Debates of Oct. 22nd, 2025

This is page numbers 2821 - 2860 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 Or Reflection

Small Business Week 2025

Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

State of the Northwest Territories Economy

Fire at Nearby Unhoused Encampment

Gender-affirming Healthcare

Mackenzie Valley Highway Information Session

Closure of Aurora College Community Learning Centres

South Slave Regional Economic Development Plan

Retention of Medical Personnel

Breaking the Cycle of Dependence on Income Assistance

Resource Development in the Northwest Territories

Reconciliation and the Repatriation of Alma's Remains

2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit

Celebration of Life of Thomas “Tommy” Wilson

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Healthcare Staffing and Retention

Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Income Support Programming

Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

Support for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs in Small Communities

Policies and Programs to Support Residents of Unhoused Encampments

Healthcare Spending and Sustainability

Emergency Evacuation Relief Program Funding

Streamlining Liquor Licensing

2023 Wildfire Emergency Response After-Action Review Recommendation regarding Unified Incident Command System for Emergency Response

Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

Tabled Document 406-20(1): Prosper NWT Annual Report 2024-2025: 20 years of bringing greater prosperity to NWT businesses & communities

Tabled Document 407-20(1): Prosper NWT 2025-2026 Corporate Plan Priorities and Actions

Tabled Document 408-20(1): Prosper NWT Strategic Plan April 2025 to March 2029

Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Mr. Edjericon , 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 , Mrs. Yakeleya

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

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---Prayer or reflection

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Prayer Or Reflection

Prayer Or Reflection

Page 2821

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Please be seated. I'd like to thank elder Joe Otokiak for the opening prayer or reflections. Ministers' statements. Minister from ECE -- just joking -- ITI.

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Minister's Statement 153-20(1): Small Business Week 2025

Ministers' Statements

Page 2821

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Mr. Speaker, Happy Small Business Week. Let us recognize and celebrate the entrepreneurs who drive our economy and enrich our communities.

Small businesses are the backbone of the Northwest Territories. Whether it is recent graduates and newcomers bringing fresh ideas and technologies, Indigenous people keeping cultural traditions strong, or long-time Northerners sharing decades of experience, these businesses reflect the values, cultures, and aspirations of the people who live here.

Mr. Speaker, small businesses are woven into the fabric of everyday life in the North. They fix our furnaces, fly us to communities, and help us navigate our taxes. They provide health services that support elders, and they create spaces for fashion, food, and entertainment that reflect the diverse cultures and tastes found in the Northwest Territories. Their work touches every corner of our lives, from the essentials to the extraordinary.

The impact of small businesses goes far beyond economics. They create jobs, yes, but they also create identity. They bring innovation to our doorstep and build relationships that strengthen the social fabric of communities and regions.

Mr. Speaker, small businesses in the Northwest Territories have shown remarkable resilience. They have adapted to changing markets, embraced new technologies, and continued to serve their communities through challenging times. Their creativity and determination are a testament to the strength of Northerners.

As Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment , I am proud to oversee programs that help people overcome the costs of starting up, offer advice and guidance on growing their businesses, and provide support during crises that threaten their survival.

To ground our commitments in tangible action, the Government of the Northwest Territories offers several programs to support small businesses. These include the ITI's support for entrepreneurs and economic development programs, which provides funding for start-ups and expansions, loans, investments, and business services offered through Prosper NWT where we have strategically increased limits for eligible loans from $2 million to $5 million, and support for workforce development for employers that help them continue to grow the NWT's skilled workforce through education, culture and employment.

These initiatives help entrepreneurs move forward, whether it is accessing capital, finding mentorship, or navigating the challenges of building a business.

We are also helping businesses become future-ready with new technologies that build long-term resilience. This week, Prosper NWT is partnering with the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce to offer a cybersecurity session for small businesses. Other upcoming workshops take a deeper look at cybersecurity and explore the growing potential of AI.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all residents to take a moment this week to think about the goods and services they rely on every day, and to recognize the local businesses that make it all possible. Whether it is a warm meal, a repaired vehicle, a helping hand, or a funded sports team, small businesses are there for us.

Across the territory, communities are hosting events that showcase the creativity, resilience, and diversity of entrepreneurs. These celebrations are not just about business; they are about community, connection, and the everyday impact small businesses have on our lives.

Small businesses are here for us; let us be there for them. I challenge all of my colleagues to support a new-to-them NWT business this week in celebration of Small Business Week. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 153-20(1): Small Business Week 2025

Ministers' Statements

Page 2821

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ITI . Colleagues, before we go on to the next Minister statement, I would like to recognize a couple people up in our gallery - Lillian Elias and her grandson Charley Conley. Welcome to the Assembly. And you get to sit up there instead of translate for us. So welcome back here.

Now I will follow the script properly. I will turn to the Ministers' statements and have the Minister for Health and Social Services to start.

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Minister's Statement 154-20(1): Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

Ministers' Statements

Page 2821

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, health systems across Canada are facing serious and complex challenges. The Northwest Territories is not alone in this. Every province and territory is working to respond to the growing impacts of addictions, mental health needs, workforce shortages, and service gaps. That is why collaboration with other Canadian jurisdictions is essential.

I recently attended the inaugural meeting of the provincial and territorial Ministers responsible for mental health, addiction and recovery, held in Alberta. This was an important opportunity to share experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen our relationships across jurisdictions.

Ministers discussed the changing drug landscape, the urgent need to build system capacity, close service gaps, and support individuals with serious substance use and mental health issues. We also committed to continue working in partnership with Indigenous governments and Indigenous-led organizations to advocate for culturally appropriate services and federal funding that reflects the realities in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, Alberta is taking a whole-of-government approach to addiction recovery. Their work presents real opportunities to learn and explore how similar approaches can benefit residents in the Northwest Territories. The Department of Health and Social Services is reviewing what was shared with us, and we plan to continue conversations with Alberta on how we can continue to work together.

Mr. Speaker, beyond mental health and addictions, we know that there are benefits to closer collaboration with Alberta. Just last month, the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority implemented new diagnostic imaging technology that allows physicians in the Northwest Territories to instantly share CT scans, ultrasounds, and X-rays with Alberta Health Services through a secure QR code system. This system is currently used in urgent cases, such as stroke and trauma, where timely access to imaging is critical.

It supports faster consultation between jurisdictions, helping physicians make timely, informed decisions about patient care and transfers. It is a clear example of how interjurisdictional partnerships can improve outcomes for residents and strengthen our service model.

The department and the Health Authorities have been working towards formalizing several existing arrangements and partnerships with Alberta Health Services through a master services agreement. I will provide an update on our significant progress on this work later in this sitting.

The department is also working towards one with BC government and Acho Dene Koe senior officials about possible reciprocity agreements to support NWT residents to access care closer to home.

Mr. Speaker, I also participated in the federal-provincial-territorial health Ministers meeting last week in Calgary. Workforce challenges, mental health and substance use, and the importance of sustainable federal funding were key topics of discussion among Ministers. The Northwest Territories actively contributes to the national committee on health workforce, which is focused on improving how internationally educated health professionals are integrated into provincial and territorial health systems.

The committee is also working to streamline registration and licensing process to enhance labour mobility for physicians and nurses across Canada. At last week's meetings, I continued to advocate for the importance of sustainable and predictable funding that is also flexible enough to meet the unique needs of Northwest Territories residents.

With some bilateral agreements with Health Canada set to expire at the end of this fiscal year and next, and no current federal commitment for renewed funding, I joined my Ministerial colleagues in advocating to the Minister of Health Canada for a path forward that takes into account the unique circumstances of each jurisdiction. I also emphasized our readiness to collaborate further to ensure a fair and sustainable approach to this sunsetting funding.

Mr. Speaker, our participation in the national table is longstanding. Today, I have highlighted a few recent examples, and I want to emphasize that the Department of Health and Social Services continues to actively engage in federal-provincial-territorial discussions on a wide range of topics including: seniors, persons with disabilities, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Medical Assistance in Dying, nursing, emergency management, and patient safety. These forums help us stay informed on best practices, share knowledge, and identify opportunities for collaboration and partnership.

Our collaboration with other governments help us respond to the daily challenges faced by Northwest Territories residents and our health and social services system. We remain focused and committed to building a stronger, more responsive system; one that reflects the needs of Northerners and supports healthy people and communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 154-20(1): Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

Ministers' Statements

Page 2822

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Ministers' statements. Minister of Finance .

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Minister's Statement 154-20(1): Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

Ministers' Statements

Page 2822

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, as Canada's digital landscape continues to evolve, so too do the threats to critical infrastructure, government services, and personal information. Meeting these challenges requires a united approach. Cyber security is a shared responsibility, and our collective efforts are key to building a more secure future.

On September 22nd and 23rd, I had the honour of joining my colleagues at the federal-provincial-territorial Ministers' symposium on digital trust and cybersecurity in Kananaskis, Alberta. At this forum, we collectively recognized the increasing complexity of cyber threats and the urgent need for coordinated action. Together, all participating jurisdictions signed the Canadian Cyber security Collaboration Agreement, a landmark commitment to work together to protect Canadians and the information systems we rely on to deliver public services.

This agreement enables governments to share real-time threat intelligence, cyber security tools, and technical expertise. It also establishes mechanisms for mutual assistance and joint response to cyber incidents, helping each other prevent and mitigate the impact of cyber attacks on our critical infrastructure.

Mr. Speaker, this agreement is more than a document. It is a foundation for a pan-Canadian cyber security community. It reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding public services, supporting innovation, and ensuring the resilience of our systems and services in the face of evolving threats.

For the Northwest Territories, this collaboration is especially important. Our unique geographic, infrastructure and resource challenges require greater collaboration and through this agreement, we gain access to national expertise and resources that strengthen our local capacity.

I am proud that the Northwest Territories is a full signatory to this agreement. We will continue to work with our partners to build a secure, inclusive, and resilient digital future for the residents of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 154-20(1): Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

Ministers' Statements

Page 2822

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Ministers' statements. Minister of Finance .

Minister's Statement 155-20(1):

Strengthening Cybersecurity Through Collaboration Across Jurisdictions

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Minister's Statement 154-20(1): Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

Ministers' Statements

Page 2822

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, as Canada's digital landscape continues to evolve, so too do the threats to critical infrastructure, government services, and personal information. Meeting these challenges requires a united approach. Cyber security is a shared responsibility, and our collective efforts are key to building a more secure future.

On September 22 and 23, I had the honour of joining my colleagues at the federal-provincial-territorial Ministers' Symposium on Digital Trust and Cyber Security in Kananaskis, Alberta. At this forum, we collectively recognized the increasing complexity of cyber threats and the urgent need for coordinated action. Together, all participating jurisdictions signed the Canadian cyber security Collaboration Agreement, a landmark commitment to work together to protect Canadians and the information systems we rely on to deliver public services.

This agreement enables governments to share real-time threat intelligence, cyber security tools, and technical expertise. It also establishes mechanisms for mutual assistance and joint response to cyber incidents, helping each other prevent and mitigate the impact of cyber attacks on our critical infrastructure.

Mr. Speaker, this agreement is more than a document, rather, it is a foundation for a pan-Canadian cyber security community. It reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding public services, supporting innovation, and ensuring the resilience of our systems and services, in the face of evolving threats.

For the Northwest Territories, this collaboration is especially important. Our unique geographic, infrastructure and resource challenges require greater collaboration, and through this agreement, we gain access to national expertise and resources that strengthen our local capacity.

I am proud that the Northwest Territories is a full signatory to this agreement. We will continue to work with our partners to build a secure, inclusive, and resilient digital future for all residents of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 154-20(1): Strengthening Healthcare Through Provincial and Territorial Collaboration

Ministers' Statements

Page 2822

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Finance . Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Member's Statement 744-20(1): State of the Northwest Territories Economy

Members' Statements

Page 2822

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when I say the word economy, most people in the NWT think we're talking about mining, or some think economy is about where the money comes from. So, here, that's basically the government and how it spreads money and jobs around. But the word economy can also mean how wisely we manage the resources we have. It comes from a Greek word that means management of a household. I want us to get our territorial House in order and take better care of what we have.

The way things seem to have always worked up here since colonial governments were established is that now and then Ottawa throws a bunch of money our way for big infrastructure projects, and then once it's built, Ottawa moves on. No one figures out how much money will be needed for ongoing maintenance and repairs or who will pay when it needs to be replaced. That's how we've ended up with all these public housing units, built by the feds in the '70s and '80s, which are now falling apart, and a $300 million housing deficit. That's how we've ended up with all this aging power infrastructure that ratepayers can't afford to pay to replace, and highways in terrible shape.

Think of a household living hand-out to hand-out. You're always in crisis instead of taking careful steps to prevent things from breaking down. Instead of steadily working hard to take care of things within your control, you're more likely to wait passively for the day that you win the lottery meanwhile getting poorer and further into debt.

As a territory, we spend a lot of time either begging the feds for more handouts or spinning the roulette wheel for the next motherlode mine that's supposed to make the cash rain down again. Maybe some of us believe there's no other way. The most dangerous is when we believe there's no point in even planning ahead, that either God or the federal government or the global mining deities will always swoop in and save us.

Mr. Speaker, I don't have the secret path that will make us all wealthy, but we can at least save money and take back more control over our destiny. Before charging ahead to build more, more, more new things, we need to think carefully about how much those new things will cost to maintain and replace, and whether we'd be better off focusing our resources on taking care of what we've got. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 744-20(1): State of the Northwest Territories Economy

Members' Statements

Page 2822

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Member's Statement 745-20(1): Fire at Nearby Unhoused Encampment

Members' Statements

Page 2822

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm going to talk about a very serious subject here right now. If you didn't know, I'm going to tell you there was a fire on the encampment next to the museum, Mr. Speaker. This is a very serious matter, even coming from me, Mr. Speaker. I'm trying to remain the right approach because it's frustrating. Yesterday I was raising the issue -- I wanted, actually, Mr. Speaker, to even have an emergency debate on this particular issue but our rules won't allow this because I didn't have an hour's notice to give notice to this particular problem.

Mr. Speaker, in absence of that I want to start off by first saying I hope no one was hurt, sincerely, and I deeply mean that. I'm thankful for YKFD for being there on site. I'm thankful for MED for supporting them and the people following instructions. I certainly say this should give this darn House pause right now to say we need to do something and step up about this encampment problem.

Mr. Speaker, the fatigue is real. It's not just me. It's not the citizens of Yellowknife. It's across the world, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with no policy, inconsistent application, lack of support, support here, support there, it can put real lives in real danger. This is not a joke, Mr. Speaker. A serious urgency is before us, and I'm not sure how much louder I can be or how much I can say to draw this attention, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, yesterday I talked about the fact that we don't have a clear policy to follow a process. Mr. Speaker, I understand that. But no offence, I could come up with a policy, steal the one -- or technically liberate the one from Toronto or Vancouver or something like that. We could have one written over the weekend in place by Monday and say -- with a little footnote on the bottom saying we're doing something, and we're going to revisit this with our community partners to make sure we get it right. So in other words, show some action. Waiting to spring 2026 is incredibly unacceptable.

And I challenge the Minister, respectfully of course, but I challenge the Minister to say we can do this. And I know she can do this. She's got a smart policy shop over there. They could come up with something and it doesn't have to be complicated, Mr. Speaker. Because look, when I snuck out between the break late this morning, I could see the pile of propane tanks there. I saw the stove pipe from the tent just barrelling smoke. I thought there was an agreement, from what I heard, that they weren't supposed to have any fires.

Mr. Speaker, my fear is we've already had one encampment burn on the other side of the Legislative Assembly. We've had the second encampment burn that I'm aware of next to the museum. If that fire jumped, our territorial treasure would have been lost, Mr. Speaker, and who knows what else could have happened. The bottom line is we have a third encampment that I'm referring to downtown. Let's hope nothing serious happens. We need a policy, security, safet y, and help for everyone. We can do it today. Yes you can, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 745-20(1): Fire at Nearby Unhoused Encampment

Members' Statements

Page 2823

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Member's Statement 746-20(1): Gender-affirming Healthcare

Members' Statements

Page 2823

Kate Reid

Great Slave

I don't know how you follow that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Minister knows, I have a nonbinary constituent who has shared their experience in the media with the public health system as current guidelines cannot accommodate in a way that would address their gender-affirming care needs in a timely and safe way. This means that they are seeking life affirming treatment at their own expense in a jurisdiction that is not Alberta. This also means that the 2SLGBTQIAA+ community in Yellowknife raised nearly two-thirds of their surgery costs at a fundraising event two weeks ago. Although this is heartwarming, it should still not be normalized.

Mr. Speaker, I'm not going to debate with the Minister over my constituent's needs. We have done so over many months, and I have been told that this is how the guidelines for gender-affirming care are currently applied. To the Minister's credit, she has sat down with her staff and listened to the Northern Mosaic Network to speak to myriad systemic barriers in the NWT for trans and gender diverse folks. As a result of these conversations, there is a renewed connection and I am hopeful for positive outcomes of a working group convening in the new year to examine these guidelines together.

The network has also conducted a research project on their community's feedback on health care services with the University of Manitoba with a forthcoming report expected in November that I know the Minister will take the time to read and discuss with her staff.

Mr. Speaker, I know that as of right now the GNWT will not pay for gender-affirming procedures at private clinics when there are public options available. This was also an issue in the Yukon, but the Yukon chose to make regulatory changes in 2022, and now they are the most progressive and inclusive jurisdiction in all of Canada for folks seeking gender-affirming care.

Mr. Speaker, I know the Minister is willing to have her staff research and review the Yukon's experience and find lessons learned that are applicable to the NWT so that we can appropriately support folks needing gender-affirming care.

Let me be crystal clear. This is lifesaving care. We need to avoid the endless cycle of crowdsourcing funding for what should be publicly available. I will have questions at the appropriate time.

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Member's Statement 746-20(1): Gender-affirming Healthcare

Members' Statements

Page 2823

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Great Slave . Members' statements. Member from the Sahtu .

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Member's Statement 747-20(1): Mackenzie Valley Highway Information Session

Members' Statements

Page 2823

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the week prior, I participated in the Mackenzie Valley Highway promotional reception in Ottawa which was sponsored by the Department of Infrastructure and the Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated. The event was well attended by our Premier , Cabinet, Members of the Council of Leaders, Western Arctic MP Minister Alty, federal Ministers, and designated staff and other distinguished guests. The event was well attended and distinguished by its unique focus on infrastructure needs.

The federal government's directive on critical minerals and the advancement of nation building projects, Indigenous governments are included to participate in ownership, equity positions, partnerships. These are project fundamentals in previous.

Mr. Speaker, in previous on history, the Fort Good Hope joint venture of 1987, which was a first of its kind prior to the Sahtu land claims settlement. Industry and Indigenous community equity participation critical to the meaningful of that JV.

It is further unique in its groundbreaking economic pathway. This venture included co-management and administrative structure. One could argue that Bill C5 of today's pertains to the expedited regulatory approval process through a then direct rights issuance.

Mr. Speaker, Sahtu Incorporated has made substantial progress recently. Number one, a motion supporting a private sector partnership. Mr. Speaker, these discussions included an MVH project financial model. We now have project scope, budget, and schedule.

Without further delays or extensions, the Sahtu region are of the said statement by our government, construction of the Mackenzie Valley Highway begins 2027. Similarly, this

schedule was discussed and tabled during the SSI GNWT MOU steering committee. I invite the GNWT to this partnership with the federal government expectations of one --

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Member's Statement 747-20(1): Mackenzie Valley Highway Information Session

Members' Statements

Page 2823

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

-- Member from the Sahtu , your time is up. Members' statements. Member from Mackenzie Delta .

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Member's Statement 748-20(1): Closure of Aurora College Community Learning Centres

Members' Statements

Page 2823

George Nerysoo

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to address the closures of the community learning centres and the infrastructures that remain within these communities.

The sudden closures of the community learning centres have had a negative impact on the employees, the communities as a whole, and especially the potential students who are trying to better themselves for a secure future. But today I would like to inquire about the infrastructure within most, if not all our smaller communities.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment has put out two community organizations that if they had a plan for the infrastructures, they could submit a letter of interest. I had two communities within the Mackenzie Delta riding that expressed interest for the use of these buildings. I do not know how many organizations within the affected communities expressed interest for the use of these buildings. It is my hope that the department gave any interested communities, organizations, the opportunity to use these buildings for community capacity.

Mr. Speaker, in my riding of Mackenzie Delta, the interest spans from community health centre to replace an aging infrastructure to utilizing the building for local government office and also for the use of disbursement centre for the Canada food bank program to benefit the community and its residents. These buildings could and should be used for the benefit of the affected communities and its residents.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is my hope that each of the community organizations that expressed interest for the use of these buildings were given the opportunity or even had a chance to consult with the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment . Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will have questions for the Minister of ECE at the appropriate time.

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Member's Statement 748-20(1): Closure of Aurora College Community Learning Centres

Members' Statements

Page 2823

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Mackenzie Delta . Members' statements. Member from the Deh Cho .

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Member's Statement 749-20(1): South Slave Regional Economic Development Plan

Members' Statements

Page 2823

Sheryl Yakeleya

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Many small businesses and entrepreneurs in the Deh Cho region are working hard to build resilient community-driven economies. These businesses are the backbone of our communities, yet they continue to face significant challenges that require urgent attention and support from the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment. The South Slave Region Economic Development Plan was tabled in this House in 2023, and it highlights many issues that continue to be prevalent in communities in the Deh Cho riding. These include limited access to skilled workers, high costs of doing business, regulatory barriers, and a lack of infrastructure and housing.

Small businesses in my riding struggle with many challenges, including access to capital, reliable internet, and affordable childcare. Factors that directly impact their ability to grow and hire locally.

Mr. Speaker, the plan emphasizes the need to foster an entrepreneurial culture and create environments that support business development. In the Deh Cho, we have untapped potential in tourism, arts and culture, agriculture, and renewable energy, to name a few, but without targeted investment and support, these opportunities remain out of reach for many.

The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment must prioritize small business development in the Deh Cho by expanding access to funding and programs under its mandate. We need to reduce regulatory burdens, improve infrastructure, and ensure that Indigenous governments and entrepreneurs are full partners in economic development.

Mr. Speaker, our small businesses are not just economic drivers; they are community builders. It is our responsibility to give them the tools they need to thrive. So I'm happy to hear the Minister say let us be there for them. I will have questions for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment at the appropriate time. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 749-20(1): South Slave Regional Economic Development Plan

Members' Statements

Page 2824

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from the Deh Cho . Members' statements. Member from Range Lake .

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Member's Statement 750-20(1): Retention of Medical Personnel

Members' Statements

Page 2824

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Mr. Speaker, if our economy needs a red alert, well, our health care system, it needs a blue alert, Mr. Speaker. It's an exceptional state of affairs here in the North where we need both a public administrator and a health care sustainability unit who have been working for a year with little to show for it, seemingly, at least to my constituents and patients and nurses and doctors in my riding.

Extraordinary times have called for extraordinary measures, but while we continue to expect this government to take decisive action, the action they must take to connect Northerners to the health care they need, despite this the Minister has taken these actions, we've had the Premier take actions as well, but patients are still waiting for change. A core function of primary care is to connect Northerners to their appointments and ensure they have necessary lab work for their nurses and doctors, but we still can't seem to make this system work.

My constituents continue to wait months for follow-up and can't even get into the clinic when they need an appointment, they can't secure lab tests, and it's not just my constituents; we've heard it just days ago in this House, Mr. Speaker. Instead, this inaction means frontline staff at Stanton's emergency room become their doctors or their primary care doctors. And they have no other service to turn to; that's where people go. And without scheduled appointments, they often arrive in the ER in poorer health. This puts patients at serious risk as the ER's ability to provide care depends on fluctuating demand.

And that demand is rising.

Mr. Speaker, next year the public administrator will provide an update on his work plan. But where have the updates been since then? We simply do not know what progress has been made on his four priorities. Some Northerners are even wondering where he has been public administrating from because they don't see very much of him, Mr. Speaker. Meanwhile, frontline staff continue to tell us the same thing. To deliver the care Northerners need, we must recruit more frontline staff.

Mr. Speaker, the health care crisis is still on going. One of the things we have seen improved that we can point to is the doctor shift bidding scheme that took place to keep the ERs open. Turns out, if you pay doctors more they show up for your health care system. Mr. Speaker, the solution's already there. We don't need any more studies, we don't need any more action plans. We need to pay our health care professionals more to keep them providing the care that Northerners need. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 750-20(1): Retention of Medical Personnel

Members' Statements

Page 2824

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Members' statements. Member from Monfwi .

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Member's Statement 751-20(1): Breaking the Cycle of Dependence on Income Assistance

Members' Statements

Page 2824

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Breaking the cycle of dependency on income assistance. Today I want to talk about a troubling issue facing many residents in our communities, the unintended consequences of the GNWT income assistance program.

Mr. Speaker, the reality is that income assistance, while essential for many, can sometimes lead to unintended dependence rather than encouraging self-sufficiency. While many individuals in these situations are eager to improve their circumstances, the current system often creates barriers to progress. When someone takes steps towards employment or education, they risk losing the support they depend on. This discourages initiative and creates a cycle where fear of losing benefits leads to inaction -- this is also same for the housing -- ultimately, re-enforcing dependency.

A review of income assistance beneficiaries in Tlicho region shows a marked increase. In 2021, there were 365 beneficiaries. 2022, 416 beneficiaries. And 2023, this number went up to 483 beneficiaries. These numbers show a growing reliance on this program. Now with the threat of the closure of the diamond mine, most likely these numbers will increase.

Mr. Speaker, I want to be clear. This is not a failure of the people. It is a failure of the system. Mr. Speaker, we must shift our approach so that income assistance recipients are motivated to transition off the program. As it stands today, the structure of the income assistance program discourages initiatives and punishes progress.

Mr. Speaker, we cannot expect individuals to break free from dependency if we do not provide them with pathways to independence. We must reimagine and reshape the income assistance program to function as a bridge, not as a trap. Mr. Speaker, can I have unanimous consent to conclude my statement?

---Unanimous consent granted

Mr. Speaker, we need to invest in community learning and redesign the income assistance program to reward progress, not penalize it. If we empower people with the tools to succeed, they will. Let's build a system that lifts people up, foster independence, and strengthen our communities. I will have questions for the Minister of education at appropriate time. Thank you.

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Member's Statement 751-20(1): Breaking the Cycle of Dependence on Income Assistance

Members' Statements

Page 2824

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Member's Statement 752-20(1): Resource Development in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 2824

Denny Rodgers

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will speak a little today on the economy as well.

Mr. Speaker, we're coming into our fall session, concluding our fall session going into winter where we'll be getting into our budget negotiations again. And we've heard loud and clear from all my colleagues in this house, both on Cabinet and both on the Regular MLAs, I'm sure, that we need infrastructure, we need programs. You know, but what we need, Mr. Speaker, to do this, to accomplish this is revenue, and revenue is what we don't have. I empathize with the Minister of Finance .

I know her job is -- must be super difficult given the fact that she has to find ways to get this infrastructure built and get these programs certainly where they need to be for all our residents with a limited amount of funding.

We have natural resources, Mr. Speaker. We have opportunities. What we need to do is think outside the box. We have, as I've said in this House many times, there's 19 trillion cubic feet of natural gas just waiting to be developed in the Beaufort Delta. There are other resources throughout the territories. We are, again, resource rich and cash poor.

Mr. Speaker, I know we have an envoy office in Ottawa. I've had an opportunity during the Council of Leaders to speak with the staff member down there and, you know, I am certainly in full support of having that office there. I think there is a reason to have that office down there. But I think we need as a government to ensure that we're utilizing that space, that we're making sure that what that office is accomplishing is accomplishing our connection to the federal government and continue those dialogues and that lobbying.

Mr. Speaker, you hear -- if you listen to the House of Commons, which some of us tune in to, you've got leader of the opposition, you know, looking to discontinue production caps on oil, to look at the shipping bans. Our government and our country is, again, looking to resources to make sure that we are able to maintain the revenue we need to, you know, continue to grow. And if we continue to fight over the little revenue we have, it seems like -- again, I've said it before, the only industry growing, Mr. Speaker, in our territory is the government.

And that's fine if with that growth you have the revenue to offset it and your services and your programs and your infrastructure is being increased because of that, Mr. Speaker. So I encourage, again, I'll have questions for the Premier . We've talked before about the potential of setting up committees where Regular Members can be involved in their regions to look at kind of assisting with some of this lobby work on major projects. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to continue my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, again, I mean, there are certain Members that have experience in previous positions that have worked on lobby efforts or worked on specific projects in their regions, either with Indigenous governments or with other organizations. And I think it's time that, again, as part of our consensus government we look at doing that. We look at whether it's the Mackenzie Valley Highway, whether it's the Slave Geological or other major projects that we're working on, that we do actually work as teams and ensure that we're utilizing the office we have in Ottawa and that we are, indeed, lobbying on behalf of all residents. Thank you.

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Member's Statement 752-20(1): Resource Development in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 2825

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Inuvik Boot Lake . Members' statements. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Member's Statement 753-20(1): Reconciliation and the Repatriation of Alma's Remains

Members' Statements

Page 2825

Richard Edjericon

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Mr. Speaker, yesterday I returned from Fort Smith where I attended a service to bring baby Alma home to her mother at long last. I am pleased to inform the House that the work to retain her remains from the cemetery in Fort Resolution where she passed away at residential school over 80 years ago is now complete. The wishes of Alma's mother had been honoured, and now they rest together. For Alma's family, we have restored fundamental human rights that have been denied to our communities for so long that the right to lay our loved ones to rest according to our own wishes and traditions.

That right must now be extended to families across the North. Not all families will want to repatriate their remains of their loved ones, but the important thing is that they are provided with that choice. These rights are clearly outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission calls to act. But this work remains complex because so many of the laws that were inherited from the federal government in Canada are hopelessly outdated. These outdated policies created many barriers along the way.

But through all the frustrations, Alma's 80-year-old sister Delphine never lost hope. Her unwavering perseverance and the determination of the Deninu Kue First Nation was deeply inspiring. They helped me stand strong and stand by my community no matter what. At the end, with the Premier 's support, we got on the right track just in time. And I thank him for his work. But there's so much work to do.

One thing this process has shown me is that amending outdated laws isn't enough. We need clear and new legislation to assure families have this choice. I'm ready to get to work so the North can lead the country in meaningful action of reconciliation. And later today, I will have questions for the Premier about how can we keep this momentum going. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 753-20(1): Reconciliation and the Repatriation of Alma's Remains

Members' Statements

Page 2825

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Members' statements. Member from Frame Lake .

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Member's Statement 754-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit

Members' Statements

Page 2825

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the GNWT issued a press release today highlighting release of the 2025 Northwest Territories environmental audit, celebrating notable progress over the past five years since the 2020 audit was released. Certainly, I think there have been some positive improvements, and I join the department in celebrating those, however, I also want to note that while identifying some areas of success, the audit team found consistent themes with the previous 2020 audit, including:

Insufficient capacity and inadequate resources to participate in the co-management system;

Insufficient regulatory processes to address social, cultural, and economic concerns;

Industry concern with duplicative, costly approval processes for small scale exploration; and,

Continued challenges associated with resource management in regions without settled land claims.

Mr. Speaker, the audit team found that there was an adequate response to 8 out of the 40 recommendations made in the 2020 audit report, with 17 partially implemented and 15 outstanding. Of these, the audit team determined 19 recommendations are still applicable and carried them forward.

So, Mr. Speaker, I think it's clear there's been some good progress. As I noted yesterday, I am pleased the targeted amendments to the waters regs are proceeding, and I'm pleased to hear about the initiative to establish a one-stop shop for regulatory permits. It's great to see government being responsive to these issues. That said, I think we now need to focus on how we can move as quickly as possible in addressing outstanding or partially implemented recommendations.

Mr. Speaker, yesterday, I was casually chatting with our strategic infrastructure Minister, and it quickly became apparent to me that we didn't have a good mutual understanding of what really even needs to be fixed and addressed despite having a recent report published by committee and now this newly released environmental audit. I think the outstanding recommendations of the audit are certainly a good place to start.

But I think we also need to look at which of these recommendations have the highest potential to positively impact functioning of the system and set implementation priorities with timelines to get them addressed so we know exactly what we're working on and how to focus that work so we can be most effective. I encourage the relevant Ministers to put their heads together and get this priority list together quickly and would welcome reviewing it at committee. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 754-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit

Members' Statements

Page 2825

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Members' statements.

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Member's Statement 755-20(1): Celebration of Life of Thomas “Tommy” Wilson

Members' Statements

Page 2825

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Colleagues, it is with deep love and heavy hearts that I regret to inform you the passing of Thomas "Tommy" Wilson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend. Tom passed away peacefully on June 14th, 2025, in Fort Simpson, NT, with his loving wife by his side.

Born in Montreal, January 16, 1943, Tom was the eldest of three siblings, a proud big brother to Mary and Debby. Tom and his family lived in many towns across eastern Canada. What a lot of people did not know, Tom was an athlete. His favourite sport was rugby, which his oldest granddaughter Reese has taking on his love of the sport. She is playing NCAA division rugby for the Queens University of Charlotte.

The other sport he liked was softball. I remember the young guns asking him to come out of retirement to play with them as their pitcher. This gave him the opportunity to play ball with two of his children. To make a long story, short, thanks to his pitching and coaching the "Young Guns" beat the Midnight Rangers in the final. As a member of the losing team, I was very impressed with him and how he helped the younger players.

Tom attended teacher's college in New Brunswick, where he met lifelong friends Jim and Joan Weaver, who all made their way up North to start their teaching careers. They seem to follow each other across the North.

Before finding his enduring love with his wife, Oragalee, he had two other daughters from a previous marriage. After his separation, he met Oragalee in Broughton Island with whom he had two other children, Mandy and TG. Soon after the children were born, they moved to Fort Simpson in 1980 where they built a home and became an integral part of the community.

Tom was a devoted teacher and an active volunteer serving in the Lions Club, Senior's Society, the village office, or village council, and various community projects. He taught in the high school, middle school, and elementary school. He taught many generations of students including his own children and my children. He retired in Fort Simpson after teaching.

His many years teaching students and countless hours volunteering gave him such pride. Tom was deeply woven into the fabric of Fort Simpson life. He was always looking for a way to help improve the community. One of the highlights with him was implementing an instrumental member in fundraising for the rec centre in Fort Simpson. It was for our youth he would always about his volunteering.

About two years upon moving to Fort Simpson, I had the opportunity to discuss the opportunity to start tv bingo in the community. Tom was very excited about this idea. It was one that would help fundraise for sports in the community but more importantly give Oragalee and his friends something to do on a Thursday night. Once the idea was set in place, Tom took on the role as the organizer of the bingo night and he was always there to help groups out. To this day, TV bingo has changed to radio bingo, but it is still offered weekly in the community.

I had the opportunity to see him in action as a volunteer and a member of the village council where he served for many years as councillor, deputy mayor, and mayor. In 2016, he received the NWTAC long-term service award for serving on the council of the village of Fort Simpson committee for 27 years and for being a past board member of the board.

Above all, Tom's greatest legacy is the love he shared with his children, grandchildren, and especially his wife. Their bond was the kind that made bingo nights sacred and driving around town memorable.

The family would like to thank the Fort Simpson long-term care facility, their staff, and the community of Fort Simpson during their difficult time. Tom was predeceased by his parents Alice and George Wilson. He is survived by his wife Oragalee, his children Mandy, TG, Lynn and Ceporah, grandchildren Noah, Reese, Eli and Charlie, his sisters Mary and Debby, and many, many extended family and friends across the North. He will be sadly missed.

Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from Mackenzie Delta .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 2826

George Nerysoo

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too would like to recognize Lillian Elias. Lillian is the interpreter for the Legislative Assembly and provides an excellent service to the Legislative Assembly and to the Inuvialuit, and she also is a good friend of mine, and I would like to just welcome her to the Assembly.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from the Sahtu .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 2826

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too would like to recognize translator Lillian Elias. It was always cheerful to see her smiley face in the last couple Assemblies. She will be greatly missed. Mahsi.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from the Sahtu . Recognition of visitors in the gallery.

If we missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to your chambers. I'd like to thank you for much for allowing the 19 of us to represent the people of the Northwest Territories. I hope you are enjoying the proceedings. It is always nice to see people from the gallery.

Acknowledgements. Oral questions. Member from Frame Lake .

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Environment and Climate Change . Mr. Speaker, just following from my statement, has the Minister considered developing a priority list for actioning outstanding environmental audit recommendations? Thank you.

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Minister of ECC .

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Jay MacDonald

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, at this time there's no essential prioritization of the items from the audit. Many of the items identified in the audit, as well as the outstanding items from 2020, are quite crosscutting and involve a number of partners that really don't all have the ability to participate at the same level. So as a department, we are certainly committed to the recommendations.

And within the audit report in tab D I believe, it does lay out our commitments to those recommendations as well as lays out specific timelines and whether we are fully committed and fully agree with the recommendations of the audit or if we are in partial agreement and, again, what those timelines and commitments look like. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Certainly, I appreciate that response. However, I think that there's probably some areas where GNWT does have full control over. Even if areas don't have full control, setting them as a priority and saying that we want to get this one done quickly helps us communicate with our various partners as to why we're moving on something quickly. So I would just push back to the Minister. I think it may be helpful to establish a priority list, and it will help us move these things from things that we're working on to things that we have done.

So can I just ask the Minister to maybe consider sitting down with the relevant Ministers to establish a priority list based on our needs. Thank you.

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Jay MacDonald

Thebacha

Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you know, I appreciate the position of the Member, and I think it's a really good point to raise. Many of the recommendations, you know, the work that's done on a lot of these are ongoing over long periods of time and have other contributing factors that sort of, you know, impact our ability to sometimes complete within the window of the audit, so within that five-year window, and they may be continually ongoing through time.

Certainly, I see a lot of value in, you know, as you say what we have total control over as the GNWT, you know, in providing a little bit more focus. And I will certainly have that conversation with the staff at ECC. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I appreciate that commitment from the Minister, and I think that this is certainly something we could discuss at committee as well. And I don't think I have a follow-up question. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, sorry.

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Question 823-20(1): 2025 Northwest Territories Environmental Audit Report Recommendations

Oral Questions

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Members, please make sure you have questions, not commentary. Thank you.

Oral questions. Member from Range Lake .

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in order to keep the emergency room doors from closing, a shift bidding process was brought forward by the health authority, which was very successful, and we were able to recruit the locum doctors we needed to prevent that from happening. At the time, it was said this process would be retired but it would inform future decisions. Can the Minister relay to the House how this successful strategy will change staffing retention and recruitment in the future for NTHSSA? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

Oral Questions

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

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Page 2826

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the health authority, alongside with the physicians, came up with a solution to deal with the vacancies that were in the summer. Right now we're continuing on to -- I think look forward to the intraspace bargaining with the physicians as part of ways to work with our recruitment. I know that at this time we are looking at possibly this -- you know, to utilize this in times when we see areas of high needs. And so that is -- since the successful over the summer, we will look at it possibly if that situation comes up for -- or if we start to notice that we're seeing more vacancies for our Christmas and next summer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

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Page 2826

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, that seems to be a change in plan. So I must be mistaken in that this was going to be abandoned and they were going to move to a more sustainable model of staffing. So what is the plan for -- not for doctors but for nurses and the allied medical professionals who work in the ERs? Because they need to be compensated as well. They're working very hard, and they're as frustrated with their working conditions as any doctor. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

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Page 2826

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the physicians are contracted to the NTHSSA through their own bargaining process, the nurses and other allied health professionals, they do their bargaining through the collective agreement currently. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

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Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

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Page 2826

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Thank you. So it sounds like the Minister is saying that because of that collective agreement, we can't offer any kind of labour market supplement or wage -- or shift premium or something like that. What options does the Minister have available to her that she could work with the union to bring this forward? It must be possible because we've been having these discussions about health care. We saw what happened during COVID. We have a Private Member's bill that we've been debating as well. Clearly, this is an issue that needs to get fixed. We need to compensate nurses. When's the Minister going to do it? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

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Page 2826

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we just agreed on a new collective agreement which increased more than nurses -- it increased all the nurses -- sorry, labour market supplement. It increased social workers. It added other health care providers in this collective agreement. So we have done that. Finance and the NTHSSA, through bargaining, did increase all those labour market supplements. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 824-20(1): Healthcare Staffing and Retention

Oral Questions

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions will be directed to the Minister of ECC with respect to encampments. There was a press release -- I'll get everyone to go to the Wiki page to find out who he is. He doesn't get a lot of questions here. So I want to see him rise here; I know he'll do a good job.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

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Page 2826

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Good point, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there was a press release on May 25th of this year, talked about encampments, basically there they are, talked about inspections. I want to know what ECC is doing about inspecting these encampments to make sure they comply as the rules, such as the safety, proper use of public lands, complying with fire and waste safe guidelines. That falls under his purview and stewardship. Thank you.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2826

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Minister of ECC .

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2826

Jay MacDonald

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Department of ECC does have officers that will do paroles to ensure that when requested that if there's a site that specifically has a potential issue and they're asked to do an inspection, they will gladly go and do that inspection. If there are issues that seem to be evident at the site, they will attempt to work with the folks that are there and resolve those and, if required, there are other legal avenues that could be pursued to come to a resolution. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

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Page 2827

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with respect to inspections, it sounds like they don't happen, or they may happen sparsely. We've now had two encampment problems that had serious fires, and recently, as I pointed out, even today I saw piles of propane tanks. What does it take to have daily inspections from this department to ensure that they're safe on public lands, to make sure that they meet the guidelines highlighted in the press release on May 25th? Thank you.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Jay MacDonald

Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, so the encampments within the boundaries of the city are also partially a responsibility of the city, and there are certain bylaws that happen within the city that are relevant to the city that would need to also be adhered to. Environment and Climate Change officers look specifically to the areas in which are under our purview. And certainly these periodic inspections are just that, they're periodic, and it's not the intent of the department to be doing daily inspections to a point where it's harassment type of activity. So, you know, we engage when required and try and ensure that, you know, we're doing that in a respectful manner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ECC . Final supplementary. Member from Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I believe I've sent this Minister directly concerns under his justice portfolio hat of the encampment downtown and causing concerns. There's even pictures out there of piles of jerry cans sitting there. Mr. Speaker, what does it take for this Minister to get over there and inspect these encampments? If we're going to allow them to happen, to ensure that they're safe so that no one dies in this situation. Because that's the last thing we want, and it'll be such an impossible situation to take back. Thank you.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Jay MacDonald

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the direct inspections and addressing of these things are done by the officers on the ground who have a mandate to do such work. As Minister of Justice , it's not my mandate. I certainly do have regular conversations with the folks at justice, you know, to ensure that we are considering these, but, once again, those things fall directly under the specific agency or department that have the mandate to enforce that, and I do not directly involve myself with the enforcement part of that work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 825-20(1): Environmental Regulations Applicable to Unhoused Encampments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ECC . Oral questions. Member from Great Slave .

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this summer the Minister committed to reviewing the Yukon government's model for gender-affirming care navigation services and exploring options for similar system navigation supports for trans and gender diverse clients here in the NWT. Can the Minister provide me with an update on that work or an estimated time of completion? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, yes, this summer I did have the opportunity to sit down and meet with the Northern Mosaic Network. The work to explore gender-affirming care navigation support is underway, and it's being approached collaboratively with the Northern Mosaic Network. This work involves multiple areas, including policy, clinical operations, patient services, and financial planning. The Northern Mosaic Network is interested in working with us on this initiative, and they are in the process of setting up a multi-sectoral working group that will include government and health representatives.

Initial discussions have taken place and information being shared to help support the group's development.

Before moving forward, we need to look at what we already know, learn from other jurisdictions, assess our current services and future goals. This will help us to ensure any supports we develop are effective and sustainable. And we are committed to continuing this partnership. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

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Page 2827

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you to the Minister for continuing that good work.

Mr. Speaker, in 2022, the Yukon government worked through regulatory changes to their health care insurance plan act that allowed them to provide expanded care to private clinics for gender Yukoners -- Yukonits? Can the Minister tell me if her staff, or the health sustainability unit staff, are able to provide insights and an analysis as to whether gender affirming services that are in line with the Yukon's services could be considered core and/or insured services. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yes, we are aware of the changes that have been done in Yukon, and Yukon's approach is unique and reflects its own priorities but it's helpful for us to look at. At this time, I'm not aware that the health sustainability unit is actively reviewing the Yukon model, but it's something that we can, you know, explore in the future. I know that they are reviewing the out of territory services, so we'll certainly look at what other jurisdictions are doing, including Yukon, to see what lessons we can learn from them, and this will be done in partnership with the Northern Mosaic Network. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Final supplementary. Member from Great Slave .

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, again, as the Minister has mentioned, she sat down with the Northern Mosaic Network this past July, and at that time they requested that the Minister and the GNWT provide formal recognition that trans health is a priority and visible action to back that up at all levels from policy to frontline care. Would the Minister care to comment on this request at this time?

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, ensuring access to quality, equitable care is one of my highest priorities. We know that the system still faces challenges in delivering that care, and improving access remains a key focus for myself, as Minister, including for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people. We're taking meaningful steps to strengthen our system and eliminate barriers residents face while trying to access the care that they need, and we are committed to working in partnership with the Northern Mosaic Network group to ensure that this is done thoughtfully and inclusively. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 826-20(1): Gender-Affirming Care Navigation Support

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Oral questions. Member from Yellowknife North .

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have questions today for the Minister of Finance . As the government has committed to bring forward legislation by fall of 2026 regarding phase 2 changes to the Public Service Act, specifically addressing

section 41 and the right to freedom of association, can the Minister tell us what kind of public engagement on this initiative is planned for the coming winter? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife North . Minister of Finance .

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

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Page 2827

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the very first step which is happening as early as next week, is to engage in bargaining -- with bargaining partners which is to say the unions so that they are fully aware and involved in the path that we may choose. As I am noting, that starts next week with the Public Service Alliance of Canada and the Union of Northern Workers and then the teachers' association thereafter. And, Mr. Speaker, we'd be scoping out some opportunity for public engagement thereafter but still noting that there was a commitment here to have a legislative proposal ready to roll for the Assembly early in the winter. So that will have to all happen fairly quickly. Thank you.

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So will the government only be reaching out to identified stakeholder organizations to meet privately, or will there be a wider call for public input or perhaps public meetings to be held? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there is going to be the Have Your Say website that is available, and folks are hopefully familiar with that tool. It is used across the GNWT. That will be coming out this calendar year. So certainly will send that to my colleagues and hopefully get the word out to the public that that's happening and certainly would want to encourage anyone who's interested. Traditionally, Mr.

Speaker, this would be a piece of legislation that because it focuses on the public service and is a tool related to the public service wouldn't have necessarily gone through as extensive of a public engagement. We, of course, have the benefit of having gone through some public engagement related to that but would encourage anyone that would still like to participate in this particular process to be looking for it this year. Thank you.

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Finance . Final supplementary. Member from Yellowknife North .

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2827

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So given that there's already been substantial public input on this topic received by the Standing Committee on Government Operations as part of its review of Bill 26 , in order to avoid asking people to engage over and over again on the same topic and risk consultation fatigue, will the Minister ensure that staff review the complete public record from the review of Bill 26 to include those materials as they develop the legislation? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, Mr. Speaker, I do appreciate the comment. I do think that over-engagement is something that does tend to happen and can happen and can detrimentally affect the outcome that we want. So, Mr. Speaker, I'm happy to say that I will direct to ensure that the staff working on this treat the information that was received during the public process the same as they would information that we would receive during a government-led process. There will be no two tiering of it. I can also assure the Member and the House that they've already been watching.

I have frequently heard from them as the process was going through that they were already watching and hearing what was happening so, but certainly that'll -- again, as I say, information will not be treated differently. Thank you.

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Question 827-20(1): Engagement on Forthcoming Public Service Act Amendments

Oral Questions

Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Oral questions. Member from Monfwi .

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in July 2024 the government announced improvement to the income assistance program that resulted in increased benefit levels and income exemptions and reduced barriers to accessing the program. What step is the department taking to align income support with employment and training programs so that recipients are encouraged, not penalized, for pursuing work or education? Thank you.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

Oral Questions

Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Minister of ECE .

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the biggest change that occurred with the changes that were made in regard to income assistance, in regards to pathways to employment, was the ability of residents who are on income assistance to keep an increased amount of earned income, so that's -- they've increased it to $500 per adult plus 25 percent of income over that. And so what that does is it provides people a grace period to re-enter enter the workforce where they're not going to get clawbacks. And so it's a safety step for residents who are on income assistance and a critical part for us being able to support that transition. Thank you.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Has the department conducted any reviews or evaluations to access how current income assistance policy may be discouraging recipients from pursuing employment or education? Thank you.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in the 19th Assembly an extensive review of the income assistance program was done by Education, Culture and Employment, and the changes that we saw take place last year were the result of that work. Thank you.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

Oral Questions

Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ECE . Member from Monfwi . Final supplementary.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

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Page 2828

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, does the department track how many income support recipients successfully transition into employment or education and if so, what are the current outcomes? Thank you.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

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Page 2828

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we do our best to make sure that we have an idea of, first of all, where people are at, what their goals are, and how we can support them to get there. This program is just now entering into its second year of being the new directive by Education, Culture and Employment in its current form, and that's not information that I have in front of me here, nor information that we would have had the opportunity to collect and analyze so young into the infancy of this next program. Thank you.

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Question 828-20(1): Income Support Programming

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Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ECE . Oral questions. Member from Mackenzie Delta .

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

Oral Questions

Page 2828

George Nerysoo

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The infrastructure within the affected communities of the closures of the community centres could and should benefit the community and its residents. There are a lot of aging infrastructure within these communities, and these buildings could help in that area. With all the affected communities within the Northwest Territories, how many organizations have expressed interest for the use of these buildings for the benefit of their respective communities and its residents? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Mackenzie Delta . Minister of ECE .

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we've certainly received interest from multiple communities in regards to the community learning centres. In some communities, the answers and the next steps have been easier than others. So, for example, if we have a community learning centre that's found in a school already and the school needs that infrastructure returned for their higher capacity, we've done that already.

In other communities where there's school infrastructure improvements going on, we have maintained the presence of students in the community learning centre in order to prioritize the delivery of education in those communities. In some instances, though, Mr. Speaker, multiple Indigenous governments or community governments have expressed interest. And so it's not as easy as picking one over the other. And I have been approached by different levels of governments from some communities and have as a first step asked for them to work together and to return with a collaborative application if that's a possibility.

So that's the first step, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

George Nerysoo

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. How many consultation meetings was there between the Minister and interested organizations to discuss the plans for these buildings for community use? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when I was asked for meetings, I certainly was able to attend them and happy to do so, but for the most part these meetings happened between officials, because a lot of the times, the information that's being requested is operational and fairly in the weeds. People are looking to understand the cost of operating these buildings and more finer details about the infrastructure itself. Thank you.

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ECE . Final supplementary. Member from Mackenzie Delta .

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

George Nerysoo

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To be more specific, I was contacted by three organizations within my riding and asked to advocate on their behalf, and I did. How successful were the interested organizations from Tsiigehtchic and Aklavik been conducted? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. So, Mr. Speaker, when I'm talking about competing interests in some communities, that is relevant to some of these conversations, and so that's why I've asked to make sure that all of the interested parties are on the same page before picking one over the other because I think in some instances there's an opportunity for collaboration in some of these communities. Thank you.

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Question 829-20(1): Use of Former Community Learning Centre Infrastructure in Small Communities

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Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of ECE . Oral questions. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

Oral Questions

Page 2828

Richard Edjericon

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the remains of more than 70 children lie at the former St. Joseph's Residential school in Fort Resolution, and more families are still waiting to bring their children home. In the spirit of reconciliation, this work must continue. My question is to the Premier , Mr. Speaker, can the Premier confirm that this repatriation work will continue this spring? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

Oral Questions

Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Mr. Premier .

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

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Page 2828

R.J. Simpson

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That's up to the families. The families can make a request to have that done, and there's processes in place to make that a reality as we're seeing today. And so I don't see any reason why this wouldn't continue next year if the families wish it to continue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

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Page 2828

Richard Edjericon

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the long and painful process to bring Alma home must not be repeated. Will the Premier bring forward a Residential School Grave Site Repatriation Act in order to align our legislation with UNDRIP so that no matter the unique challenges of each grave site across the North, every family has the consistent right to bring their loved ones home if they so choose. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

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Page 2828

R.J. Simpson

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And now that we understand the process, this process, as played out this year, won't happen again. So I can promise the Member that. As long as we have proper flow of information, we can proceed through these instances without any issues.

In terms of bringing forward a Residential School Grave Site Repatriation Act, I can say that the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment oversees the Archaeological Sites Act and that is one of the pieces of legislation that has to go through the Intergovernmental Council for amendment or repeal and replace, or whatever the case may be. And so those conversations have begun, and we're having an Intergovernmental Council meeting in the coming months, and I expect this will be discussed there. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

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Page 2828

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Mr. Premier . Final supplementary. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

Oral Questions

Page 2829

Richard Edjericon

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And yeah, as claims get settled and agreements come to fruition, there will be parts of that in there as well. So, Mr. Speaker, we work together alongside the community to find creative solutions to the outdated policies that were standing in the way. How does the Premier see this kind of collaboration as a foundation for advancing meaningful reconciliation as we work to implement UNDRIP and the TRC Calls to Action? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 830-20(1): Reconciliation and Repatriation of Remains from Burial Sites at Former Residential Schools

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Page 2829

R.J. Simpson

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think that this instance highlights the importance of working together. The fact is there were processes in place, very clear defined processes that, in the end, they were followed. The problems were that the information that was needed to initiate those processes wasn't understood by everyone involved. And so my office became involved in this and there were daily phone calls to try and gather this information. And once the entire picture was in view, we were able to proceed through an established process to get to where we needed to go.

So with that understanding, we realized that, you know, there's reconciliation. There's also truth and reconciliation. And so we need the truth, we need the information. We all need to know the facts around situations, what the processes are, and we have begun to establish those connections with the team in Fort Resolution, with leadership in Fort Resolution, and now that we have that in place I don't foresee any issues going forward now that everyone understands the situation and has the right connections. So once again, communication and partnership are the keys to success here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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