(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to report to the House today on the excellent work being done in Baker Lake by Jacob Ikinilik and others. As we all realize, our elders who are rich in traditional knowledge and on-the-land skills are quickly being lost and our younger generations have not learned their ways. Without direct action the traditional ways will disappear. (Translation ends)

Over the winter, Mr. Ikinilik collected information from elders to include in the traditional lifeskills program that has begun in Baker Lake, organized by the volunteers and targeted students. The traditional camp has been set up and knowledgeable elders have been recruited as the role models for youth attending the camp. They were able to acquire some funding and make a feeble start in late February. A large two-room igloo was built near the community where youth and elders could spend time together. The school fully supported this program and the instructor allowed class time for classes to participate in this program.

I'm happy to see this cooperation and know they will have a very effective program. They are presently training young people in preparation of traditional meat. I am excited to see such initiatives coming out of Baker Lake. I have been working with the group and encourage them to continue.

My primary goal over the last four years has to been to ensure the cultural program in the school was relevant and effective. The importance of these types of projects cannot be overstressed, and I commend all those involved in making them a success. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause