Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to rise and announce that on September 25, 2004, I attended a graduation ceremony held in Deninu Kue, to recognize the significant achievements of three students. Mr. Speaker, I would like to again congratulate Donavan Boucher, Andy Norn and Travis Guild in reaching this significant milestone, and encourage them all to proudly display their Grade 12 diplomas.

I would like to point out, Mr. Speaker, that this graduation class represents a 200 percent increase in the number of grads from the previous Deninu School. So I would also like to commend the principal, Mr. Moh Odeen, the staff of teachers, the Fort Resolution District Education Authority and many community members and organizations, in coming together to support and encourage the youth to stay in school and continue on in furthering their educational aspirations.

Mr. Speaker, I am compelled to state that this trend can continue as the number of Grade 12 students and Grade 11 students are now five; and the number of Grade 10 is sitting pretty at 25 students enrolled this year. With that I am optimistic that the community will become more aware of the importance of education for our youth and begin to realize some long-term benefits within the community as a whole. These three individuals' chances of gaining meaningful employment or access to meaningful job opportunities have now risen from 49 percent to 76 percent, according to the 1999 NWT labour force survey. To me, Mr. Speaker, that is a very significant, important improvement for our youth. Mahsi.

---Applause