Colleagues, today, I want to celebrate the incredible journey of athletes from the Nahendeh riding as they prepare to represent our community, region and territories at the Arctic Winter Games. This event is more than an international competition - it is a celebration of who we are as Northerners: strong, resilient, and proud of where we come from.

For athletes from outside the big centres, the games offer not only the thrill of sport but the opportunity to represent our community, region, and territory on a truly global stage.

Each athlete standing before us carries a story of dedication and heart. Their path began at home on the frozen syne, in the gyms, and in the community rinks where dreams first took shape. Their hours of practice, their sacrifices, and their determination reflects the spirit that binds us all together. I look at how they carry with them the spirit of where they came from - the after-supper practices, the teamwork built in gyms, and the support of neighbours who cheer from the stands. Their dedication reminds us that every great accomplishment begins at home with communities that believe in our youth and invest in their dreams.

As they step onto the international stage, they do not stand alone. They carry with them the support, hope, and pride of every single one of us.

The Arctic Winter Games are about more than medals and athletic excellence. They are about connection and fostering friendships - a rare chance for young people from across the circumpolar world to meet, learn, and share their cultures. The friendships built there reminds us that we are part of something much larger - a northern family defined by unity, respect, and perseverance.

To Mia Hardisty, Gombee Joses, Ember Sibbeston, Payton Bennett, Blake Speed and Taagacho Jose, believe in yourselves. Trust in your training, your teammates, and the people who helped you get here. Compete with courage, lift others up, and embrace every moment of this incredible experience. You remind us that everything is possible when we come together as a community that believes in our youth.

On behalf of everybody here, congratulations on reaching this milestone. Your efforts remind us that when one of us succeeds, our whole community shines a little brighter.

I would be remiss if I do not recognize two Team NWT coaches from Fort Simpson: Shannon Cazon, one of the Dene games coaches, and Val Gendron, one of the speed skating coaches. Thank you for helping our youth.

Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from Yellowknife North.