Mahsi, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Minister on the statement he just made on the community transfer initiatives. The community of Inuvik, through the Inuvik community corporation, the Ehdiitat Gwich'in council and the town of Inuvik have worked together over the past year to finalize this community transfer agreement.

This agreement is a unique achievement for the community because it brought together three cultures and organizations to work toward common goals. As the Minister indicated, the agreement contains a framework agreement to finalize the negotiations, an agreement that transfers responsibilities and authorities for an economic development officer who will serve the Inuvik residents and carry out long-term economic planning, and the licensing and regulation of lotteries and bingos in Inuvik.

The three councils that participated in the transfer initiatives have also agreed to form a society that will continue further transfer negotiations and operate the existing initiatives. The community views the transfer initiatives as a small step towards self-government. Another step towards self-government is the implementation of the proposed regional public government which the community fully supports. This regional government will allow Inuvik to more effectively work together with the surrounding communities on various regional initiatives.

The transfers to date do not seem like a dramatic change, but the major accomplishment for the community is a renewed sense of community. Having the various groups work together to control the affairs of the community is a significant achievement. I would like to congratulate all the individuals who worked on this task, the residents of Inuvik, and the officials of this government for this significant agreement. Mahsi.

---Applause