Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Glenna Hansen of Inuvik on her appointment as Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. Ms. Hansen was born in the Delta, in Aklavik, and has lived her life in the Northwest Territories.

Ms. Hansen has always exhibited a high level of energy, confidence and creativity. She is able to take information, assess it and reach conclusions objectively. These strong personal characteristics have made it possible for her to make lasting contributions to the people in her community and to the Inuvialuit.

Our new Commissioner has a strong interest in the social and economic welfare of people in the Delta. Ms. Hansen's accomplishments in these fields are many. She has been a strong advocate of education, so vital to the future of all Northerners. She has sat on education boards at the local and regional level and on other community and regional boards including that of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation. Ms. Hansen was also co-chair of the Minister's Forum on Health and Social Services.

Not only has she herself been active in business but has used much of her time, experience and knowledge working for the betterment of others through participation on the Board of Western Arctic Business Development Services and as a director of the Inuvialuit Investment Corporation.

Mr. Speaker, the role of the Commissioner has dramatically changed in the last quarter century. Until the late 1970s the Commissioner was the centre of government in the Northwest Territories. Since then, the position has evolved into one similar to that of a Lieutenant Governor in the provinces. The Commissioner's role is largely ceremonial, but is important in the continuity of governance from one government to the next and a symbol of our growing place in Canada.

The new Commissioner brings with her a strong sense of commitment to the people of the Northwest Territories. This sense of commitment, her tact, her communication skills and her abilities as a team player will enhance her ability to carry out her duties as Commissioner.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I would like once again to congratulate Ms. Hansen on her appointment. I look forward to a positive and productive working relationship with the Commissioner. Thank you.