Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, when we completed the last budget of this government before division, many of the Members reflected on the time spent here debating, passing motions and making statements since November, 1995.
In a little more than a year, division will occur. Many challenges lay ahead over the next 12 months. We have to work hard to ensure a smooth transition for the two new governments. Over the next few months, the Nunavut Act Amendments will be introduced in the House of Commons in Ottawa.
The gross expenditure base for the budget allocated by the federal government for both Nunavut and the new Western Territory will be made known. In Nunavut, the new deputy ministers will implement the departmental government infrastructure as outlined in Footprints 2, will be set up for a new Nunavut government.
Division will be the major focus over the next 12 months. Areas like the Power Corporation, the Workers' Compensation Board and division of assets and liabilities will need to be addressed.
Mr. Speaker, I look forward to the challenges over the next 12 months. I also look forward to going home to Iqaluit tomorrow, to see my wife and my three children, meeting with my friends and constituents. I also look forward to Friday, when I have the opportunity to entertain our friend, Mr. John Todd, the Finance Minister for this government in Iqaluit.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause