Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Today, Mr. Speaker, I would like to take time to inform the House of a very important project in my constituency. Mr. Speaker, in today's society, the preservation of one's culture is challenged by many distractions. A key element in preserving one's culture is education. This education must begin with children and must continue as the child grows. Mr. Speaker, the success of this also greatly depends on educating the children in the appropriate environment.
Two years ago, the Sachon Gonozu Gha Youth Centre in Fort Simpson was established with this in mind. The youth centre is currently organized and run by a group of volunteer community members, the Youth Management Committee. This committee consists of youth between the ages of 12 and 25 from the community. This committee decides the direction of the youth centre, however, Mr. Speaker, views of all community members, regardless of age, are invited. The committee is responsible for approving youth centre programming.
Mr. Speaker, because of the positive and encouraging results achieved by the Sachon Gonozu Gha Youth Centre, other communities of the surrounding area have become very interested in adopting a similar concept for a youth oriented/youth-directed centre for special events and regular programming for community youth.
The programs offered reflect the needs and desires of the youth. Programs include probation officer training; Alateen meetings; women's support groups; sexuality/spirituality cultural identity workshops; special needs programs and so forth; and, conference workshop and participation, as well, as other excellent programs too numerous to mention.
So you see, Mr. Speaker, community involvement of all ages is the basic ingredient for all programs. Programming at the centre directly reflects the mandate. Some of these activities are offered in connection with supervisor/coordinator of the events by the alcohol and drug counsellor. All activities are generally directed for the pleasure of the youth. The main idea is to have fun in a safe and healthy environment. This includes...
Mr. Speaker, my time has run out for my Member's statement. I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.