Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I tabled a proposed Human Rights Act and a related issues paper on equal pay.

The proposed Human Rights Act has many changes from the version that was tabled last November. These changes were made as a result of the public consultation that occurred from last February through to this summer. There was much support from the public for this project and many ideas for changes. A lot of work has gone into this draft. The Department of Justice only has a few more issues to research and review before a bill will be ready for introduction, which is planned for February.

This human rights project has been a high priority for our government. It is an important project and we want to make sure that we get it right. Tabling the draft Human Rights Act at this time will allow members of the public and interested groups to get started on their review of the proposed legislation. Although the department has finished the formal consultation process, I would be happy to hear any additional comments that people may have on this version.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that the passage of a Human Rights Act in the life of this Assembly will be an important milestone in the evolution of the Northwest Territories and I look forward to our debate on the bill in 2002. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause