Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I hope everyone had a pleasant Christmas break and has come back refreshed. Now that we are back to business, I wish to acknowledge a constituent who came to our Youth Parliament here at the Legislative Assembly. Ryan McKay, a grade 10 student from Deninu Ku'e School in Fort Resolution served in the political exercise. I wish to thank him for participating and representing our people. I would also like to say hi to the people of Deninu Kue and Lutselk'e.

Since the last Session, I have taken on the added responsibility as chair of the Special Committee of the Official Languages Act. Work on developing terms of reference will begin very soon.

Our committee will be travelling to communities in the Northwest Territories to hear the views of residents on any possible changes to the act. I have also travelled to several communities with the Standing Committee on Governance and Economic Development to hear concerns about Bill 13, the Hotel Tax Act, and Bill 16, Amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act. There will be continuing discussions on that.

I will continue to pursue environmental health concerns raised over the rates of cancer in communities of the Northwest Territories during this session, as well on employment equity within the public service.

In addition, a look at seniors' needs is being undertaken in my constituency. A survey of services lacking in Fort Resolution is being conducted by the Deninu Kue Seniors' Society.

As a final note, I want to welcome all Members back to the House and I look forward to a productive session. I wish everybody in the Northwest Territories, especially those lovebirds, a happy Valentine's Day. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause