Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, following the Premier's comments, I also note that today we mark another milestone with 800 days left remaining until the division of the territories. Mr. Speaker, there is still much work ahead, in order for the residents of Nunavut to be ready to function on its own as a new government. There is great anticipation and hope with the proposed new jobs and infrastructure that have been earmarked and that, I believe, will accompany the new Nunavut government.

Mr. Speaker, this dream of Nunavut, which means "our land", has been in the works for approximately 25 years. It is very difficult for people, I am sure, not living in Nunavut, to completely understand how important this is to its residents.

Mr. Speaker, having said that, it is important to note that the jobs and the new infrastructure that I spoke of earlier, must take place in order for Nunavut to be successful. We are all very confident that this will be realized through the dedicated efforts of NTI and of course, the NIC report, Footprints 2. In the case of my riding of Kivallivik, the Footprints 2 report identifies 50 new jobs in each of the communities of Arviat, Baker Lake and the accompanying required infrastructure, housing and office space, et cetera. This, Mr. Speaker, is significant when looking at the 70 percent unemployment rate that each of these communities suffer from.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly believe that, if ever before, the timing for us to work closely together with our partners, NTI, NIC and the federal government, this is that critical time. I look forward to working with these parties to ensure that these much needed jobs in Arviat, Baker Lake and all small off-road communities are secured. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.