Mr. Speaker...(English not provided)

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to advise that construction of the Yellowknife passenger terminal building improvements project was recently completed.

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This project was initiated in response to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, CATSA, requirement for a security system at the Yellowknife Airport to screen all checked baggage for explosive devices. This system was operational ahead of the January 1, 2006, deadline.

Along with the changes for the new security measures, the department also carried out a number of improvements to the building that will ensure that the Yellowknife Airport will continue to serve as an effective and efficient hub for northern air transportation. Some of the specific improvements included:

• • construction of new air carrier offices, ticket counters and a second inbound baggage claim area;
• • expansion of the north apron; and
• • expansion of the departure lounge, including washrooms and provisions for food services.

Mr. Speaker, the expansion of the passenger terminal building and airside apron will enable us to handle the surge in aircraft and passenger movements now being generated by resource development in the Northwest Territories. This project will help to facilitate future changes to air services to Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the members of the public for their ongoing patience and understanding during the construction of the Yellowknife passenger terminal building improvements. With the cooperation of all airport users, the Department of Transportation was able to keep disruptions to a minimum. I am very pleased that the work has been completed and normal operations have resumed.

In closing, I am confident that we are well positioned to meet any new air transportation challenges and that the Yellowknife Airport will continue well into the future to satisfy the travelling public needs for a safe and secure air transportation system. Mahsi.

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