Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I wish to make a statement about how a constituent of mine is being treated by our health care system.

The troubles began for him in December of 2003 when chest pain and tingling sensations were present. A stress test was to be performed but due to results from blood testing, a low priority was given to allow these tests to happen. The doctor quoted a wait time of six to 12 months. In January, while preparing for a vacation, my constituent consulted with his family doctor regarding concerns over travelling. While on vacation in February of 2004, my constituent had what appeared to be a heart attack. All tests for a heart attack were found to be

negative. The doctors overseas instructed my constituent to see a neurologist upon his return to Canada.

Since getting back to Yellowknife in February of 2004, my constituent has had numerous appointments, referrals and meetings with me, as his MLA, doctors, the former CEO of Stanton Hospital and others regarding his lack of a proper diagnosis. It has been almost three years, Mr. Speaker, and my constituent is living with debilitating pain, unable to work, unable to support his family, unable to sleep for more than 15 minutes at a time, all because we cannot find or get him the help he needs and he deserves.

How long does a resident of the Northwest Territories, or Canada for that matter, have to suffer before we offer some help? Mr. Speaker, his case needs a thorough examination and I find it unthinkable that we continue to let him suffer. He is now in the process of trying to go overseas to have his condition dealt with, at his own expense I might add. Why must he be forced into such drastic measures, and why is our health care system failing him? I'm looking for some answers for my constituent in his search for some help. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mahsi.

---Applause