Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Department of Infrastructure in Fort Simpson really should be commended for the work that they are doing to build capacity of residents in Nahendeh. They are hiring local residents and providing the requisite training to obtain the skills, knowledge, and ability to do the job competently.

Mr. Speaker, I have personally heard positive feedback from community members and visitors alike of the exceptional service done by these young people. A prime example of this are the following Fort Simpson residents who were hired as deck hands on the MV Lafferty in 2017: Ivor Norwegian, Cindy Edda, and Travis Hanna. I have had the pleasure of watching them work and interact with passengers on various trips across the Liard. They are always so positive and knowledgeable of the surrounding area.

It is my understanding that these employees continue to work with the department throughout the winter and are receiving training on the ground-penetrating radar ice measuring equipment facilitated by Sensors and Software. The training, along with experience gained through auger flooding and use of the new ice-spraying equipment throughout the season, will continue to benefit the community of Fort Simpson in the years to come.

Job-specific training has continued to be offered so these employees can continue to grow into their roles and accept more responsibilities related to their areas of interest. Opportunities for growth will include small-vessel machinery operators, boat captain, as well as various other marine certification, depending on each individual's interest. I am happy to say these three individuals are back to work on the Lafferty and use the knowledge they gained.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to recognize these efforts by the Fort Simpson regional office to build local capacity. Training younger generations to succeed in a dynamic working environment with the necessary skills will ensure the efficient operation of the department's operation for years to come.

In closing, I would like to thank the department for being forward-thinking in this area of development. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.