Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is a very positive aspect to this. I do believe we released a statement yesterday talking about self-relying individuals and working towards wellness. I do not think anybody could disagree that active seniors are healthy seniors who have less need and make less use of the health care system. By engaging people as soon as they become seniors -- 55 plus for the purpose of the games -- the society hopes to get them active both physically and mentally and keep them active for the rest of their lives. In 2002, the oldest participant at the games was 92 years old. Team NWT's oldest competitor is 83 years young. My mother, who would probably not forgive me if I gave her age, is a much better bowler than I am.
Mr. Speaker, with Canada's rapidly aging population and escalating health care costs, it is obvious that the more we can do to keep seniors healthy and active, we will be building a more cost-effective system for everyone, governments and society in general.
I want to conclude my statement by stating to the Minister responsible for Seniors and Cabinet, that I am in full support of the proposal by the NWT Seniors' Society for $65,000 in funding to get the 35 seniors to represent the NWT. I would like to ask the support of Members in this Assembly and Cabinet and reply as soon as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause