Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak briefly on the industry of agriculture in the Northwest Territories. It seems Mr. Speaker that we, as a government, are reluctant to place any priority on this industry. Agriculture, Mr. Speaker, in its many different forms, has been a part of the Northwest Territories for over a century. History tells us there is an ever-increasing growth in the production of foodstuff in the Northwest Territories.

People in the industry believe a large variety of high quality foods can be produced here and this, Mr. Speaker, can have a major impact on the amount of food we import.

The Territorial Farmers' Association has been actively promoting agriculture in the North for many years and strongly believes their biggest stumbling block is the government's lack of interest and commitment to the industry. Specifically, the TFA has been trying to get this government to develop an agricultural policy that would help them become players in the industry.

Mr. Speaker, in 1995, a draft policy was presented to this government which was not adopted. In 1997, the TFA undertook an economic impact study on the Northwest Territories agricultural policy which was presented to the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development.

Mr. Speaker, lack of an adequate policy and government support serve to restrict agricultural development. The TFA is determined to get this industry going and I urge this government to acknowledge the importance of legislating a policy to enhance the development of agriculture within the NWT. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.