Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to advise that later today I will be tabling the Official Languages Policy and Guidelines. These policies and guidelines, which were developed in close consultation with community groups, outline the standards for the provision of government services in official languages. These documents are important, as they define the basic requirements when offering official language services. These documents again illustrate this government's commitment to the official languages of the Government of the Northwest Territories.
Developing these documents was not an easy task. A number of factors had to be kept in mind such as the number of official languages, the number of speakers and their geographic distribution. Because of the complexity of this task, it was necessary to undertake extensive consultation with community groups and with government departments. The end product reflects the reality of the north, but also addresses language needs in an efficient and effective manner.
The tabling of this document does not complete this task. The next step is the development of implementation plans. This will include monitoring mechanisms, evaluation criteria and reassessment of approaches. The policy is issued under the authority of the Executive Council and I, as the Premier, am accountable for its implementation. Ministers are responsible for the delivery of programs and services in accordance with the policy and guidelines, and I will ensure compliance with the policy and guidelines.
Having both of these documents in place, Mr. Speaker, will enable the Government of the Northwest Territories to more efficiently and effectively offer services in the official languages of the Northwest Territories. This is an essential part of supporting our languages and respecting all citizens of the Northwest Territories by providing language services. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the individuals who worked so hard on the development of the policy and the guidelines. Mahsi.