Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Members and the Speaker to bear with me as the preamble to my question is rather lengthy and very important.

My question is for the Minister of Transportation, the Honourable Vince Steen. In my opening statement, I pointed out some of the signs of climate change that were happening around us. We know that climate change is shortening our winter road season. I also stated that with all the mining, oil and gas development happening in the territories, we need to work with industry to try to minimize our greenhouse gas emissions.

We know that a road is needed to allow the transportation of goods to the mine sites. It is my strong belief that this road could have multiple benefits if it is built through the Dogrib lands. The infrastructure for hydro power is already in place along this proposed road to resources as there are hydro dams along the Snare River. Hydro lines could be placed alongside the road to supply power to the mines and the communities. This would cut down on the volume and the cost of fuel that needs to be transported. It will also reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and eliminate the use of generators in the middle of the communities. The removal of these generators will improve the health of community residents. The leaders of the Dogrib region and the majority of residents are interested in having an all-weather road connecting them. This road would also serve as a natural transportation corridor...