Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today my Member’s statement is on the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline Project. Mr. Speaker, last month the National Energy Board wrapped up final discussions in Inuvik, and hopefully if all goes well the NEB will make their final ruling regarding the megaproject within the next several months. These discussions have been ongoing in one way or another for decades.

Every time this project gets delayed it goes through another series of discussions, and the chance the program won’t happen increases. This may be okay for the southern NWT, but the north needs this project. We do not have diamond mines to generate huge employment. We need these jobs. We need the businesses in the Beaufort-Delta and right down the valley. We need hope.

I’m concerned about the sunset clause extension regarding the Mackenzie Gas Project, but I’m more concerned about the lack of coordination of the government to identify this project as a major priority. Previously the Government of the Northwest Territories Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment filed comments to the National Energy Board on recommendations by the Joint Review Panel, because the National Energy Board ultimately has the final decision on further developments in the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline. These comments are very important and must be given the highest priority.

As I mentioned previously, businesses in the North have been hoping for this project and have shovels already in the ground by now. We’re struggling. If this project, for whatever reason, is delayed again, many businesses in our region may not be able to hold on. That is a shame.

I urge this government to monitor these developments closely, to ensure economic interest of the Territory is maintained and that the project continues to move forward. Considering the importance of this project in the Northwest Territories, this government must be front and centre while clearly promoting the timelines and deliverables with parties including applicants, stakeholders and companies. Now it is time this government works with the federal government and the ministerial offices, such as Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, and Chuck Strahl as the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.

I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted