Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It seems like our government may not be involved in this important decision which will affect my community, Mr. Speaker. I understand that the Government of the Northwest Territories has so far not taken a position on these issues. I wish to say today that I will be relying on the Minister of the Department of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, Renewable Resources and Economic Development and Tourism, Mr. Kakfwi, to help ensure that the right decision is taken on this important issue. I will say that I believe Polaris Mine is an important part of the economy of my region and the Northwest Territories, although I would very much like to see them employ more of my constituents. I would be
concerned if the mine were to close in a few years because they are denied access to new supplies of ore. On the other hand, I know there are concerns regarding calving grounds of Perry caribou at northern Bathurst Island and they must be protected.
Mr. Speaker, I hope, in working with Mr. Kakfwi, we can find a balanced, reasonable way of approaching these possible conflicts. I will have general comments and questions later today when we are dealing with replies to the budget. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.