Hay River (Feb 16/04) - It was unanimous. A small and completely unscientific sampling of Hay River opinions found virtually no support for Senator Nick Sibbeston's initiative to change the name of the Northwest Territories.

A half-dozen residents were quizzed as they sat in the stands of the Hay River arena watching their children at figure skating practice.

All were content with the current name. Some said they would like a name that recognizes aboriginal culture, but they believe such a name might be difficult to find.

Brenda McDonald -- "I think it's fine the way it is. I really can't see any purpose to changing it. We are in the northwest part of the territory. It fits."

Doug Bryshun -- "I was a big supporter of the 'Bob' name campaign back in the '90s. I'm kind of undecided. I'm fine with the Northwest Territories, but it would be nice to see something that would recognize the aboriginal contribution to the land. It might be difficult to find a mutually agreeable name. I'm no longer a 'Bob' supporter."

Poul Osted -- "It's always been the Northwest Territories for me. I can't imagine it being anything else. It may not be the most culturally representative name, but it is recognized."

Marny Twigge -- "New is not always better. Everybody identifies with the Northwest Territories. As far as aboriginal groups are concerned, there are many groups. It's not like Nunavut, where there are mainly Inuit.... It's in the northwest and I think it's a very fitting name. I don't agree with spending taxpayers money on reinventing the wheel."

Randy Froese -- "Give it a rest. Leave it alone. There's got to be better things to spend our money on in the Northwest Territories than this every year. I've lived in the North for 42 years and I'm pretty proud to be a resident of the Northwest Territories. If they want it changed, change it to the Northwest Territory."

Jennifer Beaulieu -- "I like it just the way it is. It's been that way for years. I think it would confuse Canadians if they changed it now."