Debates of May 30th, 1997

This is page numbers 1213 - 1239 of the Hansard for the 13th Assembly, 4th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.

The word of the day was going .

Topics

Members Present

Item 1: Prayer

Minister's Meetings

Numbers Of Members In The Nunavut Legislature

Appreciation To Iqaluit Pages

Rae Edzo High School Graduation

Fairness To GNWT Employees

Fairness To GNWT Employees

Resolution Of Outstanding Union Issues

Reductions To Community Services

Adult Education

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Sale Of Staff Housing

Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Dental Contract In Keewatin

Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Update On Protected Area Strategy

Community Freezer Problems

Pay Equity Dispute

Land Development Policy

Revert To Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Written Question 29-13(4): Job Evaluation Process

Item 13: Tabling Of Documents

Bill 18:

An Act To Amend The Territorial Hospital Insurance Services Act, No. 2

Bill 15:

An Act To Amend The Workers' Compensation Act

Bill 16:

An Act To Amend The NWT Housing Corporation Act

Bill 17:

An Act To Amend The Territorial Hospital Insurance Services Act

Bill 18:

An Act To Amend The Territorial Hospital Insurance Service Act, No. 2

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Item 22: Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Honourable Jim Antoine , Honourable Goo Arlooktoo , Honourable Stephen Kakfwi , Honourable Kelvin Ng , Mr. Barnabas , Honourable Charles Dent , Mr. Enuaraq , Mr. Erasmus , Mr. Evaloarjuk , Mrs. Groenewegen , Mr. Henry , Mr. Krutko , Mr. Miltenberger , Mr. Ningark , Mr. O'Brien , Mr. Ootes , Mr. Picco , Mr. Rabesca , Mr. Roland , Mr. Steen , Honourable Manitok Thompson , Honourable John Todd .

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Oh, God, may your spirit and guidance be in us as we work for the benefit of all our people, for peace and justice in our land and for constant recognition of the dignity and aspirations of those whom we serve. Amen.

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 1213

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Ootes . Good morning. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Dent .

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

Charles Dent

Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the chair of the Ordinary Members' Caucus rose to give a statement critical of the meeting/planning skills of Cabinet Ministers.

-- Shame! Shame!

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

Charles Dent

Yellowknife Frame Lake

Recognizing the importance of dealing with issues quickly, given the short period planned for this session and, Mr. Speaker, remembering that today is Friday, I along with other Members of the Executive Council felt bound to respond to the criticism today. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Ootes ' statement on behalf of the Ordinary Members' Caucus made note of the short period we will be in session, that the dates have been known for at least three months and that many have made sacrifices to be here in Yellowknife for the session.

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

An Hon. Member

Bravo!

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

Charles Dent

Yellowknife Frame Lake

One of the "critical items" we need to discuss is the Northern Employment Strategy, according to the Ordinary Members' Caucus. Mr. Speaker, there is no question that Cabinet regrets that all Executive Council Members could not be here for the first two days of this session. As Mr. Ootes noted in his statement on behalf of the Ordinary Members' Caucus, the Premier could not have been expected to shun the other western Premiers by not attending their meeting, but OMC obviously has some concern about the meetings of other Ministers. Mr. Speaker, Mr.

Ootes ' statement noted that only four Ministers were here on Tuesday. So, Mr. Speaker, we have asked to examine the videotapes from that day. Those of us who were here want to know what one Executive Member was doing that made them invisible. If we can figure it out, we may be better able to avoid the questions of Ordinary Members.

Cabinet agrees Mr. Speaker that the work of this House must take priority over other issues and it is only after careful consideration that ministerial travel is approved when the House is in session. In the past such travel has only occurred when issues of importance beyond the constituency level are involved, for instance, meetings with other Premiers or other provincial/territorial Cabinet Ministers or where issues of economic or social importance of wide range will be on the table. Such meetings as the meetings with oil and gas companies and land owners that Mr.

Kakfwi attended in Norman Wells to discuss jobs and thereby new taxes for this government. Such meetings as those with the Baffin Regional Health and Social Services Board in Iqaluit attended by Mr. Ng to discuss devolution of responsibility for social services to one of the largest regions in the Northwest Territories and where he also met with the Canadian Police Chiefs' Association Committee on policing in aboriginal communities.

Mr. Speaker, you can imagine our surprise on finding yesterday during Committee of the Whole when we were scheduled to talk about that and I quote again that "critical item", the Northern Employment Strategy, that the business of this House had to come to a stop when some Members had to attend a previously set meeting with constituents.

-- Shame! Shame!

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

Charles Dent

Yellowknife Frame Lake

Mr. Speaker, we had it wrong! We would like to extend our thanks to the Ordinary Members who have reminded us that our most important function is to meet with our constituents and that they must take precedence over our business here. Mr. Speaker, you have our commitment, as of now, that Executive Council Members will only miss meetings of this House to attend meetings with constituents.

-- Bravo! Bravo!

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

Charles Dent

Yellowknife Frame Lake

Mr. Speaker, I wish you a good Friday!

-- Hear! Hear!

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Minister's Statement 81-13(4): Minister's Meetings

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 1213

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Dent . I also wish you a good Friday today. Thank you. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statement. Mr. Evaloarjuk . Qujannamiik.

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Member's Statement 355-13(4): Numbers Of Members In The Nunavut Legislature

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

Mark Evaloarjuk

Amittuq

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It has been stated by people who were against gender parity for the new Legislature in Nunavut that having dual legislators would cost us more to maintain the numbers. The recommendation in Footprints 2 is to have been 20 and 22 legislators in Nunavut. In order to save some dollars, I would suggest that we lessen those numbers to 16 or 18 members.

For example, if we take away four of the positions, we can save approximately one million dollars and reallocate that funding toward the communities needs. It is difficult to predict the future and if the economy remains the way it is. It is important that we first start off with fewer legislators for the new government. It seems backward for us to start off with a higher number and perhaps start cutting back on those positions in the future, dependant on our economy. When I first was elected to this House in 1975, there were only 16 legislators for all of the Northwest Territories.

Over the years that number has risen and we now have 24 representatives of the electoral boundaries. I believe we have to start off with fewer numbers in the House and expand from there, basing it on our population growth. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (Translation ends)

-- Applause

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Member's Statement 355-13(4): Numbers Of Members In The Nunavut Legislature

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Qujannamiik (Translation) Thank you, Mr. Evaloarjuk (Translation ends). Members' statements. Mr. Picco .

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Member's Statement 356-13(4): Appreciation To Iqaluit Pages

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Mr. Speaker, I am glad to see that the Ministers are in full force here today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak a little about those seven wonderful young people from Iqaluit that have served as our Pages here in the Assembly this week. I think that Members would agree with me that the Pages have been polite as well as hard working and have shared in a few jokes with Minister Todd and Members Barnabas and Groenewegen.

I should also mention each of them by name and just talk a little bit about them. Sean Doherty is becoming nationally known for his geographical knowledge and recently competed in a national competition in Ottawa where he finished in the top ten. Karla Serkoak is the daughter of well known Iqaluit teacher and traditional Inuit drummer, David Serkoak. Karla and her dad have appeared in many concerts and events as drummers carrying on traditional Inuit musical skills.

William Tagalik has been really enjoying himself here in Yellowknife. When not listening to his CD, he has been giving me road directions while I have tried to navigate Yellowknife's streets. Megan Levy and Stephanie Rose have been like teaching me like how to talk like well like different, sure, like well. Valley talk there, Mr. Speaker. Alex Stubbing has been staying in the old town

section of Yellowknife and enjoys being dropped off last at the end of the work day. I think Alex really enjoys my singing. Fauna Lee Kingdon has like well like been really like hitting the stores and malls of Yellowknife with her mother, Eliza Kingdon, who is also the chaperon with the students.

I would like to thank the parents, teachers and staff of Inuksuk High School in Iqaluit who helped facilitate the Pages coming to Yellowknife. I would also like to thank the billets here in Yellowknife and Canadian Airlines for giving me a good rate to bring the Pages and Ms. Kingdon over from Iqaluit. Finally, I would like to thank Chuck and Muriel Tolley, former residents of Iqaluit but now living here in Yellowknife. Muriel and Chuck were not only billets but held a barbecue in honour of the Pages. The staff and Members of the Assembly have been most helpful.

A special thanks to Eliza Kingdon for her patience, administrative and logistical skills. Finally, to the Pages, thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

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Member's Statement 356-13(4): Appreciation To Iqaluit Pages

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Picco . I would also, on behalf of the Legislative Assembly, thank the Pages. Member's statements. Mr. Rabesca .

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Member's Statement 357-13(4): Rae Edzo High School Graduation

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

James Rabesca

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the past number of years the leadership of the Northwest Territories has emphasized the importance of education to our young people. We now have a higher quality of education in all our communities which has resulted in a higher degree of educated residents. This will and is providing better lifestyle and a more comfortable way of life. Tomorrow, Mr. Speaker, Rae Edzo will be celebrating the achievement of eight young adults that have persevered through hard work. In support of them we will be able to say that they have the appropriate diploma from Grade 12.

These individuals and others across the Northwest Territories will now be wondering what they will do with the rest of their lives. Those, I hope, will continue to pursue their educations or they will join the work force. For these young people, tomorrow will be a special day. Others will be celebrating their grad later next month. To all those students I would like to wish them congratulations and please consider continuing your education. You are the future of our country. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

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Member's Statement 357-13(4): Rae Edzo High School Graduation

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Rabesca . The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Ootes .

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Member's Statement 358-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1214

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Constitution, Mr. Speaker, that is what I would like to talk about today. Yesterday, we heard from Mr. Antoine , the chairman of the Constitutional Working Group and Mr. Miltenberger who is also a member of that group. I would like to add my perspective to what has transpired on the constitutional issues. I would like to talk about some nuts and bolts and matters. I will refer to my letter that I wrote to the

Constitutional Working Group and to the western Members of the Legislative Assembly.

1. Timeframe, it was an issue by a lot of people and it has been dealt with and recognized that we should make sure that we put some brakes on. The document was flawed and it has been agreed that we should rewrite and redraft the document.

2. The need for further public consultation. Second round of consultation is scheduled for this fall. A constitutional conference has been scheduled for this spring. That is good progress, Mr. Speaker.

Now I would like to talk about an issue that I put forward and I would like to explain. I recommended that we expand the Constitutional Working Group by two members from the general public. There was concern out there about the imbalance of representation between the aboriginal and non-aboriginal representatives. No doubt some people will argue this point, but this will not satisfy those who had presented this viewpoint. What has happened since then? Mr. Kakfwi has generously and graciously given up his seat to Mr. Dent . I am sure that was not an easy decision for Mr.

Kakfwi to do because he has been a proponent, a good follower and a contributor to the constitutional process over the years and an excellent participant. To further balance this inequity, Mr. Miltenberger offered to give up his seat and he offered it to myself or another Yellowknife Member, Mr. Henry . Neither of us could accept. I could not accept because, in my opinion, it was exactly the point I was making. We had Mr. Kakfwi step aside and that would have meant an area that could not be represented. Mr. Miltenberger , I felt, should continue to represent his area.

The second reason that I did not want to accept was I was pushing the idea of...

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Member's Statement 358-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Mr. Ootes . Thank you. Mr. Ootes , your allotted time for Member's statements is over. Mr. Ootes .

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Member's Statement 358-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

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Member's Statement 358-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? No nays. Conclude your statement.

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Member's Statement 358-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I say, my point was, I wanted to expand the membership on the committee by public representation. I am a member, an ex officio member, of the committee and I have attended in the past and will continue to attend the meetings. I was convinced and still am of the conviction that some outside membership would prove beneficial. It cannot always be a government to government process. It needs to be a people process, from the public. However, I do admit good progress has been made.

There is now ad hoc representation on a more formalized basis of the women's groups, Members from the Western Caucus and the municipalities, and the meetings have now been opened to the general public.

Mr. Speaker, I do agree that good progress has been made. I would like to state that the next meeting of the working group will be June 5th and 6th in Yellowknife. Also, I would like to acknowledge that there is a full contingent of Ordinary Members here this morning, Mr. Speaker. Thank you very much.

-- Applause

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Member's Statement 358-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Ootes . The honourable Member for Inuvik , Mr. Roland .

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Member's Statement 359-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

Floyd Roland

Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on many occasions I have stood up in this House and spoke of fairness and of doing things equally and trying to lessen the impact on people that we serve in the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, there are more concerns being raised by the employees of this government as work is being undertaken to further look at how we can achieve more orderly government when it comes to our employees.

I use those words because what has been recently happening is there has been staff of this government going through two communities to do job evaluation reviews and the concern is being raised by the constituents I represent is what is this government up to at this time. Are we looking at saving more money in a different way? I believe those concerns need to be addressed and I will be asking questions later during question period to the appropriate Ministers. Thank you.

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Member's Statement 359-13(4): Fairness To GNWT Employees

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Roland . The honourable Member for Thebacha , Mr. Miltenberger .

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Member's Statement 360-13(4): Resolution Of Outstanding Union Issues

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1215

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In this House this week two major issues have been brought up through question period and Members' statements and those are the issues of pay equity and the outstanding issue of settlement allowances that affects communities in the South Slave, mainly Yellowknife, Hay River and Fort Smith. Mr. Speaker, these are long outstanding issues that are in dispute between the Union of Northern Workers and this government. The comments made in the House yesterday by the Minister for FMBS, Mr.

Todd , indicate to me that the door seems to be open for the possibility of a negotiated resolution to these issues outside the legal process which, as we know, has dragged on for years and could drag on for years yet to come and is costly and will be protracted.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to encourage the involved parties to in fact make that extra effort to try to resolve these issues so that we can have these matters cleared up and get on to the other issues they will have to deal with that are very important and affect all of our constituents be we elected officials or UNW executive. To my mind, Mr. Speaker, the issue is very simple. These issues involve significant amounts of money.

As an organization, we have to be able to put our House in order because, one way or the other, if it costs money the money is going to have to come from somewhere and we have spent two years trying to get our House in order financially. We have cut nearly 1,000 jobs and almost $200 million out of our budget.

We have to be able to resolve these issues in an affordable, efficient and effective way so that we do not end up cutting off our nose to spite our face where there will be a pirate victory where there will be no real victors because money will change hands and, at the end, it will be the people of the north that suffer because the money has to come from somewhere and that usually means program cuts or possibly, more layoffs.

Mr. Speaker, I would just like to close by strongly encouraging the parties to make every effort for the benefit of not only their respective organizations but all of us to resolve these issues as soon as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

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Member's Statement 360-13(4): Resolution Of Outstanding Union Issues

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1216

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Krutko .

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Member's Statement 361-13(4): Reductions To Community Services

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1216

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My statement today is with the whole area of cuts in communities, especially in relation to my community. I have raised this many times in this House, talking about the whole idea of mental health, alcohol and drug programs with regard to the Tl'oondih, what is happening with Delta House and now the late round of cuts have hit my communities again in regards to the cuts to the mental health workers in the communities.

I believe this is a significant step backwards to this House, talks about community empowerment, community wellness and giving the communities the tools to carry out the work that is needed to ensure that we have safe and healthy means and access for people who are in desperate need.

In regards to Fort McPherson, five years ago I believe was the last time we had a suicide and I believe it is because of the mental health worker coming into our community after that incident and ensuring that there was some sort of method so people had access to someone that they can talk to about their problems and their emotions. I believe with this drastic step that this government has taken to cut out the mental health workers in the communities, I believe we are disempowering the communities not empowering them.

I stood up in this House several times asking questions to the Minister in regards to alcohol and drug programs in our regions and how money is going to be spent. He keeps giving me the answer that, well it is going to be downloaded to the health boards, but I do not believe I heard that the mental health workers were also going to be part of this slash and cut process of this government.

So at the appropriate time, Mr. Speaker, I will be asking the Minister a question on this matter and in regards to ensure those communities that there will be power given to the communities and not just to the health boards. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 361-13(4): Reductions To Community Services

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1216

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Krutko . Members' statements. Thank you. Mr. Erasmus .

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Member's Statement 362-13(4): Adult Education

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 1216

Roy Erasmus

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My statement today is on adult education. During this session we have heard about the new Northern Employment Strategy and the Standing Committee on Government Operations are going to table a report on Affirmative Action and Human Resource Management. Both stress the need to increase employment opportunities for northerners.

For me, there is one critical element in making this happen - education. In ten to 20 years our children will be the professionals and business people in the north. A strong school system is important to make this happen. We can see results already from grade extensions. There are more graduates and more students staying in school, but this is only half of the equation.

Mr. Speaker, I have spoken on this many times. In the short term, we need to support the adults who did not have the same access to education as children today currently have. I believe you are never too old to learn. Aurora and Arctic College are full of mature students. Some of them are changing careers, some of them may finally enter the workforce because of this.

Mr. Speaker, there are many people capable and who need the helping hand of adult basic education. While there is a cost, there is a greater cost to them if they stay on income support for life and that cost is also reflected in government spending. There is an interest out there. We have to make sure that people can get the education they need to grow and learn and we make sure that they do not lose their interest while they are waiting to get into classes.

In many areas we have talked about spending a bit more now to have savings later. Nowhere is there a better example of this than in the area of adult education. Mr. Speaker, the Finance Minister recently indicated that we are going to be spending $16 million to help people gain employment through the Northern Employment Strategy. I am glad to see that Cabinet has been listening to my many statements on adult education and that $2 million of that Northern Employment Strategy will be for adult education. I can only say, Mr. Speaker, bravo.

-- Applause

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Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1216

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Erasmus . Item 4, returns to oral questions. Returns to oral questions. Item 5. At

this time, I would like to recognize up in the public gallery the students from Tree of Peace adult education class.

-- Applause

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Evaloarjuk .

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Question 498-13(4): Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1217

Mark Evaloarjuk

Amittuq

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask a question to the Minister of Economic Development . In Hall Beach, the community that I represent, I am sorry you were not able to hear me. I would like to ask the Minister of Economic Development in the community of Hall Beach there was an economic development officer and he has just taken on another job and left the community. The community misses him and is asking whether they are going to be getting another economic development officer. That is my question to the Minister. (Translation ends)

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Question 498-13(4): Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1217

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Evaloarjuk . Mr. Kakfwi . (Translation ends)

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Return To Question 498-13(4): Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Question 498-13(4): Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1217

Stephen Kakfwi

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The position is vacant but the position is still there for the community. It will be filled once the process starts to look for someone to fill that position. Thank you.

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Return To Question 498-13(4): Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Question 498-13(4): Edo Vacancy In Hall Beach

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1217

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Kakfwi . (Translation ends) Mr. Picco .

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Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just following up on some questions yesterday asked by the honourable Member from Inuvik to Mr. Kelvin Ng , the Minister of Health . My first question, Mr. Speaker, is the contract by the company Med-Emerg, can the Minister inform me if that report has actually been released now publicly at this time?

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Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The honourable Minister for Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

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Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it has not formally been publicly released. Actually, I am in the process of getting conveyance letters drafted for my signature today. However, I can say that informally, through the NWT Health Care Association, that board chairs and CEOs have had an opportunity to receive an advance copy of the report, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Picco .

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Supplementary To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I noticed the media are already reporting the contents of said report before I or I am sure some of the other Members in this House to have had a chance look at it. That is disappointing. Following up on the Med-Emerg report, that has not been officially released publicly but there seems to be in wide circulation especially in the media, I would like to ask some questions.

Mr. Speaker, one of the prime reasons for having the Med-Emerg report is to look at health care for now, right now in the present in the Northwest Territories and later on in the year 2000 and beyond and the facilitation for new hospital facilities. Can the Minister update this House on where we are right now with the new major health facility which is in Inuvik and in the Baffin region and also an indication that there may be other facilities looked at? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Supplementary To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The report recommends in respect to both the Inuvik and Iqaluit hospitals that there be replacement project for those two aging facilities. It also recommends, particularly in the Keewatin and Kitikmeot regions, that there be some form of enhanced health care facilities because of the fact that those are the only two regions in the territories that do not have that type of facility available. Mr. Speaker, thank you.

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Further Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Second supplementary, Mr. Picco .

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Supplementary To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I understand as a report it publicly now in the media that the Med-Emerg consultants have recommended that the GNWT set up a committee to figure out how to spread new hospital construction money between Cambridge Bay, Rankin, Inuvik, and the Baffin region. It is going to be called the capital coordinating committee and that is there a recommendation. I wonder when Mr. Ng will be getting back to this House and to the people of the Northwest Territories on the recommendations made by Med-Emerg and has he accepted those recommendations or is the department still reviewing them? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Supplementary To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as all Members can appreciate, there is a considerable amount of recommendations in that report. I can say, for certain, we have not accepted all of the recommendations, but a majority of them are sound. In respect to the issue about the capital coordinating committee, that is one of the recommendations for facilitating the construction for bringing on line the capital needs in the Northwest Territories. I have not formalized any position on that yet.

I have to still, as I indicated yesterday in response to the honourable Member for Inuvik , still seek some resolution with the board chairs on a framework for continuing on in trying to coordinate bringing those capital projects on line, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Final supplementary, Mr. Picco .

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Supplementary To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I understand that, as reported now in the media, and in my conversations with some of the birth rate corporations in my region are willing to come in with financing to help in the construction of the replacement of the much needed Baffin hospital that was built in 1962. As we have brought up over the past year and a half, with the federal agreement that was in place in 1988.

My question to the Minister is, is he looking at the accessing of these outside financing to help in these difficult fiscal times of this government so that these projects could go on time and on

schedule before the year 1999 or 2000? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Supplementary To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is important to clarify, first of all, to the honourable Member that the media does not have a copy of the Med-Emerg report. As I indicated, we have passed on advanced copies to the chairs and the CEOs of the health care association of boards throughout the territories. They have had some discussions with it.

The media report that the honourable Member refers to is the fact that myself and the Deputy Minister were up in Iqaluit speaking to the Baffin Regional Health and Social Services Board on some of the contents of the report and the discussion on the framework for some of the consultations. The media were present and that may be where some of the comments were coming from. As well, the Deputy Minister did have an interview with a member of the media while we were in Iqaluit. I just wanted to clarify that is the case in respect to the media reporting of this issue.

In respect to the issue of outside financing sources. Yes, I have said right from the start. In following questions from the honourable Member from Inuvik and from Iqaluit that we have to look at some creative financing options to try to bring these projects on line because of the fact that this government has some financial restrictions and constraints in the budgets that we have brought forward. We have to look at all avenues that are out there to hopefully be successful in bringing these initiatives on line, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Question 499-13(4): Med-emerg Report On Hospital Construction

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Ng . Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Ootes .

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Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for Mr. Ng , the Minister of Health . I have been informed that six to eight doctors are looking at leaving Yellowknife shortly. I am wondering if the Minister is aware of this? Can he can tell us what some of the reasons for this may be? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The Minister for Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

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Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yes, I am aware of the issue. Some of the reasons are that, naturally, some of them had planned on leaving the territories to resume practices in other jurisdictions. A secondary reason is there have been some changes proposed in some of the other jurisdictions in Canada in respect to changing some of the health billing number systems that they have to restrict non-residing physicians from accessing billing numbers.

Some of the physicians that operate in the Northwest Territories are concerned that they may not have an opportunity to receive or to keep their billing numbers that they have in their home jurisdictions. As a result of that, they are contemplating moving back to their home provinces, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes .

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Supplementary To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The departure of six to eight doctors is creating a bit of anxiety amongst the other doctors because of short staffing, as can be appreciated. I am wondering, is the Minister in discussions with the medical association to tackle the problems of recruiting and what all of the reasons for their departure may be?

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Supplementary To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1218

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not directly involved in those discussions. I know some of our staff are. The Stanton Regional Health Board have

actually expressed an interest to devote, through the NWT Health Care Association, devote some time to try to work out a strategy, which we are fully supportive of.

I can say to the honourable Member, right now, actually, as of the last Monday's health Ministers meeting, the health billing numbers was on the agenda for discussion in trying to have myself speak to some of my colleagues from across Canada to try to set up some kind of measure to exempt doctors operating in rural and remote locations from being impacted, so that we would not have to face the same difficulties as some of the larger jurisdictions in possibly losing some of our physicians. It is still on the agenda, nationally, health Minister wise, and it is one that I will continue to pursue, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Second supplementary, Mr. Ootes .

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Supplementary To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am wondering if the Minister could tell us if there is prospective replacements for these doctors and will that happen fairly quickly?

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Supplementary To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not aware of any prospective replacements for the individuals that are contemplating leaving. I am aware of the situation and hopefully we can work our way through it so there is minimal impact, if any, on any of the service levels, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Final supplementary, Mr. Ootes .

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Supplementary To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I understand the communities of Fort Simpson and Cambridge Bay have previously had doctors, but it is difficult to recruit doctors for those particular communities. I wonder if the Minister has addressed that concern and if he is having any success with that?

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Supplementary To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. I will pause momentarily each and every time there is a question being asked in order to allow the

interpretation to complete the

interpretation for the benefit of one of our Members. Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am aware of the issue and we have been working with the health authorities in those areas to try to fill those positions. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Question 500-13(4): Departure Of Yellowknife Doctors

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Oral questions. The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Krutko .

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Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is in regards to my opening statement of the mental health workers being let go in a lot of the communities in relation to the reason that they are there is because it is a mental capacity of the community to look at health and also to ensure the well-being of those people in the community to have access to individuals such as the mental health workers when they have problems. My question to the Minister is, has there been consultation with the communities to ask if it was okay for the department to cut those positions or did they unilaterally just go ahead and cut those positions?

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Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The Minister for Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

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Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, first of all, the department did not unilaterally cut any positions. Those positions were transferred to Inuvik Regional Health and Social Services Board in amalgamations across the whole territories effective April 1st. The funding for the mental health program was transferred intact to the regional authorities and I am not particularly sure of the particular circumstances surrounding the Inuvik board's decision on how they have dealt with the mental health worker program. I have asked and made enquiries, but to date I have not heard back on those enquiries, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Krutko .

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Supplementary To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1220

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question to the Minister is, it seems like there is a real unclear process that is in place to ensure that it is being evaluated by the communities and also the health board and the Minister's office to ensure that when we do make these transfers or allow the regions or communities to take on these initiatives that they have the resources, especially when you are dealing with the health issue. The reason for these mental health workers to be in the communities in the first place is because there was a demand for having those people in those communities.

I think because of a decision of a board without the consultation of the community to ensure what effect it is going to have in those communities, that there has to be a more adequate process in place to evaluate these changes that are affecting the communities to ensure there are not longterm inpatients by removing these critical people at this time

In the case of my region, we have lost the Delta House. Basically the funding has been cut to the Tl'oondih and Healing Society and now the mental health workers are going. So what other alternatives do the communities have and what assurances does the Minister have that there will be some sort of an evaluation process in place to ensure that the communities are involved in regards to how these positions being cancelled are affecting the communities? Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Mahsi. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reduction

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I recognize the value of having preventative types of individuals in communities, such as the mental health workers. What I would suggest is that the Inuvik Regional Health Board be approached. I have said that I have made enquiries already to find out the rationale for some of the changes to that program and to try to, once again, work with the communities to find a resolution to the issue, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Second supplementary, Mr. Krutko .

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Supplementary To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In regards to the communities and also the options the communities have in front of them, you mentioned the option of going to the regional health board but I believe that the communities should have the option to reinstate these individuals or the position in those communities. Can the Minister assure the communities that there is the option open to them to reinstate these positions at this time?

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Supplementary To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The honourable Minister, Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, first we have to find out the rationale, as I indicated, on why there would have been some change in the delivery of this program. If we feel that they are not valid then at that point, we will have to address the situation and try to remedy the problem.

So I think there are assurances there for community involvement and I respect that if it is a decision made that is totally unacceptable to the communities then the Inuvik Regional Health and Social Services Board would be compelled to try to justify that decision and try to make any changes, even reinstatement of the program if it was felt that it was required and one of the priorities of the communities, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Final supplementary, Mr. Krutko .

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Supplementary To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In regards to the evaluation and the process and the time you are going to need to look at this, I would like to ask the Minister how soon can he get back to myself and the communities that have been affected by these cuts to the mental health workers being let go? I would like to ask the Minister, can he get back to me as soon as possible and also inform the communities that have been cut on what his decision is or what his findings are? Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I can make the commitment to the honourable Member that once I have the information I will sit down with them and discuss it with them and I can make the commitment that I will speak to the Inuvik Regional Health and Social Services Board and have them arrange for consultations or discussions with the community leaders on these program changes, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Question 501-13(4): Mental Health Workers Position Reductions

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1221

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

(Translation) Thank you. The Member for Baffin Central , Mr. Enuaraq . (Translation ends)

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Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

Tommy Enuaraq

Baffin Central

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. My question will be directed to the Honourable Mr. Todd . In regards to government staff housing sales, what is the status on the sale of government staff housing to date? Thank you. (Translation ends)

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Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, I think a general comment will be that we are very pleased with the status of the sale of staff housing. As a matter of fact, it partially enabled us to move forward on that Employment Strategy Initiative that I announced earlier this week.

It would also be fair to say that there are still some minor glitches out there in some of the communities and we are working closely with each individual situation in an effort to once and for all get out of what we call staff-owned housing, although I do want to assure my colleagues that the government policy is still to continue with the leasing of housing units. But certainly from an ownership perspective, it has gone very well and I would like to publicly thank our employees and those developers who have purchased the units, aiding us with our deficit elimination strategy. Thank you.

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Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

(Translation) Thank you. Do you have a supplementary to your question, Mr. Enuaraq ? (Translation ends)

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Supplementary To Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

Tommy Enuaraq

Baffin Central

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the Minister for the clarification on the staff housing. In addition, in Clyde River Apitak Development Corporation wanted to buy some staff houses to rent them. Has that been settled yet? Thank you. (Translation ends)

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Further Return To Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I know this issue and certainly everybody knows my position in this House. I am a strong advocate of aboriginal constituency being involved in the private sector and this is an opportunity for that particular development group which is homegrown in Clyde River to own the properties. The actual status of whether they have actually got them now or do not, I do not have that information in my hands but certainly the desire of the government is that given they are locally homegrown that they would purchase the units and we would assist them in doing that.

At the same time we need to ensure that we protect our tenants, that the rents are affordable at the end of the day and we are attempting to do that at the same time. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Question 502-13(4): Sale Of Staff Housing

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Qujannamiik. Thank you. Member for Thebacha , Mr. Miltenberger . Thank you.

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Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Finance to follow up on discussions in this House yesterday regarding pay equity and the comment he made about being open to exploring negotiated alternatives outside the legal process to possibly resolving this long outstanding issue. My question to the Minister is, is he prepared to be proactive and initiate that kind of contact that he indicated he is willing to explore in the search for an affordable and quick resolution to this? Thank you.

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Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd .

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Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Well, as they say in the music business, Mr. Speaker, it takes two to tango. Certainly, I think I indicated yesterday that myself as the Finance Minister and my department feel that this could be, as my colleague indicated, a long drawn out, costly, protracted exercise if it gets too far along and, at the end of the day, where are we? However, at the same time I also said that given my understanding the previous governments were close to an arrangement and for whatever reason, it did not happen. At the time, it is my understanding that it was fiscally affordable.

But if there is an expectation out there that we simply cannot afford it then you end up doing the kinds of things that we are doing. I would suggest to my colleague, I publicly said yesterday, that we are prepared to move forward. Really it is up to the other parties to come to the table if they are interested but they have to come to the table with a clear understanding of affordability.

You said earlier that if it ends up where there is a huge fiscal cost attached to this for a variety of reasons, let me assure you, it will mean less jobs, not more jobs, it will mean less services, not more services because our fiscal condition of this government, even though we have contained the spending, is still strained to the limit and there is no big pot of gold at the end of the rainbow as we move towards 1999. We think we are being fiscally responsible, the other parties have to be the same. So the short of it is, yes but we have to wait for the other parties to see if they are interested.

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Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger .

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Supplementary To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I agree that the Minister has a made a public signal in this House. My concern is that it not just die on the floor here. Would the Minister consider in fact reiterating that commitment he has made here on paper just so it is very clear that you are serious and it is just not a public statement in this House, and leave the door open for them. Then you can stand up and say yes, I in fact have not only made a verbal offer but I followed it up by clarifying my comments directly in writing to the Executive.

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Supplementary To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd .

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Further Return To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Well they have got their scribe in the House who is, I am sure, making copious notes as it relates to my response to your question and I am on video. I mean the bottom line is we are prepared to make the overture but I want to stress again, as it relates to affordability. I mean if they do not come to the table with affordability, what do you want me to do, lay off another 1,000 people? I do not think that is an acceptable issue right out there. Do you want me to reduce more services? I do not think that is acceptable out there. So what I am saying is, we are ready to come to the table.

If the other parties are with an open mind about affordability, I am sure we can come to a reasonable conclusion. And it if comes with an open mind, with affordability in mind, we can come to a quick resolution. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Second supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger .

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Supplementary To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1222

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I know the Minister of Finance is indeed a humble and modest individual but I do not think he should downplay the effect his signature has on a letter that would formalize in writing that yes, we are serious here, we are trying to open the door and here i

t is. So I would ask the Minister to consider that and, of course, I would ask that if that kind of creative positive strategy is available for pay equity that it also be considered for the possible resolution of the outstanding issue of settlement allowances. Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd .

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Further Return To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to be very clear, specifically my comments relate to pay equity, they do not relate to the other issue. I would suggest to you that I can draft a letter saying to the UNW President, Ms. Jackie Simpson, "are you prepared to come to the table?" I understand it will be entering into new negotiations fairly soon, probably late August or the fall, and I would hope that would be one part of the negotiations. Now I cannot preempt any discussions on that but I will certainly discuss the matter with my deputy, Mr.

Voytilla and I am prepared to take some initiative here but it has to be conditional. Again, I emphasize to everybody, we spent 18 months of pure agony and not only in this House but the public at large. If it is affordable and it is equitable, I am prepared to come to the table. If it is unrealistic and it is pie in the sky, I am simply not. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Second supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger .

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Supplementary To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think this House, at least I am very aware of the factors that affect this process and the financial realities that face us and you have made it clear and we have all lived through this last two years together and we have stick handled through these very tough financial times. I would encourage the Minister to in fact be proactive. I do not think this would preempt the coming negotiations.

I recognize my question was initially directed strictly at pay equity but the idea of affordable solutions to problems that have been nagging our government for years I think are a concept we all subscribe to and I am just asking the Minister if he would be willing, if the opportunity presented itself, to consider that other option as well. Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. That was a final supplementary. Mr. Todd .

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Further Return To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

John Todd

Keewatin Central

I believe the other issue may in fact, I did get some clarity the other day there because I did not answer it as well as I should have, is in arbitration and, to some extent, in the justice system. I am not sure that I can interfere in that process, if you want. That is why I said I am dealing with the pay equity issue. The pay equity issue, as I have said to you, I want to be proactive on this stuff. I want to be able to come to some conclusion and when I leave this office, I want to say I have accomplished something but it has to be done in light of affordability.

You know we still have not balanced the budget and I do not want to get back to that because you are fed up hearing about it but we are still trying to do that. We have some serious problems out there that we are still trying to resolve. We are moving towards the division of the territories which is going to be a gruelling task in the next 18 to 20 months. I would like to resolve these issues. I do not want to leave these issues to be inherited by future governments.

I am prepared to publicly make the commitment today if the parties want to come together and they come to the table with the understanding of affordability. Then we will talk. If they do not and it is unrealistic, I have other things to do. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Question 503-13(4): Pay Equity Dispute Resolution

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Oral questions. The honourable Member for Kivallivik , Mr. O'Brien . Thank you.

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Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question today is to the Minister of Health and Social Services . Mr. Speaker, yesterday, I asked the Minister if he would consider, be supportive block funding for the Hamlets of Arviat and Baker Lake to maintain the existing dental therapy program. The Minister indicated very clearly that he would not be supportive. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister tell me whether or not the contract has been signed with Kiguti regarding this new arrangement or proposal to run the dental program.

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Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Minister for Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

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Return To Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not certain if the contract has been signed off. I know that the intent was to have it signed. I just do not have the specifics of the status of that contract, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary question. Mr. O'Brien .

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Supplementary To Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in view of the fact that the Minister indicated that he would not be supportive of block funding for this particular program, the communities are now asking if the Minister will be supportive of providing block funding for all health programs that are delivered in the communities of Arviat and Baker Lake. Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ng .

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Further Return To Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1224

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, once again as I indicated yesterday, there is a broad spectrum of health and social services funding that is managed by the

regional health authorities. To break that up into specific communities, having some involvement and some not, would not be conducive to efficiency or effectiveness, for that matter, for delivery of health services on a local, municipal level. There has to be some coordination because of the fact that you have a transportation of patients going to other jurisdictions. You have specialists that you bring into the region to provide services. You have to coordinate that as well because you could not do it on a community by community basis, Mr. Speaker. So, no, I am not supportive of block funding individual communities for health and social services programs at this time. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Question 504-13(4): Dental Contract In Keewatin

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Oral questions. The honourable Member for Hay River , Madam Groenewegen.

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Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question today is for the Minister responsible for the environment. Recycling is one area of protecting our environment that I and I am sure many other Members of this Legislature addressed during our election campaigns, but it is not something that I have heard discussed too much since then. It has been brought up again by my constituents and I have some questions for the Minister on that today. I think that everyone agrees that northerners need to be more involved in the environment. Recycling is one way that we can do that.

We need to find alternatives to costly landfill sites because of the amount of plastic and glass bottles, aluminum beer and pop cans which find their way into our northern communities and never seem to find their way out. Partially because I believe, there is no deposit system in place. There is not a monetary incentive for people to be environmental conscience when it comes to these recyclable materials in the north. I am just wondering when was the last time that this government considered a comprehensive plan or a campaign for recycling. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The honourable Minister, Mr. Kakfwi .

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Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

Stephen Kakfwi

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am not aware of the last time a comprehensive review was done to see how the government should address the issue of recycling. Thank you.

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Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary. Madam Groenewegen.

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Supplementary To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River

Another area of recycling which I am curious about is in respect to the vast amounts of paper that various government departments consume and what happens with that paper when it is no longer needed. Does the GNWT have a government wide policy regarding the recycling of paper that is generated by government offices in the communities where the services for that pickup and recycling are available? Is there a policy governing departments? Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Kakfwi .

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Further Return To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

Stephen Kakfwi

Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I am not aware if we do have a policy on recycling, the gathering and collecting of paper. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Second supplementary. Madam Groenewegen.

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Supplementary To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do not think that anyone would argue that we here in the north are somewhat behind the times when it comes to individuals and consumers participating in protecting our environment. So, I would like to get some kind of an indication from the Minister if he sees any obvious deterrents to us as a government initiating something which would encourage that kind of participation.

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Supplementary To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. The honourable Minister responsible for the environment, Mr. Kakfwi .

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Further Return To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

Stephen Kakfwi

Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Resource, Wildlife and Economic Development has had a very tough year in terms of the workload that the department had to deal with. As Members will recall, we started off last year, myself as a Minister for three departments. We also had a mandate to amalgamate the three departments. We were running, so to speak, three old machines while creating and instituting the running of a new one, all at the same time. We went through this deficit reduction exercise as a major player in that. The work that we have had has been very demanding on the part of our department.

We have not really had a great deal of time to initiate new ideas and new areas of work. At least I have tried to refrain from it, just trying to keep the services that we have had operational trying to simplify it, trying to get the department on stream. We have now basically done that and are now prepared to consider suggestions such as the one the Member is just making. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1225

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Final supplementary. Madam Groenewegen.

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Supplementary To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River

Thank you, for that response from the Minister and I do know first hand that it has been a very busy time for the government. I am attempting to go back and revisit commitments that I made personally at the beginning of my ten-year here in the Legislature. I know that I can speak from my community, at least, that there are people there who are very environmentally conscience that would be more than happy to pledge their volunteer time to work with the Minister's department to come up with ideas, if not territorial wide, even community based initiatives.

So, I appreciate that and I will report back to those in the community that there is going to be room on the agenda for RWED to look at these initiatives. I do not know what kind of a timeframe the Minister would be looking at. I am not aware of who within his department or what branch within his department would be the appropriate one if these individuals wanted to contact them. Is there a division of RWED that this type of initiative would suitably fit? Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Kakfwi .

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Further Return To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

Stephen Kakfwi

Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I am personally interested in hearing first hand suggestions that members of the public and organizations may have in this area. So, I would suggest to the Member that her constituents could contact me. I would be interested in hearing their suggestions and proposals. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Question 505-13(4): Comprehensive Recycling Plan

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Oral questions. The honourable Member for Yellowknife North , Mr. Erasmus .

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Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

Roy Erasmus

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Finance . It is also in relation to the pay equity issue. Mr. Speaker, I would not like to see the west get stuck with the total bill in this issue if this matter is not resolved before division. For that matter, I would like to know if we have some type of plan in place to ensure that if this pay equity issue is not resolved before division, that there is a way to split the costs equitably between the two new territories. Thank you.

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Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd .

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Return To Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am still the Minister of Finance for the territories and I think that I have to approach it in that light. I appreciate what my colleague is saying about his concern in terms of the future. We do not at this time recognize in terms on the fiscal side on the balance sheets any expenditures with respect to pay equity, to be very frank with you. I think that there is a huge disparity between our position and the UNW's as it relates to the cost and some of the conditions attached to it. I think that it is too early right now in the process to determine how that is all going to unfold.

I know this much. If it is identified in the coming months as a liability and it is not right now because we do not view it that way, then we will have to work out some arrangement with respects to the asset/liability side of how we are doing things. That has to be fair and equitable, but at the end of the day, I would hope as Mr.

Miltenberger asked me earlier today that we would be able to come to an arrangement that was affordable, was equitable and at the end of the day was fair to our employees because we want to keep these employees rather than have to lay them off in the future if we have any major fiscal catastrophes. Thank you.

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Return To Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Erasmus .

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Supplementary To Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

Roy Erasmus

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is exactly why I am concerned because it is not now recognized as a liability. If it is not recognized as a liability, then we need some assurances that the west is not going to be stuck with the total bill in the future. Will the Finance Minister commit to ensuring that there is some method to ensure that if it does become a liability, that the east will pay its fair share, as well as the west? Thank you.

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Supplementary To Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd .

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Further Return To Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Some Members can treat this issue in jest. I treat it very seriously. They are some of the same Members that want their cake and eat it too. I want to assure my colleague, the intent of this government is to try and resolve. As I said in the earlier questioning, there has to be some affordability. When people come to the table, they have to understand that. If there is no agreement to be reached, which is a distinct possibility if we get into litigation, we can be at this for the next three or four years at a cost, I am told, at least to us, of around a million dollars a year.

Heaven knows what it is going to be to the others. It would seem to me, common sense should prevail. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow with this government, or future governments. If common sense prevails and all parties come to the table and deal with this thing in an equitable, affordable manner, I am convinced we can make a deal, an arrangement, or come to some conclusion on the issue.

If we do not, I will have to address that issue carefully, present it to the Division Committee and the Cabinet, and it will have to be part and parcel of our overall division plan, as it relates to assets and liabilities. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Question 506-13(4): Division Of Potential Pay Equity Liability

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1226

The Deputy Speaker

John Ningark

Thank you. I keep reminding Members that every Member is entitled to receive the same information of the question and the answer. We happen to have one unilingual Member here that is receiving your translation to the

interpretation. I would again like to remind each and every one of you to pause in between questions and answers for the

benefit of the Member from Amittuq . Thank you. Oral questions, Mr. Henry .

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Question 507-13(4): Update On Protected Area Strategy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 1227

Seamus Henry

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question today is to the Minister responsible for Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development , Mr. Kakfwi . A couple of months the Minister had informed this House of a conference which took place in Inuvik regarding the Protected Area Strategy. I was wondering if the Minister would give this House an update on the working