Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a return to oral question asked by Mr. Krutko on November 16, 2000, regarding the establishment of National Aboriginal Day as a holiday.

The declaration of National Aboriginal Day as a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories would provide an opportunity for all residents to participate in National Aboriginal Day celebrations, and demonstrates the importance of the day in the Northwest Territories. For these reasons, Cabinet supports the establishment of National Aboriginal Day as a statutory holiday.

I have filed a response with the Clerk to a petition tabled by the Member for Mackenzie Delta. I am hopeful that a bill to establish June 21st, National Aboriginal Day as a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories can be introduced to the Legislative Assembly in the near future. I provide this return on behalf of our Premier. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.