Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to hear today the statement from the Minister of Renewable Resources. Mr. Speaker, Minister Arngna'naaq said, and I quote, "it's our objective in both the environmental assessment of the BHP diamond mine project and the Slave geological province regional study, to promote exploration and development of mineral resources in ways that provide lasting social and economic benefits to northerners while preserving the environment." I could say it's a very good statement and I think it's very important that, as a government, we do promote mineral development because if we don't exploit our mineral resources, we're doomed to be a long-term welfare state, I believe.

My question to the Minister is, is the Minister aware that in the setting up of the EARP panel, there were unnecessary delays? Is the Minister satisfied that the panel has the sufficient resources to be able to carry out their work in the 18-months' time that has been allotted to them? Thank you.