Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Standing Committee on Economic Development and the Environment has been clear since it first considered the legislative proposal that it would not be possible to conduct meaningful review of the Act to Amend the Revolving Funds Act in absence of a business plan outlining the government's model, fee structure, and proposed administrative framework of the Yellowknife Airport that would be enabled by the legislation. The Department of Transportation was unable to provide this integral piece of information until nearly two thirds of committee's review period had lapsed. The delay directly resulted in committee not having sufficient time to meaningfully review the proposal, contact stakeholders, schedule public hearings, and report to the House within the original review period. Mr. Speaker, this is precisely the role of committee in review of any legislation.

Mr. Speaker, the standing committee does not wish to delay or obstruct the work of the department. In fact, we commend them for the efforts that they have put forward to date. In fact, the committee has gone as far as to encourage the department to continue its work and to consider advancing the proposed changes to fees within the timeline within the draft business plan. The committee is seeking an extension today to allow it to conduct a meaningful public review, to conduct its due diligence, and to do its job. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.