Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my written question is for the Minister responsible for Resources,

Wildlife and Economic Development.

With regard to the Highwood Resources project that is proposed for the Thor Lake Area:

1. Will the government be undertaking its own independent evaluation of exposure to beryllium by collecting human and area samples?

2. If so, will this information be available to employees and stakeholders?

3. Where did Highwood Resources obtain their meteorological information? Fog, and other forms of condensation and the wind may very likely transport beryllium from the tailings pond and could be inhaled by nearby wildlife and humans.

4. Why would Highwood Resources only choose to consult with communities around the Great Slave Lake? Communities along the Mackenzie River, from Fort Providence to Inuvik, could be affected by any beryllium particles in the water system.

5. What method is Highwood Resources using to extract and refine the beryllium? There may be a problem with dust particles in both cases.

6. What system has the GNWT put into place to reimburse businesses that might be affected by this project? The mine site is located within the "B" lake watershed and this flows north into Blachford Lake, 1.5 miles away. Blachford Lake Lodge, an established business in the adjacent area, may be negatively impacted. This could also be said of guides who take clients fishing and hunting in the surrounding area.

7. What is being done to ensure that communities along the highway are not exposed to any harmful beryllium dust?

8. What is being done to ensure that no dust escapes during transportation? The refined material will be transported to Alberta and the most effective way to take beryllium into the body is by way of inhalation.

Thank you.