Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. Mr. Speaker, earlier this month we recognized International Women's Day. That is the day when countries around the world celebrate the achievements women have made to improve the quality of life for all.

Twelve years ago, the NWT Status of Women Council established the Wise Women Awards. These awards are in recognition of the dedication and commitment NWT women have shown to the communities in which they live.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize this year's recipients of the Wise Women Awards: Mary Teya for the Beaufort-Delta; Albertine Rodh for the Deh Cho; Beverly Masuzumi for the Sahtu; Besha Blondin for the North Slave; and Marilyn Sanderson for the South Slave.

These women represent the many dedicated individuals in our territory who work to advance the rights of women and their families. Their contributions allow us to reflect on the many contributions northern women have made to all of our communities. The recent passage of the NWT Human Rights Act and the Protection Against Family Violence Act are examples of how individuals and grassroots organizations can contribute to the legislative agenda of this government.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT is committed to working in partnership with grassroots organizations in efforts to address the social, economic and political challenges that lie before us.

I would like to recognize the work of the Status of Women Council of the NWT, the Native Women's Association and the numerous community groups and individuals who have worked so tirelessly on women's equality issues. Their help, their advice and their expertise contribute to the growth and development of the North. On behalf of this government, I express my sincerest gratitude for all that these groups have done. Thank you.

---Applause