Thank you Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as you may recall a few short months ago, BHP along with a number of aboriginal groups started on a path that would provide assurance benefits and protections on areas of the environment and natural resources. The goals of course was to allow a diamond mine to operate within the NWT. A few have heard over the last day, or so, this goal is progressing towards a reality. I would like to congratulate our Grand Chief Joe Rabesca, the treaty 11 council negotiator as well as BHP for making this historical agreement, and making the next step in seeing this project reality.

This project means many benefits to our people as well as the rest of Northwest Territories. It is nice to see that glimmer of light in horizon. In these times of cutbacks and layoffs, we can really support and encourage the other negotiating group to do the best and to try to come up with a package that works for them.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Grand Chief and Council as well as BHP, as they say, diamonds are Dogribs best friends...(laughter). Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- applause