Yes, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to present today the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Budget as proposed in the 1999-2000 Main Estimates. Aboriginal Affairs is a small unit within the government, tasked with the responsibility for representing the government in land claims and self-government negotiations and in assisting our efforts to promote the political development of the Northwest Territories. To ensure the interests of government and residents are presented in these important negotiations, adequate resources must be dedicated to this task.
Over the last few years, the workload has increased as more negotiations have proceeded. The ministry has been restructured to do its work more efficiently and has recently added six new positions. Based on the current workload of Aboriginal Affairs, we are proposing a budget of $3.698 million representing 31 positions. The ministry has no capital budget and does not generate any revenue. Mr. Chairman, I can only reiterate, that as I have done in past years, the crucial and important nature of the work of Aboriginal Affairs in the further development of the Northwest Territories. I believe this budget will allow us to do so in an effective and efficient manner. Mahsi, Mr. Chairman.