(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, given all that has been going on in these last two days, I would like to reflect on what has been going on in this House. Mr. Speaker, I have strong feelings about the role that Nunavut Caucus must play in this House, particularly given recent events.

First, I would like to thank my honourable colleague, Mr. Levi Barnabas, for his statement yesterday. It took a lot of courage and was the honourable thing to do.

Mr. Speaker, I believe it is important that Nunavut Caucus Members stay out of political games, such as recent events and focus on the issues that concern the people we represent: the creation of Nunavut, the high cost of living, economic development and social issues, as well as what was mentioned by the Iqaluit Member with regard to income tax.

Let me repeat, these kinds of distractions lack credibility and take all of our energies away from issues that really matter. Mr. Speaker, I believe this does no service to the people we are here to serve and hurts the credibility of all Members of this House.

The people of the NWT want us to act like leaders. This means focusing on issues that count to the people, rising above the temptation to resort to dirty politics, acting with honesty and integrity and solving problems rather than creating them.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud of how the Members of Nunavut Caucus have handled themselves these last few days. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (Translation ends)

--Applause