Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, plans to change the resupply operations in the Keewatin region have been under development for the past three years. While we all agree with the need to be as efficient as possible in all government departments, including resupply, there have been a number of concerns about the government's plan to start using Rankin Inlet as a hub for fuel resupply in the Keewatin. Mr. Speaker, in response to these concerns, the Minister of Transportation and Public Works provided a briefing in Caucus this morning on resupply operations, specifically on the proposed changes in the Keewatin resupply. I would like to

thank the Minister and their staff for providing us with the detailed information on this important subject.

However, I still have some concerns in this area, Mr. Speaker. One major example is the issue of anticipated cost-savings on using Rankin Inlet as a hub for fuel resupply in the Keewatin. Mr. Speaker, when the option was first proposed, I understood the government expects to save $1.8 million per year. However, I understand the figures have changed and we are now looking at a savings of approximately $600,000 per year.

Mr. Speaker, I think we all need time to digest the information provided to us before we proceed with such a large and important project. I appreciate the assurances received from the Minister that due to other circumstances, the project will not be going ahead in time to meet the summer of 1997 deadline.

Mr. Speaker, I am sure all the Members of the House will be able to take the extra time now available to ensure that this project receives the full and careful consideration that it deserves. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.