(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in the House today to talk about an issue that is very important to members of my constituency, the carving industry. As I have said before, the carving industry is the most important sector of local economies of Baffin South. In constituency meetings and radio phone-in shows that I conducted in Kimmirut, Cape Dorset and Sanikiluaq, the issue

of carving sales has been one of the most discussed topics. Why is this one of such great interest to my constituents, Mr. Speaker? Carving sales put food on the table, pay the bills and are worth $3 million to the three communities of Baffin South with a total population of approximately 2300. This income is a significant and critical source of income by any standard. Mr. Speaker, this is an industry in need of support and guidance. We need to band together to ensure that the carving industry stays viable. I have brought this issue up in meetings and in writing to government agencies and have spoken to individuals who buy and market the carvings. There are two main issues that we need to deal with:

1) increase marketing to deal with decreasing sales and prices;

2) an information campaign to deal with quality and diversity of products. (Translation ends)

I have discussed my concerns with the Minister of Renewable Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi, and requested timely discussions on the expansion of the market for Inuit carvings. I am pleased to say that all parties have been working cooperatively to develop solutions to this problem.

Although, we are still far from solving this problem, I believe we have made some progress. I was pleased to hear Minister Kakfwi speak about the importance of marketing NWT arts and crafts in the House this week. I have also discussed my concerns with the regional RWED superintendent for the Baffin region, Mr. Clay Buchanan. He has met with me as well as representatives of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and the Qikiqtaaluk Corporation.

It was agreed that representatives of these organizations would work together. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request unanimous consent to conclude my statement.