Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the federal government's decision to legalize recreational marijuana use in 2018 comes with a lot of questions. I'm happy to see the residents of the NWT voicing their concerns through the GNWT's Cannabis Engagement Survey, which has received high volumes of participation. This form of individual consultation is very productive in finding what people want. With this survey delivered to residents directly, it provides a great platform for residents to openly and honestly voice their opinions and concerns surrounding the legalization of cannabis.
I would like to see outreach from the Department of Justice to leaders of the communities so that they can get together to have their own discussions. Band leaders and community elders are always concerned with new policy and how it will impact the members of their communities and the future generations.
I am looking forward to the future public meetings in the communities so that leadership and residents are assured adequate consultation occurred before legislation on recreational marijuana is passed. I will reiterate that the online survey and other websites have a great starting point, but that should not be the only action taken. My constituents in remote communities with limited Internet access and knowledge also require adequate consultation, and we must accommodate to their settings. Mr. Speaker, it is also essential that the Department of Health and Social Services along with the Department of Education provide strategies to inform the public of the health risks related to marijuana use. These need to be in the form of community assemblies, with information packages available.
This legislation is new Canada-wide, and even in some of the most successful cities there needs to be education on the use of recreational cannabis. Therefore, for our remote communities proper action plans on education and awareness are critical. Mr. Speaker, in a video from CBC News Manitoba the company Delta-9 Biotech was highlighted as a local first licensed pot producer and now medical marijuana distributor. This company provides 1,800 customers across Canada. This results in the lack of need of out-of-province production. It also provides a number of local employment opportunities. Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you.
---Unanimous consent granted