Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday during question period, on page 272 of the unedited Hansard, I asked the Minister of RWED a question as to whether the government will develop an intervener-status type of approach in the regulatory regime in which the Minister replies that he needed a little more information.
Mr. Speaker, as we all know, last week the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board began its hearings on the proposed pipeline in Norman Wells. This is a landmark event for the people of the Northwest Territories, Mr. Speaker. Not since the Berger inquiry have we embarked on a process like this and yet, at this crucial time in our history, the Government of the Northwest Territories was nowhere to be seen. When other environmental assessment hearings were held on the diamond mines, the government was there making presentations and stating its position. This was the responsible thing to do in the demonstration of leadership.
Mr. Speaker, what is this government's position? If this government supports a pipeline, why isn't it getting up in front of the board and sending a clear message to industry and to the public? Mr. Speaker, it's time to set up and demonstrate that we will try to influence the process that leaves no doubt in the minds of the Aboriginal Pipeline Group, industry and the federal government that sending NWT gas to southern markets remains a Canadian priority. I will be asking the Minister questions related to this important matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause