Mr. Speaker, languages are about identity: who we are and how we understand and interact with each other. Promoting our languages harmonizes with a connection to cultural values and provides a sense of identity and belonging.
In our ongoing commitment to the preservation and revitalization of language, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment provides professional training for Aboriginal language specialists in partnership with the University of Victoria. We continue to develop language resources to promote Aboriginal language use in the home, community and schools. We are exploring legislative options to change roles and structure of the two existing Aboriginal language boards. We are also taking steps to establish an Aboriginal Languages Secretariat.
The Aboriginal Languages Secretariat will be a critical first step towards the full implementation of the shared vision, goals and objectives of the Northwest Territories Aboriginal Languages Plan.
To recognize another milestone in our official languages mandate, I intend to table the Strategic Plan for French Language Communication and Services today. The strategic plan is the product of many years of hard work. It is a consensus document and I am pleased to say that we have accomplished our mission.
Mr. Speaker, the plan outlines three broad frameworks that are necessary to support implementation:
• a legislative and regulatory framework;
• an administrative framework; and
• an operational framework.
The plan will guide all of our departments, the Legislative Assembly and the agencies, boards, commissions, corporations, offices and other bodies designated in the government regulations in the development, provision and offer of French language services across all territorial government offices.
Languages strengthen our greater NWT community, Mr. Speaker. They create an identity for all of us. Language and culture are a priority for the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, and we will continue to further those initiatives that help us preserve, revitalize and support those important pillars of our society. Merci beaucoup, Mr. Speaker.