Mr. Speaker, I have a return to written question asked by Mr. Yakeleya on October 31, 2006, regarding airport runway extensions.

In March 1998, the Department of Transportation released A Study of Runway Issues in the Northwest Territories that examined the then current and future requirements of community airports and runways. A key finding was that none of the 27 GNWT airports would be constrained due to runway length to meet passenger service requirements.

The Department of Transportation recognizes that conditions may have changed since 1998 and is currently updating the study. The update will consider, among other things, changes in aircraft type, the impact of resource development, tourism, community needs and new air regulations. The department will work with stakeholders to evaluate current and future required runway lengths. The study will also establish the priority for runway extensions that may be required. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.