Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, yesterday many of us welcomed in the gallery women from our ridings here in Yellowknife for a developmental conference. These women are on the front lines of working with child abuse, spousal assault and family breakdowns. Mr. Speaker, this is a very stressful work place at the best of times. Many of these women are working with few resources and our government, because of the fiscal climate, has had a hard time coming up with money to support professional development, training and resources for these workers and shelters.
Mr. Speaker, there are many people who believe these women are somehow responsible at times for accelerated family break-ups. Sometimes, the shelters are seen as foreign institutions. Mr. Speaker, I do not agree with that assessment. Last night, Mr. Erasmus and I visited the women at their open house. It was a short but very informative visit. We talked a little about their jobs and the fiscal situation and funding difficulties. Having been here since the 15th of January and venturing very little from the Legislature to home, we get caught up in government, budgets, cameras and legislation. Last night, after meeting with the ladies, it reminded me again why I ran for an election and what I had hoped to accomplish. I thank them for that.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the women for their kind invitation. I am sure that my colleagues here will join me in wishing them a very constructive session and informative meeting. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause