Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the past, Mr. Speaker, the name of Stanton Yellowknife Hospital clearly identified it as a Yellowknife institution. Residents from outside Yellowknife, particularly those from smaller, isolated communities, will find it easier to identify with such an institution if it were to have a name which reflected the regional and territorial focus of its work. Such a change would serve to reduce some of the fear and apprehension many northerners, particularly elders with little or no contact with larger centres, are feeling when they must travel to Yellowknife for health care.

In the best interests of the future health of our people in smaller communities who rely on the services provided by this hospital, I will support the board in whatever decision they make to improve the accessibility of the hospital. I am encouraged by their commitment to the mental, physical and emotional well being of our people, and I think the direction they are taking is for the right reasons. I would encourage Members to rely on the board's judgement, and support their decisions in this matter. Mahsi.