Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to read my youth parliamentarian statement by Mr. Jack Penny. I have modified it slightly for accuracy but as of current -- currently as of today, but it's a pleasure to read these each year.

I would like to speak about the importance of preserving Tin Can Hill in Yellowknife by designating it as a territorial park, an area for scientific study.

Mr. Speaker, Tin Can Hill is currently under the jurisdiction of the city of Yellowknife. City council has designated it as a parks and recreations area in its zoning bylaw. In 2022, the Government of the Northwest Territories, in partnership with Aurora College, proposed development of a new polytechnic university campus on a portion of Tin Can Hill. This proposal led to the signing of an MOU between the GNWT and the city of Yellowknife indicating the city's willingness to consider transferring land for the campus development; however, Yellowknife city of Yellowknife ended this agreement in March when the mayor and city manager said that there is currently no plan to develop any part of the area.

Mr. Speaker, the authority to establish a territorial park falls under the jurisdiction of the Minister of ITI under the Territorial Parks Act. I call on this government to enter a new agreement with the city to complete a transfer of land and establish Tin Can Hill Territorial Park.

Mr. Speaker, it's crucial that we protect the network of trails and geological features of Tin Can Hill for future generations. Designating this area as a territorial park would ensure long-term environmental stewardship while respecting Indigenous history and providing opportunities for education and sustainable tourism.

Mr. Speaker, residents have spoken clearly. They want Tin Can Hill preserved. By creating a territorial park, we not only protect the land but we invest in our community. I urge the department of ITI to work collaboratively with the city of Yellowknife and Indigenous governments to make this vision a reality. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.