John Curran
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Dec 05/05) - With a federal election set for Jan. 23, the territorial government has slapped its proposed $700 million extension of the Mackenzie Highway at a prime time for it to become a campaign issue.

So far, however, none of the national leaders have much interest in commenting on the proposal.

"Since it hasn't come up in the campaign yet, Mr. Martin isn't prepared to talk about it at this time," said a spokesperson for Liberal leader Paul Martin.

No official response was received by News/North from Conservative leader Stephen Harper's inner-circle prior to press time.

Out of NDP leader Jack Layton's camp came the closest thing to signs of interest.

"We want to let you know that the NDP central campaign hopes to be able to go to the Northwest Territories during the campaign and listen to the concerns of the people on this issue," wrote a spokesperson in a four-line e-mail.