Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that the first Canadian Arctic diamond certificates will be reaching consumers in late November.

This is part of the Government of the Northwest Territories' program to certify selected diamonds as mined, cut and polished in the Northwest Territories. Two Northwest Territories manufacturers, Arslanian Diamond Cutting Works NWT Ltd. and Deton'Cho Diamonds Inc., are participating in this voluntary program.

Each official certificate will provide consumers with proof that the purchased diamond is mined and cut in Canada's Northwest Territories, is authentic and meets a high standard of cut. It will also provide proof of ownership through the inclusion of a Gemprint. This international computerized identification system provides a unique image of each certified diamond. Manufacturers will pay a fee for each certified diamond. Those fees will help offset the costs required for the program.

Mr. Speaker, there is considerable interest in buying Canadian diamonds which are now selling at a premium. Diamonds from Canada have an appeal because Canada has strong laws to protect the environment, its people and the rights of its workforce. Diamonds from the Northwest Territories have appeal because of the NWT's uniqueness, remoteness and pristine wilderness. The GNWT Certification Program will help us capitalize on the appeal of Canadian Arctic diamonds and will position them as quality items in the competitive diamond marketplace.

Mr. Speaker, we are confident that Canadian Arctic diamonds will be a much sought after luxury item, thereby contributing to the growing diamond value added industry in the Northwest Territories. Thank you.