Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have the good fortune to be the Minister of some very hard-working departments. Recent times have been a little difficult for staff in one of those departments, and often the negative remarks have been extended to include all of the GNWT. I want to say a few words today about the good work that all of our employees are doing.

No matter what the latest crisis in this House, elevators are still being inspected, computer systems are working, fuel is being delivered in small communities. The work of the public service goes on and that work is done well. The best performance in the government is one that nobody notices.

Of course, it is not just Public Works and Services staff that do a good job, and it is not just Transportation employees or Aboriginal Affairs staff who are doing excellent work for the NWT: teachers, finance clerks, nurses, wildlife officers and all others who provide the services that keep the NWT and its government running smoothly.

Since this is the holiday season, I would like to add my voice to those who have recently recognized the efforts of our public service. I would like to wish them and their families a happy time during the holidays.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause