Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce the latest appointments to the Status of Women Council of the Northwest Territories.
However, before I do that, I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the board members who have served us during these last four years. These women are:
- • President Viola Beck, Yellowknife;
- • Vice-President Harriet Geddes, Fort Providence;
- • Tessie Gonzales, Hay River;
- • Theresa Etchinelle, Tulita; and
- • Jean Ekpakohak, Holman.
Mr. Speaker, these members were the first to represent the Northwest Territories after the creation of Nunavut. Their challenges have been difficult, yet with dignity and determination they have strategically charted a new path for all northern women. During their time, the Status of Women Council focused a major part of their efforts on the strengthening of women by addressing obstacles such as family violence and by promoting awareness of women in new roles within the work place.
Mr. Speaker, this path has taken us through a period of unprecedented change and growth. I thank all these women, Mr. Speaker, for their work, their sacrifice and their commitment to the people of the Northwest Territories.
Today I have the great pleasure to announce the new Status of Women Council board members who will chart a course that builds on the accomplishments to date and that reflects our commitment to economic, social, cultural and political equality. The new members of the Status of Women Council are:
- • Lorayne Moses, Fort Simpson;
- • Betty Tsetso, Deline;
- • Therese Dolly Lafferty, Fort Resolution; and
- • Geraldine Sharpe-Staples, Inuvik.
Mr. Speaker, I am especially proud to announce for the first time a youth representative, Natasha McCagg, Yellowknife. These new appointees, Mr. Speaker, will join Ms. Lynn Brooks of Yellowknife who continues her term until 2004. Thank you very much.
-- Applause
