Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, economic development opportunities in Nunakput are difficult to come by. My constituents have told me that they are struggling to find work, contracts, and opportunities. While the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk highway is expected to bring some economic benefits to Tuktoyaktuk, my other communities of Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, and Ulukhaktok need jobs and a sustainable economy, as well. Our communities are filled with skilled, hard-working people, and we are a thriving, productive workforce if there are opportunities created and supported. Government programs like the Small Community Employment Support Program are needed to build upon the skills and strengths of our communities.

Nunakput offers the world a truly northern experience unlike any other place in Canada. We have our on-the-land tours, traditional harvesting practices, and traditional art, music, literature, dancing, and languages. The Government of the Northwest Territories' investment in these fields is not only an opportunity to foster straight business growth. It is also a way to cultivate the knowledge economy to secondary or post-secondary exchange students and to research and new ventures in scientific communities.

Also, Mr. Speaker, our culture and incredible people are the key to creating a resilient future for our region, which is also valuable to visitors and new friends from around the world. The more people who experience the Arctic first-hand, the more people who will return to the Arctic and understand the need to protect its landscapes and support its peoples.

Speaking of tourism and the northern experience, we can learn from our neighbours in the Yukon. Their famous Sourtoe Cocktail, which has garnered international attention, generates at least $80,000 in revenue each year and has been on the bucket lists of many. It is unique, distinctive, and unforgettable.

Mr. Speaker, as the Premier has said, we need economic development opportunities. I am making myself available to work with the government and our local leaders and businesses to identify what investment opportunities exist or could be created in order to provide support for entrepreneurs so that our residents can chart their own paths to self-sufficiency and create local jobs. We also have suggestions to help the government break down requests for proposals on any public works into smaller pieces to allow for small businesses to be able to compete on goods and win contracts, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the traditional economy plays a major role in my region. I believe we need to set an example of Indigenous and local knowledge that the Government of Canada will recognize, as well as governments around the world. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.