Madam Speaker, it is with great joy and sadness that I learnt of Mark Gerlock's retirement from Enbridge in Fort Simpson. His dedication and service throughout the past years in the Northwest Territories has been greatly appreciated by the residents of the region and myself.

Mark has worked in the North for 43 years with 36 of them with Enbridge. Mark had worked road maintenance and construction for seven years before wanting to better himself and develop his career. He applied for the pipeline position with Interprovincial Pipelines in Fort Simpson in 1984, now known as Enbridge. Mark's devotion and positive attitude throughout his career at Enbridge has not gone unnoticed and will be sadly missed by his colleagues and communities across the region. Mark's loyalty to the position has proven effective to his fellow colleagues as they thrive in their day to day responsibilities largely due to Mark's example.

Madam Speaker, Mark is a source of encouragement to help people better themselves and build their strengths not only professionally but personally. His kindness, courtesy, and passionate attitude was always apparent as he dealt with various issues.

Mark spent eight years working on the Fort Simpson Ambulance as a first responder and I had the pleasure of working with him for a couple of years. I'd like to thank him for the years of service to the community and ensuring that residents received excellent emergency services during this time.

Mark was a powerful force to be reckoned with during his years of playing in the Fort Simpson Rec Hockey Team and now in the Old Timers League. I'm able lucky to call him a teammate and most importantly a line mate. Look forward many more years on the ice together. As a true community champion, Mark also dedicated himself to coaching the younger athletes to share his skills and knowledge of the sport.

Madam Speaker, I'd like to thank Mark for everything that he has accomplished, and I would like to congratulate him on his retirement and I wish him the best in the years to come. I know his wife and daughter look forward to having his full attention and some tasks to keep him busy. Thank you, Madam Speaker.