Thank you. Mr. Speaker, as I indicated, I would have preferred a spring election but, unfortunately, that's not

the wish of the House. However, Mr. Speaker, my amendment will still allow for a fall election but for a September 4th vote. This will still provide more time for the important work that needs to be completed on our budget, as indicated by Mrs. Marie-Jewell earlier. Again, Mr. Speaker, I believe that next year's budget will be critical for the future progress and fiscal security of the Northwest Territories and I urge all Members to ensure that there is enough time for the new government to carry out the required level of planning and consultation.

I anticipate, Mr. Speaker, that some honourable Members may be concerned that the election would be held so close to Labour Day. I would suggest that this should not be an issue. The majority of Members, I believe, will be campaigning anyway. People across the Northwest Territories realize the importance of this election. They will be participating regardless of whether the voting day follows a holiday or not. Indeed, Mr. Speaker, holding an election at this time may actually maximize the sort of coverage that our election issues received in the national media; something that may be critical in persuading southern Canadians on our positions in matters such as the federal firearms legislation, the development of our mineral industry, and the finalization of our new fiscal relationship with the Government of Canada. We need to remember, Mr. Speaker, that there could be as many as four or five other provinces holding elections this coming fall.

Mr. Speaker, the main reason I would urge Members to support my amendment is because it represents a compromise. We have a tradition of being able, through consensus, to strive toward a position that respects and honours the different perspectives that Members bring from the far corners of our jurisdictions.

I have a strongly-held position on the scheduling of the territorial election; one that I believe reflects the feeling of many residents of North Slave and other constituencies. My honourable colleagues have made their own decisions to support a different point of view and I can respect that, Mr. Speaker. You can't win them all but, in turn, I would urge Members of this House to similarly respect the view of many northerners who don't want to see the election put off until October. I would urge Members to allow for adequate budgetary planning and for a new mandate from the people without any unnecessary delay. For the sake of consensus government and the spirit of compromise that is so important for our work in this place, I would urge all Members to vote in support of the amendment that I put forward. Thank you.

---Applause