Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As we enter into our discussions and deliberations on Bill 25, Education Act, it makes me think about planning for education in Nunavut in preparation for 1999. In addition to my Member's statement last week about the resolutions made in Gjoa Haven by Nunavut leaders, I'm concerned about what our future holds for our teachers in the east.
As the Government of the Northwest Territories plans for division of its resources, assets and liabilities, it must be recognized that there are a variety of organizations that may also need to plan for an equitable split of their resources between east and west. As most Members are aware, teachers in the north belong to the NWT Teachers' Association. Over one-third of the members of the NWT Teachers' Association reside in Nunavut. Should it be decided that the teachers not be represented by the same association in the east as in the west, due consideration must be given to a process for the division of resources and assets.
It is crucial that organizations that are NWT-wide begin to address these questions immediately, in order to adequately prepare for life after Nunavut. Teachers' representation is just one area that we must be aware of, Mr. Speaker, where a body established by statute may take on new forms in preparation for or after division of the territories. In our haste to plan for division of government assets, liabilities and entities, we must not lose sight of those bodies and organizations that are also facing the same decisions and challenges. As much as possible, this government must be committed to assist in the process for all northerners. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause