Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with the division of the territories approximately 13 months away or 421 days, I believe it is time to put personal differences aside and concentrate all our collective energies on what is best for the people who we are elected to represent. Mr. Speaker, I have some serious reservations about the decentralized model of government for Nunavut that has been agreed to by all the signatories including the GNWT, NTI and the federal government. I clearly understand that the concept of a decentralized model has been approved and accepted. I strongly support it. My concern, Mr. Speaker, is what is the timing or schedule for these jobs and positions to be relocated or transferred to the smaller communities such as Arviat and Baker Lake? Mr. Speaker, I am very certain that the majority of the people, the residents of Nunavut, believe that the long awaited jobs that have been promised with the coming of Nunavut will arrive in the next year or so.
Mr. Speaker, the timing of these jobs is further complicated by the delay in construction for example, of housing units in my home community of Arviat. Mr. Speaker, this can only slow down the process for these transfers and decentralization. Mr. Speaker, most of the residents of Nunavut, especially the elders have waited a lifetime for Nunavut and the associated benefits such as these much needed jobs. Mr. Speaker, I will close by saying we must make every hour count leading up to April 1, 1999 and ensure that all residents know what to expect and most importantly, when to expect it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause