Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about how we work in collaboration for the people of the Northwest Territories. The nature of our job as elected officials is to be a strong voice for the people we represent.
Mr. Speaker, the interpreters behind us are elders, and they watch over us when we are in this House. Also, the elders from our home communities are also watching us. Mr. Speaker, I can tell you our elders may not be registered psychologists or psychiatrists or psychoanalysts, but our elders have the knowledge and life experience to lead our communities in good times and bad. In our consensus government, my colleagues and I come together and make decisions that will have an effect on the lives of the residents of the Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, we must think of our elders as we do this work. They should always be respected and cared for. I believe it is important for all of us, as Members of the Legislative Assembly, to look to the elders as an example of how we interact with each other when we are in this House. Mr. Speaker, people in the Northwest Territories are our priority, and we need to work together for the benefit of all. Our elders teach us how to be responsible and respectful.
Mr. Speaker, I have recently learned that the Legislative Assembly has an elder on-site program. Members and staff can join an elder for quiet reflection, tea, and conversations in the tent behind this building. Mr. Speaker, this program is similar to the GNWT initiative like the elders in schools program. I would like to see more programs with elders in our public spaces, and I strongly encourage Members to visit with the elders at the Assembly. I will have question for the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment at the appropriate time. Thank you.
Thank you, Member from Monfwi. Members' statements. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.
