Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is good to be back in the House after a long delay. It is good to have the summer back. Mr. Speaker, I want to speak on a golden duck hunter during this, Seniors' Week. Today is a very special day for an elder who was born in my constituency. Michel Sikyea was born in Fort Resolution 100 years ago today. I want to wish Mr. Sikyea a very happy birthday on behalf of my constituents and the people of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Sikyea is a well-known duck hunter. His duck hunting ability has resulted in some major changes for aboriginal rights in hunting waterfowl. Mr. Sikyea shot an out-of-season duck in the early 1960s. This he was charged for and prosecuted, which cost a million dollars, for which he is known as the million-dollar duck man.

As a result, the courts ruled that the Migratory Birds Convention Act did not apply for aboriginal peoples' ancient right to hunt, trap and fish for food at all seasons of the year on all unoccupied Crown land. So, on behalf of all aboriginal hunters, I wish to again wish Mr. Sikyea, the golden duck hunter, a happy birthday.

Seniors are our link to the past and to the land. Just as we must take care of our land, we must also take care of our seniors. The majority of our seniors are living on fixed incomes, and their old age pension cheques are not making ends meet, Mr. Speaker. The pressures on our seniors in our aboriginal communities are great. Unemployment rates are high and this puts more pressure on the seniors' cheques by members of the family. On this important day, we want to recognize all seniors.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Lizzie Beaulieu of Fort Resolution. She was recognized for a Respected Elder Award during Seniors' Week celebrations this week.

I would also like to recognize all elders in Tu Nedhe and the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause