Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It may cross borders as Minister of Education, but I think it is appropriate for me, at this particular time, to pass on congratulations to all the students in the Northwest Territories at various levels of high school, college and university.

Over the past few months, I have had an opportunity to attend a number of functions, including the graduation at St. Pat's and the graduation at Sir John. I really enjoyed those functions and appreciated being there.

I also had an opportunity to visit a number of schools over the past two months. I was in Fort Smith for the opening of the Paul Kaesar School, which I particularly enjoyed, having known Paul Kaesar himself many years ago. I visited Hay River and toured the schools there, as well as Kakisa. I had the opportunity to visit Holman, of course, and Fort Resolution.

I want to also acknowledge the presence of Pat Thomas with us here, today. Personally, I think she has done one heck of a job representing the teachers and the education staff in the Northwest Territories. She is to be congratulated for that dedication. I know the letters flow constantly from her to my department, and to the previous Ministers as well. I want to congratulate Pat on her retirement, and wish her all the best. Thank you