Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure for me to acknowledge an individual who has served the people and Government of the Northwest Territories with distinction, perseverance and great success, during his 40 years in the North.

I am referring to Jim Robertson and, in particular, to his contribution over the past eight years as the chairman of the Northwest Territories Power Corporation. Mr. Speaker, when his term expires at the end of this month, Mr. Robertson will be able to look back at an impressive list of accomplishments.

When this government purchased the assets of the former Northern Canada Power Commission in 1988, Mr. Robertson was asked to bring the utility to its new home in the North, make it safe, reliable and cost effective and, at the same time, ensure a fair rate of return for the shareholder.

I am pleased to report that he has met these challenges. Mr. Robertson accomplished the tasks with the kind of grit and determination that has distinguished so many northerners who also began their working careers with the Hudson's Bay Company.