(English not provided)

Good afternoon, my friends. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a number of graduates in my riding. Over the past few years, the number of high school graduates in the Mackenzie Delta has increased. More and more graduates are walking down the aisle and picking up their diplomas. This positive atmosphere has a lot to do with our teachers in our communities, and the will of the students to strive to better themselves and to be role models to future graduates.

In Fort McPherson we have a total of 16 graduates that will receive their diplomas on June 10th. In Aklavik we have eight students graduating on June 17th. There are also two graduates that come from Tsiigehtchic that are finishing their Grade 12 in Inuvik. I want to recognize and congratulate the 26 Grade 12 graduates that come from the Mackenzie Delta and encourage them each to continue their endeavours and future education, but also ask them to continue their lifetime learning and strive for the best you can by way of receiving your diploma and education and also receiving a better job, a better life and also to better our communities.

Without our graduates, without our students, we cannot take advantage of self-government, oil and gas developments, or opportunities that come our way. I encourage those graduates to continue furthering their education and take advantage of these opportunities. Mahsi.

---Applause