Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think that every jurisdiction across the country was totally shocked and appalled with what happened with regard to the federal government’s decision to totally do away with the program, especially the critical needs of aboriginal people in Canada in light of the commission that has been established to look at residential school effects

across the country. More importantly, Mr. Speaker, it is one of the societies of our country who is suffering the most, whether it’s through alcoholism, drug abuse or impacts of residential school, were aboriginal children and also their families.

Mr. Speaker, I think it’s fundamental that this Legislature sends a strong message to the federal government. I ask my colleagues on both sides of the House to support this motion, because the motion clearly states that we are asking the Speaker to transmit this motion to the federal Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and send a strong message to the federal government that we do not support the decision that was made and to help those people. At the appropriate time, Mr. Speaker, I will seek a recorded vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.