As importantly, Mr. Speaker, we will ensure that the two new territorial governments are not burdened with a large accumulated debt when they come into existence on April 1, 1999.

Mr. Speaker, the 1997-98 budget calls for expenditures, including estimated supplementary appropriations and lapses, of $1.155 billion. Total revenues in 1997-98 are estimated to be $1.164 billion.

I am pleased to announce that with the cooperation and commitment of the Members of this Legislative Assembly, for the first time in four years, this government will not run an annual deficit.

In fact, we are projecting a small surplus of almost $9 million for 1997-98.

--Applause