Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's a day for a few accolades and I would like to make one myself, but it's going to be balanced with a bit of criticism. I'd like to acknowledge, Mr. Speaker, the Premier's efforts in recent days in promoting devolution and development in the Northwest Territories. Visits to the economic power centres of Canada and the United States show that our message is getting across of the increasing stature of the Northwest Territories in the Canadian economy. The message, of course, is that diamonds and oil and gas are enormous economic advantages for us and outside investors and markets and are spurring a political and social development, as well.

However, Mr. Speaker, closer to home, recent statements in the media from Finance Minister Joe Handley have sent some confusing signals from our government. In the Wednesday, September 24th, edition of the Yellowknifer he's quoted as saying the diamond cutting and polishing jobs are relatively minor benefits from the mines, the jobs are boring and don't pay much and we want to get beyond cutting and polishing and into trading and jewelry making. I wonder why the Minister is saying this. The overall value of the industry and its people deserve to be shown in a much more positive light, Mr. Speaker. Not just in Yellowknife, but in Fort Simpson and Hay River, in Edzo and Fort Smith, but all communities that have been seeking to share in this benefit.

The North's cutting and polishing industry is a fledgling industry, seeking its way in the world markets and in doing so is contributing significantly to our economy; a fact that shouldn't escape the Finance Minister. Some indicators: on an average salary of $45,000 plus bonus and a manufacturing multiplier of 2.8, the current industry is worth $12 million from these workers to this city alone.

With the coming on stream of Tiffany's Laurelton diamond plant and production from existing plants, we have the capacity for up to 200 people to be employed. I think that's about double the number of people in the industry today, Mr. Speaker. This is not an insignificant contribution to our economy, especially when we see it against the payroll equivalent of the Con Mine, which is closing its doors later this month.

Mr. Speaker, with proper management and collaboration, this industry can be a catalyst for even more positive impact and diversity in our economy. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.