Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that yesterday, the Special Committee on the Review of the Official Languages Act held its first of two Territorial Languages Assemblies. The main objective of the first assembly was to officially kick off the review of the Official Languages Act and to consult with delegates as to how the consultation process should take place.
As you know, Mr. Speaker, the special committee was created to address the requirements for the mandatory review of the Official Languages Act after ten years of operation and to provide recommendations to the Legislative Assembly.
Mr. Speaker, over 60 representatives from each of the language communities attended our assembly. This diverse and knowledgeable group of Northerners confirm our belief that an open and public consultation process is essential for the comprehensive review of the Official Languages Act of the Northwest Territories.
This review is the first ever undertaken and will consider all aspects of the act's provisions and implementation.
Mr. Speaker, delegates expressed very clearly their interest in this review and they supported our commitment to having the amendments to the Official Languages Act introduced within the term of this Assembly.
Yesterday, Mr. Speaker, in addition to hearing their thoughts and concerns, the delegates had an opportunity to receive information regarding languages in the Northwest Territories, in Canada and around the world. As well, delegates had the opportunity to comment on the consultation process that we presented to them.
Throughout the afternoon workshop, delegates were able to express their issues and concerns and raise questions regarding the Official Languages Act. Mr. Speaker, members of the special committee recognize the value of elders in relation to their aboriginal languages. The first Territorial Languages Assembly was an important first step for learning from them. Our elders represent the cornerstone of traditional education and we value their input and expertise immensely. Throughout the review, they will be accorded the proper and fitting opportunities to pass on their wisdom.
During the next few months, Mr. Speaker, the members of the special committee will begin visiting the communities to consult language groups across the North. Yesterday, delegates at the first Territorial Languages Assembly agreed with our suggestions regarding the consultation process and beginning next March, we will hold public hearings to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to...