Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today as chair of the Western Caucus to offer my comments on the governments draft transition plan for the creation of two new territories. This plan is an important step in detailing both the transition measures that need to be taken and the costs associated with that transition from now until April 1, 1999.

It is clear that a lot of work needs to be done to put into place the infrastructure, staff and systems required for the Nunavut Government. Mr. Speaker, the one clear message from this plan is if the creation of two new territories is going to be done in an orderly way, the federal government must assume its obligation to pay all transition costs related to both new territories.

Ultimately, it is the federal government which has responsibility to create two viable new territories. Without federal leadership a smooth transition will not occur. Time is a critical factor, with only 541 days remaining until division. We look forward to clear and timely direction from the federal government on how they intend to proceed on transition costs.

Mr. Speaker, since 1981, this House and people of the western Arctic have consistently supported the creation of Nunavut. With only 18 months until division, the challenge today is to ensure the transition is smooth and orderly as possible in both the west and Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, in meeting that challenge, greater focus must be placed on dealing with western transitional issues. The Western Caucus is anxious to review the more detailed issue description of transition costs for the west which is now being prepared by the government.

We also look forward to the report to be tabled by the western transition Minister early next week. This will be a key element in setting a course of action for the west in preparing for the creation of two new territories in the coming days and months.

Mr. Speaker, the discussions on the financial arrangements for the two new territories is another critical element of the division process. We are taking an active part in these discussions with our partners on the western coalition. Furthermore, the work being done in partnership with the Aboriginal Summit on the Constitutional Working Group will be vital in creating a new vision for the Western Territory.

Mr. Speaker, I believe a more complete picture of what faces the two new territories in planning for division is emerging which will allow this House to start focusing on the measures which need to be addressed now.

Mr. Speaker, I request unanimous consent to complete my statement.