Mahsi, my colleagues. On the fundamental question of aboriginal self-government, the strong consensus is that this is not a matter to be negotiated or realized through the CDSC process but, rather, as a separate, parallel process which must proceed concurrently with the CDSC process for the development of public government structures. The conference delivered a strong message for the federal government: that progress is needed on aboriginal self-government negotiations so that these two processes can proceed together. This involves the recognition that there will be aboriginal self-governing institutions, and that these must be recognized and accommodated in a new constitution and structure of government for the west.

The conference, thus, also reached a consensus that four levels of government are necessary: community, aboriginal, regional and central. The community must be the basis for any new structure of government but there is a recognized need for a central government, which is community-driven. With consensus reached on these broad, fundamental principles, the conference also recognized that there is now much work to be done on details and options for a new western constitution and structure of government. In particular, research is needed on options and costs of community and regionally-based government structures within a central government and more public involvement is required regarding constitutional options, particularly at the community level. A second constitutional conference should be held within the year to discuss these options and details and to give direction for the drafting of a final proposal for ratification by public plebiscite.

The first constitutional conference thus endorsed the CDSC process and gave clear direction for the continuation of that process. As was stated at the closing of the conference, we took several major steps together toward a consensus on developing a new form of government that we all want, but we are not at the end. We are at the crest of a new horizon and can now see our goals and our destination a little more clearly. The challenge now for the CDSC and for the people of the western Northwest Territories is to build on the foundation laid at this first conference, and to maintain the momentum which was developed.

The Constitutional Development Steering Committee will meet this Friday to consider a workplan and budget for 1995-96 to implement the recommendations from the conference. We look forward to the continued support of this Assembly, the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Government of Canada as we continue this exciting and historic process in the spirit of unity and goodwill demonstrated by the people of the west through the first constitutional conference. Mahsi cho. Qujannamiik.

---Applause