Mr. Chair, the Meadowbank mine project will generate over $3 billion in GDP over its life. It will provide several hundred million dollars in direct government revenues. Because the territory of Nunavut, unlike provinces, does not own the resource, these revenues will go to Canada. Twenty million dollars may seem like a lot of money to invest in a small community airport, but it is only a tiny fraction of the revenues this project will provide to Canada.
Canada is investing billions in gateways to the west, the south, and the east. We urge you to consider investing in gateways to Canada's north. If we're going to be serious about arctic sovereignty, let's spend a few dollars there. We believe this investment will pay dividends by supporting current developments and encouraging new ones. It will also ensure that the fair share of the benefits remain with us.
Please, Mr. Chair, come to Baker Lake, come to Nunavut. You have an open invitation.
Thank you.