Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. I wanted to report back to the House about my recent constituency tour. I made it a clear point to visit all four communities in my riding just before Christmas, and I did just that within a two-week period. Aside from my home visits, some highlights were going out and supporting our arts and crafts programs in Ndilo, Dettah, and Deninu Kue, and I participated in an art program with my daughter Cicely in Ndilo that was facilitated through one of our local talents, Mr. John Rombough. Through all the hustle and bustle of this job, it was nice to sit, slow down, and create something that we could be proud of, and also making new connections with our constituents.

In saying that, Mr. Speaker, I learned a key lesson in my last visit that, yes, laughter is good medicine, but then I realized that land and culture is even more powerful medicine than that. Case in point: In my visit to Lutselk'e, there was a moment where I saw a powerful connection between our youth, elders, and the land. At one point during the visit, I witnessed an elder speaking Chipewyan to the youth learning how to set snares and traps. This program was facilitated through the LKDFN wellness program and the Thaidene Nene program, which is funded through ENR, and I wanted to thank the Minister and his team for that. In that moment, I saw a youth completely engaged, learning not only the old ways but learning language, practising skills, and using their hands to learn. I saw youth that were enjoying themselves, laughing, and staying away from the bad elements, and I was quite happy to see that in action.

Mr. Speaker, no one knows what is going on at a community level better than the community members themselves. I believe that this government needs to take a hard look and start implementing more of these programs to help those in need heal. I also believe this can be a powerful tool to start addressing some mental health issues, addictions, education, and justice issues.

I just spoke to a community member in Liidlii K'ue about a new program called "Journey to My Best Self." It is being facilitated by Shake the Dust Hope Consulting. It is a 30-day healing program that will focus on mental health and addictions. Long story short, they have an outpouring of requests from inside and outside the community to participate in this program, and they will definitely need help in terms of staff and funding to ensure success. Above all else, the influx of requests sends another message: Our people are screaming for help.

To finish up, Mr. Speaker, a small group of us visited an elder at their cabin while I was at Lutselk'e and sat down with some fresh bannock and tea. I listened in with a couple of youth and took in some good old-fashioned storytelling. There were no phones or electronics, just a face-to-face sit-down and lots of laughter. How can you beat that?

Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. I will have questions for the appropriate Ministers at a later time.