Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an important time of the year for the people of the Mackenzie Delta, especially for a majority of my constituents in the riding of Inuvik Twin Lakes. The cultural importance I am speaking of is this is the time for rat trapping season, as we call it back home.
The season for trapping for later spring hunters lasts March 1st to June 15th annually. Rat trapping plays a significant role in the lives of Inuvik Twin Lakes, as it brings families back onto the trap line to harvest these resilient little rodents, Ondatra Zibethica.
The ratting season also gives an opportunity for people to go out and enjoy a traditional lifestyle. To put it mildly, get a good wind burn and enjoy the return of long daylight. Fresh tea and bannock beside a good fire alongside the lake seem to put the people back into a refreshed state of mind.
Mr. Speaker, I want to pass along my sincere good wishes to all those who are going to enjoy this annual practice to which I can safely say that I am envious of at this time of the year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause