Masi, Mr. Speaker.
[Translation] Mr. Speaker, February is Indigenous Languages month. The NWT is unique in that we have 11 official languages - nine of which are Indigenous. I am proud to be a fluent speaker of one of these languages.
Today I would like to acknowledge the Indigenous language teachers in our communities. In the Tlicho region there are currently 17 Tlicho language teachers in our schools with a wealth of knowledge and experience. According the TCSA,
In WhaTi: Marie Nitsiza, 23 years teaching; Diane Romie, 22 years as a Tlicho language specialist.
In Wekweeti: Ceci Judas, 6 years as a teacher.
In Behchoko: Terri Douglas, 13 years teaching; Philip Mackenzie, 19 years promoting language and culture; Rosa Mantla, 28 years teaching and serving in Tlicho language;Therese Mantla, 23 years teaching Tlicho language and culture; Tammy Steinwand Deschambeault, 27 years teaching and serving in Tlicho language; Josie Bishop, 22 years teaching Tlicho language; Alestine Mantla, 18 years teaching; Cecilia Zoe-Martin, 28 years teaching; Cecilia Migwi, 23 years teaching; Lafi Shuck, 9 years teaching; Donna Camsell, 1 year teaching; Melissa Mantla, 8 years teaching; Victoria Drybones, 5 years teaching; Lucy Lafferty, 34 years teaching and leading in Tlicho language; Ernestine Steinwand, 45 years teaching Tlicho language and culture. [Translation ends]