Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, October has been designated as National Community Living Awareness Month. This is an extremely important campaign for the residents of the Northwest Territories as it encompasses national and local community living organizations working together to provide safe and healthy communities for families, adults and children with disabilities. Many of us take for granted everyday experiences like accessing local facilities, sending our children to neighbourhood schools and having the opportunity to contribute to our communities through work or volunteer activities. However, Mr. Speaker, it is important to appreciate that there are people living in our communities who do not have the luxury of taking these things for granted. People living with disabilities are as determined as anyone else to be productive citizens and deserve to be treated as such.
Mr. Speaker, we are the losers when we fail to be inclusive in our schools, workplaces, organizations and communities. We can all take responsibility for ensuring people living with disabilities are protected from discrimination, have access to any support they need, participate in community life; and, most important, are made to feel welcome and valued. This month is a great opportunity to show appreciation for the work of volunteers, local, community and national organizations and people living with disabilities, who offer their skills and talents to our communities, schools and families.
While speaking on the subject of assisting people in need, I would like to take this opportunity to pay a special tribute and extend my thanks to Hay River resident Lillian Crook who has devoted time to bring together interested parties in an effort to form a community living program in the community of Hay River. This program is in the beginning stages; however, will be a great benefit to many people who have difficulties that prevent them from living without assistance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause