Mr. Speaker, Members of the Legislative Assembly, good afternoon. Before I give assent to bills, I would like to make a few brief comments and wish Members a happy and healthy summer.
Since I had the pleasure of swearing in Members last November, I am aware you have been active and very busy with committee meetings and sittings of the Legislative Assembly. This particular session has been a long one and Members have had to make a number of tough decisions that will affect constituents in the coming months. These decisions have not been easy.
Members have begun the process of tackling the deficit and improving the efficiency of this government, but many challenges remain. Being away from one's family and home makes these decisions more difficult. Hopefully, the summer will allow Members to rejuvenate and spend time with families before the fall session resumes.
Next month, I will have the pleasure of hosting, on the behalf of the Northwest Territories, their Excellencies, the Governor General and Mrs. LeBlanc. The Governor General and his wife will visit Yellowknife and the Hay River Reserve June 19th to 21st. While in Hay River, the Governor General will celebrate the First National Aboriginal Day.
The Governor General regrets he will be unable to visit Nunavut on his first trip to the Northwest Territories. However, he has assured me he would be pleased to visit Nunavut on his next trip to the North.
I would like to wish you all a peaceful, safe and happy summer.