Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday the hot and windy weather caused the forest fire at Fort Norman to move down the Mackenzie Valley and it is now a threat to Norman Wells. The winds died down overnight and the fire remained about 50 kilometres southeast of Norman Wells. Based on advice from the Department of Renewable Resources, the emergency measures organization made the decision to also evacuate Norman Wells. All night planes flew. First, the 340 people from Fort Norman were moved to Deline and then the jets moved about 400 people to Yellowknife. The evacuation proceeded very smoothly and the Honourable Don Morin indicated that he has nothing but praise for all people involved.

The firefighting crews have now returned to Fort Norman. About 30 firefighters from the Sahtu and Deh Cho are in Fort Norman working to put out spot fires and they have set up a sprinkler system to keep buildings wet. The only loss at this time is the Ursus Airways building at the airport. The worst of the fire seems to be through that area now.

Actions are now being concentrated to protect Norman Wells. Four CL-215s are on site and one DC-4. Two more CL-215s are coming from Quebec. Caterpillars are working to establish a fireguard at Jackfish Lake, about five kilometres out of Norman Wells. Mr. Morin has been impressed with how hard and efficiently the firefighting crews are working in very difficult conditions.

The weather is expected to be hot and windy again today. At this time, we cannot predict when people will be able to return to their homes. Anyone wishing to know who arrived in Yellowknife from Norman Wells and where they are staying can call a special number at city hall. That number is 920-5693. Mr. Speaker, I, too, would like to praise all those who are involved in responding so capably and efficiently to this emergency. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.