Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over two years ago, I made my concerns known to this government on FAS/FAE. Two years, Mr. Speaker, and not much has really changed. As an example, there is still only one medical specialist who is capable of properly diagnosing FAS/FAE in the Northwest Territories.

That is unacceptable, Mr. Speaker. A moderate form of FAE can cause low birth weight and growth, small body size, and also skeletal abnormalities. Mr. Speaker, children and adults who suffer from these conditions have difficulty understanding and learning. We know that FAE is preventable, but it is also incurable.

Mr. Speaker, in spite of the recent funding proposed for the Early Childhood Development Action Plan, it is still not enough to enable us to address FAS/FAE needs. We need more funds and resources to provide public education and preventative programs that will support the victims, especially our children.

In the Mackenzie Delta, there is the need to address the problem of FAE/FAS, especially in our education system. Some seriously affected students, especially the ones with disabilities who need extensive supervision and others need support to help reach their full potential.

I acknowledge that the government's FAS initiatives in the Beaufort Delta region have started. They have taken on some programs which include FAS parent workshops, in-home support, working groups and support in early childhood programs. Mr. Speaker, it is still not enough.

Mr. Speaker, from 1997-98 to 1998-99 in Fort McPherson there has only been a 0.3 percent increase in the number of teaching positions, an increase that is only one-third of a position in the classroom. The divisional board of education teachers have demanded more allocation and more resources to assist them in their classroom. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.