Mahsi, Mr. Antoine. (Translation) Thank you, Mr. Antoine. Good morning, Members. Today has been designated Aboriginal Languages Day in the Assembly. As you are aware, Michael Kusugak, the Northwest Territories Literacy Council president challenged myself and the Assembly to set one day aside on which Members would speak their aboriginal language in the Assembly. I have waived the requirement for advance notice under our Language Services Policy and urge all Members who speak an aboriginal language to consider using it today when they are addressing the House. (Translation ends)

It is very important that aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories, our grandparents, moms and dads, our siblings and our people, see that their languages are alive and are being used on a regular basis. As Members of the Legislative Assembly, we play a major role for the people in a number of areas including the promotion of aboriginal languages. We here in the Legislative Assembly provide Inuktitut translation on a daily basis and rotate the provision of Dene and French languages services on a weekly basis. We have to remember that language is an important aspect of our culture and today, when many of our languages are struggling to survive, it is critical that we, as leaders, do our part to help preserve them. Being aboriginal role models must start with aboriginal leaders. Do not just talk the talk, but walk the walk.

(Translation) I would also like to thank the president and members of the NWT Literacy Council and the Languages Commissioner, Judi Tutcho of Deline, for their efforts in promoting the use of aboriginal languages and helping to arrange activities to celebrate Aboriginal Languages Month. I urge all communities in the Northwest Territories to join in the celebrations promoting aboriginal languages, it is so important in this day and age. Also, I would like to urge all Members to use their language. If we do so, we will continue to be strong. This is what I would like to say about aboriginal languages for today. Thank you very much. (Translation ends)

-- Applause