Mr. Speaker, every year we suffer the loss of loved ones because of tragic events and accidents. The recent deaths in Pangnirtung make it clear that lives can be lost, even when coordinated search and rescue attempts are made. Mr. Speaker, search and rescue and emergency preparedness is a collective responsibility. Individuals, community and government organizations, and the RCMP all work very hard to save lives through coordinated and planned efforts. It is critical to have trained, community/volunteer search teams to help RCMP members carry out search and rescue operations.

I am pleased to report that the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs and the RCMP have designed a search and rescue training program for the regions. These training sessions help communities and residents respond to these emergencies. Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to report that the next search and rescue conference will be held in the Keewatin Region. MACA, the RCMP and the Kivalliq Inuit Association, are sponsoring the conference. It will be held in Rankin Inlet from December 15 to 17, 1998. Search and rescue personnel from Keewatin communities, RCMP officers, and representatives from federal and territorial agencies will discuss all aspects of search and rescue.

Mr. Speaker, this conference will allow participants to discuss ways to improve the general organization and management of local searches. They will also consider developing a strategy for the Keewatin region. We recognize that our efforts to help communities improve their local search and rescue operations could save lives. This is well worth the investment. It is an initiative the department will continue to promote. Through other promotions, such as public awareness and prevention initiatives, we also hope to save lives by reducing the number of search and rescue incidents required throughout the north. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause