Mr. Speaker, a little over a year ago, the government released its strategic plan: Self-Reliant People, Communities and Northwest Territories - A Shared Responsibility. This plan was based on a vision and a set of goals established by this Legislative Assembly.

The GNWT, along with many partners, have been working hard, over the past 16 months, to advance the priorities and actions contained in this plan in order to achieve these goals and realize this vision.

I met with Caucus last December. I made a commitment to report on our progress each fall and make the report public. Later this afternoon, I will table the 2005 progress report, along with a detailed companion document: 2005 Compendium of NWT-Wide Measures.

The progress report is the first of its kind. It demonstrates, in one document, the major achievements of this government since taking office two years ago. It shows how these accomplishments support the priorities of the government and, ultimately, the vision and goals of this Legislature. It also provides detailed information on activities that support the 73 actions identified in the strategic plan, so that it is clear to you, the public we serve, what work is being done and how it supports the direction set by this Assembly.

It is equally important to know, Mr. Speaker, whether the collective efforts of the government and partners are actually making a difference. There is not often a direct relationship between action and results, and changes for the better are often realized over years, or generations, rather than a single year. However, it is vital we understand where we are today, and if we are changing for the better.

The compendium presents a broad picture of how well we are doing in our territory at this time. Selected measures and indicators have been identified for each of the five goals of the strategic plan. Where available, information from past years has also been presented so that we are able to measure progress.

Mr. Speaker, these documents contain a lot of very useful information about the work of the government, and the status of our communities and territory. This update on the strategic plan gives us all a better understanding of where we are in advancing our agenda and the work that remains to be done with our partners. It is my hope that these two documents will stimulate thinking and discussion about our next steps, so that we make informed decisions about where to focus our energies in our last two years in office.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to take this opportunity to thank GNWT employees for their contribution to the government's achievements. I would also like to thank the non-profit and business sectors, as well as aboriginal and community governments, for working with us to advance many of these actions. I would also like to recognize the Members of this House for your input at many stages of the government's work, and your desire to achieve the vision of "self-reliant individuals and families, sharing the rewards and responsibilities of healthy communities and a prosperous and unified Northwest Territories."

We have accomplished a great deal in a very short period of time. But we also know much remains to be done; for example, we must deal with the persistent, destructive social issues found in many of our communities, and look at ways to bring down the cost of living. We must be ready to take advantage of economic development opportunities that are at our doorstep, while protecting the health of our land, wildlife and people. We must invest in our children and youth, the future of our communities. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause