Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, early last month, the Northwest Territories said goodbye to an individual who played a pioneer role in aboriginal politics in the Northwest Territories. Francis Blackduck of Rae-Edzo was only 55 when he died. Throughout his short but busy life, Francis worked to ensure that the rights of aboriginal peoples of the Northwest Territories be recognized and respected. As a result of his efforts, aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories, especially aboriginal youth, will be the recipients of many of the social, political and economic benefits of development.
In May, people gathered in Rae to celebrate his life. Francis was remembered as a believer and a strong defender of the rights and values of the Dogrib people. Representatives of Indian Affairs and Northern Development acknowledged in writing his ability to work well in two worlds, the world of the Dogrib people and the world of western culture.
We have a saying that when a person is grounded in their own culture but is able to understand the concerns, goals and views of other cultures, that they are strong like two people. Francis Blackduck had this strength and this gift. Francis had a long career working with aboriginal, territorial and federal governments and agencies. He was instrumental in the early 70s in establishing the Indian Brotherhood of the Northwest Territories. This organization is now the Dene Nation. He also worked with a variety of resource companies.
Mr. Speaker, whether he was working on behalf of the Dogrib people as a band councillor or interpreting and translating complex and technical environmental, mining or legal terms, Francis demonstrated his understanding of the issues -- the issues of custom, culture and economic aspirations of his people and those of others who chose to live and do business in the North.
Mr. Speaker, Francis Blackduck will be missed. Besides his political contributions, I will remember Francis for his contributions to dog mushing. He helped to re-establish this sport in the community of Rae. He was a man who was active locally, regionally and territorially. Although he is gone, his efforts have created positive benefits that will continue on. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.