Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this week is Apprenticeship Week in the Northwest Territories. Given the nature of our economy and the importance of the trades, it is fitting that we give apprenticeship a high profile.
Mr. Speaker, the unprecedented economic growth that we have been seeing, and will continue to see in the future, would not have been and will not be possible without the essential work provided by tradespeople in this territory. In the next several years, the demand for apprenticeship and trades jobs will be larger and will increase at a faster rate than any other sector in the NWT. In 2005, we had approximately 800 individuals working in trades jobs. By 2008, 2,900 people are projected to be working in the trades. This is an increase of 265 percent. Mr. Speaker, in order to meet this demand and ensure that northerners can take advantage of this incredible opportunity, we must continue to develop tradespeople and support apprenticeship and occupational certification programs here in the Northwest Territories. These are critical strategic investments. What good are a strong resource development industry and a strong economy if we do not make sure that northern residents get the most out of the diamond mines, oil and gas development and other projects?
Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate every NWT resident that has completed, or is currently completing, an apprenticeship program. I would also offer encouragement to all those who have similar aspirations. We need you to make our vision of a strong and prosperous NWT a reality.
Mr. Speaker, I would also like to congratulate the Hay River residents who received special recognition for their outstanding achievement in their area of work and study. They are Don Carriere of Hay River with Kingland Ford Mercury Sales automotive service technician; Cory Tybring in floor covering installing with Wesclean Northern Sales; Michael Buhler heavy duty mechanic with Finning Canada in Hay River; and Peter Lagan in Hay River with BHP Diamonds as an industrial instrument technician. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to make mention of the fact that the top two of the three top graduating apprentices in the Northwest Territories this year are from Hay River: Peter Lagan and Jason Young.
Mr. Speaker, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the many Hay River businesses who are in the private sector, but participate in the Apprenticeship Program and sponsor these young people to realize their aspirations in the area of trades and occupations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause