Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this time to recognize National Aboriginal Day. It has been a long time coming. I am glad that we, the Territories, are the first jurisdiction in Canada to take the step of recognizing the First Nations people of this country, and for the obligation and commitments they have made over history by opening up this territory in Canada to the Europeans and other people from around the world.
Mr. Speaker, I think it is important to recognize our First Nations people. Hopefully, someday we will celebrate this day and make it a statutory holiday for all, not only in the Northwest Territories but right across Canada.
It is important to recognize the role aboriginal people have played in the history of the North and the contribution they have made to Canada in regard to the opportunities and benefits we see as a country compared to the rest of the world. It was the indigenous people who opened up their arms to our First Nation countries and other people to come here and make Canada their homes.
Mr. Speaker, I think it is important for us to take the time on Friday just to sit down and have a chance to be together, to celebrate the North, the people of the North, and, most importantly, our First Nations people.
At this time, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the government for taking this initiative to where it is today. Most importantly, I would like thank those people who have assisted me to push this government to make this a statutory holiday, especially the band councils, the Metis locals, the hamlet councils, and also the people in the communities who filed petitions and letters supporting this day.
This is a people's holiday and that is important. I hope all people will enjoy the day with their families and that they take the time to enjoy it with their communities, and ourselves as a government to enjoy it for the people of the Northwest Territories. So for National Aboriginal Day, happy birthday, all the best and may we see you back home. Thank you.
-- Applause