Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. When people don't work, educational opportunities or adequate housing, they lose hope. That is when social problems increase. In Fort Providence, my home community, the violent crime rate is two-and-a-half times greater than the NWT as a whole. This needs to change.

But the news is not all that bad. There are some bright spots I want to highlight. In Kakisa, the new community hall is set to open in the spring. Planning for this new facility has been underway by community residents and the Ka'a'gee Tu First Nation since 2009. The people of Kakisa, especially the youngsters, are anxiously awaiting the opening. As well, a $2 million renovation of the seniors’ home in Fort Providence is close to completion, which will provide elders in the community with improved living quarters and increased security. Wood biomass an alternative energy industry, is moving closer to becoming a reality in the Deh Cho. In late 2014, the community of Fort Providence became the second to sign a Forest Management Agreement with the territorial government. This allowed joint venture Digaa Enterprises to secure access and tenure for enough timber to sustain a viable forestry industry in the Deh Cho. Aurora Wood Pellets is building on a $12 million wood pellet plant north of Enterprise that is expected to employ more than 40 people and create an annual demand for 125,000 cubic metres of wood serving both Canada and overseas markets. This project is an example of innovation and cooperation and what it can do to improve the local economy.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not emphasize the importance of all parties making their best efforts to move the Deh Cho Process forward. With the new negotiation sessions scheduled to begin next week, I am encouraged by the news that Garth Wallbridge, a respected Metis lawyer, has signed on as chief negotiator for the Dehcho First Nations. It has been a very long road, but I continue to have hope that it will reach an agreement that will open up a new world of possibilities for the people of the Deh Cho. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.