Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in recognition of International Women's Day. Mr. Speaker, this is a day to recognize the accomplishments of women and reflect on the challenges that still lie ahead. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, there are still far too many challenges. Family violence and violence against women are still among the biggest.
Mr. Speaker, in my constituency there is a women's shelter called the Alison McAteer House. In spite of our public pronouncements in support of zero tolerance for violence, shelters like the Alison McAteer House are busier than ever all of the time, year-round. Mr. Speaker, we must do more to stop violence. One of the most important steps we could take in this Legislative Assembly would be to move quickly to enact a family violence protection act. This would act as an important tool to allow women who are victims to stay in their homes in their home communities, where they have better support networks. Mr. Speaker, I hope we can see such a bill introduced in June.
Mr. Speaker, I would also like to congratulate the Status of Women Council for the Northwest Territories on their Wise Women Awards Program. It is important to celebrate and recognize those who are leaders in their communities and in the North. I would like to also extend my congratulations to the winners this year, especially Suzette Montreuil, who resides in my constituency. As Ms. Lee and Mr. Braden have already spoken about Ms. Montreuil, I think Members can see that her award is well-deserved. I look forward to attending the awards ceremony in the Great Hall today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause