Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, March 8, 2000, is International Women's Day, and the beginning of International Women's Week. As the House will not be in Session during that period, I would like to take this opportunity to express this government's appreciation for the many contributions that women have made in the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, International Women's Day was first recognized to highlight the struggles of working women, and to promote universal suffrage for women. Over the years, International Women's Day has come to be a time for reflection and for women and men to celebrate women's ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for all.

In the Northwest Territories, women have played a significant role in the social, economic and political changes that have taken place. They are working hard to remove the obstacles that have limited the choices and opportunities for women to be full and equal partners in today's society.

Mr. Speaker, the role of women has been a catalyst. They have initiated the move toward community empowerment and self-empowerment by producing volumes of work that address all aspects of social, political and economic equality. The production of videos and public service announcements and the completion of reports that address issues of self-esteem, human rights, violence against women and children, women's health, family well-being and women in politics complement the work of governments and other special interest groups. Improving the quality of life is everyone's goal, and these initiatives help to achieving this important objective.

Mr. Speaker, northern women in particular must be commended for their achievements and we, as government, must continue to support them in their goals and aspirations. We can do this by reaffirming our commitment, which is to "actively support and encourage the participation of women on an equal basis with men in all aspects of society in the Northwest Territories".

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to thank all women's organizations for their continued dedication to their communities and their families. A number of communities throughout the North will be celebrating International Women's Week and I encourage all Members to participate. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.