Good afternoon, colleagues. Welcome back to the continuation of the Fifth Session of the 15th Legislative Assembly. I would like to take this opportunity to belatedly, but most sincerely, offer my personal best wishes to each and every one of you for a happy and healthy new year. Although we have not met formally for several months, I know that you all continue to work diligently in committees, Cabinet and in your constituencies.
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Vince Steen on Saturday, February 3rd, in Inuvik. Mr. Steen was a former Member of this Assembly and esteemed colleague to many of us. I would like to take this opportunity to extend personal condolences and from those of this House to his family and his community. A Member of the Assembly from 1995 to 2003, Vince worked tirelessly for the people of Nunakput, and as a Member of the Executive Council for all residents of the Northwest Territories. Our thoughts during this difficult time are with his family, his wife, Betty Elias, and their children.
At this time, I would like to ask that all Members rise and observe a moment of silence to honour Mr. Steen.
---Moment of Silence
Thank you, colleagues. You may be seated. As we enter this budget session, I would like to acknowledge, on behalf of the Legislative Assembly, the efforts of our standing committees, Cabinet, government and Assembly staff on contributing to our budget development process. I would also like to acknowledge the residents of the Northwest Territories who participated in the pre-budget consultation that took place throughout the North last year. By expressing your views and concerns, you have also aided in this important process.
I look forward to a very productive session, to lively debate on issues that are important to all residents of the Northwest Territories and to discussions that lead to positive, informed decisions. I ask only that you conduct yourself within the rules that you have set down and continue to respect the dignity of the House and all of its Members.
It is now my duty to advise the House that I have received the following message from the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. It reads, "Dear Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise that I recommend to the Legislative Assembly the passage of the Appropriation Act, 2007-2008 and Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 3, 2006-2007 during the Fifth Session of the 15th Legislative Assembly. Yours truly, Anthony W. J. Whitford, Commissioner."
Thank you, colleagues. Orders of the day. Ministers' statements. The honourable Deputy Premier, Mr. Roland.