Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As you are aware, we have discussed affirmative action many times during this session. I feel that this is an important issue that should stay in the forefront of this government. Mr. Speaker, this policy has been in effect since 1985 and we still have a long way to go to reach the government's goal of 50 percent native employment. It is important that this government realizes the need to have a competent, home-grown employee base. How else can this government expect to provide its services without the understanding of the issues and the way of life our people share throughout this great land?

Mr. Speaker, what is needed to make this or any other employment policy work? I believe we must start by supporting and promoting education at all levels. We need to provide a broader education base so that all our residents can utilize the education services that are currently available. We must allow all residents access to education. As it stands presently, we do not allow any form of adult education in a number of communities. This must change.

Mr. Speaker, as my colleagues have mentioned previously, we need to teach our people the different skills required to take over the government positions. We need to provide the basic training in communities which will allow interested residents to strive for more. Mr. Speaker, I believe we can provide this which will then make this or any other employment policy redundant. It is important that we get our people educated to the level that they can take over the positions they wish, which will allow for fair and competent competition between all that apply. Until this happens, we must strive to increase the level of native employment and reach this government's goal of 50 percent or possibly change our policy to better reflect our needs of today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.