Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as we all know, on April 1, 1999, the Northwest Territories will be divided into two new territories. The new eastern territory will be called Nunavut, however there hasn't been a decision on the name for the new Western Territory. As a suggestion of the other western groups involved in constitutional work, a subcommittee of the Western Caucus has been given the responsibility of finding out what western residents want our territory to be called. Four weeks ago, we started the process by inviting the residents of the Western Arctic to help name the new Western Territory. Schools, band councils, Metis locals and municipal offices throughout the Western Arctic received information packages with details of how to submit a suggestion. There were also advertisements in local papers. We want to hear from you. If you think the new territory should have a new name, let us know what name would capture the heart and soul of the people and the land we live in. If you think Northwest Territories is just right, then let us know that, too.

So far, over 300 people have let us know what they think the name should be and why. Of those, 95 per cent have suggested keeping the name "Northwest Territories''

--- Applause

Whether you want to keep the name "Northwest Territories" or want something new, we need to hear from you. The only way we can know what people think is if you call us, write us or send us a message on the information highway. Make sure your voice is heard.

On behalf of the Subcommittee on Naming the Western Territory, I encourage everyone to let us know what you think. Talk to your friends and family and think about who we are. You have until the end of July to get your suggestions in to us, and we look forward to hearing from you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.