Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with little more than 300 days left before the official creation of Nunavut, the pressure on our new government officials is at its peak. Mr. Jack Anawak, our Interim Commissioner, and the recently appointed deputy ministers and assistant deputy ministers will be sitting before a very full plate with their collective sleeves rolled up for the foreseeable future.

Mr. Speaker, I have every confidence that each of these individuals will do their best to meet their objectives, to oversee a smooth transition of government services, and carry out the daily responsibilities of the new Nunavut government. Yes, Mr. Speaker, there will be wrinkles and hurdles to overcome.

Unfortunately, there have been a lot of criticism and voices of doom from various quarters regarding our officials and their ability to meet the time lines and to get the new government up and running. Mr. Speaker, I cannot think of anything more destructive to the success of a new government than a barrage of negative comments and ongoing criticism unless, of course, it is constructive criticism.

Mr. Speaker, one only has to listen to the radio and watch television to see that even long established government and their Members have their differences and uphill battles in their efforts to provide effective and efficient government. Differences are to be expected, but they can and should be discussed in a respectful manner as they are usually resolved more effectively and in a friendly and cooperative environment. Mr. Speaker, I believe this is the Nunavut way.

Considering the daunting work load our Interim Commissioner and deputy ministers are facing, I think we should make every effort to work with them and support their staff. They are not, after all, merely sitting on their duffs doing nothing. Finally, Mr. Speaker, we need to keep an eye on the big picture, and that is Nunavut. Nunavut citizens have dreamed, planned and worked for a very long time to set up their own government. We cannot allow petty egos and resentments to slow down this process. After all, Mr. Speaker, the Nunavut dream is at our doorstep. Thank you.

--Applause