Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First, I'd like to welcome my colleagues back to the House. As we all know, this will be a busy sitting as our second session draws to a close. Today, though, I want to start with an update from the communities of the Mackenzie Delta.

Mr. Speaker, most of last week disruption in the operation of the Abraham Francis Ferry stranded residents, students, tourists, truckers, and essential services like fuel and groceries on the south side of the Peel River. Fortunately, residents of Fort McPherson stepped up to the plate to help stranded drivers, travelling by boat to bring food and water and even offering their cabins to people who needed a place to stay. Still, Mr. Speaker, it's not an easy situation, not for those who were stranded and not for communities waiting for returning family members and supplies.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Infrastructure has advised that the ferry was put out of service due to high water and floating debris in the river. Residents of the Mackenzie Delta understand that these kinds of disruptions are a part of life along the Peel and that the department has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its workers and the people who use its services.

Still, Mr. Speaker, residents were surprised and perplexed by the closure. I have heard from some of my constituents that more training might be useful for the department, both for assessing and dealing with challenging conditions on the river.

I will have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.