Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to talk today about a wonderful new program developed and being introduced by the St. Patrick's High School here in Yellowknife. The program I am referring to, Mr. Speaker, is appropriately called Bridges. The developmental work and study program is aimed at assisting students in the transition phase from school into the labour market. The new program will be made available to all students, but is primarily aimed at aboriginal youth, young women, disabled students, minorities, and those most at risk of leaving school. Students in the program will attend regular classes in the mornings and will participate in on the job training work experiences in the afternoon.
Mr. Speaker, I feel this is a wonderful, practical program. All too often, we educate our youth on an academic level, but forget about providing those who do not choose an academic career a vehicle to move into the work force. This program provides that vehicle. It provides a bridge and makes it easier for our students to move from school curriculum into the real world. Not all of our students in our schools have the ability or desire to pursue academic activities.
I for one, Mr. Speaker, would like to applaud St. Patrick's School for undertaking this initiative and addressing such an important part of our educational system. I feel that this type of initiative will help maximize benefits for our northern students. Later today I will be asking the Minister of Education some questions on this. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.