Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address an issue that has been raised by a constituent of mine. The issue I am referring to, Mr. Speaker, is the provision of public weather forecasts by community aerodome radio stations. Mr. Speaker, this issue has wide-ranging implications for many residents of the Northwest Territories, especially those whose livelihoods are heavily impacted by present and future weather conditions.
Mr. Speaker, public weather forecasts and up-to-date weather information was previously provided to the general public by Nav Canada. Mr. Speaker, on June 28, 2000, community aerodrome radio stations, or CARS as they are referred to, commenced operations in Hay River under contract to Nav Canada.
Mr. Speaker, in Hay River, for example, CARS has a three-year contract in place from Nav Canada with a two-year extension option. CARS is mandated only to assist in the safe operation of air traffic. This does not include weather forecasts.
Mr. Speaker, I have a concern that the safety of hunters, trappers, fishermen and outfitters that are out on the land and water on a regular basis may be compromised. Mr. Speaker, their safety depends on reliable, accurate weather forecasts. These forecasts can only be provided in communities that are served by Nav Canada.
Mr. Speaker, in smaller centres where Environment Canada does not provide immediate weather forecasts and where people may not have access to the Internet, these people are at a very real risk to public safety.
Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time, I will have further questions to the Minister responsible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause