Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak to an issue today that is vital to the people of the Northwest Territories. The issue, Mr. Speaker, is securing the future of our seniors. Mr. Speaker, our seniors population continues to grow at a very rapid pace. CBC Radio has reported that by the year 2006, there will be more seniors in the Northwest Territories than there will be teenagers.

I have spoken at great length in this Assembly about this government investing in our aging population. By the same token, Mr. Speaker, we as legislators cannot afford to overlook the fact that seniors are significant contributors to our local economy. Mr. Speaker, what is needed is a full review of existing programs and services to our seniors. This review should not only reflect need, but should also serve to provide equality for all seniors.

Mr. Speaker, one issue that I have heard several times from my constituents is the issue of parity for all seniors. Government programs and policies currently in place do not always allow for parity for all seniors. Mr. Speaker, one such policy is administered by the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs under the auspices of the seniors' current Property Tax Relief Act. This act, Mr. Speaker, allows for seniors below a certain income threshold to apply for property tax relief from municipalities.

Mr. Speaker, this government speaks over and over about Maximizing Northern Employment and other initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for our Northerners. An aspect of a decent quality of life is the ability of individuals to maintain a certain standard of living. Our seniors have worked in the North for many years and many seniors have done a lot towards planning their future. To this end, Mr. Speaker, many of our seniors enjoy a decent quality of life. This puts them in an unenviable position of not qualifying for a number of government programs.

I believe it is high time, Mr. Speaker, that our seniors are recognized for their valuable contribution to our society. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause