Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Later today I will, on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, be tabling a draft document called "Towards Literacy: A Strategy Framework." Mr. Speaker, I would like to emphasize the importance of literacy. The Northwest Territories is on the brink of unprecedented economic development, which will bring jobs and business opportunities to Northerners. Northerners must have literacy skills if they are to take advantage of these opportunities.

Given the challenges of today's world, literacy is no longer defined as the basic ability to read and write. Instead, it is defined as an individual's ability to listen, speak, read, write, view, represent, compute and solve problems in one or more of the Northwest Territories official languages at levels of proficiency necessary to function in the family, the community and on the job.

Literacy levels in the Northwest Territories have increased substantially during the past decade. We should recognize and celebrate the commitment that has been shown by our youth, their parents, teachers and adults in improving literacy levels. We know that grade extensions in schools within our communities, program delivery by Aurora College and the work of non-governmental organizations has significantly contributed to furthering the education of many Northerners.

The draft strategy I am tabling today was developed in response to a motion presented by Regular Members and passed by the Legislative Assembly last summer. It represents this government's commitment to create a network of partnerships within the Northwest Territories to enhance existing literacy programs and establish new programs to ensure that literacy training is available in all communities of the Northwest Territories. It was developed after consultation with representatives of the non-governmental organizations, education authorities, Members of the Legislative Assembly and the general public. More than 200 people have been directly consulted. We expect further input from MLAs, the Northwest Territories Literacy Council and others before we finalize the strategy.

The draft strategy framework addresses literacy throughout life, beginning in early childhood and extending through the school, adult and senior years.

The proposed framework is broad and comprehensive -- addressing the need to expand access to literacy programs in communities, correctional facilities, for the disabled and seniors. It also suggests that we can improve some of our existing activities across government and in our education system. The draft strategy links to the proposed Early Childhood Development Action Plan in the areas of early childhood learning and family literacy.

The draft strategy establishes four long-term goals:

• • Increase the number of people in the Northwest Territories who are literate;
• • Increase awareness of the importance of literacy in the official languages of the Northwest Territories;
• • Ensure government departments work together to increase literacy levels in the Northwest Territories; and
• • Develop literacy partnerships across society.

To implement the draft strategy, we have included an expenditure of $2.4 million in our departmental budget. These monies will help to establish and enhance community-based literacy programs. The strategy will provide funding for English and aboriginal language literacy programs and extend library services to 15 communities that are currently isolated from the service. Funding has also been put in place to develop programming for seniors and for delivery of specialized services to persons with disabilities.

The delivery of these community-based programs will be realized through active partnerships with individuals, families, communities, NGOs and governments at all levels.

Mr. Speaker, there is a direct positive link between education and employment. Not only are people with more education more likely to have full-time work, they are also more likely to continue to learn and to acquire skills. Literacy contributes directly to a higher quality of life for individuals, supporting a key goal of the Legislative Assembly's vision document Towards a Better Tomorrow: healthy, educated Northerners making responsible, personal choices for themselves and their families. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause