Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak today about a problem that affects all of us, especially ones in the smaller communities. It is the problem with fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effect. We know that FAS and also FAE can cause birth defects in children and also affect their ability to learn. Children and adults who suffer from these symptoms have difficulty understanding and learning, ranging to severe mental disabilities. We know that FAS/FAE is not an isolated incidence, but is a problem. It is preventable and it affects everyone across the Northwest Territories.
In Fort McPherson and Aklavik, there is a dire need to address the problems of FAS/FAE within the education system. Some students with FAS/FAE are seriously disabled and find they need intensive supervision and others need to be cared for in a manner which may take a little longer than healthy students. We need to support public education in regard to preventative measures, as well as support for the victims, our children. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time, I will be asking the Minister questions on the matter of FAS/FAE students in our schools. Thank you.