Mr. Speaker, the week of February 1st to 7th was Apprenticeship and

Occupational Certification Week in the NWT. I am pleased to be able to share that we had much to celebrate. One hundred and fifty-three Northerners are in the process of occupational certification in the NWT, which is the highest number ever. The number of apprentices registered in the NWT has increased substantially for the first time in several years. As of January 2009, there were 427 apprentices, just over half of whom are in their first year. This is an increase of more than 25 percent from the previous year.

The reasons for this increase are numerous, but they are all rooted in the commitment of northern employers to the apprenticeship system.

This year, there has been increased involvement in all areas of apprenticeship, from employers and apprentices to Aurora College and Education, Culture and Employment.

Employers have been very supportive of the program, not only in taking on new apprentices but also giving their time to the trade advisory committees.

This week we celebrate our many new award winners and graduates from the program. There are recipients from every region of the Territory this year, another great reason to celebrate!

Following the apprenticeship and occupational certification review, there have been many changes made at ECE. The registration process for apprentices has been updated and the act and regulations are being reviewed. Staff have

undergone professional development updates, and we are working closer than ever with our partners.

Aurora College has also updated their trades programs, with a renovation of the trades facility at Thebacha Campus, and the addition of the new mobile trades training facility in Inuvik.

It is an exciting time to be involved in apprenticeship and occupational certification in the NWT, and I hope you will join me in celebrating this year’s successes. Mahsi.