Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to bring attention to a matter that should be of great importance to every Member in this House. Mr. Speaker, the issue that I am referring to is family violence. Every Member of this House stood up and proclaimed an end to family violence. This very important initiative was brought to light once again from October 30th to November 5th during Family Violence Awareness Week.

Mr. Speaker, the Family Support Centre located in Hay River is a very well run 12-bed facility that provides shelter and counselling for women and children seeking an end to family violence. In addition, Mr. Speaker, the Family Support Centre also operates what is called a second-stage house in Hay River for women who have been through their program and want to commence independent living.

Mr. Speaker, these facilities and programs are very costly to maintain. In addition, this year has been more taxing for the centre given the recent increases in fuel prices. The Family Support Centre has not had an increase since 1996 to their budget, despite several requests for an increase to cover operating costs.

Mr. Speaker, the Members of this House have all shown a willingness to do whatever is necessary to put an end to family violence. I suggest to you that a way to do this would be to put the money where our mouths are. Mr. Speaker, the Family Support Centre deserves our support as they continue to do good work to put an end to family violence.

Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time, I will have some questions for the Minister. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause