Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the cadets we see here in the Legislative Assembly this week are representative of air and army cadets of the Northwest Territories. Some of the cadet units in the NWT have been in existence for over 35 years. Today, there are nine army cadet corps and one air cadet squadron in the Northwest Territories, where the cadets' program continues to enrich the lives of hundreds of our youth.
Therefore, today in the House, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the NWT cadet movement in the Northwest Territories.
The primary focus of the cadet organization is citizenship. It aims to develop in our youth the foundations of good citizenship so that they will become valued and contributing members of society. We need not look further for examples than the fine young pages that are here today in the House.
We have also seen the cadet displays outside put on by the Rae-Edzo Cadet Corps and by the two Yellowknife cadet units. This afternoon, at the break, we look forward to the reception and the demonstrations.
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment has also recognized the contributions that the cadet movement can make to the education of our youth. Through designated cadet courses taken at summer camps, cadets can receive high school credits.
The cadet movement depends upon a large number of volunteers. Volunteers lead the cadet corps and squadrons. Volunteers are active on parent or sponsoring committees and sit on league executives. I would like to pay tribute to those volunteers and thank them for their generous donation of time and effort. Their valued abilities and dedication are truly appreciated.
We would not have cadets without the Canadian Forces, therefore, I would also like to thank them and their northern based personnel for the tremendous work they do for cadets. It is truly appreciated.
Mr. Speaker, I know that we all wish air and army cadets, their leaders and their civilian sponsors all the best in the future, secure in the knowledge that they have captured our interest and that they have our support. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.