Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when I first became a Member of this Legislative Assembly one of the hardest things to get used to was recognition and acceptance of the fact that I entered a profession that is held in generally low esteem by the people. In fact, I saw a poll not too long ago where we rank even lower than lawyers in terms of public perception, and unfortunately just marginally ahead of child molesters. Mr. Speaker, that is unfortunate because it colours the perception of people and their perception of everything we do regardless of how good it is. I came through the door intent on representing my constituents and the people of the Northwest Territories to the best of my ability. That is still my intention. I believe, that is the intention of every Member in the House here today. We have to strive every day to prove to the people that in fact we have their best interests at heart. In this House I have heard this Assembly characterized as a banana republic. Once again, I believe that is an unfortunate perception. I believe history will show that this Assembly is probably the best and has done the most of any of the 12 Assemblies before us.

Mr. Speaker, we inherited an Assembly that was for all intents and purposes in political grid lock where there was political scandal on almost a weekly basis, where there was a revolving door to Cabinet. We restructured the Assembly to be much more functional and open. We inherited a deficit and a territorial government that was hurtling towards bankruptcy. We also inherited a huge backlog of legislative agenda of undone business and a road to division that was significantly behind schedule. Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to be part of this Assembly. We have balanced the budget. We have restructured government to make it more efficient and accountable.