Debates of Oct. 8th, 2015

This is page numbers 6827 – 6882 of the Hansard for the 17th Assembly, 5th 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 work .

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

Intergovernmental Relations With Aboriginal Governments During The 17th Legislative Assembly

Highway Corridor Planning

Transboundary Water Management Agreement Reached With British Columbia

Community Fuel Prices

New Western Arctic Centre For Geomatics

Success Of The Small Scale Foods Program In All Regions

Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

18th Assembly Priorities

Appreciation For Social Programs Committee Colleagues

Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

17th Assembly Buzzwords

“I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair”

Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Jim Sawkins – NWT Fire Service Merit Award Recipient

Sarah Erasmus – Sait Polytechnic Outstanding Young Alumni

Peter Kay Sr. – 100th Birthday Congratulations

Accessible And Affordable Daycare

NWT Tourism Marketing

Secondary Diamond Industry

Government Transparency And Accountability

Sahtu Mineral Strategy

RCMP Prisoner Transport Policy

Committee Report 26-17(5): Standing Committee On Economic Development And Infrastructure Report On Transition Matters

Motion That Committee Report 26-17(5) Be Deemed Read And Printed In Hansard

Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 26-17(5)

Committee Report 27-17(5): Standing Committee On Social Programs Report On Transition Matters

Motion That Committee Report 27-15(5) Be Deemed Read And Printed In Hansard

Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 27-15(5)

Committee Report 28-17(5): Standing Committee On Priorities And Planning Report On Transition Matters

Motion That Committee Report 28-15(5) Be Deemed Read And Printed In Hansard

Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 28-15(5)

Committee Report 29-17(5): Standing Committee On Economic Development And Infrastructure Report On Horizontal Hydraulic Fracturing

Motion That Committee Report 29-15(5) Be Deemed Read And Printed In Hansard

Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 29-15(5)

Tabled Document 360-17(5): Follow-Up Letter For Oral Question 881-17(5): Support For Regional Tourism Centres

Tabled Document 361-17(5): Government Of The Northwest Territories Department Of Health And Social Services Assessment And Review Of Withdrawal Management Services – Final Report – March 31, 2014

Tabled Document 364-17(5): Follow-Up Letter For Oral Question 901-17(5): Mackenzie Delta Elders Facility

Tabled Document 366-17(5): Inter-Activity Transfers Exceeding $250,000 For The Period April 1 To June 30, 2015

Tabled Document 368-17(5):

Summary Of Members’ Absences For The Period October 27, 2011 To October 7, 2015

Appointment Of Chair To The Northwest Territories Honours Advisory Council

Appointment Of Languages Commissioner

Language Training For Senior GNWT Managers

Climate Change Planning

Recorded Vote

Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery (Reversion)

Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters

Report of Committee of the Whole

Bill 55: Mental Health Act

Prorogation

Assent To Bills

Members Present

Hon. Glen Abernethy , Hon. Tom Beaulieu , Ms. Bisaro , Mr. Blake , Mr. Bouchard , Mr. Bromley , Mr. Dolynny , Mrs. Groenewegen , Mr. Hawkins , Hon. Jackie Jacobson , Hon. Jackson Lafferty , Hon. Bob McLeod , Hon. Robert McLeod , Mr. Menicoche , Hon. Michael Miltenberger , Mr. Moses , Mr. Nadli , Hon. David Ramsay , Mr. Yakeleya

The House met at 1:31 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Good afternoon, colleagues. Item 2, Ministers’ statements. Honourable Premier , Mr. McLeod.

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Minister's Statement 243-17(5): Intergovernmental Relations With Aboriginal Governments During The 17th Legislative Assembly

Ministers’ Statements

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, building a strong and sustainable future for the Northwest Territories by strengthening our relationships with Aboriginal governments has been one of the key priorities of the 17th Legislative Assembly. For the past four years, our government has worked to strengthen our partnerships with Aboriginal governments.

That work started even before Cabinet was selected, when all Members met with Aboriginal leadership in Detah at the beginning of our term. Cabinet continued this engagement and made it a priority to reach out to our Aboriginal government partners to look for common ground and identify areas where we could make progress together.

In June 2012, I tabled Respect, Recognition, Responsibility: The Government of the Northwest Territories’ Approach to Engaging with Aboriginal Governments in this House. It is the foundation upon which our government’s actions and commitments to strengthening and renewing our relationships with our Aboriginal government partners have been built.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that the Northwest Territories continues to lead the way nationally in establishing government-to-government relations with Aboriginal governments. During the life of this Assembly, our government has concluded separate intergovernmental cooperation agreements with the Tlicho Government, the Gwich’in Tribal Council, the Northwest Territory Metis Nation, the Akaitcho Dene First Nations, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, the Sahtu

Secretariat Incorporated and the Salt River First Nation.

Mr. Speaker, the 17th Assembly’s goal of a strong and sustainable future also depends on the successful conclusion of land, resources and self-government agreements. Our government has been focused on building a solid foundation by working effectively with our federal and Aboriginal partners to finalize Aboriginal rights agreements in all regions of the Northwest Territories.

With several sets of negotiations having reached significant milestones during the life of the 17th Legislative Assembly, we have seen firsthand how partners working together can achieve significant results.

The Deline Final Self-Government Agreement Act

was passed on March 12th of this year. In January 2014, the Acho Dene Koe Agreement-in-Principle on land and resources was signed and final agreement negotiations are well underway. Earlier this year I had the pleasure of signing, on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, the Inuvialuit Self-Government Agreement-in-Principle as well as the Northwest Territory Metis Nation Agreement-in-Principle on Land and Resources.

Mr. Speaker with the devolution of land, water and resource management responsibilities from Canada to the Northwest Territories in 2014, intergovernmental cooperation within the Northwest Territories has never been stronger.

Increased collaboration and engagement with Aboriginal governments continues to be important to government decision-making processes. We have seen this reflected in the two groundbreaking transboundary water agreements we have negotiated with the active participation of the Aboriginal governments during this Assembly. This approach was also used in developing legislation that directly affected Aboriginal Government interests, such as the collaborative approach to drafting the Wildlife Act.

A key aspect of the Devolution Agreement was the establishment of an Intergovernmental Council, which enables the Government of the Northwest Territories and Aboriginal governments who have signed on to devolution to collaborate on matters related to lands and resource management. The council allows Northwest Territories governments to share ideas and discuss common priorities and interests and will greatly benefit the Government of the Northwest Territories as it considers potential changes to lands and resources management in the Northwest Territories. This approach is unique in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, since devolution, the Government of the Northwest Territories and Canada has shared the resource revenues from public land in the Northwest Territories. This means tens of millions of dollars will stay in the Northwest Territories each year. To ensure that as many people as possible enjoy the benefits of devolution, our government has committed to sharing a portion of those revenues with participating Aboriginal governments.

I am pleased to say that in July of this year, $6.3 million was paid out to all Aboriginal government parties that signed on as part of the Devolution Resource Revenue Sharing Agreement. Nowhere else in Canada have resource revenues from public lands been offered to Aboriginal governments on this level. We are working to have all remaining Aboriginal governments sign on to devolution.

Mr. Speaker, the 17th Legislative Assembly has continually made it a priority to build and maintain respectful government-to-government relationships with Aboriginal governments. I believe that partnership and mutual respect is the key to success for our territory. Strong, effective and efficient governments are essential for helping Northerners achieve their social, environmental and economic goals. The Government of the Northwest Territories has made significant and meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal governments during the 17th Assembly that have resulted in positive outcomes.

The foundation for working together has been solidly established by this government and this spirit of cooperation will continue to benefit all Northerners for years to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 243-17(5): Intergovernmental Relations With Aboriginal Governments During The 17th Legislative Assembly

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Minister of Transportation , Mr. Beaulieu .

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Minister's Statement 244-17(5): Highway Corridor Planning

Ministers’ Statements

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe

Mr. Speaker, transportation infrastructure and services are important to our residents, communities, businesses and our future. I am pleased to provide an update on three key highway corridor initiatives in progress in the NWT.

In June the Department tabled Connecting Us,a 25-year Transportation Strategy focusing on all modes of transportation in the NWT and highlighting our transportation challenges and opportunities.

Three strategic priorities were identified including Capturing Opportunities, which refers to expanding the NWT transportation system. The Department is making significant progress under this new strategic priority with plans to increase and improve access in various parts of the territory by opening up three new all-weather corridors.

A Mackenzie Valley Highway running from Wrigley to the Arctic coast is a long-standing priority of the GNWT. The northernmost

section of this project, the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway, continues to advance and will enter its third season of construction this winter.

Improved access into the Sahtu presents a significant opportunity to increase mobility and reduce the cost of living for Sahtu residents. By providing reliable access, industry exploration and development costs will be reduced, allowing us to tap into the rich petroleum reserves located in the region.

Both GNWT and the Tlicho Government have established the Tlicho Road Working Group which has been working together on studies related to the development of an all-weather road to Whati since 1999. The road would provide several benefits including eliminating problems experienced in the southern sections of existing winter road and extending access into the region. Increased access to the NICO mine project will increase investor confidence to continue developing the region’s economic potential. Work continues on the project to secure funding and advance environmental approvals for the project.

Mr. Speaker, the potential of improving access into the mineral-rich region of the Slave Geological Province and connecting to a deepwater port in western Nunavut holds significant possibilities for a strengthened, sustainable partnership with industry and our government partners. The region holds world-class deposits of base metals, precious metals, and diamonds and is a significant contributor to the NWT economy. Increased all-weather access would improve industry’s ability to operate successfully in the North.

Mr. Speaker, we have heard about the forecast in resource development activity over the next five to 15 years and its possible effect on the NWT economy. With a flat revenue outlook, the GNWT will be challenged to sustain programs and services or make capital investments in future years. Continuing to make strategic investments in infrastructure to support responsible development is one way our government can promote economic growth and prosperity for all residents.

These road corridors demonstrate NWT preparedness to capture opportunities to develop a sustainable economy and continue to improve access and reduce the cost of living to our residents.

The department is prepared to maintain the momentum on these corridor projects as we prepare for decisions that will be made by the transition to the 18th Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 244-17(5): Highway Corridor Planning

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu . Minister of Environment and Natural Resources , Mr. Miltenberger .

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Minister's Statement 245-17(5): Transboundary Water Management Agreement Reached With British Columbia

Ministers’ Statements

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to advise Members of this Assembly that our government will be signing a transboundary water management agreement with British Columbia for the shared waters of the Liard and Petitot basins.

This agreement, the second one to be signed with an upstream jurisdiction this year, is another step in ensuring the waters of the Northwest Territories remain clean, abundant and productive for all time.

Similar to the one signed with Alberta in March, this bilateral agreement with British Columbia was shaped by the input of Aboriginal governments in the Northwest Territories and incorporates many of the best principles and practices in water management today.

The bilateral agreement with Alberta covers the waters shared between Alberta and the Northwest Territories. British Columbia and Alberta are negotiating a similar bilateral agreement for their shared waters, including the Peace River.

The Northwest Territories - British Columbia Bilateral Water Management Agreement promotes a cooperative approach to the management of our shared water resources and establishes a framework for our governments to jointly maintain the integrity of our shared aquatic ecosystems.

The agreement addresses the concern of future upstream development in British Columbia as well as response to environmental emergencies and their potential effects on water quality, quantity and biological elements of our shared aquatic ecosystems.

Mr. Speaker, this is a matter of great importance to our residents because of our close ties to the land and water and the significant dependency on healthy aquatic systems for food security, travel and economic growth as well as mental, physical, cultural and spiritual well-being.

The agreement will be signed in Vancouver on October 13th.

I want to extend my congratulations and gratitude to the many people who worked so hard to finalize this agreement, including our negotiating team and Aboriginal governments who provided support and input into our objectives and approach to negotiations.

Mr. Speaker, as Members of the 17th Legislative Assembly, we can be proud of our achievements in safeguarding our water resources through the signing of bilateral water management agreements with both Alberta and British Columbia.

It will be up to the 18th Legislative Assembly to keep this momentum going and provide the encouragement and support needed to implement the signed agreements and sign similar agreements with Saskatchewan, Yukon and Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 245-17(5): Transboundary Water Management Agreement Reached With British Columbia

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Minister of Public Works and Services , Mr. Beaulieu .

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Minister's Statement 246-17(5): Community Fuel Prices

Ministers’ Statements

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe

Mr. Speaker, the cost of energy is one of the leading contributors to the high cost of living in the Northwest Territories. Wherever possible, our government has been seeking opportunities to pass savings to our residents, and today I can report that the ongoing low wholesale price for heating fuel and gasoline has made it possible for the Department of Public Works and Services to pass on savings to residents in two of our smaller communities.

Sixteen NWT communities receive essential fuel products through the department’s Fuel Services Program. On August 17, 2015, the fuel services division was able to lower the price of Lutselk’e gasoline by seven cents per litre, heating fuel by four cents per litre and diesel fuel by 13 cents a litre. In Tulita, heating fuel was lowered 10 cents a litre and diesel was lowered 18 cents a litre.

The other marine resupplied communities, Sachs Harbour, Paulatuk and Ulukhaktok, have not yet had their final prices calculated, but projections are that there will be price reductions in the range of four to 16 cents for heating fuel, 12 to 24 cents for diesel and two to 14 cents for gasoline by late October.

Our commitment to pass on savings through the Petroleum Products Program is evidenced by the price reductions we have achieved in the past year. In looking at gasoline prices in communities served by Public Works and Services, they have declined as much as 12 percent, with heating fuel prices declining as much as 21 percent compared to the prices this time last year. On average, the price of gasoline has dropped by 7 percent and the price for heating fuel has dropped by 9 percent over the past year.

While lower fuel prices have provided some relief from the high cost of living to residents, the Department of Public Works and Services is committed to improving energy awareness and the adoption of efficient technology and behaviours in support of our government’s vision of an environmentally sustainable and prosperous Northwest Territories.

The fuel services division is a key function in the newly established energy activity within the Department of Public Works and Services. The energy activity is also actively engaged in identifying renewable and alternative fuels and energy solutions to better support the GNWT’s goals of energy efficiency, sustainability and greenhouse gas reduction.

Mr. Speaker, the fuel services division is committed to passing on cost savings on fuel products it provides wherever possible. We anticipate that with the present stability in the market price for fuel, the department will be able to pass savings on to the other communities that are resupplied by barge this year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 246-17(5): Community Fuel Prices

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu . Minister of Lands , Mr. R.C. McLeod.

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Minister's Statement 247-17(5): New Western Arctic Centre For Geomatics

Ministers’ Statements

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Mr. Speaker, technology could be a game-changer for Inuvik’s economy. Due to its northern location and the frequent passes of satellites, Inuvik is becoming an attractive area for technological investment.

Inuvik is already home to the Inuvik Satellite Station Facility, with one Canadian-owned and two internationally-owned satellite antennas, and growth expected to increase in the coming years with the completion of the Mackenzie Valley Fibre Line. This state-of-the-art telecommunications link will connect the Beaufort-Delta to southern Canada and is expected to attract additional business from around the world to Inuvik.

Inuvik has the potential to become the high-tech hub of the Northwest Territories. This government is committed to investing in infrastructure and building capacity that will lead to new partnerships, economic development and job opportunities. The new Western Arctic Centre for Geomatics is an important part of that investment.

Mr. Speaker, the planning phase for the centre in Inuvik is well underway and we are working with our partners at the Aurora Research Institute to officially open next spring. Last month three new employment opportunities for the centre were advertised and these positions will all be based in Inuvik.

The centre in Inuvik is part of the Information Shared Services Centre in the Department of Lands. Once opened, the centre will increase the level of geomatics support for our programs and services that support land, resource and infrastructure management through remote sensing technologies, as well as economic development initiatives.

For example, satellite imagery can be used to monitor sea ice conditions for shipping channels and off-shore oil and gas exploration. It can show changes in water levels over time, providing critical information into the feasibility of hydroelectric dams. It is useful to help monitor burn severity from forest fires, and that information could help determine future reforestation patterns, including crop predictions for the morel mushroom industry.

Staff at the centre will work with various partners, including Aboriginal and federal governments and researchers, to coordinate remote sensing research in the Arctic and Subarctic and to implement monitoring programs. Staff will also work closely with the Aurora Research Institute to enhance existing education programs and to develop educational opportunities to raise awareness about the technology industry. This is particularly important for youth in the NWT who may be considering future career opportunities and want to learn more about geomatics.

Mr. Speaker, with a flat revenue forecast for coming years and expected slow economic growth, the GNWT needs to be making efforts to contribute to growth and diversification in all communities and regions. Investments in infrastructure that will help make the NWT a more competitive and attractive place to do business is a key part of that.

The Western Arctic Centre for Geomatics is a great example of this government’s commitment to growing other promising sectors of our economy, in addition to the resource sector, through investment in technological infrastructure and partnerships that will help to create prosperity and benefits for NWT residents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 247-17(5): New Western Arctic Centre For Geomatics

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Minister of ITI , Mr. Ramsay .

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Minister's Statement 248-17(5): Success Of The Small Scale Foods Program In All Regions

Ministers’ Statements

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Mr. Speaker, the high cost of living has been identified as a significant concern for Northwest Territories residents. The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to addressing the many factors that contribute to this challenge, including the high cost of food in many communities.

One of the ways we are doing that is by supporting the production of local food. I am pleased to report that the Northwest Territories’ agriculture and small-scale foods sector has grown significantly in the last decade. With renewed interest and commitment toward re-establishing Behchoko’s community garden, I can share that all 33 communities in this territory now have established community gardens or greenhouse projects.

With the installation of greenhouses in our northern-most communities of Ulukhaktok, Sachs Harbour and Paulatuk, we have a small-scale food production sector stretching the length and breadth of the NWT.

The governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories have provided tremendous support and leadership for the expansion and support of this sector. This sector has also been championed by individuals and organizations committed to diversifying their own food baskets, increasing the availability of locally grown and produced food, and reducing the cost of healthy, freshly grown food alternatives in their communities.

As we approach the Thanksgiving weekend and the traditional harvest season, I would like to highlight some of the success stories.

Mr. Speaker, every Saturday throughout the summer, the Inuvik greenhouse hosted an arctic market that sold fresh, organic produce. The Inuvik greenhouse was the first community greenhouse in the Beaufort-Delta and remains the hub for agriculture above the Arctic Circle.

Tsiigehtchic, meanwhile, is one of the fastest growing gardening communities in the Beaufort-Delta. Thirty of this community’s 120 residents are currently growing food in raised garden beds outside of their homes.

Mr. Speaker, thanks in large part to the work and dedication of the Whiteman family, Norman Wells has held the unofficial title as the NWT’s potato capital for a number of years. This year, however, there is a challenger in the North Slave.

The community of Whati’s 40-by-70-foot community garden, under the care and guidance of community volunteers like Mr. Jim Stauffer, this summer yielded 1,013 pounds of potatoes. It was a phenomenal harvest that was shared, in the same collective spirit that it was grown, with more than 50 families and individuals in that community.

In Gameti this spring, a pilot project saw the purchase of 38 chicks for harvesting. I would like to recognize Mr. Judo Dominicata for his passion and leadership on this project, even housing the chickens in his own home while infrastructure was being completed at the community farm. Mr. Speaker, healthy, fresh chickens are being processed this fall, at approximately half the cost of a frozen chicken in Gameti. Community residents are looking forward to repeating this project on a larger scale next year and expanding it to include egg-laying chickens.

In August, residents of Fort Simpson enjoyed the second annual arts and crafts workshop and demonstration, and community trade fair, which was hosted by Industry, Tourism and Investment’s Deh Cho regional office. This year’s event also included gardening workshops on composting, animal husbandry and soil fertility.

Mr. Speaker, the Fisherman’s Wharf in Hay River remains a hot spot where residents and visitors can buy fresh northern produce from the likes of Ms. Helen Green and Ms. Jackie Milne. Jackie, of course, is also well-known to northern growers for her work with the Northern Farm Training Institute, envisioned as a vital component for an emerging NWT agriculture sector that will eventually contribute to home-grown products displacing the high volume of imported food into the NWT.

We are currently working with CanNor, the Territorial Farmers’ Association and the Town of Hay River to build a campus for the institute that, through training, will help to establish agricultural employment in farming, greenhouses and livestock, and related employment in value-added areas.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, Industry, Tourism and Investment’s North Slave regional office hosted an Agricultural Awareness and Planning Workshop earlier this week in Yellowknife. It was an opportunity for government program delivery and resource staff in the North Slave region to share their experiences, challenges and success, and to add to their skills and knowledge base to support even greater growth in this sector next year. Furthermore, it afforded us the opportunity to collaborate with the Yellowknife Garden Collective on October 3rd to also share this information and expertise with local gardening enthusiasts in a public event.

Mr. Speaker, the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy, released in 2013, recognized much of the potential that I am highlighting for Members today. It identified the NWT agricultural sector as one in which investment, economic growth, employment and income opportunities for NWT residents all exist.

This summer, the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment led community engagement visits to inform the development of an Agriculture Strategy that will guide future investments and initiatives in this area. At the appropriate time this afternoon, I will be tabling a report of what we learned.

This report will further demonstrate that the NWT’s agriculture and small-scale foods sector is growing and thriving and in a position to be a contributor to the sustainability, health and economic potential of NWT communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 248-17(5): Success Of The Small Scale Foods Program In All Regions

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay . Item 3, Members’ statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognitions of visitors in the gallery. Honourable Premier .

Sorry. We have to do Members’ statements. I’m sorry. Anyway, item 3, Members’ statements.

---Laughter

Member for Weledeh , Mr. Bromley .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Indeed, I will be recognizing people, many of whom are in the gallery today. It’s been a huge privilege to represent the people of Weledeh and the people of the Northwest Territories, people who have my utmost respect and good wishes.

I would like to thank you all for the faith you have placed in me to speak on your behalf for the past eight years. Being your MLA has brought me closer to people and their issues and the struggles we all engage in to provide for healthy families and communities.

While I came into this position through concerns for the land, of which I am a student, I was soon engaged in the health, social and economic concern of the people in communities and the relationships between all of these. It is the interconnectedness of all issues that I have tried to emphasize with my colleagues and that I have strived to have recognized in any solution we propose.

I thank all those Ministers and their staff who have helped with so many constituency issues. Their willingness to try to look deeper and seek systemic solutions to those issues that arise all too frequently is much appreciated.

I thank the government and my colleagues for supporting more in-depth looks into policy options that prevent problems and attack underlying issues, rather than just symptoms.

The people we surround ourselves with are critical to achieving our goals. I would like to recognize the amazing Weledeh constituents who I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the past eight years, particularly Mr. Craig Yeo for fully half of my years in office. They have all left their mark and contributed to my work as scribes and sounding boards and to compassionate attention to myriad constituency issues. For those seeking a great CA, by the way, in the 18th, I suggest they give Bob Wilson a call.

My office neighbour, MLA Bisaro, has been a supportive colleague through my eight years and provided a fine example of the high standards we all strive for.

Mr. Speaker, I cannot say enough about the NWT Legislative Assembly’s outstanding Clerk, research, corporate, library and security staff that have supported us in our work. Completely dedicated, patient and thorough, they have been inspirational and enabling, and I thank them for their exceptional service.

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

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

My wife, Marianne, in the audience today, has made many sacrifices and contributions to support my work. It is with the greatest love and appreciation that I say thank you, Marianne. I could not have done this without you.

Mr. Speaker, to you and all my colleagues in this Assembly, I say a big mahsi and onwards.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Bromley . Member for Hay River South , Mrs. Groenewegen .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the words of our deputy clerk, Mr. Schauerte, “day last.” When he starts our meetings he says that. Day last of the 17th Legislative Assembly and day last of 20 years in this Chamber for me.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to also make some thank yous. To my colleagues first, who are the mosaic and the diversity of the Northwest Territories and who bring that to the work here that we do together in the Legislative Assembly, I’d like to thank them.

To my colleagues who served in the Cabinet during the 17th Legislative Assembly, thank you for the extra hours and time that you’ve put in. It has been a pleasure to work with you and you have been most attentive to concerns we bring to you.

I’d also, especially today, like to mention our Minister of Finance , Minister Miltenberger , who came to this Chamber at the same time as I did in 1995. He does look after the money, but he is also a man with a heart and I have gone to him on numerous occasions with stories of constituents that needed a little extra compassion from this government, and he has responded. He is a get ‘er done kind of guy. I’d like to thank him.

To yourself, Mr. Speaker, serving as your Deputy Speaker, thank you for that opportunity. You must have given me all of five minutes in that chair in the last four years.

To my two colleagues who will not be returning, Mr. Bromley – and I always tell him this in private and I’ll say it in public today – he thinks a little differently than I do and he made me think outside of the box and always brought a different perspective than what I might have normally concluded or gone to. I’d like to thank him.

To Ms. Bisaro , the other half of the women’s caucus – the caucus of two – for her professionalism. I would say without Mr. Bromley and Ms. Bisaro ’s contributions in committees, things would have been a lot different. They were extremely diligent. I always tell Ms. Bisaro that when she speaks, she speaks amazingly. She doesn’t have any filler words. It’s just solid material and I enjoyed listening to her speak here in the House.

I would like to thank my colleague Mr. Bouchard from Hay River North. I’ve mentioned this before, but I didn’t know Mr. Bouchard very well before we came to this Chamber together four years ago. It has been indeed a great pleasure to get to know him so well and to work so closely with him. I have particularly enjoyed his wonderful sense of humour.

If I can seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement, I’ll tell you one funny story about that.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Like I said, sometimes things get a little tense around here, but Mr. Bouchard does have a wonderful sense of humour and I’ll just tell you one little incident. We were co-chairing a constituency meeting and I wanted to say something kind of off the record. I said to the whole audience – there were 100 people there – “So, if I can just take off my MLA hat for one minute,” and he turned to me in front of these 100 people and said, “You cannot take off your MLA hat at your own constituency meeting.” He put me right in my place. Of course, I laughed because, I mean, that’s just the kind of comment that he would make.

To both of my assistants, Orlanda Patterson, who works in my Hay River office, I’d like to thank her for her four years. She’s been an amazing support there. To my other constituency assistant who is here in the visitors gallery today, Wendy Morgan, who has been with me for 17 years. I can say categorically, without any hesitation, that I could not have done my job without Wendy’s support. We are a team and people know us as a team and I cannot thank her enough for everything that she’s done to support me in every way possible.

To my family, my husband, Rick, is here in the visitors gallery today. He is my biggest supporter. On those cold mornings when it’s 40 below and you have to get onto that Buffalo flight and I complain and whine, he goes, “Hey, sweetie, you wanted this job. Get out there.” And once I go through the front doors, I’m fine. Sometimes it’s just getting on that plane and getting here in the morning. But Rick has been an amazing support.

To my daughter, Jillian, who is also in the visitors gallery, who was six years old when I was elected. So maybe she doesn’t have much memory of her mother other than as an MLA. It’s been wonderful to have her here in Yellowknife for the last 14 years and somebody to come here at the other end. I don’t think I could have done this. I would have been lonely without her here.

I also wanted to thank my other two children, Jeffrey and Jordan. Jeffrey stood up at our 35th wedding anniversary and said, “I had an unconventional upbringing. My parents are not sentimental. They never look back and the most interest for them is yet to come.” You know, that is kind of true. We’re always in the moment. We’re always moving forward and that kind of sums up the way we are. I would also say I’m very proud of my son Jordan, who is away, finally, at RCMP depot right now down in Regina and not here to be with us today.

So to all of my colleagues, I wish you all the best. This is a rare, rare opportunity for community service. I hate the word “politician” and I hate the word “power.” We’re all here as servants of the people and it’s not about us, it’s all about them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mrs. Groenewegen . Member for Hay River North , Mr. Bouchard .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Robert Bouchard

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s been four years since I got up here and I think I was nervous the first time. It’s been a steep learning curve. I’ve been learning lots as a first-time MLA.

I’d like to thank Jane for all the hard work.

Obviously, we like to thank our constituents for all their support, even those ones who challenge us. Those who challenge us make us work harder as MLAs to answer those hard questions, take those hard questions to the floor here, take them to our Cabinet. So, a big thank you to all of them.

I’d like to thank my constituency assistant, as well, Myrtle Graham, back in Hay River.

My other constituency assistant, Wendy Morgan, who is everybody’s help. I think she’s helped everybody here, Mr. Speaker. She puts a lot of work in. She helps a lot of people in the Northwest Territories.

I’d also like to encourage everybody to come out and vote, both in the federal, municipal and territorial elections. The federal and municipal is October 19th and our territorial election is on November 23rd. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Bouchard . Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I, too, just want to talk a bit about my past 12 years as the MLA for Nahendeh. I’ve stood up in this House on behalf of them, being the people’s voice and raising their many concerns and those of my six communities. Despite my colleagues saying my favourite two words are Highway 7, but if you go to Hansard, my favourite word is actually “communities,” because I’m the MLA with the most communities. I have six.

It has been an honour and privilege to serve my constituents and I thank them very much for the confidence that they have shown in me during my third term in the 17th Assembly and for the past 12 years. I believe I have carried out my duties as MLA for Nahendeh with energy, commitment and dedication, and that I worked hard to bring their issues to the attention of our Cabinet, our Ministers and to this House and that I responded promptly to their calls for requests for assistance.

This November I will be asking the voters of Nahendeh to use my experience to serve them and ask for their vote for a fourth mandate. I want to assure them that I will continue to be available, reliable and approachable.

We have seen many improvements to our community services and infrastructure. For example, Highway No. 7. The people and our communities are telling me already there is much more to be done: improve health delivery, more housing, lower the cost of living and settling the Dehcho Process.

In closing, once again I want to thank the voters and residents of Nahendeh for allowing me to serve you. With your continued support, I will use my experience to make a difference in the next government.

I want to say happy retirement to my colleagues Bob Bromley and Ms. Wendy Bisaro . Good luck to my colleagues in the upcoming election and all the MLA candidates who will be putting their name forward.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . Ms. Bisaro .

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18th Assembly Priorities

Members’ Statements

Wendy Bisaro

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I covered the good, the bad and the ugly. Today I want to take this last opportunity to speak to the House and use the prerogative that comes with my age to provide some advice to the Members of the 18th Assembly.

This Assembly has accomplished a lot, in spite of my negative comments yesterday. Work has been done, reports have been written, action plans developed, and I don’t want that work to get lost, so I will again subject the House to my views about what the 18th Assembly needs to follow up on.

• First – and these are in no order of importance – the promised junior kindergarten review report and the recommendations that may come with it.

• The promise of an energy efficiency act.

• Universal daycare report and actions that should be taken with that.

• The Aurora College report and actions that are contained therein.

• Dechinta and College Nordique requests for inclusion in secondary school legislation.

• Mental Health Act report recommendations and the Mental Health Act regulations.

• Child and Family Services Act review and the recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General regarding the child and family services.

• The Social Issues Committee of Cabinet’s Anti-Poverty Action Plan must not get lost.

• The Our Elders: Our Communities report on seniors’ needs to be followed up on.

• BDIC has had a program review. Were any actions taken on that?

• Hydraulic fracturing regulations consultation. It must continue. It must. There must be consultation.

• Health and Social Services recent quality assurance review and action plan that is apparently coming from that. Make sure it comes.

• The Program Review Office work. Ensure that reviews are received and considered by committee.

• Population Growth Strategy. Monitor the results and keep the government’s feet to the fire on that.

• The Justice Action Plan regarding corrections from the Office of the Auditor General’s report.

• The Education, Renewal and Innovation Strategy and Action Plan.

• The Early Childhood Development Strategy and Action Plan.

• Health and social services authorities amalgamation. Monitor it and make sure it happens correctly.

• The Health Information Act implementation. Monitor it and make sure it happens correctly.

• Ensure there’s a review of royalty regimes and taxation.

• Find a way to get Heritage Fund legislation amendments done.

• ENR and Lands have promised assessments for developments.

I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. That’s also not unusual.

---Unanimous consent granted

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18th Assembly Priorities

Members’ Statements

Wendy Bisaro

Frame Lake

Thanks again, colleagues.

• ENR and Lands have promised assessments for the developments that we have within the territory to chart the unknowns. Make sure that they’re done.

• ENR and Lands have promised securities for those developments and liabilities to make sure that those happen and that we get the money that is deserved in order to clean up.

• Climate Change Plan. The development of a Climate Change Plan is necessary.

• Health and Social Services has promised us a Pharmaceutical Strategy.

• The Human Rights Commission has done a wonderful review of the Human Rights Act. We need to make sure that amendments are followed through on.

• Justice needs to bring forward legislation for an ombudsman, please.

• Health and Social Services is promising Medical Travel Policy and Program changes. Follow up on those.

• Education infrastructure and schools is lacking and the need to find some solutions to the court case, which has been ongoing forever.

• The Mineral Development Strategy and the Economic Opportunities Strategies. Those are both well developed, but we need to monitor the actions that are going on in them.

Some of these are well developed; some of them just need monitoring; some are in development and need watching to make sure they happen. Some of them need to be developed. It’s a long list and it only covers my personal recollections of what needs to be done.

To the 18th Assembly I say, it’s a lot of work to do it right, but please roll up your sleeves and get ‘er done.

Finally, I’d like to say some thank yous that I didn’t include yesterday at my peril. Thank you very much to the staff of the Assembly. Mr. Bromley said it extremely well. All of the staff here are excellent and they have made our job, my job, our job much easier. To you, Mr. Speaker, thank you for your support. To my CAs, I’ve had three in the course of my eight years here and all three of them have been excellent support and excellent help for the work that I do.

Lastly, although not least, to my family and my friends who have provided support. I don’t have much family here, but I certainly have friends here and some of them are in the gallery and they have been extremely supportive and have made my job a lot easier. So, thank you all.

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18th Assembly Priorities

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Ms. Bisaro . The Member for Inuvik Boot Lake , Mr. Moses .

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Appreciation For Social Programs Committee Colleagues

Members’ Statements

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A team is a group of people linked in a common purpose. Teams normally have members with complementary skills and generate synergy through a coordinated effort, which allows each member to maximize their strengths. Each member helps other members realize their true potential and create an environment that allows everyone to go beyond his or her limits. Nothing could be more true of a team than the members and the staff of the Standing Committee on Social Programs.

I’d like to use my last Member’s statement to acknowledge such a good group, a strong group, a compassionate group of individuals that I’ve had the very honour to work with for the last four years.

Back in 2011, five members and two staff went to Hay River to work on our priorities, work on our transition document from the 17th Legislative Assembly, not knowing where we were going to go, what was going to be laid before us. Five different personalities from different backgrounds coming together.

When we look back on the four years that we’ve been together, we’ve accomplished a lot. I was very fortunate and honoured to chair this committee and I just want to thank each and every one of them and all the staff that have helped us throughout those four years, for their dedication and their commitment not only to the work that we do but to people, the residents of the Northwest Territories.

I just want to let people of the Northwest Territories know that these individuals made a lot of sacrifices. They have family members back home here in Yellowknife and they have a lot of late nights, early mornings. This past year we put on a lot of kilometres on three significant bills to make sure that we have the best bills possible that are going to be reflective of this government, but for the residents of the Northwest Territories. I just want to let residents know that these five individuals sacrificed a lot on your behalf.

Many times, as a chair of the committees, I’ve heard a lot of times we can’t give this report its undue process. We can’t not look at the legislation before us. We need action, we need commitment and we’ve got to keep going. On that note, I’d like to ask to conclude my statement. Thank you.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Social Programs Committee Colleagues

Members’ Statements

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

On many occasions as I chaired this committee, Members and individual Members said, “We need to keep on going.” A lot of times there were very huge documents, 20, 30 pages, eight o’clock at night, working through the late hours just to make sure that we got the work done for people of the Northwest Territories.

Just to highlight a few: the Anti-Poverty Strategy, the Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan, Education Renewal and Innovation. A lot of pressure and effort was put on the Department of Education to work on that. A huge one: Early Childhood Development; and also some very significant acts. Most recently, the Mental Health Act was a lot of commitment on behalf of committee. Child and Family Services Act, which has gone through so many different governments, but this government got ‘er done with the work, and hard work, from committee.

As well, the Health Insurance and Health and Social Services Administrations Act. That was a big one that was completed this past year. Although we couldn’t do it all in four years – it would’ve been nice – we did do a lot. I want to let committee know, you guys all did a great job.

Mr. Speaker, four years ago the reason I chose to run for this position was to create a strong voice for the people who I represent. I did that to the best of my ability. What’s stronger than a single voice? Five strong voices, and that’s what I had the opportunity to work with as my first term in the Legislative Assembly and, once again, Standing Committee on Social Programs.

I want to also say the success of that committee, and probably the only committee other than P and P within this government, was we had the two women representatives in this 17th Legislative Assembly working on this committee and I think that’s why we got a lot of work done this session, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

I’d also like to acknowledge all the NGOs, the stakeholders, all the compassionate residents who have offered input into our bills. The work that we’ve done, we couldn’t have done it without the input that they provided us. We can only do so much, but with their input, they just make the bill stronger and the work and the efforts give us motivation to continue.

As usual, it takes two to tango, so I’d like to thank the Executive Council. I know there are Ministers who came before committee on many occasions. I know that sometimes it wasn’t always pleasant, but you know what, we had to ask the tough questions and have some of those debates to make sure we did what was best for people of the Northwest Territories.

I’d also like to thank, one last time, my parents for their support through these four years, as well as some great friends. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Appreciation For Social Programs Committee Colleagues

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Moses . Mr. Dolynny .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Daryl Dolynny

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I stand before you with my last statement in the House with some bittersweet retrospectives. Before I do, I want to commend my colleagues here today for their reflective and, indeed, moving comments and, sometimes, stories.

It is without question that some sentiments today might invite a certain cynical rejoinder, particularly as one may observe the sometimes cacophony of our oral question period or view the potential toxicity of our political arena. Certainly, and with fondness, I still retain a great respect and a reverence for this institution, which is the centrepiece of democracy and a cradle for our northern way of life.

For the first time ever, I was able to shepherd my way with an arsenal of parliamentary instruments at my disposal, from motions, petitions and oral questions, that have helped me advance the public good. Some of this good took many forms, and here are just a few Mr. Speaker: As a policymaker and legislator, I’m especially proud of convincing a need of the rewrite of the Human Tissue Act and, on the eve of a private member’s bill, I thank Cabinet for bringing it forward themselves. We are anxiously and patiently waiting for the new organ donor program to come online very soon.

Overseeing the resurrection of the responsibility of the public purse in the review of public accounts is a milestone to which all members of the Standing Committee on Government Operations should be proud of. As a chair of that committee now, it is indeed an honour.

Finally, our 11 official languages make us unique in culture and spirit. It is with this reverence that inspired me to speak four of those languages in the House: Tlicho, North Slavey, South Slavey and, of course, French.

There are many more milestones than time would allow and I would like to do them at a later time.

Of course, none of this parliamentary work would have been possible without the commitment and care of those around us.

For Mr. Grant Pryznyk in my constituency office, to the professional and personal legislative personnel from the security detail to the library staff to the technical staff to our Pages to research staff and to House and committee clerks, to all I say thank you very much.

Now a word to my family.

At this time, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Daryl Dolynny

Range Lake

Now a word to my family, who are first in my heart and mind. It is with admiration and commitment and care my wife, Cindy, has provided me all these years in my political trenches. She is my rock, Mr. Speaker.

I started this journey with two young boys. Now one of them is in university and the other is about to leave the nest. So to Tanner and Bronson, who might be listening in, you’ve been a source of humbling support and I thank you.

This building is not just a place where I work; it has been my home, where my colleagues have become my family. We are losing two family members who are not seeking re-election. So to Mr. Bromley and Ms. Bisaro , we do wish you well and thank you for your guidance.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, it has been a privilege to serve this Chamber with you and to serve the people of Range Lake. This is not farewell but merely goodbye for now. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Dolynny . Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Blake .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Frederick Blake Jr.

Mackenzie Delta

[Translation] Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. I would like to say a few words in my language as I am trying to pass on some of my thoughts. I’d like to thank each one of my colleagues in the House today. I try to speak as much as I can on behalf of my people within the Mackenzie Delta. I know I haven’t spoken very often; however, I’d like to try to speak as much as I can within the 17th Assembly.

I wish you all the best of luck in the November election. For those who are going to be putting your name back in the hat, I’d like to wish you all good luck. [Translation ends]

Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for allowing me to make this statement in my Gwich’in language. I want to thank my colleagues for making my first term serving the people of the Mackenzie Delta so exciting and quite the learning experience. I have overcome many battles and I have learned so much more, working closely alongside each of you.

As we go our separate ways and end the 17th Legislative Assembly, I wish each of you safe travels and good luck in the November elections.

Thank you again. I look forward to working closely with each of you in the coming years.

In closing, I would like to thank my constituents of the Mackenzie Delta for this honourable opportunity to serve as their Member of the Legislative Assembly.

Also, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Liz Wright, my constituency assistant in Fort McPherson; and also my contact in Aklavik, Michelle Gruben. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Blake . Member for Deh Cho , Mr. Nadli .

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17th Assembly Buzzwords

Members’ Statements

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to take the opportunity to thank two colleagues who are retiring. It’s been an honour to serve with Mr. Bromley and Ms. Bisaro during this term. I’ve learned a lot from them and it’s been a privilege.

In a statement to their constituencies, I know they’re not seeking re-election, but you’ve placed two very honourable people who have effectively done their work and represented their constituency to the best of their ability. They have been remarkable models, in terms of trying to model my work, and I really thank them. It’s been truly an honour to serve with them.

Also, with the colleagues here, mahsi, and the staff as well. It’s been a growing experience for the past four years.

I just wanted to take a moment to reflect upon the buzz words of the 17th Assembly, so with your indulgence, Mr. Speaker, I wanted to read my statement.

I have learned a great deal as a Member of the 17th Legislative Assembly. Our verbal jujitsu with Minister Miltenberger and other Members has expanded my vocabulary and given new meaning to words and concepts I thought I understood. I offer a quick piece of this not so brave new world.

I’ll begin with the words yes and no. Simple, eh? Not so fast. It is very common for yes to actually mean no. For example, when Cabinet said yes to Regular Members’ persuasive arguments to boost its health promotion budget ever so slightly, it actually meant okay, but no, we will not spend that money anyway. Was there money available? Yes. Was it put to good use? No. I now pin promises to my desk here with six inch nails from now on.

There’s a fancy term, “fiscal restraint.” That is a close relative of the word no. But the meaning of fiscal restraint has at least 150 shades of grey. In the rare air of the Cabinet room, fiscal restraint is good for a million dollar pop in a supplementary appropriation, normally called extra dollars. Good for, say, five new positions in communications for the Department of Executive right out of the magician’s hat.

Fiscal restraint of an entirely different shade is at work when Members try to get nurses, health workers, alcohol and addictions counsellors, social workers, wellness workers and policing to our small communities. The vacant jobs are the very stuff of fiscal restraint.

I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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17th Assembly Buzzwords

Members’ Statements

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

There’s money in the budget for some of them, just no bodies in the jobs. So, big savings of a very perverse sort. Big savings that cost our people and our government.

As you can see, fiscal restraint can also mean shameful neglect. Having had some of the boundaries of my comprehension stretched so far, no wonder I came to believe, thanks to my colleague from Nahendeh, that the seven deadly sins were all related to the perpetually pot-holed and pot-marked Highway No. 7, along with many other sins of deadly fiscal omission. So I thank the Member for correcting me with his e-mail the other day. It seems that a handful of the seven deadly sins actually apply to the Inuvik-Tuk Highway.

I cannot leave this topic without a few words about the oft spouted, ever nebulous devolve and evolve. Seductive. Devolve and evolve. Oh yeah, it sounds great. Devolution is going be good because it really means evolution, almost like revolution. The kind it takes to truly recognize Aboriginal rights, including control of our land, and I’ve worked all my life for that.

I thought and thought about these words, devolve and evolve. I’ve dreamt about them at night. Finally, one day, walking down the boardwalk in Zhatie K’oe, it came to me. The meaning of devolve and evolve is just a spin-o-rama of hogwash. It comes out of the machine all neat and dry and sounding sweet. Devolve and evolve. It’s just the same old federal government bunk. It will be up to the Members of the 18th Assembly to recast these words. We have not lived up to the heady promise of devolve and evolve.

Just one more thing. I don’t mean to be harsh. As Members, some of us facing election and some not, we’re all about to devolve and evolve in a more meaningful way. Let us all do it right. Let us stand by our deeds and be measured by them.

I wish you well, colleagues. I’m glad all our judo has been verbal. To my constituents, mahsi, mahsi cho, thank you for helping me. Thank you for standing by me through thick and thin. That has been the real meaning.

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17th Assembly Buzzwords

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Nadli . Mr. Yakeleya .

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“I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair”

Members’ Statements

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today my Member’s statement is going to be consistent with my Member’s statements in the last 12 years. I’m going to do a Member’s song following the song from the legend George “Awesome” Jones. The title is “I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair.”

Mr. Speaker, I don’t need your rocking chair, but it would be nice to get medicare, such escorts for our seniors’ care. No questions asked, our health care. I’ve still got politics in my veins. So does Michael and Jane.

---Laughter

This grey hair doesn’t mean a thing. I do my rocking in the hills, mile 222 to Norman Wells. My body is old, but it’s not frail. I ain’t seen you on the Canol Trail. Retirement don’t fit my plans just yet. I’m getting on, but I don’t project. They make rules on how to frack. Sounds good to me, I might just come back.

I don’t need your rocking chair, but it would be nice to get medicare, such as escorts for our seniors’ care. Until we get a road to the Sahtu, I’ll see you and you’ll see me before someone releases it to CBC.

I ain’t ready for retirement yet, and I don’t need unanimous consent. It may take a little longer, but I’ll get there.

One more verse, Mr. Chair.

At the liquor store in Norman Wells, no restrictions on how much they can sell. We wrote a bill and got it through and it’s in the books. Hey, no more dirty looks.

Now, no, I don’t need your rocking chair. It would be nice to get medicare, such as escorts for our seniors’ care. My eyes are good, and so are my ears. I’m coming back for four more years.

---Applause

Mr. Speaker, an Inuit needs a Frigidaire like I need your rocking chair.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank some people, so I would seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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“I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair”

Members’ Statements

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

This being the last session of our Assembly, I want to thank the people in the Sahtu for the privilege of serving them for these number of years. I also want to thank the support and staff through my role as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Ms. Lorraine Bezha, who has been there to support me through thick and thin. I also want to thank Mr. Andrew John Kenny, my confidant and elder who stood by me through some very hard times in my personal life.

Mr. Speaker, I do want to thank my two colleagues who are leaving us and taking on a different role in their lives. Although Mr. Bromley and I at times do not agree on points of issues, I respect the gentleman and I wish him well. After all, we all want the same thing, but we’re just coming from a different process of how to get it. So, I thank him for the opportunity of working with him.

I also want to wish well my colleague Ms. Bisaro for her work and her steady eyes that were not off task. When we’re off task, she gets us back. So, I ask Ms. Bisaro to take care of herself and look after herself. It’s been an honour to sit and work with you.

Also, with our staff that we have before us that guide us through this whole process through our office. Number one, number one people to work in the books. Number one to work with us.

Lastly, to my family, my wife and my son and my family members, I really appreciate what they have done for me so I could do this work here. They made sacrifices, whatever it took them, so I could stand here and work on behalf of my people.

I do want to say to my people in the Sahtu, they have allowed me to be their voice for the last 12 years and it’s a very sacred privilege I hold for them.

I want to wish, as my colleague Mr. Menicoche said, all the other Members around here well in your life. Look after yourself. I got a little tear coming down because when I first became elected – Mr. Speaker, I know I’m running out of time – my mom said, “I never thought in my dreams my little baby boy would become an MLA. Never in my wildest dreams,” she said, “I’ll see my son be in a situation like this.” That’s why I think about her and this is why I wear this coat. She made it along with my aunties, to honour her for the love that she’s given us. With strict discipline, she brought us up to live a good life and sometimes we don’t listen to our parents.

So, I just want to say that to my colleagues here across the table, it’s an honour. We had a lot of work and, you know, you’re like us. I want to say good luck to the people who are going to put their names into this row here. May God bless you. You are called and I wish you well. It’s an honour, Mr. Speaker, to stand here and to say that.

To my wife and to my son Chase, I love you. Like some of the Members said, in my heart you walk with me. I want to say to the elders in the Sahtu, thank you so much for allowing me to carry your voice in the last four years. Mahsi.

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“I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair”

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . Mr. Ramsay .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It has been an honour and a privilege to continue to serve the constituents of Kam Lake, this House, its Members and the residents of the Northwest Territories. I want to wish everybody good luck and best wishes as the end of the 17th Assembly comes to close, especially my colleagues Ms. Bromley …

---Laughter

Ms. Bisaro and Mr. Bromley .

A bit of a Freudian slip. There’s never been any jokes about that.

But all kidding aside, I wish both of my colleagues all the best in your retirement. It’s been a pleasure to work with you both. I know the constituents in both Weledeh and Frame Lake have been very well-served with both MLAs.

I also want to thank very much my support staff in my office upstairs: Ryan Strain, my executive assistant; Corinne Kruse, my executive secretary; and I want to thank Mrs. Groenewegen for allowing me to share the services of Ms. Wendy Morgan. Wendy’s been a great constituency assistant and I want to thank her very much for her work.

I also want to thank all the staff at the Department of Justice and the Department of ITI, especially deputy ministers Peter Vician and also Sylvia Haener for all the work that they put into supporting my position here as Minister.

Mr. Speaker, others have mentioned it and we wouldn’t be able to do our jobs if it wasn’t for the love and support of our families back home. For me, I just want to say a special thanks to my wife, Michelle, my kids, Malachi, Elijah, Adeline, and now Donavan, and for all the love and support that they give me. Really, I wouldn’t be able to do the job without the support of my wife, so thank you very much, Michelle.

Thank you very much, again, to the constituents of Kam Lake. They put their faith, their trust in me to do the job here at the Legislature on their behalf, and I’m certainly looking forward to getting back out on the election trail and talking to all the constituents in Kam Lake again during the election campaign.

So, with that, Mr. Speaker, thank you very much for your role here in heading up the Legislative Assembly. It’s been a pleasure to work with you. The Board of Management, my Cabinet colleagues and everyone, I wish everybody all the best and Godspeed. Thank you.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay . Mr. McLeod.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This being the last day of session for the 17th Assembly, I thought it was a good opportunity to stand up and give some thank yous and some highlights of the last four years. I can’t believe how quickly, I think a couple Members mentioned, the last four years have gone. It seems like we were just getting sworn in and now we’re out the door.

Some highlights for myself personally in the 17th Assembly was being a witness on behalf of the Government of the NWT to the Gwich’in signing on to devolution. Speaking of the induction ceremony for Sharon and Shirley Firth’s induction into the NWT Sport Hall of Fame was also another highlight, and officially opening East Three School. I mean, that was a fantastic and exciting time for myself, for the people and students and Inuvik.

Finally, as a witness on behalf of the government to the Inuvialuit Self-Government Agreement-in-Principle was another fantastic highlight.

I, along with the rest of my colleagues, would like to wish Mr. Bromley and Ms. Bisaro well in their retirement. I’ve had fun working with you, and, Bob, I was just kidding about you being left out in the Delta somewhere.

---Laughter

You will have lots of time to explore the Delta now and I’ll come look for you. Our support staff, as Mr. Ramsay mentioned, make doing our job a lot easier, from the staff here at the Legislative Assembly, who have been mentioned a few times, to the two constituency assistants that I’ve had, Leah Ipana and Krysten Cardinal and executive secretary Daylyn Kakfwi. Mr. Rob Collinson is a great source of advice. I call Robert my Jiminy Cricket. He keeps me on the straight and narrow.

Robert said, “We have to let committee know,” and I say, “I don’t want to let committee know.” He says, “No, we have to.” I say, “I know we do. I’m just playing with you.” It gets him going. He’s been a great help in my career as a Minister. I appreciate that.

It’s been said on a number of occasions about our constituents. It’s been an honour to represent the constituents of Inuvik Twin Lakes the last 11 years. We don’t always get the results we wanted, but we continue to work through the issues. I look forward to the opportunity, if they are willing, to represent them again for the next four years.

To my colleagues, again, it’s been…

I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

To all my colleagues in the Assembly, we’ve brought issues forward to each other. Again, we haven’t always gotten the results we’ve wanted, but I respect the passion that you’ve brought to your issues. Your constituencies were well-represented.

Most importantly, we aren’t able to do this job, as many Members said, without the support of our families. When I started in 2004, I had my wife, Judy, three children and one future son-in-law. We’re up to 12 now. I’ve got five grandchildren who just wait for Grandpa to come home, especially if he stops by the store on the way home. I’ve appreciated their support. My wife, Judy, has been a huge support and it makes doing what we do a lot easier. We come down here and do what we do, but they’re at home looking after the household and making sure things continue to run along smoothly. So, I appreciate all the support.

I thank Members again for I wouldn’t call them vows, but I thank Members again for the relationship over the last four years and I wish you all well in all that you do. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Mr. Hawkins .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I first want to start off saying it’s been an incredible honour to be here for the last 12 years. The journey as being the MLA for Yellowknife Centre has always been an exciting one. Some days have been more fun than others, but I can tell you, all Members of this House can agree it’s a passionate challenge we all do.

Most of my colleagues – except for the two lucky ones here – we will all be putting their case to the constituents once again, hoping for another mandate, if their support thinks I’m worthy.

I have to stress wholeheartedly that I’m grateful for my supportive home. I couldn’t do this job, like my colleagues have said, without my wife and my two sons, McKinley and Hudson. When I was first elected 12 years ago, I had one wife. I didn’t get 12 family members like the Minister just said, but I had one wife and a two-year-old son. We used to come here every day and I’d be tripping over Thomas the Train and little cars and things. It evolved into two sons and we were playing trains on the weekends sometimes, as I’m supposed to be reading my briefing stuff, but we always found family time.

That’s what we did and we evolved, not quite how Mr. Nadli described it, but we devolved and evolved our relationship here and I brought my kids into it from the start. It’s interesting, as they continue to be some of my most passionate and greatest supporters.

Like my two colleagues next to me, I do want to talk about some of the reflections and highlights over this last term. I think it’s important to talk about devolution. I will start with devolution. Devolution was certainly an incredible first step on the journey and the aspirations of the people of the Northwest Territories. It was a rough ride, but by all means, as I have described it before, Home Rule was an important step for this territory to take and I’m glad we took it. I’m glad we took it in this Assembly so we can look back and say we finally did it.

How many successful Assemblies previous to us tried to get it done? This is the first one that we can actually say we have the key to the cars, the keys to our own destiny and we’re driving forward.

Over the last four years, we’ve continued to see challenges with addictions and it does bother me seriously. I wish our territory could do more. I know, no matter how much money we throw at the problem, it may be challenging. We need to address these problems. I have to admit that I was very glad to see, the other day, that the Mental Health Act has finally gotten through. It will make a difference in people’s lives and saving lives.

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

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

The last four years have seen the troubling brick of the high cost of living weighing down on our northern families, struggling with the power rates or even the cost of fuel. Within this great vice, there is also a huge opportunity. There are the renewable areas such as biomass and solar, which our government hopefully will be looking forward to in the near future. We must not forget, we must look towards population growth.

Everywhere I look around, I’ve seen people struggle trying to get jobs, whether they are summer students, people with disabilities or even seniors. Even the public service jobs that constantly get funded but sit empty is a struggle.

The last few years my favourite people to work with are certainly youth and seniors. To that, I have loved every opportunity to get out to the schools and talk to the kids or even at Avens and visiting. That has brought great enjoyment to my life and sometimes it reminds us how important the work we do here is.

Speaking of which, I was glad to be part of the missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls motion. I was very excited this House could support that. As a matter of fact, it still stands to the test that this is such an important issue that more work needs to get done. Interestingly enough, no other Legislature, to my knowledge, has passed a similar motion. I think that’s a statement of the type of Legislature we are and the issues we care about. It was an important message and it certainly is an important motion.

The days ahead will see many opportunities for us, and I’m always concerned about the working family. I’m always worried that our government can’t seem to find consumer protection on its agenda. But worrying about our citizens under the context of 911, we finally took the first step this year to say we’re going to do it. I guess, as my colleague said, we’ve devolved and now we will evolve on that issue.

One of the neat things about downtown is the Yellowknife Day Shelter will continue to strive forward. More importantly, I am so excited to see that this term, under Minister Abernethy , they finally heeded some of the goals and concerns of trying to provide proactive programming. I thank him for that. I’m glad. If you could do a little more on the Aurora College file, it would be greatly appreciated.

As I bring this to a close – I know time is running out – I just want to say thank you very much to my wife. If I’m allowed a second or two more, Mr. Speaker, I’m not allowed to hold up props, but in the 12 years I’ve been an MLA, I have always had a picture of my children here as a reminder of why we’re here.

May I leave this thought with each and every one of us: Of course, we are all excited to get on the campaign trail and, obviously, we all hope for the best. But always remind yourself about what’s important. Each day I come here as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, I’ve always had the picture of my two children sit in front of me to remind me about the values we are supposed to represent here. It doesn’t mean we’re perfect. It doesn’t mean we haven’t had troubled days, we’ve moved along, but we always have to ask ourselves what is the touchstone and it always has to have family and friends.

To my constituents, once again, I say thank you; and to my family, it’s always been an honour to have your help and support through this process. Thank you.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . Mr. Beaulieu .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have been sitting here thinking about how everybody is thanking the people they have worked with over the last four years. I thought that perhaps I didn’t do that the first four years I was in here. I have had a lot of help. Lots of people helped me from my constituency. I have a lot of people in the communities of Lutselk'e and Fort Resolution to thank. I’ve worked for them. I’ve travelled often to the communities.

I have had several constituency assistants. I started a constituency assistant initially with Mr. Joe Bailey. We did a lot of good work together. Joe had some experience as a constituency assistant and taught me a lot about writing Member’s statements and getting the point onto the floor of the Assembly. It was interesting because a lot of the stuff that we got we kind of hit the ground running because of the experience he brought working for other veteran MLAs. After that, I had Edith Mack who worked as a constituency assistant. I’d like to thank Edith. She worked for me the longest, for about four years. Now, in the last couple of years I’ve worked with Beverley Catholique from Lutselk'e.

I have community reps, I like to call them, but they end up as constituency assistants anyway, and James Marlowe from Lutselk'e continues to work for me, and the same with Velma Delorme from Fort Resolution. These people work in the background. They don’t do anything other than organize things for me, take calls for me, tell me when I’m coming into the community, who I should go see, what I should be doing and so on while I’m in the community. A lot of the prep work that goes on as I enter the communities, I’d like to say thanks to those people who have been working for me. Thank you very much.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu . Mr. Lafferty .

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

I just want to highlight the importance of us being here as representative Members of the Legislative Assembly.

First and foremost, I just want to say thank to the Members. As Members, we serve the public. We have two Members who are leaving us, Mr. Bromley and Ms. Bisaro . I’d just like to say thank you for your time as being part of this Cabinet here for eight years, and I’ve also served two years as a Regular Member. Every time a Member approaches me, obviously, I put my MLA hat on as well to deal with those issues. At the same time, this is an opportunity for us to reach out to our constituencies.

Most of us have stated that, obviously, we want to return because there is a lot of unfinished business ahead of us. At the same time, we have to keep in mind, as I heard around the table, that there is a lot of support staff that we have to recognize. Even with myself, being a Regular Member, all the resource staff that we’ve had, and even sitting here as the executive. Just highlighting my executive assistant, Morven MacPherson has been with me since day one. I’d just like to thank her for all the hard work and keeping me in line, and through secretaries as well. Not only that, the CAs.

I’ve gone through plenty of them over the years. I’ve been through eight of them. But at the same time, it’s given me an opportunity to work with different people.

I’ve been through approximately 14 different chiefs and grand chiefs since I became an MLA. I’ve worked with a lot of them with different experiences and different walks of life. I’m very appreciative of all the work experience. My constituents, I’d just like to say thank you to them for giving me the opportunity to serve them over the past 10 years.

Last but not least, obviously, my family. My wife, Diane, and my five beautiful kids. As I’ve been sitting in the House, when we first started, our kids were young. Now I have kids in university, kids working as well. Without them, this would not be possible to stand here to speak to you.

With yourself, Mr. Speaker, I’d just like to say thank you for your support, as well, over the years, and the support staff that we have.

Best of luck to all the Members who are running. Best wishes to Members who are retiring as well. Mahsi cho.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . Well, I’m going to do one today. I’d like to start by saying hello to my son Joseph, who’s watching this back home in Tuk – he’s two and a half years old now – he can switch it back to cartoons. I can’t wait to see you, son.

I’d like to start off by thanking my Deputy Speaker, Mrs. Groenewegen , for all the hard work you’ve done with me in the last four years and supporting me and making some crucial decisions during our time and working together. Thank you so much.

To my board of management, thank you so much for all the hard work you’ve done for the benefit of all our Members. It’s been a good time. I really cherish all you guys, and my two friends. Before you, I was there in the middle between Wendy and Bob. Obviously, I was the rose between two thorns. But they taught me so much, just like you, and I respect them so much.

Bob, yesterday Ms. Spence brought up your mother. God rest her soul. She was always here and always giving us encouragement. She was an awesome lady, and I know you have that in you too. You have a good heart and you want the best for the people.

Wendy, I always called you Mother Superior, because you’re always so hard, making sure everything went down. But I really admired you for that and I really thank you because you’ve been helping me, too, along my way as a Member and as a Speaker too.

To all the Cabinet, thank you so much for all the hard work you guys did, and all my Regular Members, every one of you. I could go on for an hour or so if I was allowed to, but I’m not going to do that to you.

Our support, my support staff, I’d like to thank Nina Larsson, my executive assistant; and my CA back home, Donna Bernhardt, who does so much for us, for the people of Nunakput. People don’t see the hard work that you guys do and the hours you put in and I want to thank her.

I want to also thank Wendy Morgan. Wendy has been there for me too. So, I think there’s about four or five of us that share Wendy. Thank you so much for all your work that you’ve done for the people of Nunakput.

Where do I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement?

---Laughter

---Applause

And there are no nays. How about I keep going? To all my constituents back home, thank you for your support and being there for me when I go visit the communities. To my elders, who we cherish so much across our territory, thank you so much. To all the families that are hurting right now with the stuff that’s going on back home, thoughts and prayers are with all the people who are hurting across our great territory today. Thoughts and prayers are with you from this House.

I’d like to thank my clerks, which I have the best clerks in the Northwest Territories and in the Commonwealth of 170 countries.

---Applause

Thank you, Gail; thank you, Tim; and thank you, Doug; and thanks to all your support staff and our security. Like you guys said earlier today – you said it best, Bob – like you said, we have the best.

To my wife, Jenny, who has been the biggest supporter here, and to all my kids, Chelsey, Kristin, Matthew, Mitchell, Mikayla, and my son Joseph, and my grandson, Alexander. I know I’m a young grandfather too.

It’s been really an honour to work with every one of you. Bob, Wendy, I’ll never forget our times together and Sandy always trying to hit me.

But like I said, again, thank you guys so much, every one of you. God bless you and good luck in your future endeavors. We have 17 days left in this government. So I want all my Members to try to finish all of your constituency work in the last 17 days to try to get some help for the constituents and for the people that we serve. So thank you, Members.

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Appreciation For Constituents, Colleagues And Supporters

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Premier , Mr. McLeod.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m very pleased to recognize my wife and to thank her for all her support, Melody McLeod, and her aunt Germaine Michel. I also would like to take this opportunity to recognize Jim Stanton, president of Stanton Associates, who was here earlier, and Paula Walsh, a senior associate with Stanton Associates. They’re both here as keynote speakers at the LGANT Professional Development Conference and they also spoke on how to communicate effectively to manage crisis and they also put on a one-day crisis management conference.

Jim is a former journalist, director of communications with Canada Post. He was an expert on communications and emergency preparedness. Paula has more than 32 years in the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Mr. Abernethy .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to recognize two people in the gallery today. First, Kieran Testart who is a resident of the Great Slave riding. Second, a long-time friend, more like family. He’s a source of wisdom; he’s a source of advice; he’s a creative conveyor of criticism when needed; he presided over my wedding to my amazing wife, Caroline; and he in fact introduced my parents, so you can kind of blame him for me. Mr. Speaker, in the gallery today, Dr. Ian Gilchrist. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Abernethy . Mr. McLeod.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to use this opportunity to recognize my wife Judy and appreciate all the support that she’s given me in the last 36 years. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Mrs. Groenewegen .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to recognize my constituent from Hay River South again today, Germaine Michel, and I’m so glad she came to see the Legislature and have a tour here. It’s her first time, and anybody who lives in our territory should come and enjoy this wonderful building. I’d also like to, again, recognize my constituency assistant of 17 years, Wendy Morgan, and thank her for all of her support and all of her help over these years. To my husband, Rick Groenewegen, he is a good man. Just think of how boring his life would have been without me.

---Laughter

To my beautiful daughter, Jillian, it’s so good to have her here in Yellowknife. As I said, she keeps me company when all of the rest of the family is not here. So I’d like to recognize them today. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mrs. Groenewegen . Mr. Dolynny .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Daryl Dolynny

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to introduce a fine young man from the riding of Range Lake, a man who has joined us on many occasions here, who is a staunch advocate for transparency and accountability with his recent Open NWT website. That is Mr. David Wasylciw. Keep up the good work. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Dolynny . Mr. Bouchard .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Robert Bouchard

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to recognize constituent Rick Groenewegen and his daughter, Jillian, obviously, and I’d like to thank Wendy again, recognize Wendy Morgan and Hay River resident Germaine Michel as well. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Bouchard . Mr. Bromley .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s always special when we have family members in the gallery and I’d like to particularly start by recognizing my wife, Marianne. Perhaps you could stand up.

---Applause

Much to be said there. I appreciate your comments about my mother. She was here when we started and I’m missing her today. I’d also like to recognize Chief Edward Sangris from Detah. Great to see you here, Chief.

I had quite a number of people show up in the gallery today in support of the work I do. They all seem to be movers and shakers, whether it be in our economy, our social work or our environmental work or putting the dots together for all three; my CA of four years, Craig Yeo; Ian Gilchrist, who we just heard mentioned; Peggy Holroyd; Lloyd Thiessen; Dan Wong; John Stevenson; Tasha Stevenson; Julie Green; Sue Wahlner; Rose Marie Jackson; Christine Wenman. I see Kevin O’Reilly has lasted out our droning on here today, and his wife, Suzette Montreuil, was here earlier, too; and I’d particularly like to recognize my CA, Bob Wilson, whose phone number is… Well, ask me if you don’t know it.

---Laughter

With regard to families, Melody, Judy, Rick and Jillian in the audience, I’d like to recognize them too. It’s always a special moment when you have family members here. Mahsi.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Bromley . Ms. Bisaro .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Wendy Bisaro

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It was a real pleasure to come into the House today and see so many people in the gallery, and as Mr. Bromley said, some of them have lasted through our droning, others have had to go, but it was great to see so many people. It was also great to see so many people sitting on that side, the far side of the Assembly so that we can actually see them from the Regular Members’ seats.

I have two constituents who I want to recognize, Suzette Montreuil has had to go, but Mr. Kevin O’Reilly, who both he and Suzette have been great supporters. So, thank you both of you for coming and for all the work that you do on behalf of residents of the NWT and particularly Yellowknife. Thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Ms. Bisaro . Mr. Moses .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d also like to recognize Ms. Judy McLeod and thank her for supporting my colleague here, Mr. McLeod, over the eight years. You’re doing a great job, and also for all the work you do, again, for the region, in the health area.

It is Fire Prevention Week and I’d like to recognize Mr. John Moore from Inuvik, who is a volunteer firefighter for the community. I’d also like to recognize my constituency assistant, Ms. Weronika Murray. When my previous assistant decided to take a year off, there were some big shoes to fill and I was wondering how that was going to happen with all the work that our office does, and Weronica came in and jumped right into the position and she’s been doing a very great job and keeping the office in order and keeping it efficient for constituents back home and even residents throughout the Northwest Territories.

So, thank you very much. I’d just like to welcome everybody here to our last day in the House. I think they’re just making sure we leave. So, thank you.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you. Mr. Yakeleya .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you Mr. Speaker. I want to also recognize the family members that have come today to support the Members in this House here. It’s very nice to have them come. I know the sacrifice they have to do so that we can do our work with the fullest attention to our constituents.

I also want to recognize Chief Sangris, Mr. Bromley ’s constituent, with the Akaitcho. The Yellowknives people here wanted their ancestors here so we can stand here and do this work.

Mr. Speaker, I also want to recognize Geraldine with Mrs. McLeod here. It’s been a while since I’ve seen Geraldine. I had to ask the Premier , “Is that Geraldine?” I wanted to say that. Sometimes it’s good to see old friends come back still in good spirits.

I want to also recognize my constituency assistant, Ms. Lorraine Bezha, and the other constituency assistants who have been with me. For Ms. Bezha’s hard work and commitment and dedication to the people of the Sahtu, I’d like to say thank you so much to her and all the other constituency assistants that our Members here have to make sure that we do our job effectively and efficiently. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

The Speaker

Jackie Jacobson

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . Mr. Hawkins .

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Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t think I have any constituents left in the gallery. They came and then they went, as previously mentioned by colleagues. But I do want to take a second to mention and certainly pass on my kindest regards to Melody McLeod. She’s the Premier ’s wife. Every time I see her I’m reminded of an anecdote that Ms.

Barbara Bush once said when they asked her what’s it like being her, and she said, “Well, I’ve been married to the President of the United States and my son’s the President of the United States and another son is the Governor of Florida,” and she goes, “I’m the most powerful person in the world.” Every man knows there’s some truth to that story, if your wife knows that. But I first met Melody back in 1987 when I was stolen from the clutches of the warm embrace of Fort Simpson to go to Akaitcho Hall, a