Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning. The Residential Schools Interagency Committee met in Yellowknife on January 15, 16 and 17, 2007. This committee consists of representatives from the Northwest Territories residential school survivor groups, the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Church, the RCMP, Indian Residential Schools Resolution Canada, the Dene Nation, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, the Gwich'in Tribal Council, the NWT Seniors' Society, the federal government and the Government of the Northwest Territories.
The committee was formed under the lead of the Government of the Northwest Territories to coordinate the efforts of the GNWT and other stakeholders in providing support services to NWT residents who will be seeking and receiving compensation from the federal government. The committee made significant progress at the meeting. Key priorities were set for assisting former residential school students on their healing journey. These key priorities included: developing commitment and support from all levels of leadership; improving coordination and communications; further development of the interagency committee; and, development of community-based services. Mr. Chairman, co-chairs were also established for the groups. A support group of Government of the Northwest Territories social envelope departments will help the committee to achieve these priorities.
A smaller interagency support group was also established. This smaller support group will be meeting regularly to help work progress.
The response from participants at this meeting was positive. I look forward to reporting further results as the committee continues its important work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause