Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the honourable Minister of Education, Culture and Employment made a statement in recognition of Aboriginal Languages Month. He spoke about the valued role of language in maintaining our culture and the importance for a successful life, a belief we both share. He spoke about the value of aboriginal language identity and giving a strong foundation for self-determination and self-government.
Mr. Speaker, the Minister assured the residents of the Northwest Territories that he was committed to the ongoing support of aboriginal languages in our communities. What I would like to speak about today is the need for government to continue to support and strengthen initiatives like the language nest programs.
Language nest programs provide opportunities for young children to spend time with their elders where they are exposed to aboriginal language through storytelling and at times when the mind is most ready to learn the language. Through this program, young kids gain a strong foundation in aboriginal languages. I have heard many great things about this program from so many people in my constituency. Mr. Speaker, other Members have said the same thing about the nests in their ridings.
This program seems to be effective across the Territories. In this House, I was encouraged by the strong support of these initiatives by the Minister and many Members on this side of the floor. I believe we can work together to work this out. The work done by the last Assembly in reviewing the Official Languages Act was good, Mr. Speaker; a lot of important initiatives have come out of it. I believe if this government can locate funds to create another bureaucratic body, it can find money for the children. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause