Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the Minister noted in his statement, we are all aware of the forthcoming slowdown in the NWT's economy from diamond mines winding down, and we're also well aware that it will take several new metal mines to replace the socioeconomic benefits of a single diamond mine.

Mr. Speaker, this summer I had the opportunity to meet with a number of representatives from world-class mining companies considering investing in the NWT. In general, we are seen as a favourable jurisdiction. We have world-class rock and proven resources. Most of the experts agree that our regulatory regime is improving; they agree that the diamond mines proved that development can succeed while working on land rights. As we know, the carbon tax is not a problem because it is, in fact, a rebate.

However, Mr. Speaker, they are concerned about one major barrier to investing, and that is carbon-based energy. That's right: burning diesel. In 2016, almost half of our carbon emissions came from mining, but the world is changing, Mr. Speaker. Today, for global mining companies to maintain their social licence to operate, they must avoid producing greenhouse gas emissions.

Believe it or not, in 2018, investment decisions on mineral development are not driven by economics alone. Issues affecting social and environmental impacts, climate change chief among them, are equally prominent considerations.

As there should be, Mr. Speaker, there's a growing intolerance among financial institutions, investors, mining companies, and the public for projects that have large carbon footprints. It is simply smarter and safer for them to invest in places with competitive carbon-free energy.

If the NWT is to open its world-class Slave Geological Province to exploration and development, we must bring Taltson hydro power to the region.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT is undertaking the Great Slave Lake Submarine Cable Concept Study. That will inform us how we can supply competitive-priced, carbon-free hydro power to the Slave Geological Province. Our potential partners in mining are applauding this step, as it holds great promise for growth and for reducing the NWT's greenhouse gas emissions, while providing socioeconomic benefits for our people.

Mr. Speaker, the NWT must address the risks of carbon-based energy if we want to attract major mining interests to develop multi-generational projects.

While I can, Mr. Speaker, I'd just like to let folks know that, in case they're trying to change their plans, the Geoscience Forum is November 20^th to the 22^nd, and not next week. At the appropriate time, I'll have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure responsible for energy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.