Thank you. There seems to be a great deal of concern about land withdrawals. The process we are undertaking is not one to immediately alienate land. Inevitably there will be land withdrawals. The strategy will help us determine why, when and how land will be withdrawn and which geographic areas are candidates. All land users have been invited to participate with us in determining how this can be done to best meet everyone's needs.

There seems to be a great deal of concern that individuals and organizations not from the Northwest Territories will be participating in the Inuvik meeting and in the development of the strategy. Mr. Speaker, this is true. In private meetings I have invited Cominco, Royal Oak, Canamera, BHP and Diavik, all of whom have head offices elsewhere. The Nature Conservancy has also been invited, as has the World Wildlife Fund, which is an international organization. There is no apology to be made here, Mr. Speaker, as I believe we all want the best advice possible.

There is this myth in the minds of some people that the agenda for the Protected Areas Strategy is being driven by non-northern interests. We may be seeking advice and assistance for non-northern sources, but let me assure that this strategy will be designed to meet our needs.

Many people, allegedly with opposing interests, have been asked to meet, reach agreement and initiate a process to control events that will impact their lives in some way in the future. Perhaps more important, a process that will respect and accommodate the needs and interests of all northerners. Mr. Speaker, if people are concerned, they should ask about the Protected Areas Strategy and what it means. By that I mean that my office is open and I am available. If people have concerns, I would be very pleased to take their calls and to make myself and my staff available to answer concerns and questions and issues that arise as a result of the initiative.

So, how can we accommodate various land uses while protecting environmental habitats and maintaining our unique natural and cultural heritage? How can we make this strategy work in a way that balances the needs and interest of all northerners? I believe by continuing to work in the spirit of respect and co-operation I am more than confident that we will find the right answers to the questions that we have now and we will find the answers that we seek. Thank you.

-- Applause