Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last March, Cabinet launched the regulatory reform initiative, which streamlined the regulatory programs and eliminated unnecessary red tape that were creating impediments to economic development and business operations in the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, I support this regulatory initiative. A small specialized secretariat has now been established reporting jointly to the Minister of Finance and the Minister for RWED. A number of proposals for changing legislation, regulations and procedures are under active consideration based on input from chambers of commerce, industry and professional associations, individual businesses and service delivery personnel and GNWT departments. Emphasis is being placed on grassroots communication with stakeholders through surveys, presentations and direct contact and are finding practical strategies that are available within the remaining term of this, the 13th Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, in addition the secretariat has been working to secure a better northern representation into standard setting and the development of regulatory codes at the national level. A frequent concern of NWT business people has been that the code requirements developed on a nationwide basis sometimes do not give adequate consideration to the needs and special circumstances of our northern lifestyle.

Mr. Speaker, over the past year, however, the Northwest Territories has been able to take an increasing role on advisory committees to the Standards Council of Canada and other national bodies. Mr. Speaker, the regulatory reform is a proactive and constructive initiative of this government. Later today I will be asking the Minister of RWED, if the honourable Member from Thebacha will allow me, some questions on this matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.