Speaking Notes
for
The Honourable Ethel-Blondin-Andrew
Minister of State (Northern Development)
at
The Press Conference Announcing the Release of the Northern Strategy Framework

Ottawa, Ontario
December 14, 2004

Check against delivery

Good afternoon. I am honoured to be taking part in today's announcement, together with the Prime Minister, Minister Scott and the North's three First Ministers.

With the release of the Framework for the Northern Strategy, we are opening a co-operative, forward-looking process that fills me with great optimism. All four governments represented at this press conference are committed to achieving a final Strategy that will make a real difference in the quality of Northerners' lives.

Northerners, and their territorial governments, have been at work for many years on their vision for the North. They care passionately about their land and protecting their environment. They want wise, sustainable development of their resources.

They want strong, healthy communities founded on sound economies and cherished values. They are determined to act on all the wonderful promise of the North with energy, enthusiasm and inspired thinking.

I am delighted that the Northern Strategy will enable us to build upon the momentum of Northerners' recent advances in entrepreneurship, higher education, employment and governance.

Each of the three territories has its own unique challenges and opportunities. In addition to an overall vision, principles and goals for the entire North, the Northern Strategy will include sections specific to each territory.

Aboriginal governments and organizations will play a crucial and integral part in developing the Strategy.

Northerners have many priorities they want addressed. Most particularly, they want the same access to opportunity and high quality of life as other Canadians. The comprehensive, multi-dimensional nature of the Strategy will help us to achieve these goals building on the dedicated work and discussions that Northerners and northern governments have undertaken to date.

I believe the Northern Strategy will give Northerners a platform to intensify their legendary determination, creativity and innovation.

Working in partnership, the Strategy will enable us to develop all the North's human and natural resources to the fullest, while respecting Northerners' traditional values, and their deep love and care for the land.

As Minister Scott emphasized, the Northern Strategy will have a profound impact on all Canadians. They are also part of the vision for a stronger, more prosperous North.

I greatly look forward to the consultation process over the coming months, and to sharing the final Strategy with Canadians. I believe it will help us all better understand the essence of our nationhood, and the great advances we can make together in a vital, strengthened federation of committed partners. Thank you.

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