[Translation.]
I rise today in the House to speak on behalf of my people of the Sahtu. On May 15, 2008, the Prime Minister of Canada announced the names of the 2007–2008 recipients of the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education. On behalf of the people of the Sahtu, I’m proud to extend my great wishes and congratulations to one of my constituents who’s visiting, Sister Celeste Goulet. I’m so proud to say “Mahsi cho.” Mahsi for believing and supporting our children’s development and realizing their potential. Mahsi for guiding my people to make better choices for themselves. Good job, Sister. You have truly demonstrated your love and meaningful caring for our children in Tulita and Sahtu.
Sister Celeste Goulet was recognized for the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education for running the Child Development Centre in Tulita. She was recognized for embracing
the community’s history and traditions to put children in a learning environment that will be a strong foundation to build their education and learning. She started the Tulita preschool program back in 1981 and has since helped start the drop-in centre in 1983. Today the preschool cares for several children. Her doors are always open for the community, the coffee’s always hot and everyone is welcome to drop in to chat and visit with her.
Sister Celeste’s countless years extend beyond the people of Tulita. She provides a safe place for women and children to go if there are problems in the home. She does volunteer work in the community schools on a regular basis and helps our women and children with their applications, resumes and legal forms. She has been instrumental in serving on various boards as part of the local education community and justice circle community. Sister Celeste was also a nominee, twice, of the Wise Woman Award and a winner in 1999.
Sister Celeste has lived with the people in Tulita since 1979. Amongst the people in Tulita, she is considered to be one of the people from Tulita. I look forward to working with Sister Celeste in the future as she brings more history to the people of Tulita. Mahsi. [Translation ends.]