Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and congratulations on the conclusion of what I understand has been productive information sharing, and celebration of Canada’s fur trade.

On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, it has been a pleasure to co-host the Fur Institute’s AGM this year. 

My congratulations to the Institute’s Board of directors, for hosting this meeting in Yellowknife and for your continued efforts to advance the interests of Canada’s trappers on the world stage.

Mr. Speaker, investments in the transportation system help to improve the safety of the travelling public, lower the cost of living, adapt to the effects of climate change, and support economic opportunities. Successful funding agreements with Canada are critical to see these projects to completion.

Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories has a centuries-long history in trapping and the fur trade. We have a high regard for the cultural values entrenched in this tradition, which set Northerners apart from other Canadians; and for the activities of the traditional economy which have helped shape our North and remain in many of our communities today.

As a proud founder and partner of the Fur Institute of Canada, the Government of the Northwest Territories continues its tradition of leadership in this industry.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories is a diverse workplace, with employees working in many different locations and in a variety of capacities.  Regardless of the kind of work they do, all employees have a fundamental right to be healthy and safe in the workplace. Ensuring we have a strong, safe and healthy workforce allows the GNWT to deliver key services and programs to residents of the NWT. 

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to advise this House that a ceremony was held earlier today to celebrate seven individuals who have made tremendous contributions to education in the Northwest Territories.

The Department of Education, Culture and Employment launched the Education Hall of Fame in 2010 to recognize the many Northerners that play an important role in supporting the education of our children.  It reflects the valuable contributions made by various educators, volunteers, board members, administrators and other community members across the territory. 

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Good afternoon and thank you all for being here today to join in celebrating National Aboriginal Day.

It was 20 years ago today that Canada celebrated its first National Aboriginal Day, a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples to our nation.

Mr. Speaker, June 21^st is National Aboriginal Day.

This day is an opportunity for all Northerners to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of the Northwest Territories’ Aboriginal people and the wealth of traditions, lifestyles, and languages that make up the fabric of the Northwest Territories.  As the only jurisdiction in Canada to recognize this day as a statutory holiday we are leading the way for the rest of the country through  our strong commitment to honour the Dene, Inuvialuit and Métis people.

Mr. Speaker, I’m pleased to provide an update on efforts to support gender equality in the Northwest Territories today. 

Mr. Speaker, in education, our greatest successes are seeing the faces of students realizing that they have accomplished something remarkable. To see a student graduate with pride in their achievements, surrounded by their families, friends and communities is one of the focuses of the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, and a priority of this Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories has made a commitment in its Mandate to finalize and implement the Commercial Fisheries Revitalization Strategy. I would like to share with Members of this Assembly, the work the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment is doing to revitalize the Northwest Territories’ commercial fishery and broaden the NWT’s economic horizons.