Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the second day in a row. Mr. Speaker, a strong, independent and successful business community provides the backbone of a vital northern economy. Helping to build a strong business community is one of the main objectives of the Government of the Northwest Territories.

I am pleased today to announce that the northern business community is growing at a steady rate. Our trade and investment division reports new business start-ups during the year 1998 reached 293. That is a considerable increase from the 1997 figure of 102. During 1998, each region of the Northwest Territories benefited from new business start-ups. In the Baffin, 42 new businesses were opened; in the Sahtu, 12 new businesses were started; while in Inuvik, 42 new businesses began operating. Other regions saw similar growth in their business communities.

The greatest development was in the start-up of businesses offering trades and services. New businesses in this sector were developed in each region. More than 30 new businesses offering trades and services opened in both the South Slave and Inuvik regions. Other new businesses in arts and crafts, construction and travel and tourism sectors began operations in several regions. The North Slave region saw an increase in business growth in several other sectors including manufacturing, forestry, minerals, oil and gas, as well as transportation, communications and utilities.

Mr. Speaker, each of these new businesses received a personal letter of congratulations and an information package from the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. The package contains valuable information on economic programs available in the Northwest Territories, an application for the Business Incentive Policy and a complimentary portfolio manufactured by Fort McPherson Tent and Canvas.

Once again, I would like to congratulate everyone who started new businesses in 1998 and offer my encouragement to all those considering or planning to start a new business this year. Their commitment to our northern communities will help us build a strong and vibrant economy. Thank you.

--Applause