Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this afternoon I would like to call attention to the award of a Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal to an employee of the Department of Transportation, Mr. David Hessdorfer. David Hessdorfer is a veteran firefighter at the Yellowknife airport. On behalf of the Office of the Governor General of Canada, I had the honour recently of presenting Mr. Hessdorfer with his award.

Following a lengthy nomination process, the Office of the Governor General approved the award this summer. To receive the award, the nominee must have completed 20 years as a member of a fire service of such high standard to merit the award. In addition to his 20 years with the airport fire service, David has also served more than two years with the City of Yellowknife's fire department as a volunteer firefighter.

Whether performing the general fire and paramedic duties of a professional firefighter, fire hall administration or training new recruits, David has proved a reliable worker who can be counted on at all times. His professional attitude and keen abilities make him a pleasure to work with and a well-respected member of the department.

Mr. Speaker, I believe this award from the Governor General's office is well deserved and that Mr. Hessdorfer stands as an example of the dedication and excellence typical of employees of the Department of Transportation and the territorial public service in general. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause