Mr. Speaker, culture and language support our identity and help strengthen the common goals of NWT communities. I am pleased to announce that, through the work of the Department of Human Resources, the Government of the Northwest Territories is now able to offer certificates of recognition to our employees in each of the 11 official languages of the Northwest Territories. Certificates of recognition are presented to employees who have shown dedication and commitment to the public service and include both long service and retirement.
These employees have reached significant milestones in their careers and it is important for the GNWT, as the employer, to recognize these worthy achievements. Being able to celebrate these achievements through their language and culture offers employees an opportunity to connect with their heritage and be proud of what they have accomplished.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the translators at the Francophone Affairs Secretariat and the Aboriginal language translators contracted for this work. The Aboriginal language translators are well known throughout the NWT for their translation expertise. Many of the translators worked closely with elders to ensure consistency in the finished material. Having the opportunity to work with these translators and seeing the passion for their culture and the pride taken in appropriate use of their language has been a very positive experience for the department staff.
Preserving, promoting and celebrating our official languages in our daily work helps keep our unique culture and heritage alive for future generations. The dedication to official languages is a direct
tribute to the hardworking and diverse cultures and peoples we have here in the NWT.
Mr. Speaker, whether an employee has a language connection through family history, or they are celebrating a culture they have grown close to through their time in the North, use of the official languages in our work environment like certificates of recognition allows employees to be connected and proud of the diverse values and cultures of the NWT. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.