Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think that governments in most developed countries view the treatment and care of their elderly as an issue of top priority. The Government of the Northwest Territories is no exception. They do a good job.

There is absolutely no doubt that we, here in the north, owe a huge debt of gratitude to our elders. They have made this country what it is. They have made sure that we were provided for on a daily basis as we grew up, that we grew up to be healthy in body and spirit, and that we had the opportunity to receive a good life and a good education. Our elders now provide wise role models and are living examples of their courage, strength and wisdom that we can all be proud of. Some of those elders fought in two world wars to ensure that we have the very freedom that we now exercise at this moment when we deal with our and their affairs.

I believe our territorial government has done an excellent job in the area of elder care. Since 1988, the Government of the Northwest Territories programs for seniors have provided many benefits to residents over the age of 60 that are not normally covered by hospitals or medical insurance in other provinces. Those include pharmacare, medical/surgical appliances, supplies and prosthesis, hearing aids, eye glasses, dental care, transportation to and from medical facilities, fuel subsidies, and in addition to those benefits, Mr. Speaker, our elders are not expected to pay property taxes if they live in their own homes. Our government hopes to provide to as many elders as many seniors' homes as we can financially support.

I note that more and more elders are now choosing to remain in the north rather than move to the south to retire after they reach the end of their working years. Generally speaking, I believe the government must be commended for their assistance to our elder population. Thank you.

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