Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, following the debate since last weekend, I think some areas are getting a bit convoluted. I think we have to keep the debate at an appropriate level. We are being watched by the public. After saying that, Mr. Chairman, I do not think anyone here disputes the fact that Sanikiluaq should get its own seat, I think we have agreed to that. The question before us is what happens to Whale Cove? After listening to the honourable colleague from Arviat and my honourable colleague from Rankin Inlet, which represents Whale Cove, I understand now that over the past few days they have had an opportunity to discuss the issue with the residents of Whale Cove. I believe the people of Whale Cove have the right to request which riding they would like to be with. I have not heard that outlined very well today saying that they want to go one way or the other. It leaves us with the difficulty that we have as to what or where or which constituency does Whale Cove fit under?
Under the Electoral Boundaries Commission Report that was tabled in this house, I think Option B and Option C, as presented by the Electoral Boundaries Commission, puts Whale Cove with Sanikiluaq, which was unacceptable because there are no family ties with that community. There is no logistical transportation routes connecting those two communities. It would be a nightmare to service. That is why Mr. Arlooktoo tried to bring in an amendment that facilitates Sanikiluaq having its own seat and it would also allow Whale Cove to stay with the Keewatin region, where its family and common ties are. We would have to agree with that. The concern is, Mr. Chairman, what does Whale Cove want?
I have a letter from the Mayor of Whale Cove requesting they have their own riding, dated October 6, 1997, Stanley Arjuk, the Mayor of Whale Cove. I do not think it is feasible based on the population amounts in the community because earlier in the debates we discussed representation by population and so on. I would be in favour of the motion put forward by Mr. Arlooktoo because it would seem to be the only logistical thing to do at this time. After saying that, I can understand how the people of Whale Cove feel, wanting their own riding. I appreciate what Mr. O'Brien has said. It has to go somewhere. Perhaps they would prefer to stay with Rankin Inlet. The honourable Member that has been representing them has done very well for the last six years. I do not know but we have to make a decision today. That is why we are charged as legislators to pass legislation. It is sometimes difficult and is sometimes not going to please everyone.
I think that the consultation which has occurred over the past four days should be sufficient based on the statements read by the Member that represents the community. I cannot contravene what the Member that represents the community says unless I would be voting in favour of the motion and supporting Sanikiluaq having its own seat because of the reasons outlined in the motion and because of the debate that we heard here today. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.