Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi will be absent from the House for today, tomorrow and Thursday to attend meetings in Ottawa regarding the Federal Infrastructure Program funding.

Also, Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that, regrettably, the Honourable Jake Ootes will be absent from the House for the duration of this sitting. As you are aware, Minister Ootes is currently recuperating from coronary bypass surgery. His doctors have termed the surgery successful, are pleased with his progress and have placed him on a cardiac recovery program. I would also like to pass along a sincere thank you from Mr. Ootes to the medical staff for their excellent care and to all those who sent flowers, get well cards, personal notes and books. As well, I would like to extend his appreciation to all those who came to visit him in the hospital, but especially to his wife, Margaret, and son, Luke, for all their personal care, concern and love. On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I would like to wish Mr. Ootes a speedy recovery.

Finally, I would like to advise the House that the Honourable Joe Handley will be acting Minister of Education, Culture and Employment until Mr. Ootes is fully able to return to his duties. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.