Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, late last year, I established the Mine Training Committee to provide me with recommendations on training and employment issues in the mining industry. One of the committee's mandates is to come up with ways that will get more northerners working in various aspects of the northern mining industry. The committee will also promote mining careers in schools and the colleges and will develop a promotional campaign to raise the profile and public awareness of mining in the NWT.

Committee members include the Dogrib Treaty 11 Council, the Metis Nation, Yellowknives Dene Band Council, a representative from the Kitikmeot region, BHP, Diavik Diamond Mines, Echo Bay Mines, Aber Resources, Women in Trades and Technology and the NWT Chamber of Mines.

The Mine Training Committee has been involved in planning Mine TAP every step of the way. I am very pleased with the initiative members of the committee have demonstrated through their work on the program. It is essential that in all our programs we match the employment needs of industry with training programs. I look forward to the continued success of the Mine Training Committee as it identifies and sets priorities that will translate into jobs for northern residents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause