Debates of Oct. 23rd, 2024

This is page numbers 1245 - 1276 of the Hansard for the 20th Assembly, 1st 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 know .

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

Damage to Public Housing Units

Northwest Territories Business Licence eServices

Advancing Apprenticeship, Trades and Occupation Certification

Northern Employment

Housing and Healthcare Crises

Aurora College Location

Recreation Infrastructure

Winter Road Season

Healthcare Staffing Crisis

Healthcare Experience Survey

Healthcare Experience Survey

Celebration of Life of James Bill Nahanni

Return to Oral Question 297-20(1): Wellness and Addictions Recommendations

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Healthcare Services

Aurora College Location

Northern Employment

Winter Road Preparations

Healthcare Workforce Plan

Behchoko Swimming Pool

Aurora College Site Selection

Healthcare Workforce Concerns

Recreation Project Funding

Tulita Four-Plex Transfer

Primary Care Physicians

Healthcare Workforce

Education Outcomes

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery(reversion)

Committee Report 15-20(1): Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight Report on Committee's Statement on the Housing and Healthcare Crises in the Northwest Territories, Received by the Assembly

Tabled Document 203-20(1): Update on Recommendations from Healing Voices Report

Tabled Document 204-20(1): HEalthcare survey by MLAs Hawkins and Testart - Your Healthcare Patient Experiences in the Northwest Territories

Bill 11:

An Act to Amend the Motor Vehicles Act

Bill 12: Business Day Statute Law Amendment Act

Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Tabled Document 193-20(1): 2025-2026 Capital Estimates - Finance - Deferral of Department

Tabled Document 193-20(1): 2025-2026 Capital Estimates - Justice - Deferral of Department

Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Hon. Caitlin Cleveland , Mr. Hawkins , Hon. Lucy Kuptana , Hon. Jay Macdonald , Hon. Vince McKay , Mr. McNeely , Ms. Morgan , Mr. Morse , Mr. Nerysoo , Ms. Reid , Mr. Rodgers , Hon. Lesa Semmler , Hon R.J. Simpson , Mr. Testart , Hon. Shane Thompson , Hon. Caroline Wawzonek , Mrs. Weyallon Armstrong

The House met at 1:31 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 1245

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

I'd like to thank Karen Mitchell for the opening blessing. Member from Yellowknife Centre .

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 1245

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to rise on a point of personal explanation under

section 1.8(1) of our rules. It says a Member may rise -- or sorry, raise a point of personal explanation in the Assembly at the earliest opportunity. This is my first opportunity.

The headline in the front page of today's Northern News Services, the Yellowknifer, reads as follows: YK Centre MLA wants finance Minister ousted. The headline is misleading with their word choice of "ousted". It leads the reading with the confusing impression that I want the Minister removed from Cabinet. I know this because a few people had inquired regarding the confusion it has caused. To be clear, no one has been angry but certainly confused with the impression that I wanted her removed from Cabinet, and they wanted to understand why. The

article within the newspaper, without forensic review, appears on surface to be correct, but you have to decide to read it after the headline. For the record, I am only suggesting that it may be time to consider having a shuffle in Cabinet based on my concerns raised of which won't be revisited today.

Might I end on this point, Mr. Speaker, it is true that sensationalized headlines can be an opportunity to pump up and draw interest to an issue but left to stand alone it can cause confusion and unintended results which it appears to have had. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I thank the Assembly for hearing this clarification. Thank you.

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 1245

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Ministers' statements. Minister for Housing NWT .

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Minister's Statement 68-20(1): Damage to Public Housing Units

Ministers' Statements

Page 1245

Lucy Kuptana

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about an issue that is important to the maintenance of the public housing stock. I am speaking about the damage to public housing units and the costs to the local housing organizations and Housing NWT. I want to highlight how this damage impacts the work plan of the local housing organizations and Housing NWT.

Housing NWT and local housing organizations strive to support tenants to be successful. Part of that success relies on the tenant keeping up with their responsibilities. This includes taking care of their unit, keeping it clean, and preventing damage. If a tenant or their guest causes damage, the tenant is responsible for the repairs. Let me be clear, this does not apply to normal wear and tear. We are talking about major damage like broken windows in a public housing unit. Local housing organizations do their best to provide services as quickly as possible if a unit is compromised due to damage.

However, avoidable damage that requires a contractor can be both costly and take time to repair. And if this damage occurs during the winter season, both the tenant and the Housing Organization are under pressure to find appropriate accommodation and a speedy repair. This also takes funding away from other repairs that are needed in public housing units.

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, Housing NWT is responsible for maintenance and repairs on its buildings while tenants are responsible for covering the costs of damages caused by themselves, their pets, or visitors. Tenants are also required to notify the landlord if there are any problems with the property. For example, if something breaks or if there is a health or safety problem, tenants must let the local housing organization know as soon as possible. Tenants must take this responsibility seriously.

We can all agree that maintaining good quality housing stock is extremely important, especially with the housing situation across the territory. The more damage caused, the longer the wait times to repair the unit as well as the higher cleaning and repair costs. Housing NWT aims to preserve the quality and longevity of our units, ensuring that they remain safe, comfortable, and in good condition for all tenants for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I also want to talk about the damage that other people are causing to public housing units. We are seeing damage like broken windows and graffiti that is not being caused by the public housing tenants or their guests. When windows are broken or units are damaged, it takes time and money to fix - time and money that could be going towards completing other essential repairs inside of these homes. It also makes our communities look run down when we have boarded-up windows and homes in disrepair.

This both saddens and frustrates me, Mr. Speaker. We need to take pride in our communities and not cause unnecessary damage. We need to take personal responsibility for the state of our communities and recognize how important these homes are to our family, friends, and neighbours. This unnecessary damage directly impacts people's lives. Let us work together to keep our houses in good repair and condition and keep our communities beautiful.

In the Northwest Territories, there is always a call for more affordable housing. We have to remember that damages to units will take funds that have been allocated for other projects, such as building more affordable housing. Damage can also result in people losing their homes. Continued unnecessary damage to units can make it impossible for Housing NWT and local housing organizations to keep up with repairs. This means that eventually homes become uninhabitable and people cannot live in them.

Mr. Speaker, if tenants are causing continual damage, it can also result in evictions. Housing NWT and the local housing organizations do not take evictions lightly. Evictions are the last action in a long, tracked process seeking to address non-compliance with a tenancy agreement, including damage to a unit. This is an issue that concerns us all. No one wants to see people homeless or families compromised. We are invested in seeing all residents with a roof over their head and safety for their families.

As part of our commitment to ensuring a healthier living environment, Housing NWT is committed to providing safe and healthy public housing units that are positively affecting tenants' well-being and provide a home for their family members. Together, we can create thriving communities and comfortable homes for everyone. Quyananni, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 68-20(1): Damage to Public Housing Units

Ministers' Statements

Page 1245

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister for Housing NWT . Before we move on to other Ministers' statements, I'd like to recognize our former Premier Stephen Kakfwi. He was elected in 1987 and finished his job in 2003, but he's still a strong advocate for the residents of the Northwest Territories. Welcome to the House, Premier .

Ministers' statements. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs .

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Minister's Statement 69-20(1): Northwest Territories Business Licence eServices

Ministers' Statements

Page 1245

Vince McKay

Hay River South

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories has committed to making programs and services more accessible to residents and do better to streamline administrative processes. Today, I am pleased to announce a new initiative that will change the way businesses in the territory obtain their business licenses.

The launch of our new eService program for business licenses is a major step in promoting a business-friendly environment that demonstrates our commitment to supporting the economic growth across the territory. This new eService program is designed to streamline the licensing process, making it more efficient, accessible, and user-friendly for business owners. By leveraging modern technology, we are reducing the administrative burden on businesses which will allow them to focus more on their operations and less on paperwork.

Mr. Speaker, this new service is specifically tailored for businesses in remote areas and small communities not governed by local business licensing bylaws. This focus ensures that even more isolated entrepreneurs have the tools they need to succeed. The eService program offers several key features that will benefit business owners, including the fact that it can be accessed 24/7 so that business owners can apply and renew their business licenses anytime/anywhere using a computer or mobile device.

At the same time, the application process was simplified with clear instructions and fewer steps so that the residents can attain their business license faster. Applicants will also receive real-time updates on their application status in an effort to promote transparency and to reduce uncertainty. Finally, the system boasts strong security measures to protect sensitive information and to ensure the integrity of the licensing process.

Mr. Speaker, this eService program is a testament to our government's commitment to innovation and efficiency. By embracing digital solutions, we are not only improving the experience for business owners but enhancing the effectiveness of our regulatory processes. I want to thank everyone who helped bring this project to life, including program staff, IT specialists, and the business owners who provided the valuable feedback. As we celebrate the launch of this eService program, I encourage all applicable business owners in the Northwest Territories to take advantage of this new tool.

Whether you are starting a new venture or renewing an existing license, this program is designed to make the process smooth and more efficient.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I want to reiterate our government's commitment to supporting the business community and driving economic growth in the Northwest Territories. The launch of this eService program is one of many steps we are taking to achieve this goal. We will continue to seek an innovative solution and work collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure the success and prosperity of all businesses in the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 69-20(1): Northwest Territories Business Licence eServices

Ministers' Statements

Page 1246

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs . Ministers' statements. Minister for Education, Culture and Employment .

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Minister's Statement 70-20(1): Advancing Apprenticeship, Trades and Occupation Certification

Ministers' Statements

Page 1246

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Mr. Speaker, skilled tradespeople are needed everywhere, now more than ever. Apprentices and journeypersons are a vital part of our economy. They literally keep the wheels turning, buildings standing, water flowing, and the lights on. These careers offer good pay, advancement opportunities, mobility, and lifelong learning. Becoming a tradesperson means taking charge of your future and aligning your interests and skills with a rewarding career. Getting there requires certification, and the Government of the Northwest Territories is here to provide comprehensive support.

We offer career planning, help with applications, help with preparing for trade entrance exams, financial support during technical training and educational support at every stage of an apprenticeship. In high school, students can jump into their future through the Schools North Apprenticeship Program, or SNAP. Through this program, students explore a trade, gain work experience, get paid, and earn high school credits, all while completing their high school education. It is a chance to see if a trade is the right fit and to start building a solid foundation for their future career.

This program could not be successful without the engagement of northern employers who take on SNAP students and apprentices, and we are always looking for more.

Career development officers are also there to support with study skills, access to educational materials, and help with the paperwork for technical training financial assistance. They offer personalized support to anyone interested in pursuing a trades career. They connect residents with resources for educational assessments, help with apprenticeship and technical training applications, and help understand the path to graduation.

Mr. Speaker, we have recently announced a two-year extension to the Apprenticeship, Trades and Occupation Certification Strategy. This extension builds on our success in four important areas:

Helping people receive training;

Supporting them in finding work;

Growing the workforce through partnerships; and,

Making informed decisions with the right information about the job market.

Mr. Speaker, National Skilled Trade and Technology Week is held in early November each year. It is a time to raise awareness of the career opportunities in the trades and celebrate NWT apprentices and journeypersons who have successfully completed their training. Every year, awards are presented for outstanding achievements highlighting NWT's exceptional talent. This year, we are celebrating 33 new journeypersons and 20 top-mark apprentices.

---Applause

Thank you, colleagues. These individuals come from every region of the Northwest Territories and represent 15 different trades and occupations. These apprentices and their journeypersons will have a real impact on their communities. Their skills guarantee that the lights go on, roofs go over our heads, plumbing works, heating systems operate and, yes, that roads are built.

Mr. Speaker, I invite all Members of this Legislative Assembly to join me in celebrating the employers dedicated to strengthening our workforce, the apprentices working toward certification, and the journeypersons across our territory who have successfully completed their training. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 70-20(1): Advancing Apprenticeship, Trades and Occupation Certification

Ministers' Statements

Page 1246

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member from Frame Lake .

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Member's Statement 365-20(1): Northern Employment

Members' Statements

Page 1246

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the statement made by the -- do I need to worry about the clock here? Okay, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the statement made by the Minister on trades skill development. It jives well with the statement that I was going to make today on workforce development.

Mr. Speaker, there are a number of projects in the budget which claim to support workforce development simply by being implemented. It will require people to build and operate; therefore, we are building our workforce. But is this really part of a strategically-thought out plan? One of the key problems I see in our economy is that we aren't achieving education outcomes and sending students to post-secondary in sufficient numbers to produce a local workforce so many of the jobs we create go to southern contractors and employees because we can't staff them.

Look at the employment numbers for the Giant Mine remediation project, for example. They're sitting at 36 percent northern employment. From 1996 to 2019, around 40 percent of employment at the diamond mines was northern. Meanwhile, our employment rate hovers around 65 to 70 percent overall and 50 percent for Indigenous persons. So there is a lot of room for northern employment growth. A fundamental question raised by comparative analysis is what role should the government be playing in the economy?

Is it our role to be industry or to create an attractive investment environment and educate, house, and support a workforce who can take advantage of available jobs?

I recognize that answer isn't black and white. Of course government contracts play a significant role in the economy here but when we're facing tough questions about where to put our money, I think we need to be carefully considering not just the benefits one type of investment might produce but the opportunity costs of that investment compared to others and what outcomes government is best positioned to meaningfully change. This kind of analysis is contained in the Greenland economic report I tabled last sitting and, again, I strongly encourage us to be applying this kind of analysis to our business planning.

If northern employment is an outcome we're trying to achieve, let's analyze how best to achieve it and use that information to shift resources accordingly. We can't afford to be doing a little bit of everything and just hoping that it will all somehow come together in the end. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 365-20(1): Northern Employment

Members' Statements

Page 1246

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Members' statements. Member from Inuvik Boot Lake .

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Member's Statement 366-20(1): Housing and Healthcare Crises

Members' Statements

Page 1246

Denny Rodgers

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight, later today I will read a report in the House that shares our observations and serious concerns regarding the crisis conditions that have developed in the delivery of health care and social services and the lack of affordability and availability of housing stocks across the territory. In response, we are calling for an immediate course correction and meaningful intervention by the government to address these unsustainable issues.

Mr. Speaker, committee acknowledges the capital budget is before us, but we cannot approve it without seeing real commitments for change and a shift in government resources that better reflects the concerns of the NWT residents and the priorities of this Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, we are fully committed to collaborating with our partners in the Executive Council to solve these problems. Consensus government requires us all to work together and be accountable to our constituents and to the Assembly's shared priorities. Mr. Speaker, by focusing on those priorities, we believe we can create a more prosperous and resilient future for everyone. We look forward to continuing this important conversation and hope to see the necessary shifts during this sitting.

Mr. Speaker, it is not lost on committee the gravity of the position that we have taken, and we would reiterate that we are urgently seeking a course correction from government with appropriate resourcing behind it. Committee is deeply concerned about the fragility of our health care system and the apparent inability to put appropriate resources into housing. Mr. Speaker, we will speak further to this matter later today. Thank you.

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Member's Statement 366-20(1): Housing and Healthcare Crises

Members' Statements

Page 1246

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Inuvik Boot Lake . Members' statements. Member from Great Slave .

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Member's Statement 367-20(1): Aurora College Location

Members' Statements

Page 1247

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Yellowknifers are passionate about their beloved multi-use green space park, Tin Can Hill. It is a favoured destination for fat bikes, dog walks, sled rides, and local photo shoots, just to name a few activities throughout all the seasons.

As Tin Can Hill is in my riding, one of the first conversations I had after Cabinet was selected was with the Minister of ECE . I asked the Minister about plans for the site by the Aurora College transformation project to seek clarity on what the situation was, what was coming, as it was not clear to me or the public at that time. Mr. Speaker, it's still not clear to me or the public now nearly a full year later.

Part of that conversation was about how ECE had set out on a path to undertake an environmental site assessment. I was given assurances that I would hear more about the ESA in March. Seeing as how it's nearly November, you can understand my frustration and the frustration of residents. Another part of that conversation with the Minister was my highlighting the GNWT's willful lack of consultation before entering an MOU with the city of Yellowknife for the parcel of land we know as Tin Can Hill.

Yesterday I tabled a journal

article by Sherry Arnstein entitled A Ladder of Citizen Participation. Since 1969, it has been referenced by policy analysts and advocates to show how far governments take steps up the ladder of citizen participation and ultimately how much influence they have over government decisions.

I'd argue that the GNWT often only reaches as far as informing our citizens which you'll note that the

article considers a form of tokenism. In my experience, most people would like to feel heard on issues like this one that matter very much for their quality of life. The GNWT's own public engagement employee guide advises of the GNWT's obligation to engage as being politically advisable, in brackets, (optional), which leads me to wonder where it was considered optional for talking about the development on Tin Can Hill.

Mr. Speaker, it feels as though because the GNWT knew what kind of feedback it was going to get, it did not seek that feedback at all on Tin Can Hill. This means we haven't even stepped the foot on the ladder of citizen participation. We should take the concerns of our residents seriously. Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. We should take the concerns of our residents seriously, seeking feedback on new initiatives and adequately incorporating feedback where appropriate or explaining why we can't. It's clear we haven't done a good job of this for the residents who care about Tin Can Hill, and I want to be crystal clear I don't blame GNWT communications staff at all. I'm frustrated with GNWT decision-makers. I will have questions for the Minister of ECE at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 367-20(1): Aurora College Location

Members' Statements

Page 1247

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Great Slave . Members' statements. Member from Monfwi .

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Member's Statement 368-20(1): Recreation Infrastructure

Members' Statements

Page 1247

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about getting community projects started in the Tlicho region, especially now that we're focusing on capital infrastructure that's before us. So, Mr. Speaker, there's currently no swimming pool in the Tlicho region. In the past, Behchoko and Edzo both had a seasonal swimming pool which was opened during summer months. This created summer employment and training opportunities for our young people.

Behchoko pool was dismantled due to asbestos. The pool in Edzo burned down in 2014 and was never replaced. Mr. Speaker, we know these facilities improve our communities and create healthy ways for youth to spend their time. This is true when we look at other jurisdictions. The new pool in Yellowknife is nearly completed. The city of Iqaluit aquatic Centre, which was finished in 2016, has raised a recreation fund of more than $1 million to help low income families access the pool there. Yesterday the Government of Alberta pledged to spend $60 million on its municipalities over the next three years.

The Tlicho region has a sportsplex, but not all youth and families use the facility. I can tell you that families will use a swimming pool to spend quality time with their children. A year-round swimming pool in Whati and Behchoko would create meaningful employment, new training, and career opportunities.

Mr. Speaker, I want to know what help we can provide our communities to get projects like these underway. Tlicho citizens will visit the Ruth Inch Memorial Pool in Yellowknife for Tlicho family swimming on Saturday, November 2nd. Mr. Speaker, my constituents tell me not everyone can drive to Yellowknife to use the pool at the scheduled times, especially residents from Whati, and I am worried about the road conditions during the upcoming winter months. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs . Thank you.

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Member's Statement 368-20(1): Recreation Infrastructure

Members' Statements

Page 1247

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Members' statements. Member from the Sahtu .

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Member's Statement 369-20(1): Winter Road Season

Members' Statements

Page 1247

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Project planning for the upcoming winter road season.

Mr. Speaker, winter is upon us, and the winter roads construction and maintenance will be starting soon. Mr. Speaker, preparations are needed for the high volume of expected traffic. Mr. Speaker, the Sahtu resupply grocers, projects, the LTL truck loads will be into the hundreds. We have our window. It is short and one only.

Mr. Speaker, the community of Fort Good Hope has secured financing and land for their home manufacturing construction centre. The inland communities of Deline and Colville Lake, the annual fuel resupply is well over and beyond a hundred truck loads. The GNWT fuel supplies are in four of five communities. Mr. Speaker, in addition, the commercial industrial community of Norman Wells will include truck loads well into the hundreds. More importantly, we cannot overlook and undermine our public safety obligations.

Mr. Speaker, project logistics and planning are essential to assuring, maintaining schedules, budgets, and safety. It is critical for project assurances. Our next scheduled House sitting is February 5, 2025. We cannot wait. Winter road construction on average starts the later part of November.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, the last winter road season, the Minister of Infrastructure supported a similar engagement to expedite consultation with the stakeholders. I will have questions to the appropriate Minister later. Thank you. Mahsi.

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Member's Statement 369-20(1): Winter Road Season

Members' Statements

Page 1247

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from the Sahtu . Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife North .

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Member's Statement 370-20(1): Healthcare Staffing Crisis

Members' Statements

Page 1247

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I will continue talking about our staffing crisis in the health care system and specifically address a source of longstanding frustration amongst shift workers, the fact that many are being denied the full amount of leave that they're entitled to.

Physicians, nurses, and other practitioners are given a certain amount of leave under their collective agreements except that the health authority retains the ability to deny anyone's leave application due to operational requirements or regional procedure. Our health system does require a certain number of people on shift 24/7, but we are not unique in this. Surely, other health systems have come up with formulas to ensure frontline staff can take leave.

Currently, a combination of chronic understaffing and also our policies and how they're applied make it virtually mathematically impossible for all of our shift workers to take all of their leave. In some cases, someone's application for leave sits undecided with approval pending for so long that even if it does get approved at the last minute, it's impossible for someone to plan a vacation anyways. Our veteran nurses are being pressured to forego their vacation so that younger nurses can take their days off so they don't mutiny.

Many are expected to be available on their days off even if they're not being paid to be officially on call. At our territorial hospital emergency room, practitioners are even being denied sick leave when they're legitimately sick because there's no one to cover. We need to retain our employees and not rely primarily on locums and agency nurses. We know that it's more cost efficient, provides higher quality health care with more cultural safety. But why would a nurse or doctor choose to work as a contracted employee for the health authority when they could have more freedom as a locum or an agency nurse?

A major reason is the employee benefits, including leave. But if we don't allow them to take that leave, then what's the point? It is one reason we're seeing more and more health care practitioners quit their jobs and either leave the territory or choose to work as locums. Our embattled health care shift workers need the Minister and the health authority to first acknowledge the problem and communicate a clear plan to solve it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 370-20(1): Healthcare Staffing Crisis

Members' Statements

Page 1247

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife North . Members' statements. Member from Range Lake .

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Member's Statement 371-20(1): Healthcare Experience Survey

Members' Statements

Page 1248

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Later today my honourable friend from Yellowknife Centre will be tabling a survey authored collaboratively between us about health care experience in the Northwest Territories. This work expands on the joint town hall that we undertook in the summer attended by over a hundred people. I invite the House and the public to read the survey and note that while 59 percent of respondents rated their quality of care as excellent, only 25 percent were satisfied with their overall health care experience. Here's what some of them had to say, quote:

Stop saying it's a staffing issue for all health care and properly staff. You have managers who have no idea how to manage. They never listen to the staff who do the work.

The whole health care system is falling apart. There are no appointments available and when you have one, you feel that it's a rushed appointment and you're not listened to. The doctors are burnt out. How are we spending money on all these locums and not on our employees.

The individual health care workers are great, but, quote, for people with complex health concerns, there seems to be no connective tissue with holding the overall system together and providing health care in an informed and coordinated way.

Mr. Speaker, if it wasn't clear, our health care system is on life support. The constant churn of locums and temporary staff have completely evaporated continuity of care in the Northwest Territories. The government has structured the health care system in such a way that it competes with itself for staff. Workers are leaving permanent positions to become locums to do less work for the same pay. And who could blame them? Look at the perks. Free housing, free rental cars, no paperwork to complete, live anywhere in the country. And there's more, fly for free and get enough Aeroplan points to get as many as ten free flights a year.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT for some reason has optimized the health care to be utterly dependent on a fly-in culture that is making health care outcomes worse and staff retention next to impossible. Where there were once six-month contracts, now they are measured in weeks or days. To quote one health care worker, it's a free for all. Mr. Speaker, you cannot have a thriving health care system in a community if your nurses and doctors don't live in the community. What is happening in the NWT is not what's happening elsewhere in Canada despite what the Minister and government may say.

No one will help us but ourselves to solve this problem and if the Minister cannot get the job done, then it's time for her to step aside for someone who will. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 371-20(1): Healthcare Experience Survey

Members' Statements

Page 1248

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre .

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Member's Statement 372-20(1): Healthcare Experience Survey

Members' Statements

Page 1248

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As my colleague, Mr. Testart had said today, we're talking about health care and the survey we had discussed as well as the actions and desperate needs our citizens are suffering from. As noted by MLA Testart, we held a joint town hall, a conversation with the community, Mr. Speaker, around health care. It was desperately needed. The Minister of health was invited but declined and suggested a different date almost three months hence from the inquiry of when could you be available. Unreasonable scheduling I considered, but it is what it is.

My good colleague in conversation said hey, let's offer more flexibility. We waited a week for a further response. And, Mr. Speaker, lest we forget, a nonresponse to come to a meeting is still a response.

But peculiar as that may be, Mr. Speaker -- and it is in its own way -- almost two weeks after our health care town hall discussion, she attended another Yellowknife MLA's meeting. I'm not suggesting anything bad. I'm just saying coincidence; I think not. Now, if she had attended our town hall meeting, the Minister would have seen firsthand, Mr. Speaker, the Baker Centre was filled to the brim. There was not a seat available. As a matter of fact, Mr. Speaker, I'd hate to call out the centre, but they were almost at fire capacity with enthusiasm, great people, respectful people, wanting to share their stories.

They wanted to be heard. They had passion. They had problems. But they wanted to be part of the solution. There were stories to tell, I tell you, Mr. Speaker, deeply personal journeys that describe the trial by ordeals as they struggle to get help from anyone.

Mr. Speaker, the Minister would not have heard our professionals our terrible. No, she would not have heard that. But rather she would have heard great adjectives about these great teams. The only colourful adjectives used, Mr. Speaker, were "fantastic", "wonderful", "kind", and "caring", all perfect elements of our health care systems and the professionals that serve it so well.

It was a tough crowd, Mr. Speaker. Why? Because we had seniors who demand answers. And certainly, they do, Mr. Speaker. It was a passionate crowd. Mr. Speaker, some of their stresses were about availability of seeing a doctor, the referrals that never seem to get referred, the referrals that get re-referred, the questions and treatment by locums who get referred to another locum and then get followed up on a locum. You know, the passion of getting to know your doctor is impossible.

Later this afternoon, Mr. Speaker, I'll table a

summary of our findings, and we'll have a further discussion as the week goes on, including today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 372-20(1): Healthcare Experience Survey

Members' Statements

Page 1248

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Members' statements.

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Member's Statement 373-20(1): Celebration of Life of James Bill Nahanni

Members' Statements

Page 1248

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Colleagues, James Bill Nahanni and his brother, George, were born to George and Dora Nahanni on December 3rd, 1945. As some folks said, they were an early Christmas present for their parents and siblings, Francis and Mabel.

During the Celebration of Life, a couple of stories had us laughing, like the time he would meet with a friend and his favorite saying was One for the Money, Two to get ready, and Three to go, go, go. Or when asked where was his wallet, he would reach to his back pocket and say, It's here, nice and safe.

James loved to drum dance. He was always the first one up and ready to dance. The chief spoke about his passion to dance and every time he would see him, he would ask when the next dance was going to be.

I can tell you that James was a vibrant, hard-working and humorous person. People loved to chat with him about everything but mostly about the old days, what it was like, and how were things different. In speaking with his children, John, James and Genevieve, they told me the one thing that everyone told them about their dad was how he loved his community and over the course of the last week of his life, they witnessed a lot of visitors coming to visit him, including drummers on Wednesday evening.

They talked about how he wanted to get up and dance but realizing he could not, he sat up and listened to the live drum music in his home. That night, he went to sleep with a big smile on his face and the next morning he talked about the honour of the drummers being in his home.

Colleagues, it is very difficult to do justice to him but I think his daughter Genevieve did an amazing job during his eulogy. I have attached it to my statement, and I would like it deemed read and printed in Hansard.

Unfortunately, James passed away on August 25, 2024. On Wednesday, August 28th, he was laid to rest and later the community held a supper and one last drum dance for him. I believe he was looking down on us with a big smile as the family started the dance.

The family would like to thank the community for all the support during this difficult time. The outpouring of support relieved so much stress, and they were so grateful and appreciative for the kindness, thoughts, prayers, words, and deeds.

James will be sadly missed. God bless you, James.

Celebration of Life (Genevieve Piercey).

James Nahanni was a vibrant and humours man. He loved his community and over the course of the last week, we have witnessed the outpouring of love and respect his community had for our father.

Jim was Mabel's baby brother. She loves all her siblings very much, but Jim was the baby. Mabel was happy to help him all the time. She helped all her family with growing and learning. It has been her honor to help. Mabel has shared that she is happy that Jim is with the Lord and saviour. He is missed already but will be in our hearts forever.

A little story. When Jim was young and it was berry picking time, he was running around in the bush. Everyone left and Jim was left behind. George, his twin brother was running around yellowing. “Jim is missing!” they began to look for him, and when they went back to the first place, there was Jim, sitting next to a tree, resting.

Over the past few years, my father and I re-connected and became closer than we have been for many years. We have had many laughs and he has shared many stories with me about when I was a child and growing up. I am grateful for the time we had together and was honored to be able to be there for him to support him with his cancer diagnosis and treatment. During the last year, dad and I talked about his plans for his care, and he shared his greatest desire was to be at his home and in his community. I am honored that he entrusted this to his children.

My siblings and I have been able to honor him with making his last requests happen. Jim was a blessed man to have such strong connections to his family, friends, and community. We will miss him dearly, but we are all blessed to have had him in our lives. My father always said, 'Take it easy' and 'See you later' when we ended our conversations. So, I will 'See you Later' Dad, and I will 'Take it easy' until we meet again.

Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Return to Oral Question 297-20(1): Wellness and Addictions Recommendations

Returns To Oral Questions

Page 1249

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a Return to Oral Question asked by the Member for Yellowknife North on June 13th, 2024, regarding Wellness and Addictions Recommendations the Minister's Forum on Addictions and Community Wellness: Healing Voices, which took place on April 30, 2013. Specifically, the Member asked if the department had addressed the recommendations made in the Healing Voices Report.

The Minister's forum consisted of 12 members who traveled to 21 communities to listen to Northerners about what they felt were the best ways to stop the destructive impacts of alcohol, drugs, and other addictions, on NWT communities. The Healing Voices Report included valuable feedback from community members that was then organized into recommendations. Of the 67 recommendations made, the Government of the Northwest Territories accepted 59.

As requested by the Member, I have also provided a copy of a list which provides an update on Recommendations 7, 11, 29, and 54 for which the Department of Health and Social Services has responsibility. Later today I will also table of copy of this update on recommendations 7, 11, 29, and 54. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Return to Oral Question 297-20(1): Wellness and Addictions Recommendations

Returns To Oral Questions

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from Great Slave .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1249

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize Vicki Johnston. She is a constituent of mine. She is doing good work with the Tin Can Hill conservation committee, and she is here today to see the exchange with the Minister. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from Hay River North .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1249

R.J. Simpson

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to recognize the 8th Premier of the Northwest Territories, Mr. Stephen Kakfwi, who was in the gallery today; I'm not sure if he still is. In addition to being Premier , he served as a Cabinet -- survived as a Cabinet Minister for 16 years. I'd also like to welcome Kyla Kakfwi-Scott, the deputy secretary in the Premier 's office and her daughter Sadeya. I'm happy to welcome all three generations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. If we missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to your chamber. I hope you are enjoying the proceedings. It's always nice to see people in the gallery and watch the hardworking Members.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Acknowledgements. Oral questions. Member from Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, if I had a longer Member's statement, I could probably talk for hours on this particular subject. But that said, there were a lot of concerns I did want raise and hence the question -- oral question period, sorry.

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this issue has been on the books now and on the radar since -- you know, it's more -- it more happened more so when the lab changes happened that we do not have the technology within the hospital that allows for calls to be in queue and all that. And so there is work going on between -- NTHSSA is working with -- I think it's Infrastructure or TSC -- to ensure that this issue is being rectified. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you know, I will, you know, take the Member -- and, you know, we've heard this in Yellowknife that this has been an issue, and we've just recently moved into the new building this summer and started the primary care clinic. There are going to be, you know, wrinkles that come out. As for appointments, you know, if there are -- I can bring this back to NTHSSA to find out further information or what's the wait times or how -- and I've had other people come and say the opposite saying that they are able to get appointments, they are able to get walk-in appointments.

So I will follow up with the NTH SSA to see where we're at with waitlists or how long it is to get an appointment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you know, that level of information on record moving is very operational. And right now what we do know, and I have mentioned it in this house before, that our systems do not communicate with Alberta where a lot of our referrals go. So there is, you know, work going on right now to -- and I mentioned it in previous sessions that we are looking to upgrade the EMR, electronic medical records system, within the Northwest Territories.

And with all of those options that have been raised by Members have been highlighted as things that we need to ensure that when we look to building a new electronic medical records system in the Northwest Territories that it's going to have all of those components in it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Final supplementary. Member from Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just quickly, another clinic in town here, you can dial in and get your records through the internet obviously. I'm old. I say dial, but stream. Mr. Speaker, the dental clinic does phone follow-ups and check-ins, Mr. Speaker. Why is the technology so available, Mr. Speaker? I want to know what the Minister is doing, what -- I want to know what the serious blockage is, why a dental office can do services the health care system can't do, why a local medical clinic can do services, again a billion-dollar department can't seem to manage. Thank you.

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we do know that there is technology out there. It's how are we going to implement it across the Northwest Territories. And that is what we are -- that's why we are looking at the EMR. We're not just going to look at it in one

section and in one region as that's what we've done in the past, and then they don't even talk together. So we have to look at it as how we're going to roll it out throughout the Northwest Territories. And in the meantime, you know, one of the other barriers is some of this technology has to go through these privacy issues, is it safe enough to use for health information. So, again, these are issues that arise when we -- even to try and have a booking system online, there's so many layers that have to make sure that there's going to be no breach to this system to breach private health records. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 348-20(1): Healthcare Services

Oral Questions

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Oral questions. Member from Great Slave .

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

Oral Questions

Page 1249

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. As we are in the capital budget process, we're all aware that there is no new money for a new Yellowknife polytech campus. So can the Minister please explain why the issue of locating a campus on Tin Can Hill has been silent after much fanfare in 2023? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

Oral Questions

Page 1249

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Great Slave . Minister of Education, Culture and Employment .

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

Oral Questions

Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the Member continuing to bring up the concerns of her residents around Tin Can Hill for much of the last ten months. The Tin Can Hill site was originally identified for the proposed Yellowknife North Slave Campus for Aurora College. The site is currently owned by the city of Yellowknife, so some work needed to be done to assess whether or not it was an appropriate location to consider. So prior to any potential land transfer, an environmental site assessment was required to be done. There was a phase one that was done.

At the completion of phase one, it was recommended that more information was needed. So phase two was initiated. Of course, phase two, with evacuation last year, the sampling that was required could not happen last year, and so there was a delay in that process. That process was completed this summer, and a series of technical reports were produced. And what I am waiting for now is all of that technical report information to be consolidated and then look forward to being able to publicly share that information. Thank you.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

Oral Questions

Page 1250

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, you know, the Minister told me last fall that the ESA would be ready in March 2024, and then it was May 2024, and now it's nearly November. In more recent conversations, the Minister has asked me to reach out to the board to ask more questions about the specifics but then the board turned around and told me to talk to ECE. So that's why we're here today. Regardless, however the ESA turns out, however the technical report turns out, positive or negative for development, what is the intent for the MOU with the city? Will we terminate the MOU, or will we just delay a choice over and over and over again? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

Oral Questions

Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will admit that there are some fine lines between what decisions were made with the GNWT and what decisions will ultimately be the board of governors for Aurora College. So I will acknowledge the Member's frustration and that, but I'm happy to continue that conversation.

The phase two of the site assessment is now done. It is highly technical information that I'm going to be honest that is something that I need to be able to work with the experts within multiple departments in order to understand what is required so that I can make sure that I'm passing along accurate information to the Member. So phase two is now done. All partners involved in that being the Aurora College board, the city of Yellowknife, and also the GNWT, will ensure that everybody is receiving the same information so that we can ensure that we're working together to communicate that information.

I want to apologize to the Member for the delay in that but also want to ensure that we have accurate information that we are able to share publicly. Thank you.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

Oral Questions

Page 1250

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thanks, Mr. Speaker. I'll reiterate my question perhaps in a different way. If the environmental site assessment and all of the technical work shows that there is contamination and remediation needed on the site, will ECE terminate the MOU? Thank you.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

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Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, ultimately the decision of where the North Slave campus will go rests with the board of governors, so I would need to make sure that I'm getting direction from the board of governors as to whether or not they would like to hold on to that site or see that MOU go. But for right now, I don't have that information because that's not a decision that rests with the GNWT; it's a decision that ultimately rests with the board. Thank you.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

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Page 1250

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment . Final supplementary. Member from Great Slave .

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

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Page 1250

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Yes, but as I said in my Member's statement, the board then threw it back to you when I asked them the same question.

Many Yellowknifers believe there was inadequate public consultation, a flawed site options analysis for this location. Will ECE commit to adequate public consultation and a transparent site evaluation process? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you know, I hear the Member. I heard the Member's statement. I hear the Member's concerns of her constituents that she continues to raise. The intent of doing the site assessments was to determine whether or not the site was, even to begin, viable for a North Slave campus.

And so as always, there is a commitment to keep the public informed, to seek meaningful input on decisions that absolutely may affect residents of the Northwest Territories, and so I want to recognize and acknowledge that the Tin Can Hill is obviously a site that's very important to the residents of Yellowknife and the Northwest Territories and that should any further steps be taken beyond the -- or sorry, once the conclusion of the environmental site assessment and that information is made public, then for sure there would absolutely be public engagement that would occur.

I think it's worthwhile here, Mr. Speaker, informing this House and members of the public that while I have oversight over post-secondary, I do not have oversight over the operations of Aurora College. The board of governors does maintain that control. And while I -- it is my authority to open and close campuses on the recommendation of the board of governors, ultimately where within a community that piece of property resides is the authority of the board of governors. Thank you.

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Question 349-20(1): Aurora College Location

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Page 1250

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment . Oral questions. Member from Frame Lake .

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

Oral Questions

Page 1250

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of ITI . When we're looking at workforce planning for capital projects, what analysis are we employing to help us plan to ensure that we're maximizing northern employment? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1250

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Minister of Industry, Tourism, and Investment .

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Finance has a number of procurement practices, and the strongest one being the Business Incentive Policy that is used for procurement practices with all GNWT procurement. Thank you.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1250

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, respectfully, I'm asking about workforce planning, not necessarily procurement. When we're looking at workforce planning for capital projects, so planning out how this project is going to be implemented in such a way and what needs to be done to ensure that there is a workforce to implement the project, a northern workforce, what analysis are we employing to help us plan to ensure we're maximizing northern employment? Sorry to repeat the question, Mr. Speaker, but I just felt that the answer was speaking more to procurement than employment.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd say one of the strongest workforce planning documents and tools that we use within the Government of the Northwest Territories is our Skills 4 Success document. And that document has a -- it acts as kind of a Bible, if you will, of what jobs are and will be in demand over the course of the next 20 years in the Northwest Territories. So that document works by looking at, you know, what are the expected capital infrastructure happenings in the Northwest Territories and what skill sets are we going to need.

So that talks about positions of leadership, it talks about trades positions. It's identified 20 different trades positions that we will need. Thankfully, earlier today we were able to celebrate 33 new journeypersons in the Northwest Territories as well. In addition to that, we also have plans, like for example the revitalization of the Great Slave Lake fishery. So in addition to our Skills 4 Success, we also have very specific documents within different sectors and those documents have deliverables as well. So, for example ECE and ITI teamed up on that one.

ECE was able to offer subsidies, ITI was able to offer grants, and we were able to really work to make some great change in that sector over the last few years. And so there is a primary document but also very sector-specific ones as well. Thank you.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1250

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That's a much more comprehensive answer and more along the lines of what I was looking for.

Mr. Speaker, considering these plans that we have in place across sectors, why aren't we making more progress or increasing northern employment figures at the diamond mines, projects like Giant Mine, or even GNWT contracted projects? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1250

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I guess there's a couple different ways that I can answer this question. And I'm not trying to be evasive of the Member at all. I think there's a few different ways that we can kind of interpret these questions. But for within the example say of diamond mine, fly-in/fly-out work is not for everyone. I know over the course of the last two decades, a lot of people who started working in diamond mining aren't necessarily there. Some have chosen to return to employment in their communities or return to life at home. But certainly a fly-in/fly-out isn't for anyone -- or everyone.

One piece of good news is that a lot of the advanced project mining are on existing road infrastructure or around and centered around communities. So, for example Pine Point, people will be able to drive to mine sites. You know, we're looking at -- or hearing about -- good news about gold mining close to Yellowknife. We're hearing about a mining project close to Fort Simpson. And so that will really change the dynamic that currently exists at a lot of our bigger mines in the Northwest Territories.

Some work that is being done in order to improve some of our numbers in the Northwest Territories as well are looking at things like our curriculum renewal, making sure that we are focused on affording students the education that they want in order to meet our desire to see as many northerners employed in these projects and also working with organizations like the Mine Training Society and dev corps as well to make sure that it really is everybody working together at the end of the day to connect people to the training opportunities that do exist in the Northwest Territories.

We have a number of training programs and subsidies within the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, and we want to make sure ultimately that people are taking advantage of them because we really do want to see Northerners successful in the workforce. Thank you.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

Oral Questions

Page 1251

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ITI . Final supplementary. Member from Frame Lake .

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

Oral Questions

Page 1251

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate, again, the comprehensive answer from the Minister. I always appreciate these exchanges where we go back and forth like this and get these comprehensive answers on the table.

Regarding Pine Point, I'm glad she brought that one up because the Standing Committee on Economic and Development and Environment recently met with some representatives from Pine Point, and they were saying one of their big challenges is going to be finding employees to staff this mine, that we're simply not producing the numbers of trades people that they're going to need. So I guess what I would ask the Minister is how can we move the needle on this?

How can we ensure that we are preparing Northerners to enter the workforce, to shift into positions that are available in the workforce, so that we don't have this problem of creating economic activity that Northerners can't benefit from? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

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Page 1251

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'm very thankful for this question. I had the opportunity in June to travel with a number of deputy ministers down to the Pine Point mine site where we had an incredible tour of what was there before, what they envision being there tomorrow and years down the road. The good news here is that we've got a few years to put together the trades people that they need. One of the things that I asked them for on that tour was their workforce planning document of exactly what trades people that they will need so that we can make sure that we're supporting that in the Northwest Territories.

One of the key things that we need here, Mr. Speaker, is employers who can support trades people, so that is employers that can support our SNAP students. If you are a red seal journeyperson in the Northwest Territories and you can support a student whether you live in Yellowknife, and hopefully outside of Yellowknife as well, we need employers to be able to support these students so that we can grow more trades people. That is the number one thing I would say today that I need is the support of employers so that we can get more people trained up and through the system. Thank you.

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Question 350-20(1): Northern Employment

Oral Questions

Page 1251

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ITI . Colleagues, we've had three sets of question, and we spent 20 minutes on answers and

preamble. Please be succinct in your questions and succinct in your answers. Thank you very much.

Oral questions. Member from the Sahtu .

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

Oral Questions

Page 1251

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Further to my statement on the winter road preparations for this coming season in the Sahtu -- and I just remind the House it's an annual resupply. And so my first question to the Minister of Infrastructure , when can the Minister of Infrastructure be available to meet the project contractors/participants to engage in preparation discussions similar to last year? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

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Page 1251

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from the Sahtu . Minister of Infrastructure .

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

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Page 1251

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would expect -- I expect that the project officers in the department, officials there, are already doing that. They've certainly been expected to do that for some time. We know that there's going to be more traffic on those winter roads this season just as there was last season when there was less barges. With no barges, fully expecting that road to be busy. So those meetings are already underway. Mr.

Speaker, it was -- certainly, it was helpful for me to meet with some of those involved last year just to get a real picture of it, to have that opportunity, and I'm certainly happy to do that again and can work with the MLA for the region and for perhaps from the Nahendeh region since folks are coming through that area as well. We want to make sure we're maximizing everyone's ability to get as much through that winter road as possible. Thank you.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

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Page 1251

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thanks to the Minister for that reply. In addition to my statement of cargo and fuel and essential services going into the Sahtu, we've got another developer that's going to be coming there to the Sahtu to do some activity around the Colville Lake area. I'm not too sure if the Minister's aware of that, but that'll be additional traffic.

My next question: Will the Minister confirm this preseason/prejob meeting, if that can be held in Norman Wells? This will give us -- I plan to attend -- and other opportunities for other engagements. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

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Page 1251

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I can confirm on behalf of the department that someone's going to be there. There's no question that some senior representatives from the department can go. I want to just double check my own calendar. I've got commitments already to -- a couple of other regions where I've been waiting to get to. So certainly best efforts on my part. I'm always happy to go back. I've been to Norman Wells here a couple of times already in this government. Happy to go back. If I can't be there in person, I'll certainly make sure that I'm available in some other means.

But I also wouldn't want to delay having that in-person there in the region based on my calendar. So someone will be available to make sure we're there and, as I say, I'll make my best efforts. But it was a helpful meeting we had last year. Going to need to do more this year, and so I want to emphasize we all want to work together and have a task force that's moving this ahead. Thank you.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

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Page 1251

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thanks to the Minister for that willingness to participate. I feel comfortable already that we'll have a safe discussion.

My next question: Will the Minister support more resources as similar actions taken last year during our January discussion to ensure that we have a suitable, durable road surface for the heavy truck traffic? Mahsi.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

Oral Questions

Page 1251

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, absolutely we will have to prioritize that work again. Just by way of some example of what we did last year, we were widening the road that gave the ability for trucks to be going but also didn't impede smaller traffic with folks who may be doing their own personal resupply, had more signage, increased patrols, increased checkpoints, which was not only a safety issue; it helps increase the flow of traffic and make the flow of traffic better. And we've also had some increased maintenance, increased improvements. Again, everything we can do to keep the road in a state that people can continue to pass.

Mr. Speaker, that worked well last time. We had positive feedback. We'll take any constructive feedback on that as well if folks have it available so we can continue to make it even better this year. Thank you.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

Oral Questions

Page 1251

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

thank you, Minister of Infrastructure . Final supplementary. Member from the Sahtu .

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

Oral Questions

Page 1251

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thanks for the final supplementary. I feel very assured here. The winter before, it took our department and traffic to go five hours for 90 miles, 90 kilometers. So you can do the calculations on the speed limit. Last year was excellent.

My last question there, Mr. Speaker, is this industry is challenged by a shortage of drivers, particularly experienced winter road drivers. What act of measures or efforts the Department of Infrastructure is doing to support that industry? Thank you.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

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Page 1251

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This certainly is a challenge. It's a challenge across industry. But given the situation we're in, we are trying to bring in more licensed drivers. Some of that backlog, I will say, you know, a bit of a plug for folks who are looking to get their licenses as new drivers, if they want to take a driver's course first, that might reduce the number of repeat customers that we have over at the DMV. But with respect to those that are looking to be professional drivers, that's a different category.

They're struggling with the same issue in that we have the same limited number of people doing the licensing exams. I can say knowing what's coming, knowing the pressures that we're in for supply, we are opening up additional appointments here from the end of this month and into next month.

Doing that by ensuring that we're maximizing folks within our department with these skill sets and looking to bring to ensure that all of the positions are filled and try to do everything we can to fill those positions quickly so that we can address the existing backlog to get more drivers licensed and move supplies where we need to. Thank you.

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Question 351-20(1): Winter Road Preparations

Oral Questions

Page 1251

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Oral questions. Member from Yellowknife North .

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1251

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So my questions are for the Minister of Health and Social Services .

Based on the Minister's experience as a nurse, as a Regular MLA for four years sitting over on this side, and now as health Minister, can she confirm from her experience whether the problem exists, whether the problem of health care shift workers not being allowed to take the full leave that they're entitled to? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1251

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Member from Yellowknife North . Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, within the health care system, there are areas where health practitioners have to provide 24-hour care and within that health care system, those practitioners, nurses, you know, they fall under, you know, unionized employees and they are allotted time based on their years of service. So the longer employees have way more time. You know, and we've heard -- and I know we have -- there is an acknowledgement within the health authority that within that 24-hour care model that sometimes it's unfortunate but that not everybody can access all of their leaves due to operational requirements. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I think it's a great first start to just acknowledge that there's a problem. And understanding that the health authority is an independent authority, is the Minister aware of whether policies are being reviewed around when and how frontline staff can take leave, or will she request that those policies be reviewed? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, what I can commit and say that what has been committed to by the Stanton is that the policy that is within Stanton for leave is going to -- or is being reviewed currently. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

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Page 1252

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That's a good first start. Would the Minister agree that when someone applies for leave, there should be a deadline for either approving or denying that leave that gives reasonable notice for that person so that they might plan their leave? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, those employees that are unionized employees, they have -- you know, when they apply for leave, it is the expectation that as the employer that they do follow the collective agreement, so 18.02-2(2) does speak to that. And so it gives them two weeks to respond to any employee that puts in leave. And if there are scheduling needs that need to be done in this advance, that those employers notify the union and that those -- they still have to have a set date as to when leave is put in and they still have to follow a two-week, and they have to respond in writing and the reasons why if they're declined. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Final supplementary. Member from Yellowknife North .

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So will the Minister commit to ensuring that a plan is developed to enable health care staff to take all their leave, to address policies and planning procedures in the short term, and over the longer term, to address chronic understaffing? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do and I will and I have had communicated this to NTHSSA and to the other health authorities, you know, and so that way that we do have a plan in place and that, you know, when people can't get their leave, as many members said, that it does impact them. So thank you.

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Question 352-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Plan

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Minister of Health and Social Services . Oral questions. Member from Monfwi .

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when the swimming pool in Edzo burned down, there was insufficient insurance proceeds to rebuild the swimming pool. Due to newer building standards, the replacement costs, even when limited insurance, was something the community government could not afford. To make this matter worse, the insurance payout was less if you do not rebuild within three years. Therefore, I want to ask the Minister, can the Minister commit to trying to find funds for the Behchoko swimming pool? Thank you.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member for Monfwi . Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs .

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Vince McKay

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The territorial government supplies -- or sorry, funds communities through our community funding. It's up to the communities whether or not they want to utilize some of that funding for things like the pools -- or for, like, pools. However, the government doesn't build pools or operate pools for communities so it's up -- at the end of the day, it's up to the community whether or not they want to use their own revenues or go out to other sources of funding for building such facilities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Mr. Speaker, with the CPI cutbacks, it's not possible to do that so that's why I asked the Minister. So can the Minister work with other government or charities to fund our swimming pool? Thank you.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Vince McKay

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I know that the regional staff have worked with the community governments on their funding and how they can utilize it; however, at this time it's not our responsibility as a government to go out and look for funding for communities for infrastructure like this. If the government is looking for resources and assistance on maybe what funding could be available, I'm sure the department would be willing or working with the community to look for those funding sources. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Mr. Speaker, I'm sure this one he can do. He's got a lot of staff. There's a lot of staff that are out there. Can the Minister commit to supporting community governments in the Tlicho region for writing grants and planning swimming pool projects? There's a lot of staff out there, so I'm asking the Minister if he would commit. Thank you.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Vince McKay

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Municipal and Community Affairs, unfortunately, does not have a lot of staff. And I know that we do have staff available that could potentially assist with the community, so I think it's best if the community reaches out to the regional superintendent so that maybe resources could be found if we have them available. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs . Final supplementary. Member from Monfwi .

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Mr. Speaker, the territorial government hired the -- recently like 1,600 employees within the last few years. I'm sure those people can do something. They must be useful for something, to do something for the community. So I'm just asking the Minister in -- or I don't know who, or maybe for finance. But in the supplementary budget, is it possible to divert money for a swimming pool in the Tlicho region? Thank you.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Member from Monfwi , your questions were to the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs so I'm going to turn that question to him. Should you have another set of questions, you can reach it out to the finance Minister. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs .

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

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Page 1252

Vince McKay

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish I had all those employees. At the end of the day, I think we have to realize not all these employees are indeterminate full-time employees that are working -- you know, they're term employees. There's relief workers. So at the end of the day, we don't have those employees to assist with the community right now. Any other questions like that, I guess would have to go to the Minister of Finance . Thank you.

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Question 353-20(1): Behchoko Swimming Pool

Oral Questions

Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs . Member from Great Slave .

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

Oral Questions

Page 1252

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the opportunity to ask a second round of questions to the Minister of ECE . Will the Minister work with the board, the college board, to conduct a robust public consultation process for site selection? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Great Slave . Minister of Education, Culture and Employment .

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1252

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm always happy to respond to the board anytime they reach out to me. It would certainly depend on whether or not the board was welcoming of that but I will support the board any way that I can and any way that, you know, works well for us. But I certainly can't dictate to the board how they choose to do their operations. Thank you.

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1252

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister make the technical report she spoke of earlier today publicly available? There are members in the community who would like to review them. Thank you.

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1252

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I know that some form of report from the environmental site assessments will be made public, and I look forward to ensuring that I share that with the Member once it is out there.

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Page 1252

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can specifically the scientific reports be made publicly available? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will have to check in with the department that actually owns those reports. It is not ECE that owns those reports at the end of the day. Thank you.

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment . Final supplementary. Member from Great Slave .

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Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thanks, Mr. Speaker. I don't know how many ways to ask it, so I'll pass along.

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1252

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Member, could you please stand.

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Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Nothing further.

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Question 354-20(1): Aurora College Site Selection

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Page 1253

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Oral questions. Member from Range Lake .

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Question 355-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Concerns

Oral Questions

Page 1253

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the health care worker I spoke to about the recent round of engagements within the system the Minister's undertaking and the authority's undertaking said, quote: We don't need more opportunities for feedback. The reason health care workers don't feel heard is because there's never any real action or bold moves on the feedback we've given for years.

So I'd like to ask the Minister of health today, in these town halls that she's having with health care workers what is she hearing? Thank you.

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Question 355-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Concerns

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Page 1253

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Question 355-20(1): Healthcare Workforce Concerns

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Page 1253

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I, alongside with the CEO and the deputy minister as well as the COO of Stanton, had a town hall for Stanton staff so not -- we did not have one with the Yellowknife region as of yet which the primary care falls under. What we heard were a lot of operational issues. We also heard a lot of, you know, even just internal how, like, funding for different things within. We did hear leave, you know, and that's where the commitment was made to review the policy.

You know, there is a sense of frustration, and I acknowledge that, and so what we are taking away from that first town hall that we had with Stanton is to compile everything. The one thing that we'll do is that we will -- you know, it's now the Minister's office has heard from the staff, the department has heard from the staff, you know, I -- and we -- the CEO has heard from the staff, the COO has heard from the staff. So we are going to be following up back with looping that back to the staff as to where we are with following up.

Some of them were easy fixes and were committed to right on the fly during those meetings.

We'll continue to have those meetings throughout the territory. Some may say that they are -- they're not -- you know, that they're not the all and be all for everybody, but they are one voice where I'm able to hear what the concerns are as well as the CEO and as many people -- you know, as the Minister of Health and Social Services , the NTHSSA is the operations and they do have a governing council, and with that, I have to go work through and with the governing council in order to -- you know, to know what's going on and to the -- with the direction that they're giving.

So this is a better way for me to really hear, and in partnership to be able to work with them, in looping that information back around and providing me with areas where I can then be more holding them account to that. Thank you.

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