Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I have always supported the Mackenzie Valley Highway Expansion Project and the benefits that this project will bring to communities throughout the Mackenzie Valley.

The key piece of infrastructure in this expansion project is the construction of permanent bridges over the Liard and Mackenzie rivers. Not only would these bridges complete the Mackenzie Highway and open up the Mackenzie Valley to the Arctic Coast, it would also provide much needed benefits to my people in my region and riding of Nahendeh. Permanent all-weather bridges for the residents of Fort Simpson and other Deh Cho communities would reduce the cost of living, expand economic opportunities, increase tourism opportunities, and overall enhance their quality of life. All of these benefits are fundamental to the goals that we established in this Assembly.

Residents of Fort Simpson in particular have waited a long time for some indication that a bridge over the Liard may be a reality. I am requesting that the Department of Transportation works with the communities to begin baseline studies, conceptual plans, and the Class D estimate process in order to move these projects into the government’s capital planning process. I would be asking the Minister questions at the appropriate time.