Thank you Mr. Evaloarjuk. Good afternoon, Members. Before we begin today, I would like to remind Members that today is the 47th anniversary of a historic event for the Northwest Territories and for this Assembly. On September 17, 1951, for the first time some Members of the Council were elected to office.
There were three Members elected in 1951 to represent the whole Northwest Territories. They were, Mr. Mervyn Hardie, representing the Mackenzie North constituency; Mr. James Brodie representing Mackenzie South and Mr. Frank Carmichael, representing Mackenzie West. At that time, there were also six appointed Members on the Council, as well as the Commissioner, Major General Hugh Young.
There have been many changes in this Assembly and in the Northwest Territories as a whole since 1951. Forty-seven years ago we began the process toward responsible government. For the last 47 years, Members of this and previous Legislatures have worked to ensure that all residents of the Northwest Territories are represented responsibly and effectively.
With the creation of two new territories, we will see many more changes and will continue to break new ground. As elected Members, we will remain committed to the principle of responsible government that is reflective of the interests of all northern residents.
If I may, it is appropriate today that we have in the gallery four of the 19 returning officers, who will conduct the first election for the Nunavut Legislative Assembly. They are in Yellowknife for training this week. They are:
Mona Autut, Returning Officer for Baker Lake - from Baker Lake
Nancy Kalluak, Returning Officer for Arviat - from Arviat
Jean Kaniak, Returning Officer for Cambridge Bay - from Cambridge Bay
Sarah Kidlapik, Returning Officer for Akullik - from Repulse Bay
Welcome to the Assembly.
--Applause
Orders of the Day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Kakfwi.