(February 12, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories is a proud sponsor of the 2013 Indspire awards.  Formerly known as the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation, Indspire promotes the development, education and professional advancement of Aboriginal people in Canadian society.

I will be attending the awards this week in Saskatoon.  It gives me great pleasure to announce that two Northwest Territories residents will receive awards this year.

Gail Cyr of Yellowknife will receive the award for public service.  Ms. Cyr is a long-time employee of the Government of the Northwest Territories and is currently the Special Advisor to the Minister on the Status of Women.  She has had a lengthy career serving indigenous people and all our residents.  She established the Native Court Worker Association for the Northwest Territories and is very involved in family violence prevention and awareness.  She is passionate about making our communities sustainable, vibrant and safe.  She is committed to forming partnerships that help northerners become strong and independent.  We are proud of the work that Ms. Cyr and all our employees do on behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories.

Duane Smith, who is the Chair for the Inuvik Community Corporation and the Vice-Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, will receive the award for politics.   Mr. Smith is also the president of the Inuit Circumpolar Council (Canada) and was once a Wildlife Officer with the Government of the Northwest Territories.  Throughout his political life he has been a strong supporter of Arctic land claims and has effectively driven initiatives in support of strengthening and diversifying our northern economy.  

Both Ms. Cyr and Mr. Smith are well-known throughout the territory and are excellent role models who are proud of their Aboriginal heritage. They are helping to build a sustainable future for our territory, building on the strengths of Northerners. 

Mr. Speaker, I ask Members to join with me in congratulating them on this prestigious honour.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.