This is terrific news, Mr. Speaker, as this means that there will be very little disruption to the continuity of judicial services provided to the residents of the South Slave.
Mr. Speaker, I, along with my colleague from Hay River South, Mrs. Groenewegen, lobbied very hard to have this position remain in Hay River, and we are extremely pleased that this has come to fruition. I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of myself and all of Hay River to thank the Honourable Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Charles Dent, and all Cabinet Members for allowing this appointment to become a reality.
I have heard from a number of Hay River residents who know Ms. Schmaltz personally. Hay River is a wonderful place to live and I know she will be a great asset to our community.
Mr. Speaker, the swearing-in ceremony took place on March 8th and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate her on her appointment as judge to the Territorial Court.
Mr. Speaker, Ms. Schmaltz will not be taking up residency in Hay River until approximately one year from now, but we all look forward to giving her a very warm welcome and making her feel at home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause