Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in the House today to bring greetings from the Northwest Territories winner of two Juno awards, Susan Aglukark.

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Susan asked that I convey to the House her comments on winning two Juno awards on March 26th. She stated to me, "I am honoured to have received such distinguished awards, not only for myself but for the people of the Northwest Territories."

Mr. Speaker, Susan is only 28 years old. Although she lived throughout the Northwest Territories for the first 12 years of her life as her father is a Pentecostal minister, her family eventually settled in Arviat, Northwest Territories. After completing high school, Susan was employed as an interpreter with DIAND and then as an executive assistant for the Inuit Tapirisat of Canada.

It has been only three short years since Susan Aglukark gave her first, live public performance at a festival in her home town of Arviat. Since then, Susan has recorded several tapes and CDs. She has appeared on a half a dozen prime time television shows and she has starred in music videos. Canada's media has highlighted her fast-rising career. Susan has had the opportunity to entertain Her Royal Highness, Queen Elizabeth, on two occasions, as well as Prime Ministers Mulroney and Chretien.

This week, Susan added two Juno awards to her ever-growing award collection which includes the first ever aboriginal achievement award in the arts and entertainment field, and the Canadian Country Music Association's Vista Rising Star award.

Susan Aglukark is known both for the quality of her talent and the wholesome values and lifestyle she exhibits. Her example is in sharp contrast to those of other entertainers. The youth of the Northwest Territories need this kind of role model to look up to and to emulate.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to wish Susan every future success and to note that her success as an NWT Inuit youth should be celebrated by all of us. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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