Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in Cambridge Bay during the leadership meetings, there was, I think, some confusion over employees now employed and employees to be employed by the Nunavut government on April 1st, 1999. Mr. Speaker, the plan at the present time is to have the initial 150 positions to be hired and in place on April 1st, 1999. However, this government has reiterated time and time again, that employees working prior to April 1st, 1999 and living in Nunavut, would be still employed on April 1st, 1999. It is important to say this, Mr. Speaker, because since the Cambridge Bay meetings, I have had numerous calls, e-mails and faxes from long-term, dedicated staff who are wondering about their future.

Mr. Speaker, while no job or position can be guaranteed in these days of reductions and fiscal clawbacks, I think it is safe to say that there will not be a major layoff of current employees prior to 1999. Mr. Speaker, all employees should be aware that a new government or employer will be in place on April 1st, 1999 and that government may decide to change job descriptions or re-profile employees. There is no anticipation that will mean current employees will be laid off en masse. This government has made that clear and I believe that it will be confirmed over the next few weeks.

Mr. Speaker, employees raising young families, purchasing homes and acquiring mortgages have been quite stressed over the past few weeks. I hope that this clarification will help put those concerned at ease. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause