Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our kids are our future. Education is the key. Mr. Speaker, we have all heard these terms many times within in this House. Yet, the current education system does not have the resources to address and deal with the issues of special needs within our school system. Mr. Speaker, I do recognize they are making every effort, however, we are losing too many of our future generations between the cracks of our education system.
The Department of Education in coordination with the Department of Health and Social Services have recognized a need for future support for students within our school system when dealing with those who have special needs. It has been determined we have additional students with special needs given our high incidence of fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effects in the north. Mr. Speaker, there has been a psychiatric assessment team from Stanton Regional Hospital established to meet with school administration and staff who are dealing with the special needs students. We have speech and language services within our school system. We have accommodated school environments for students with physical handicaps. The department has initiated early childhood education programs.
Mr. Speaker, I could go on, but the simple fact is, our education system is still not able to address the educational needs of all students within our system. These new programs are good, Mr. Speaker, but many students are not reached soon enough within our education systems to receive the timely help and the support they need.
Every child has a right to an education. Educators across the territories are trying their best to identify and meet these special needs but without the proper financial support, our schools cannot accomplish the mandate of the Department of Education. We all know class sizes are increasing, resources are decreasing and the quality of our education is getting stretched. Are we prepared to accept this, Mr. Speaker? The answer has to be no. We have heard our Minister state in this House. There is no more money. Mr. Speaker, we must not accept this. We must fight for our future generations, especially when they cannot fight for themselves. We have an obligation to create future generations who need to have the education and skills to become independent citizens.
Education is the key. Our kids are the future. Mr. Speaker, these catch phrases have no meaning if we do not act now to support and enhance our education system. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.