Mr. Speaker, during the past two weeks I had the opportunity to visit the beautiful Queen Charlotte Islands or Haida Gwaii , as they are known locally. I took the time to meet with several different groups of people, including members of the Haida first nations.
I received several messages loud and clear on the island. Number one was about the total lack of credibility in federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans' policies. The fishing industry on the north coast as a whole is in serious trouble and DFO must address this issue.
Islanders are also concerned about their failing economy. Any economic development, industrial or otherwise, would be welcome provided environmental concerns are fully dealt with and long term and lasting benefits accrue to the island people.
The Queen Charlotte Islands are a beautiful part of Canada and it is my privilege to have had the opportunity to see them for the first time and to relay the concerns of their citizens to this parliament.