Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a return to oral question asked by Mr. Dent on October 8, 2003, regarding the approval for Giant Mine's remediation project. In response to the Member's question, the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development has been aware of the following information on the timing of surface remediation at Giant Mine:
- • Surface remediation at Giant Mine does not depend on the Government of Canada finalizing the plan to manage the arsenic stored underground at the mine and to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals.
- • While any long-term management plan for arsenic underground will necessitate access to the storage vaults and for some surface structures such as the C-shaft headframe work to remain functional, the federal government could initiate cleanup of other surface liabilities immediately.
However, as the Honourable Joe Handley stated to this Assembly, there is a difference of opinion between this government and the Government of Canada as to whose responsibility it is to remediate and fund the surface cleanup. Despite the Government of the Northwest Territories formally inviting the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs in November 2001 to enter into discussions to resolve our differences, progress to date has been minimal. Territorial officials continue to pursue DIAND for speed and resolution in this matter, Mr. Speaker. We recognize the Member's concern over the slow pace of remediation at Giant Mine, however this government must continue to be diligent in ensuring that the Government of Canada fulfils its legislative and fiscal responsibility at Giant and that correct management decisions are made with respect to the long-term health and safety of Northerners in our natural environment. We need and will continue to be very careful when making these decisions. Our future generations would expect no less than that. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause