Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. [Translation] Yes, there are lots of things happening within this area. A lot of things like ships and that are happening. Maybe sometimes we think we've got to look at this thing. [Translation ends]

Boating season is upon us on the lakes and rivers of the NWT, and practising safety is critical. Earlier this month, there was a boating accident in K'aagee Tu/Kakisa Lake. Thanks to the quick actions taken by Chris Chicot, Melaine Simba, and Ryan Moore, and the Fort Providence RCMP detachment, there were no fatalities and the three boaters were rescued after clinging to their overturned boat for three hours.

Chief Lloyd Chicot of the K'aagee Tu First Nation says that boating accidents happen too often around his community. The public needs to practise safety and awareness of the environment and pay attention to weather conditions. Local residents can be employed as guides, if at all possible, as the lake bed can be shallow in places and choppy water is not uncommon.

Mr. Speaker, I grew up on the river and my earliest memory is travelling with my parents in a canvas boat. Paying the water with tobacco was a common practice to pay homage to the laws of nature. In addition to respecting our land and water, remember to practise safety and on-the-land smarts: always wear a life jacket; inform relatives or friends of your travel plans; equip yourself with an emergency communication device, such as a SPOT, or as simple as a whistle; keep an eye out for weather conditions; and above all, respect the land.

This government offers small vessel training, and I encourage residents to take it when it is offered. According to recent statistics, fewer people are drowning in the NWT than 10 years ago. We must keep this trend going down. Teach water safety to children, so they know how to play safely in and near lakes and rivers. Enrol them in swimming lessons if they are offered in your community.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to personally thank Chris Chicot, Melaine Simba, Ryan Moore, and the Fort Providence RCMP detachment for their quick response. Good job and mahsi cho.

Mr. Speaker, we had a close call this month, but, thankfully, it ended up with everyone safe. Let's make sure everyone stays safe on the water this summer. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.