Mr. Speaker, we recognize the very important economic benefits of large-scale resource development, if balanced with appropriate environmental protection. We have also heard from chiefs and other leaders, and we recognize the need to find a balance between large economic projects and the community level economy. A key component of this balance is enhancing the traditional economy, which includes fur harvesting, arts and crafts and cultural tourism. Elements of the traditional economy are especially appropriate for smaller communities. This priority was emphasized in Common Ground, which recommended support for the traditional economy, a clear regional development strategy and promotion of on-the-land programs for young people. The Honourable Jim Antoine, Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, will be implementing a number of initiatives to support this priority.

The GNWT is providing $265,000 in new funds to implement the revised Northwest Territories Fur Strategy and to provide youth training programs in trapping. New investment will be made to support traditional tanning skill development, improve pelt quality, train trappers, maintain the fur marketing effort and monitor the fur-bearing population. We expect our efforts in strengthening and securing our capability for harvesting and marketing furs to meet the high expectations for northern furs already established in the marketplace.

In response to the Common Ground recommendations, the GNWT will provide $150,000 in this budget to establish a stakeholder committee to develop an arts policy and strategy for the Northwest Territories. This budget also contains new funding for research into traditional methods of arts and crafts production and to identify product development and marketing.