Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in our document, Towards a Better Tomorrow, as part of our vision for a prosperous future, we talk about aboriginal and other northern leaders working together in support of a common vision and a strong sense of identity. Another area, aboriginal people having greater self-determination over their social, cultural and political destiny.

On behalf of this government, the Minister signed an agreement called the Interim Measures Agreement. The Minister of RWED said in this House to my question, what is the role of RWED if the Minister of DIAND, who is reviewing the decision of the Mackenzie Valley Impact Review Board, decides there is no environmental impact? Minister Handley, as Minister of RWED, had indicated to me that he has no choice, but to issue the permit to Mr. Patterson. That is against the wishes of the First Nations in the Deninu Ku'e and Akaitcho.

Now, what role will the Minister, as Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, have if the permit is granted by RWED? Thank you.