Mr. Chair, first of all, I believe it is good that the Northwest Territories is at the table to protect our interests. We are included, not excluded, in these discussions. I want to put that out there first and foremost.

In regard to municipalities, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities had expressed concerns over any international agreement that would be binding upon municipalities and the tendering or procurement practices. The FCM suggested that the FCM be included and CETA at discussions. The FCM has also called on all provincial and territorial municipality associations to present resolutions to that effect to the respective provincial or territorial governments. The NWTAC made a subsequent request to all their member municipalities. A subsequent CETA resolution was received and discussed at the NWTAC general meeting which took place in Norman Wells a couple of weeks ago. ITI staff were there to make a presentation with regard to CETA and any possible impacts it may have on NWT municipalities. Subsequently, a resolution was carried at the AGM within the NWTAC top priority category that urges the GNWT to exempt communities from the CETA. The formal NWTAC resolution package is expected to be provided to the GNWT for a response in the near future. Thank you.