Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this week, we continue our call for a red alert on the economy and for the -- primarily focused on the revitalization of our mining industry, starting with modernized regulations, expanded incentive programs, and an independent review of this sector's decline to drive the exploration needed to reignite the NWT economy. However, a world-class mining sector needs more than just incentives and policy changes; it also needs robust infrastructure.
Recently, newly proposed projects are emerging to better connect the North with global markets. Chief among these is the proposed Arctic Security and Economic Corridor, a transformed initiative to link the mineral riches of the Slave Geological Province to a deepwater port in Nunavut positioned along the historic Northwest Passage. This project would be a game changer for both territories, Mr. Speaker, and also for Canada, but at the other end of that corridor is at the one end is Nunavut port, at the other end is our airport here in Yellowknife, Mr. Speaker, which is a huge strategic resource for the territory. However, the task of scaling up YZF must move forward regardless of the proposed corridor. For an airport its size, YZF experiences an exceptional level of traffic, not only in support of mining operations but also of our expanding tourism sector and essential transportation services to communities across the North.
Mr. Speaker, Yellowknife is a destination city, and that airport is the gateway not only to Yellowknife but to the whole Northwest Territories.
Furthermore, as part of our commitment to NATO spending targets, airports are now recognized as strategic infrastructure central to our defence posture, opening the door for major investments in YZF from both NORAD and the Department of National Defence. When you consider the expansion of our armed forces, growing our mining industry, increasing our tourism and expanding our tourism product, and adding to the transportation needs across northern communities, the case for major investment in YZF becomes clear as does its inclusion as a major project in our strategic priorities, well equal to Taltson, MVH, and ASEC.
Nunavut has its strategic port at Grace Bay, and we have ours at Yellowknife Airport. If this expansion of YZF isn't treated as a strategic priority on its own right, then it must be integrated into a comprehensive plan for the Arctic Security and Economic Corridor. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Member from Range Lake. Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre.
