Members, before I adjourn our sitting until August 16th, 2023, I would like to thank you for a productive sitting. During this sitting, Members have appointed new law clerks to the Assembly, passed five pieces of legislation, and introduced four more bills to be reported in the next sitting. It was a short but productive sitting.
Please join me in thanking our interpreters for the important work they do making our proceedings available in our official languages.
Colleagues, also join me in thanking the pages. It was a pleasure having them back in the Chamber. Hopefully some of them will be back here one day as MLAs.
Members, you have raised and discussed many different and important issues this session. Members have discussed emergency response and impacts to fire evacuees, the importance of infrastructure and the vitality of small communities, holistic support required for those experiencing homelessness, support for those experiencing addictions, as well as youth in care.
Members, thank you for bringing forward the concerns and issues raised in your ridings. I also want to take this time to acknowledge the fire fighters and frontline responders working hard to manage the active wildfires across the Northwest Territories.
Colleagues, June is National Indigenous History Month. We must remember and celebrate that in 1975, the Northwest Territories Council, as it was known then, was the first Legislative Assembly in Canada to have a majority of Indigenous Members - a tradition we maintain to this day along with our sister territory Nunavut. The unique system of government we both share is not perfect but it reflects the Indigenous values of cooperation, respectful debate, and working together.
In reflection of the Assembly's shared commitment to diversity and reconciliation, this session we introduced Indigenous-styled cloaks for our table clerks. Many celebrations and assemblies lie ahead this summer, from National Indigenous People's Day to annual assemblies and other events. Members, enjoy this opportunity to get out and celebrate with your constituents.
While we look ahead, we cannot forget the challenges that face residents across the Northwest Territories. I want to take this time to acknowledge the families in the Northwest Territories who are looking for their loved ones. As mentioned in this House earlier, young Frank Gruben still remains missing. No parent should have to wonder where their child is. I encourage anyone who knows anything about Frank Gruben to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Help bring Frank home.
Members, I want to acknowledge the residents of the K'atlodeeche whose community was greatly impacted from wildfire. This will be a season of repairing and rebuilding. I know you will all continue to support these residents.
I encourage you all, the residents of the NWT, to enjoy the days ahead with family and friends. Our summer is short, yet we are blessed with the Midnight Sun. Get out on the land and the water, but please be safe and encourage your constituents to do the same. Use caution when travelling on the land. Look out for one another. I look forward to seeing you all back in August for our final sitting of the 19th Legislative Assembly.
Mr. Clerk, orders of the day.