Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. For the past several years, 50,000 caring Canadians have taken to the streets in an event called Run for the Cure.
This event has grown and is now being held in 26 Canadian cities. Yellowknife is supporting Run for the Cure. On Sunday, October 4, 1998 Yellowknifers will run and walk alongside survivors of breast cancer to raise funds for breast cancer education, diagnosis, treatment and research. Last year in Yellowknife, 852 participants in Run for the Cure raised nearly $100,000. This year, 53 Department of Health and Social Services employees have formed corporate teams and are actively supporting Run for the Cure by running or walking on Sunday, October 4th.
Mr. Speaker, I must mention that our Premier, the Honourable Don Morin will be running or walking, I am not sure which, as part of the Health and Social Services team. I am sure you all will join me in cheering him on and encouraging him to raise lots of money for this worthy cause. Unfortunately, I will not be able to participate as I will be travelling. I am sure the Premier's performance will be spectacular enough for both of us.
The Department of Health and Social Services has challenged all other government departments to enter a team and meet or beat our fundraising and participation efforts. I understand that Legislative Assembly and the Department of the Executive staff and Members have risen to the challenge and assembled a joint corporate team of 33 individuals. I would like to take this opportunity to applaud all participants and the many corporate sponsors of this event. I am told that a significant proportion of the money raised in Yellowknife will stay in Yellowknife to support local initiatives.
I would like to take this opportunity to outline some initiatives that are being undertaken across the territories to support the early detection of breast cancer.
-During the past year, the Department of Health and Social Services issued updated guidelines for breast cancer screening.
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive rule 34(6) so that all Ministers' statements filed with the Clerk can be delivered today.