Mr. Speaker, North American Occupational Safety and Health, or NAOSH, Week will be held from May 1st through 7th this year. The goal of NAOSH Week is to focus the attention of employers, workers, the general public and all partners in occupational safety and health on the importance of preventing injury and illness in the workplace and at home. NAOSH Week was first launched in June 1997 marked by an agreement between Canada, the United States and Mexico.

For many years, responsibility for NAOSH Week activities in the North fell to the WCB. Six years ago, the WCB extended an invitation to several parties in business, labour and government to join them in promoting this important event. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that this partnership has proved to be very successful. These organizations, along with members of the youth committee, have brought new perspectives and fresh ideas to the event and it continues to grow in importance.

The theme for this year's NAOSH Week, "Equip, Educate, Empower" draws attention to the ever-present need for ongoing safety and training in the workplace. This is especially critical in the North with our young and ever increasing workforce.

The 2005 NAOSH Week organizing and youth committees have several events planned: an employer contest, video launches and safety demonstrations, to name a few.

This year will mark the first national launch north of 60. We are proud to announce that the ceremonies will be held here in Yellowknife at the Great Hall, May 2nd. I encourage all Members to get involved in NAOSH Week this year and strengthen their commitment to occupational safety and health. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause