Mr. Speaker, in August, 1996, I had the privilege of announcing the creation of the Northwest Territories Pollution Prevention Awards Program. These awards recognize northern companies that demonstrate leadership in reducing pollution which originates from their daily operations. At the April annual general meeting of the Northwest Territories Chamber of Commerce, two northern companies, White Bear Chrysler and Canarctic Graphics were recognized for their achievements in this area.

As a part of this week's Environment Week celebrations, the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment announced a national recognition and award program on pollution prevention. By doing so, Canada's Environment Ministers have challenged all Canadian organizations, large and small, to develop ways in which innovation and ingenuity can help them reduce pollution and achieve their goals.

Increasingly, Mr. Speaker, pollution prevention is becoming the strategy of choice for environmental protection in Canada. I am pleased that the Northwest Territories is at the forefront of promoting this strategy through our own northern awards and recognition program. Thank you.

-- Applause