Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to offer my congratulations to the 12 students who, last Friday, graduated from Aurora College's recreation leaders' diploma program in Inuvik.

The department has long been a partner with Aurora College in this program since its first students started back in 1986. The program has provided northerners and our recent graduates with a unique blend of classroom education and on-the-job practicum training, both in Inuvik and their home communities. Most graduates are now returning to their communities to assume recreation leadership positions.

The graduates are Dean McLeod of Aklavik, who received the Minister's award for practicum excellence; Adam Smith and Jon Buchan of Yellowknife; Collin McPherson and Nyla Klugie of Whitehorse; David Fredlund of Rankin Inlet; Donna Sabourin of Whale Cove; Faye Doctor of Tulita; Remi Krikort of Pelly Bay; Sharon Idlout of Igloolik; Simon Kuliktana of Kugluktuk; Steve Cockney of Tuktoyaktuk.

I would also like to acknowledge and thank the community councils of each graduate for supporting the development of recreation and local leaders in their communities. Recreation leaders are important to the physical and social health of their communities and play a major role in providing activities that support their residents' well-being.

Mr. Speaker, as we continue to work together to empower communities, we hope to continue building on successes such as the recreation leaders' program. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--- Applause