Monsieur le president, monsieur le premier minister, messieurs les deputes, Mesdames et messieurs, et amis. It is my privilege and pleasure to be back among you all again. It brings back some fond memories sitting in this chair. It certainly looks different this side of the TV. I watch you everyday.
Since we were last together, the Year of the Veteran has come to a close. It was an important year, recognizing the selfless and courageous contribution veterans have made to our country. I was involved in the celebration of our veterans, culminating in a number of special events that took place in November last year. Once again, I ask all northerners to reflect with gratitude, upon the difference the actions of our veterans have made to our lives. We enjoy many freedoms today because of their bravery and we thank them sincerely.
It has been one of my goals since taking office to visit as many Northwest Territories communities as possible, to talk to residents and participate in those events and ceremonies that are dear to them. I am pleased to report I have now visited 11 of our communities...
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...having added the communities of Trout Lake and Gameti to the list most recently. I would like to thank the residents of both places for their warm welcome and hospitality during my visits. It was a pleasure to meet with you all. I look forward to travelling to more communities in the months to come.
Sadly, an individual who has made a difference in our lives is now no longer with us. I speak of former Tlicho Chief Alexis Arrowmaker. Chief Arrowmaker was a respected elder and a committed advocate of the pursuit of a traditional lifestyle. In fact, Wekweeti began as a community in the 1960s when Chief Arrowmaker brought several families to live there to preserve their traditional lifestyles and values. Chief Arrowmaker's wisdom and guidance was often sought by his people and others, particularly when the people of the Tlicho were negotiating their self-government agreement. It was a time of great pride and joy to him when the agreement was finally signed last summer. We offer our condolences to Chief Arrowmaker's family, friends and to the people he served so diligently for many years. He will be sadly missed.