Thank you for the invitation to join you again – and for this opportunity to say a few words.  It is always a pleasure for me to address the various Chamber of Commerce organizations across the NWT and today is no exception.

 YELLOWKNIFE (November 15, 2012) - The fur advance and prime fur bonus payments for selected species have been increased for this season’s trapping season.

“Last season’s wild fur harvests were record-setting and we anticipate our NWT trappers will have another great season this year,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay. “By increasing payments to trappers, we are encouraging them to have another productive season so their families and communities continue to benefit.”

My thanks – first of all – to the NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines and the NWT Geoscience Office for their continued good work and commitment in hosting and organizing this annual event – and in particular – for the invitation and opportunity to speak this morning.

I would also like to offer up congratulations on behalf of Premier Bob McLeod and my Government of the Northwest Territories colleagues, on the 40th anniversary of the Geoscience Forum. 

YELLOWKNIFE (November 9, 2012) – Sharing his culture, going above and beyond to help visitors explore exciting activities in the area, and a welcoming nature were characteristics noted about Parks Hospitality Award winner Raymond Michaud.

Presenting the 2012 award at the NWT Tourism Gala and Awards Dinner last night, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay commended Mr. Michaud for his dedication to the tourism industry.

Good morning and thank you for the opportunity to address you here today.

As many of you are aware.  I began my career as a parks officer for the GNWT.  It was something I really enjoyed - and to this day - the tourism sector is one that I hold a great interest in – and passion for. For the past year, some of the most satisfying and enjoyable elements of my work as a Minister have been the opportunities I have had to promote and represent our spectacular Territory to people in other parts of Canada and the US.

YELLOWKNIFE (November 6, 2012) – Trappers in each region of the Northwest Territories have been honoured for their achievements during last year’s trapping season.

Mr. Speaker, the film and media arts industry makes a positive economic and cultural impact on our Territory.  It provides employment and learning opportunities for our residents, provides a venue for our talented filmmakers to showcase their work and draws outside production companies to the Northwest Territories to create memorable films that use our rugged landscape as a backdrop.  

YELLOWKNIFE (November 5, 2012) – The Government of the Northwest Territories has released a public discussion paper as part of a multi-step process to develop the 2013 Northwest Territories Energy Plan.

Mr. Speaker, later today at the appropriate time, I will table a public discussion paper entitled,, “A Vision for Energy in the Northwest Territories: Developing the 2013 Northwest Territories Energy Plan”. .  This paper is the first component of a multi-step process that will lead to the development the 2013 Energy Plan.

Mr. Speaker, the oil and gas industry has been at the heart of our economy for many years. As one of our enduring industries, we have always recognized the need to work not only with the companies that want to tap into our vast resources, but also with those who live and work in the regions so that the economic benefits remain exactly where they should – in the North.