Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay particular attention to a very special group of young people from the community of Fort McPherson. Mr. Speaker, the graduating class of 1997 is made up of Tommy Blake, Shaun Vittrekwa, Joanne Francis, Alisa Blake, Roberta Alexie, and Laura Vittrekwa. This group, Mr. Speaker, certainly have had to work harder than your average student in order to graduate in time this year.

Since their school burnt down in the early part of January, 1996, this group of young people had to deal with the stress and uncertainty, not to mention makeshift classrooms and limited resources. For well over a year, these students were being bumped from one temporary facility to another in order to complete their secondary education.

I am very proud, Mr. Speaker, to say that they did it. On June 13, 1997, the six hardy students will be the first ever graduating class in Fort McPherson's new Chief Julius School. I am sure, Mr. Speaker, that all my colleagues here in the Assembly will join me to congratulate this special group of young people and believe that they will continue on to make better and better endeavours. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause