Thank you, Madam Chairperson. As you are aware, yesterday the Standing Committee on Government Operations released its report on Bill 15, An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act, following public hearings in several communities in the NWT. You all heard what the committee is recommending and you all have a copy of the report so I will not take any time today restating the committee's findings and the rationale for our recommendations.
However, I just wanted to comment briefly on this difficult and emotional issue. The committee recognizes that we have to find a solution -- the legal constraints require us to proceed within the parameters of the September 1st deadline and the Supreme Court decision. We know we need a solution that is not divisive and does not create an atmosphere that pits rural communities against urban communities.
All Members of the Legislature now have a responsibility to act in a manner that brings Northerners together. We must not further divide our peoples and our communities. We ask all Members to approach the debate on our motions with open minds. Nation building is never an easy process but we know that Members are up to the task.
With that, Madam Chairperson, my colleagues and I are prepared to hear general comments on our report. We will attempt to answer any questions Members may have or provide additional clarification if it is required. At the appropriate time we will introduce motions to effect the recommendations that are proposed in the report. As well, some of the Members might be making general comments. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.