Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Agriculture and industry has been around for many decades, since the early days of the Norman Wells Oil Field discovery. Tommy the Ox assisted the first explorers in this discovery.

Agriculture still remains a presence in the community today. My committee colleagues witnessed this during the committee consultation meetings by visiting the Sahtu Gardens on May 8^th, a private enterprise with some farm animals and crops of choice. A similar example is that a resident can harvest 25,000 to 30,000 pounds of potatoes annually.

Mr. Speaker, the Agricultural Strategy provides unique opportunities for home, food, nutrition, and security. Our community residents are resilient, and what better way to take advantage of the strategy and of our 24-hour daylight?

The NWT Agricultural Strategy provides an outline of guidance to assist our residents on supports and resources. It should be noted, Mr. Speaker, that the window to our summer grow season is limited. In order for this strategic approach to bear fruit, in addition, the Department of ITI must ensure that our regional staff are sharing the same priorities as our residents.

Mr. Speaker, history is continuing to repeat itself from the early days to the very same soil that attracted the earlier explorers. Through its advanced techniques, the Agricultural Strategy can assist with home-grown opportunities while creating experiences for our youth in the process. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.