Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise to voice my displeasure at the lack of response and encouragement from the federal government to the Northwest Territories' quest to maximize the benefits to northerners from diamond mining spin-off industries. Recently, Mr. Speaker, the RCMP approached the federal government to enact legislation to make the ownership of rough diamonds illegal in Canada. I have no problem with that. With diamonds comes a criminal element and the RCMP need the tools to deal with these individuals. However, Mr. Speaker, what I know will make my blood pressure rise is the speed in which the federal government will respond to the RCMP's request in comparison to our request to maximize the benefits of diamond mining to northerners. This is to be expected, Mr. Speaker, as this legislation will also protect the federal government's royalty regime.
Mr. Speaker, perhaps, when we have been around as long as the RCMP, we might get the same positive response to our requests, as I am sure this request to make the possession of rough diamonds illegal will receive.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to encourage this government to continue lobbying the federal government to ensure that the Northwest Territories residents receive a fair and equitable share of diamond royalty spin-offs from that industry. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause.