Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when Premier Kakfwi returned from the Team Canada trade mission, he acknowledged the presence of many people and groups that took part in promoting the NWT in other parts of the world. Some people promoted the economic opportunities in place here, while others displayed the cultural aspects of our unique society.
Mr. Speaker, it is the latter group I wish to acknowledge today. Mr. Speaker, there were six residents of Holman who made up the group known as the Holman Drummers and Dancers. Jimmy Memogana was accompanied by members of his immediate and extended families, namely Roberta and Kevin Memogana, Fred and Linda Kataoyak and Buddy Alikamik. Mr. Speaker, this group not only showcased part of the Inuvialuit culture through their actions and performance, but through their age differences, it clearly indicates a desire of the Inuvialuit to pass on these skills to the younger generations.
Mr. Speaker, Jimmy Memogana is 83 years old, and a father, grandfather and great grandfather many times over. Roberta is his daughter and Kevin is Roberta's son. Fred and Linda Kataoyak and Buddy Alikamik are also the grandchildren of Jimmy.
Mr. Speaker, Jimmy Memogana is a very popular Inuvialuit drummer and dancer and a great performer. When he dances, he does so with real emotion in his movements, and the same can be said of his family members.
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Holman drummers and dancers for showcasing the Inuvialuit culture while performing in Munich, Germany, and for sacrificing their time away from home to do so.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I wish Memogana many more years of good, healthy drumming and dancing. I look forward to seeing him again on my next visit to Holman. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause