Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to start off by wishing a happy birthday to my mother, Florence Erasmus.

--- Applause

I would like to tell the House about a constituency meeting that I had on April 10th. There were a lot of concerns expressed. When those concerns were expressed, usually someone else brought up a reason why this situation was in existence. Obviously, there are people who understand the situation.

One of things that were discussed was the name change of the Northwest Territories. Some people thought it was a waste of time and money. Community empowerment was a question mark. What has been done so far? Will it eventually create city states throughout the territories? Is that offloading?

Apparently from the municipalities conference in Inuvik, some people were changing their mind about empowerment after there was a workshop held by a southern consultant. In fact, it might be a good idea for Members to hear those concerns that were brought up by that consultant.

There was also support for community empowerment by some of the people there. It was recognized that people have been wanting community empowerment for years. It was also expressed that there is a need to hear hope and enthusiasm and that the government needs to look for alterative sources of funding. Standards should remain for privatization. I am happy to see that the budget announcement has addressed a lot of these issues and there is a plan in place.

I am also happy to report that there was not one question or concern raised regarding MLAs' salaries or pensions. I am also happy to report that there was not one question regarding the transfer of occupational health and safety to the Workers' Compensation Board, except by the media. Thank you.

--- Applause