Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to a very special person, the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, the Honourable Helen Maksagak. Mrs. Maksagak has been our Commissioner since 1995. Before that, she was the Deputy Commissioner starting in 1992.
The role of Commissioner has changed substantially since the beginning of this century. It used to be that the Prime Minister appointed a Commissioner from the civil service in Ottawa. These people carried out the role of Commissioner in addition to their regular jobs and the Commissioner held a great deal of authority. The role of Commissioner started to change about 20 years ago, when the Legislative Assembly began to have elected Members. As the Legislative Assembly took on more responsibilities and powers, the Commissioner became more like the lieutenant-governors in the provinces.
The Commissioner continues to play an important role in our government today, providing the final assent to our legislation and administering the oaths of office, among her other responsibilities. The Commissioner is a representative of the Northwest Territories, both outside the North and when dignitaries and important visitors come here.
When people meet Helen Maksagak, they meet someone who has devoted her life to public service. In addition to raising six children, Mrs. Maksagak has been a foster mother and managed a centre for northern patients travelling south for medical care. Mrs. Maksagak has worked with young offenders and battered woman. She has served on many boards and agencies, including the NWT Round Table on the Environment. She is also an active church member.
Throughout her terms as Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner, Mrs. Maksagak has carried out her duties with dignity and modesty. We are lucky to have such a person to represent us. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause