I do feel very badly about this situation and I think, by all accounts, Coral Harbour has a very good team and it is legitimate for them to feel that they should have had a member on the final team. I sympathize with the team and the Member for raising the issue. The fact is, I, as the Minister of MACA, cannot appoint a player on the team. There is just no way that
I can appoint a person. Even if I could, it would not be fair to those who have already been chosen.
However, what I think this debate could do is send a message to Sport North and its associate organizations that they should be more sensitive to the wishes of the smaller communities, especially those in the Nunavut area. I understand that a system is in place for fair selection for all athletes, but in this instance, no one was chosen from the second best team. I do hope this experience will be taken into account by Sport North and its various sporting bodies, particularly the hockey association.
I believe they have learned that it is important not only to have a fair and equitable process but also to be seen to be fair and equitable in their selections. I have also met with the Sport North officials and have indicated that there is a need for Sport North to be more aware of the situations in Nunavut. I have indicated to them that there is division taking place in 1999 and that they have to start preparing for this division and decide how it is that they are going to work with the area of Nunavut.
Once again, I would like to say that I do feel badly about this situation but there is really nothing I can do as Minister. Thank you, Madam Speaker.