Inuvik (Jun 23/06) - About 800 exhibitors and delegates awaited the big announcement at this year's Inuvik Petroleum Show, and Fred Carmichael didn't want to disappoint.

The Gwich'in Tribal Council president had the crowd waiting with bated breath as he was about to make an announcement on behalf of the Aboriginal Pipeline Group last week.

Inuvik Mayor Peter Clarkson speaks to a crowd of industry representatives during the sixth annual Inuvik Petroleum Show last week. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

But he took the opportunity of being in the spotlight to have a little fun.

"We're one year closer to the pipeline," was his big announcement, which he delivered with a chuckle.

Carmichael then turned to serious matters, saying that the Joint Review Panel and the National Energy Board were hard at work.

The Gwich'in leader spoke about his passion to see the people of the region flourish with the construction of the pipeline, and nothing would change that.

"No one group will hold up this pipeline," said Carmichael. "We all need to pull together to make this pipeline happen."

He said the APG is concerned with the aboriginal groups that aren't on board for the project.

"If we all want a brighter future, we will have to stop pulling in different directions," he said.

"We are in a catch 22 situation. We need development, but we also need the environment."

"As much as I want this pipeline, my first priority is the protection of the environment and the land," he said.

"Let's make this happen, but do it responsibly."

Youth were encouraged to take advantage of the growing opportunities associated with the oil and gas industry.

"There is a great opportunity for young people in our region to get the training and education they want," said Inuvialuit Regional Corporation chairperson Nellie Cournoyea.

Mayor Peter Clarkson welcomed all the exhibitors and delegates to the event at the end of the road, which was competing with the Global Petroleum Show in Calgary.

This year's theme was "Best practices for Northern benefits and sustainable development."

"The best part of the show is the relationships that are made here," said Clarkson. "It's all about networking with the right people."

NWT Premier Joe Handley was also in attendance for the show.

"People in Ottawa are starting to see that the North is incredibly important," said Handley.

"I've always believed that this pipeline must be more than just money, we need to leave a legacy for the youth."

Handley said that he wants to complete John Diefenbaker's vision of a highway connecting Inuvik to the rest of the Territories.

"I'm pushing away at the issue, and I want to see his vision become a reality soon," he said.

"It's a $700 million dollar project. We'll make it work."

Even Western Arctic MP Dennis Bevington stopped through the trade show last week.

Bevington said the show is a great event for Inuvik, and congratulated Clarkson on a job well done.

"It is a real testament to the organizational ability of people in Inuvik," said Bevington.