Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In recent days, we had an announcement of two major issues relating to languages. We have heard of the signing of the Government of the Northwest Territories' Candid Cooperation Agreement for French and aboriginal languages in the Northwest Territories, and the official opening of a French school in Yellowknife.
These two events have helped bring attention to the crisis situation in our aboriginal communities regarding aboriginal languages. Mr. Speaker, it is no secret that aboriginal languages appear to be suffering a slow, painful death. Also, there is recognition the self-esteem and confidence in aboriginal people are slowly deteriorating because of their language and culture.
Mr. Speaker, I feel this government has to do more to ensure aboriginal languages are preserved and protected, as well as the culture and well-being of the Inuvialuit, the Gwich'in, the Sahtu, the Slavey, North Slavey, South Slavey, Cree, and the Metis, who were the first people of this land. We have to ensure these cultures and languages are preserved and protected, just like the French.
Mr. Speaker, with the amount of money this government spends on developing our institutions, we cannot forget we have to preserve the history and culture of our people. We have to make people aware of the importance of these aboriginal cultures and languages that have existed for thousands of years.
Yet, Mr. Speaker, I have noticed one thing in this government. When it comes to practicing what we preach, there is very little money put into the area of practice. But we sure do speak a lot in this House.
Mr. Speaker, I feel it is critical this government, no offence to the French, take just as much time and effort to ensure that aboriginal communities have the same rights and ability to establish culturally based schools regarding Slavey, Cree, Gwich'in and Inuvialuit. They should also have the ability to establish schools in their ridings. With that, Mr. Speaker, I will be asking the Minister responsible for Education, Culture, and Employment questions regarding this matter during question period. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.