Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Parks Trust:
Members were most interested in the idea of a Parks Trust as proposed by the department. Under this system, funds could be allocated to a "trust" from a variety of sources including the government, the private sector, aboriginal organizations, interest groups, etc. This system would put the management and control of parks outside of government and would increase both responsibility and accountability. Members understand that such a trust is currently only an idea, but would like to see the department pursue the initiative.
Protected Area Strategy:
Members were also interested in the idea of having the department develop a Protected Areas Strategy. With assistance from the federal government and input from all northern stakeholders, this type of strategy would identify those areas most fragile and in need of protection. Members felt this was especially important given the current and possible future mineral exploration/development in the Northwest Territories.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.