Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to echo some of Mr. Delorey's comments from yesterday.

-- Laughter

This week, Mr. Speaker, 166 individuals in Yellowknife are in their final school days. I am referring to the graduates of the class of 2002 from Sir John Franklin and St. Patrick's High School. They are now currently writing their final exams and will soon be embarking on new challenges in their lives. Last month, Mr. Speaker, I was honoured to have the opportunity to stand in for the Minister of Education, Mr. Ootes, and deliver his speech to the graduates of Sir John Franklin during their convocation ceremonies.

It would be an understatement to say that I was impressed with the calibre of graduates this year, Mr. Speaker. Being a witness to the graduation ceremonies and the personal speeches, I cannot help but share in the pride that our community has in all of these young men and women.

Clearly graduation is a time of extreme emotion for students, parents, family, friends and yes, even teachers. High school graduation can be a very stressful time in the life of these students who may feel uncertain about the future.

Mr. Speaker, the pressures and challenges our youth face today are many, and more so than when I graduated. These young adults are clearly ready and raring to take on whatever comes forth.

Mr. Speaker, dedication and personal discipline help these students meet the challenge, but they did not do it alone. Support from parents, family, teachers, and friends has no doubt been critical. I strongly encourage each and every graduate to strive to do their best and not to get discouraged by little bumps on the road along the way. Mr. Speaker, each of us knows that successfully navigating the road builds character.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow Members to please join me in congratulating not only the students from Yellowknife but also each and every graduate in the Northwest Territories, the class of 2002. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause