Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will speak on an issue that was just covered by Mr. Miltenberger and to a certain extent by Mr. Braden. It is also an issue that might bring tourists to the Northwest Territories for a very different reason, Mr. Speaker. In 100 years or more to come, the Great Lakes might become a beach resort area if we do not pay attention to what is going on regarding global warming, Mr. Speaker.

This week in Nunatsiaq News, it was reported that the world's temperature is rising even more rapidly than expected, as Mr. Miltenberger indicated. Melting permafrost in many Arctic regions is part of the chain reaction, Mr. Speaker. This is the finding of a recently released United Nations report on climate change. As we know, this can create problems for infrastructure of pipelines, roads and houses. We also need to think seriously about our new construction, keeping in mind that the permafrost is melting. Our climate and water resources will also be affected.

Mr. Speaker, we need to protect our water resources for future generations. Global water consumption is rising quickly. Water availability will be one of the most pressing and contentious resource issues of the 21st century. Some say those will be the cause of the wars in the 21st century.

Greenhouse gases are being dealt with on a global scale, but we all know that efforts to reduce them are not working fast enough. The report says to expect more freak weather conditions such as floods and droughts, and we are starting to see that in the news on almost a daily basis -- massive displacement of the earth's population and loss of life, and the greater risk of water-borne diseases.

Temperatures will rise more than 10.5 degrees Fahrenheit over the next century. Polar regions are at risk. In fact, the world is at risk. For centuries to come, scientists expect irreversible impacts on ice and snow, and water circulation and sea rise. It is not a legacy that we want to leave our future generations.

We as a government and as a people have to start planning for the future, not only for ourselves as human beings, but for the wildlife that ultimately depends on our prudent management. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause