Oral Questions, Petroleum Products and Carbon Tax Act, Climate Change, Health and Social Services — 1 March 2023 (19th Assembly, 2nd Session, pp. 5517–5566)
2023-03-01, 19th Assembly 2nd Session, pp. 5517–5566
Northwest Territories — Debates (Hansard)
Debates of March 1st, 2023
This is page numbers 5517 - 5566 of the Hansard for the 19th Assembly, 2nd 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
NWT Supported Living Review
25th Rendez-vous de la Francophonie
Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Proof of Vaccination Requirements
Opening of the Snowking's Winter Festival
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board Decision-making
Increased Power Rates
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Use of Limiters
Winter Road
Taltson Hydro System
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Mining Royalties
Eulogy for John Moreau
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Snare Hydro
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board of Directors
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Renewable Energy
Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Mining Royalties
Youth Games COVID Proof of Vaccination
Climate Change
Committee Report 45-19(2): Report on Bill 60:
An Act to Amend the Petroleum Products and Carbon Tax Act
Bill 60:
An Act to Amend the Petroleum Products and Carbon Tax Act
Tabled Document 862-29(2): Northwest Territories Supported Living Review Final Report
Tabled Document 863-29(2): Department of Health and Social Services Response to Supported Living Review Recommendations
Tabled Document 864-29(2): Follow-up Letter for Oral Question 1311-19(2): Speech Language Pathology Services
Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Tabled Document 813-19(2): Main Estimates 2023-2024 - Justice - Deferral of Department (page 2913)
Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Bill 56:
An Act to Amend the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation
Recorded Vote
Orders Of The Day
Members Present
Hon. Diane Archie , Hon. Frederick Blake Jr., Mr. Bonnetrouge , Hon. Paulie Chinna , Ms. Cleveland , Hon. Caroline Cochrane , Mr. Edjericon , Hon. Julie Green , Mr. Jacobson , Mr. Johnson , Ms. Martselos , Ms. Nokleby , Mr. O'Reilly , Ms. Semmler , Hon. R.J. Simpson , Mr. Rocky Simpson , Hon. Shane Thompson , Hon. Caroline Wawzonek , Ms. Weyallon Armstrong
The House met at 1:30 p.m.
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---Prayer
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Prayer
Prayer
Page 5517
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Ministers' statements. Minister responsible for Health and Social Services .
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Minister's Statement 318-19(2): NWT Supported Living Review
Ministers' Statements
Page 5517
Julie Green
Yellowknife Centre
Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to equitable levels of supported living services. We want to help them live as independently as possible in their own homes, or in accommodations provided by a supported living service provider. To advance our commitment, we conducted a comprehensive territorial review of supported living services to identify gaps in service, future demand, and best practices. The goal is a renewed person and family-centered, culturally safe, and inclusive model for delivering supported living services right here in the NWT.
Later today, I will be tabling the Supported Living Review Report. It provides recommendations for improving supported living services, as well as the GNWT's response to the report.
Mr. Speaker, supported living services provide 24-hour support and supervision for individuals unable to live independently due to physical, cognitive, and/or mental health issues. These services are provided in Inuvik, Hay River, K'atlodeeche First Nation, and Yellowknife. When there is limited capacity within the NWT to provide the necessary supports for more complex needs, residents are provided with supported living services outside the territory.
The NWT Supported Living Review responds to a commitment made following public engagement for the 2017 Disability Program Review and Renewal Project. The review revealed inadequate access to equitable and supportive housing and support services for adults with disabilities across the NWT. A critical piece of the Supported Living Review was to hear and understand the needs of residents, so we conducted extensive engagement. The list included supported living clients and their families, persons with disabilities, Indigenous governments, and service providers.
Engagement also included interviews, a survey, and both virtual and in-person public sessions in all regional centers. An advisory group of persons with disabilities, or their caregivers, was also established to gather knowledge, advice, and feedback from persons with lived experience.
Mr. Speaker, findings from the review show that the current system is complex to access, lacks community-based service options, and is under-resourced to meet the range of needs in-territory. The review provides 33 recommendations for
improving the scope of services;
standards and oversight;
workforce development; and
client-focused services.
The GNWT has accepted 12 recommendations where work can begin with existing resources and has accepted in principle the remaining 21 recommendations pending additional resources to implement them.
The Department of Health and Social Services and the NWT Health and Social Services Authority have established a working group which will advance on the accepted recommendations. They will also help identify the additional resources to implement the recommendations accepted in principle. By advancing the recommendations, the scope of supported living services will be brought in-line with the objectives and goals of the NWT Disability Strategic Framework and the best practices for supporting adults with disabilities and their caregivers. It will also provide the framework for the GNWT to monitor the outcome, efficiency, and effectiveness of supported living services.
Mr. Speaker, supported living services are essential supports needed by adults with disabilities and their caregivers. This review has provided a comprehensive understanding of current services, and we will action the recommendations to make meaningful change in the lives of NWT residents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Minister's Statement 318-19(2): NWT Supported Living Review
Ministers' Statements
Page 5517
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Ministers' statements. Minister responsible for Education, Culture and Employment .
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Minister's Statement 319-19(2): 25th Rendez-vous de la Francophonie
Ministers' Statements
Page 5517
R.J. Simpson
Hay River North
Monsieur le President, as we enter the month of March, we recognize Rendez-vous de la Francophonie. As the Minister responsible for the Official Languages Act, it is encouraging to see such awareness, involvement, and celebration of all of the Northwest Territories' 11 official languages.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, a celebration by Canada's ten million French-speakers, and all Canadians, in recognition of French language and culture. This year, the theme is Celebrations, with a focus across the country on joy, festivities, gathering, and fun.
Monsieur le President, in the Northwest Territories we have much to celebrate. Last September, this government launched a Francophone stream of the Northwest Territories nominee program to attract foreign nationals to the NWT whose skills are aligned with workforce needs. This action of the 2017-2022 Immigration Strategy recognizes the contributions of French-speaking immigrants to the strength and prosperity of our country and to the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of the Northwest Territories.
Celebrating and building our Francophone community also means developing government services, resources, and communications to serve them in French. The GNWT continues to make progress in this area. In 2021-2022, the GNWT translated a record high 3.27 million words into French. We also saw a record number of GNWT staff receiving the bilingual bonus for French, at 188 individuals. According to the 2022 Francophone Community Satisfaction Survey, 77 per cent of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of service they receive from the GNWT in French.
Monsieur le President, this is great progress, but we always strive to do better. This is why a third-party review of the strategic plan on French language communications and services occurs every five years. In September 2022, the public was invited to provide input on the strategic plan, and I thank all those who took the time to contribute. The third-party report and government response will be published in the coming months, before informing the development of the next strategic plan.
Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, I would like to recognize the Northwest Territories' vibrant Franco-ténoise community - the people, businesses, and organizations who continue to be significant contributors to this territory's social, economic, and cultural development. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Minister's Statement 319-19(2): 25th Rendez-vous de la Francophonie
Ministers' Statements
Page 5517
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member for Thebacha .
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Member's Statement 1396-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Members' Statements
Page 5517
Frieda Martselos
Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, for my statement today I am going to join my colleagues in talking about the various aspects of energy in the NWT. First, I want to mention an issue that has been brought up by several Members throughout this Assembly, including myself, and that issue is about the board of directors at the NTPC Power Corp.
Mr. Speaker, in May of 2016, the Minister at the time for NTPC had decided to dissolve NTPC's board of directors and replace the six-person board with deputy ministers from various NWT departments. The rationale for that decision was to cut costs at NTPC and save $1 million per year. Well, it's now been seven years since that decision was made, and NTPC still has a board of directors consisting solely of deputy ministers, and it's unclear when an actual board of ordinary NWT residents will be restored.
Mr. Speaker, it is extremely important the board of directors for any corporation to be made up of a variety of individuals with unique backgrounds and skills that are relevant to the company they serve. It's also important for the board to be impartial and independent minded, which is not the case with the current board of deputy ministers at NTPC. I strongly hope to see a new board of directors appointed as soon as possible, and I hope when that finally happens that they will work together and will support the new president of NTPC.
Moreover, Mr. Speaker, I also want to reiterate my steadfast support for the expansion of the Talston hydro dam. This project has been a mandate item for the 19th Assembly, and I'm sure the work on that project will carry over into the 20th Assembly as well. The expansion of the Taltson will be instrumental for the Government of the Northwest Territories to achieve our emission targets within our 2030 Energy Strategy. I know there are some in this House who oppose this project, but I consider it an essential piece of infrastructure that will benefit the people of the NWT for the long term. Overall, Mr.
Speaker, I hope to see our government move forward very soon with removing the current NTPC board of directors and replacing them with a group of people that are more representative of the diverse people of the NWT. I remain optimistic that the future members of the board will provide good direction and fresh ideas for NTPC to consider in the years ahead, and I'm sure the new NTPC president would also welcome a new board of directors as he leads the power corp towards achieving all the energy-related mandate items that we created in this Assembly.
I will have questions for the Minister responsible for NTPC Power Corp later today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1396-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Members' Statements
Page 5518
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Thebacha . Members' statements. Member for Hay River South .
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Member's Statement 1397-19(2): Proof of Vaccination Requirements
Members' Statements
Page 5518
Rocky Simpson
Hay River South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm offing today, so. Mr. Speaker, the North American Indigenous Games will take place in and around Halifax from July 15th to 23rd this summer, with a multitude of sports.
Mr. Speaker, many Indigenous athletes and volunteers from the Northwest Territories have been looking forward to taking
part in this event and, for some, they now find their dreams may be dashed due to a requirement to show proof of vaccination. It's the role of the 2023 North American Indigenous Games host society board and staff to ensure the games follow all policies and requirements established by the North American Indigenous Games Council, including the vaccine requirement which they have made mandatory for participation in this event.
Mr. Speaker, some of our northern athletes and volunteers are questioning why it is that these games are open only to those that can show proof of vaccination, while the province of Nova Scotia, where the games will take place, states that, and I quote, "Proof of full vaccination is no longer required to participate in discretionary, nonessential events and activities that gather people together (like going to restaurants, movies, sports events, theatre performances, social events, and the gym)."
Mr. Speaker, I find it hard to believe that I am still speaking about COVID vaccination requirements considering gathering restrictions have been lifted throughout most of Canada and the United States. I would expect that the decision to include and implement such a policy would be based on science and would align with current public health guidelines and advice throughout Canada and the United States. We have seen many sporting events, such as the 2023 World Junior Hockey Championship, the 2023 Arctic Winter Games, the Canada Winter Games, and the Ontario Hockey Federation, remove the restrictive COVID-19 proof of vaccination requirements for participants.
Speaker, these individuals are aware that organizations, such as North American Indigenous Games, have the choice to implement their own vaccination policies. However, just as we had science to prove vaccinations worked and most complied, we have science saying it is not a reasonable requirement anymore and may even be subject to a Charter challenge. It is important we continue to embrace that science and move towards a collective approach in lifting vaccine requirements for events such as the North American Indigenous Games. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, not doing so will take away not only the dreams of our Indigenous youth but opportunities for each to rise as ambassadors, role models, professional athletes, and find success in future endeavors, all due to participating in sports. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1397-19(2): Proof of Vaccination Requirements
Members' Statements
Page 5518
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Hay River South . Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North .
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Member's Statement 1398-19(2): Opening of the Snowking's Winter Festival
Members' Statements
Page 5518
Rylund Johnson
Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. All of us in this House swore allegiance to the King of England and, you know, some of us begrudgingly but, Mr. Speaker, there is one monarch we can all support, and that is the Snowking, Mr. Speaker. And I am happy to report, Mr. Speaker, that the snow castle is officially open today and thanks to the support of some generous MLAs, it is free for all Members to attend today. 28 years, they've been building the snow castle, Mr. Speaker. I encourage everyone to get down there, enjoy it. There's a great lineup of shows and events, lots of good concerts and fun for the whole family. So everyone, check out the snow castle and support the monarchy, Mr. Speaker.
Twenty eight years is a long time, Mr. Speaker. But it's not as long as another anniversary this year, which is 75 years ago we built the Snare hydro system, Mr. Speaker. And I'm going to have some questions for the Minister of Infrastructure on what we're doing as that crucial asset comes to its end of life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1398-19(2): Opening of the Snowking's Winter Festival
Members' Statements
Page 5518
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Yellowknife North . Members' statements. Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes .
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Member's Statement 1399-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board Decision-making
Members' Statements
Page 5518
Lesa Semmler
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the relationship between the Northwest Territories Power Corporation and the Government of the Northwest Territories is complex. However, it should not be. But we have made it complex by bringing the work of NTPC into the GNWT. The NTPC board should be an independent decision-making body that should be informed by experts who have knowledge of our region. Instead, it's being run by government deputy ministers and Cabinet. We currently have six deputy ministers sitting on the board, navigating this work off the side of their desks.
Mr. Speaker, the intent of an arm's length decision-making body is that it removes the political influence from major projects and operations. It allows for informed decisions that support residents, creates non-political understanding of the capacity of our regions, and seeks partnerships that will create positive change to energy security efforts. However, that is not how we currently operate, Mr. Speaker. NTPC is facing an aging energy infrastructure and mounting operational debts.
How can we tell our residents that NTPC's strategic decisions are being made with the best interests when Northerners continue to pay increased power rates? As the cost of maintaining and upgrading the energy infrastructure is so expensive, the current governance model does not allow for innovation or independence from government. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation . Thank you.
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Member's Statement 1399-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board Decision-making
Members' Statements
Page 5518
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes . Members' statements. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .
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Member's Statement 1400-19(2): Increased Power Rates
Members' Statements
Page 5518
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to address a passionate issue that concerns us all. Our government has recently intended to raise the power rates to an unacceptable high level, placing undue burden on our hardworking families and businesses. However, I am pleased to inform you that this proposal has been stopped in its tracks by the public utilities board.
Mr. Speaker, before the Minister cries foul that it was the power corporation that pushed for this rate increase, this is arm's length from the Crown corporation. I will remind this House that the board of the power corporation is 100 percent GNWT public servants - deputy ministers who take their instructions from the Premier . Whether this government likes it or not, the power corporation and the GNWT are one in the same. It is arm's length in name only.
In the GNWT 2019-2023 mandate, the MLAs made 24 recommendations. Recommendation 14: Reduce the cost of power and increase the use of alternative renewable energy.
In the third year of the 19th Assembly, the Minister responsible for the power corporation decided to increase the power rates, and that was a total surprise to my constituents, and all the residents in the NWT, with no consultation.
Let me be clear. The government proposal to increase power rates was unacceptable. It will have been harder for families to make ends meet and harder for businesses to operate in our communities. Our government should be doing everything in its power to help, not hinder the economic well-being of our citizens, and honour the mandate made in 2019-2023 not to increase power rates.
Thankfully, the public utilities board recognized the harmful impacts this proposal would have on our communities and put a stop to it. The board decision demonstrates the importance to have independent regulators who can hold the government accountable when necessary. As the elected representative of our communities, this would have been devastated by the greater shock. I want you to know that I will always stand up for the interests of our people, not the government and Crown corporation. I will fight against any proposal that will harm our families, businesses, our economy, and I will work to ensure that our government is transparent and accountable to the people.
Mr. Speaker, instead of raising the cost of power proposed that it won't be 20 percent over two years, the South Slave consumers, including my riding of Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh riding, the Government of the Northwest Territories -- oh, sorry, the government should focus their efforts on alternative renewable energy and to lower the cost of power. The high cost of power is impeding the NWT economic development, driving skilled workers out of the territory, shutting small businesses who cannot afford the government energy policy. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the public utilities board for their decision, and I want to thank the citizens of the Northwest Territories for their ongoing commitment to building a strong resilient and prosperous community. Together we can overcome any challenges that build a brighter future for us all. I would have questions for the Minister for NTPC at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1400-19(2): Increased Power Rates
Members' Statements
Page 5518
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Members' statements. Member for Nunakput .
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Member's Statement 1401-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Use of Limiters
Members' Statements
Page 5518
Jackie Jacobson
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I made it clear in this House I oppose the use of the power corporation using power limiter devices during the cold winter months in my riding. Life in the Arctic Coast is harsh and expensive. Lack of heat can be life threatening. People who have the power limiters don't know when the power will be turned off and back on. It makes it impossible for them to heat their homes properly and feed and care for their families.
Under the NTPC terms of agreement, it states respect to the corporation's responsibility that continuous supply. The corporation cannot guarantee uninterrupted service. Mr. Speaker, the High Arctic communities, power is essential. It's survival. It's not acceptable. We need to be able to do better.
Mr. Speaker, I have also spoken in this House many times about the state of housing in Nunakput and living in public housing units, in matchbox houses, paper-thin walls, snow blowing through cracks in windows, the walls and the doors; floors are freezing, people are having to put blankets on the floors to walk around and lock their doors and windows with blankets to keep the wind out. So many people are living in overcrowded housing units in my riding. Not even close to being energy efficient.
Without enough maintenance to improve housing stock, it's very little opportunities of employment to earn income to pay for the power. Can I have -- we have to struggle with power limiters and paying our power bills. The government needs to extend to the High Arctic residents to get rid of the power limiters in winter months in the Nunakput riding.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank, too, the public utilities board that they didn't give 10 percent to the power increase to our ridings back home. It's 5 percent they increased it to so people, maybe they could try to survive. But thank you, power utilities board, for not taking that full 10 percent, what our GNWT government wanted to do today. And I will have questions for the Minister at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1401-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Use of Limiters
Members' Statements
Page 5518
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Nunakput . Members' statements. Member for Monfwi .
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Member's Statement 1402-19(2): Winter Road
Members' Statements
Page 5518
Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, climate change is impacting our ability to get fuel, food, and other resources into small communities. The winter road system we currently use is vulnerable to climate change. In fact, the winter road to Gameti opened on February 27th. This will most likely be one of the shortest winter road seasons on record. I have elders, contractors, and residents who do not feel that they can use the winter road systems due to the rapidly changing ice conditions. Some people do not feel safe.
Mr. Speaker, I don't blame these people because in the past -- I do not blame them because in the past we have had trucks and people fall into the ice. This is a major problem, Mr. Speaker. Our people, in small communities, risk being further isolated. This isolation will definitely drive the cost of living up even higher. The Tlicho All-Season Road was an example of strategic infrastructure that supported the goals of our communities and helped to mitigate the impacts of climate change. An all-season road into Gameti will not only help address the impacts of climate change but also lower the cost of living for that community.
Mr. Speaker, this is a huge project, but work can be done in the short term to help map out where this road can travel. If the government works with the community, there can be important progress made in the development of this road. The Tlicho region has a deficit in our existing infrastructure, Mr. Speaker. If connecting Whati to the North Slave is the first step, then the next logical step would be to continue the road and transmission line to Gameti and eventually to Wekweeti. I will have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure . Thank you.
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Member's Statement 1402-19(2): Winter Road
Members' Statements
Page 5519
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Monfwi . Members' statements. Member for Great Slave .
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Member's Statement 1403-19(2): Taltson Hydro System
Members' Statements
Page 5519
Katrina Nokleby
Great Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as we know, building infrastructure across the million square kilometres that make up our territory is a huge challenge. From an economic point of view and from an efficiency standpoint, we should be looking to expand our infrastructure corridors to benefit communities and encourage investment in the territory wherever we can.
As often mentioned in this House, the NWT is largely dependent on diesel and gasoline for heating, electricity, and transportation. Yet, Mr. Speaker, we sit stalled on a renewable energy project that could connect more communities to renewable energy while supporting much needed industry investment in our territory.
Mr. Speaker, the Taltson Hydro System encompasses a water basin that has the potential to generate significantly more electricity than is currently being harnessed by the dam. We have a solution to our energy dilemma in our own backyard, but it is not being captured. We know, Mr. Speaker, that Osisko Metals, with their Pine Point mine, is already on the Talston grid, just waiting to purchase additional power if it was made available. And Mr. Speaker, Osisko Metals would be happy to buy even more power if it was available too. We know that the Snare Hydro System that powers Yellowknife is old.
It operates close to capacity and is sensitive to water flow rates which can lead to shortfalls in supply leading to the use of fossil fuel generators to make up the difference.
Mr. Speaker, there is a need to connect these two hydro transmission lines. The Talston Hydro Expansion Project must move forward, connecting the hydro grids in the NWT and all the communities along the way. This includes the line to Whati.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, it is challenging and expensive to build infrastructure across our territory therefore we must plan the most efficient linear systems that we can.
The expansion of hydro and fibre optic line should follow our highway system. Not only would it be easier to construct the systems themselves without disturbing new areas, it would allow for cheaper development along the roadway to serve the people and communities they connect. Connecting people, communities, and businesses to renewable energy is a win-win for our territory, Mr. Speaker, and I strongly support the expansion of the Talston Hydro System. Thank you.
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Member's Statement 1403-19(2): Taltson Hydro System
Members' Statements
Page 5519
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Great Slave . Members' statements. Member for Kam Lake .
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Member's Statement 1404-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Members' Statements
Page 5519
Caitlin Cleveland
Kam Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, open the GNWT's 2030 Energy Strategy and you find multiple suggested solutions to help reduce the territory's greenhouse gas emissions. Small wind turbines, the Inuvik wind turbine, liquified natural gas, solar, mini hydro, and transmission lines to connect grids, come together in this plan with promises of 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Achieving our both energy solutions doesn't only get us closer to our GHG goals, it supports our collective economic goals through potential critical mineral industry expansion and our individual goal of affordable sustainable energy.
But, Mr. Speaker, it is not as easy as flipping a switch to bring these energy solutions online tomorrow. Adding a fleet of alternative energies takes time, investment, and a transition from our current energy source provided by NTPC.
Today, NTPC serves much of our energy needs led by its vision to enrich the lives of Northerners by providing power that encourages living, working, and investing in the NWT, and by its mission which is to generate, transmit, and to distribute clean, reliable, and affordable energy to the Northwest Territories.
NTPC currently uses net metering to allow customers and communities to install renewable energy projects and offset their power use. This is a good thing but with a huge catch, Mr. Speaker. NTPC's policies cap the amount of clean energy it will purchase at 20 percent of the electricity mix. Our own policies put a ceiling on the potential for residents, businesses, and local and Indigenous governments to reduce emissions. But without this policy, costs could be out of control.
NTPC's high base cost system means that one client decreases demand, thanks to renewable, that the remaining ratepayers are left to swallow the ballooning energy bill, Mr. Speaker.
For alternative energy solutions to grow and serve the NWT, NTPC needs a new policy and business foundation and a long-term plan. It must be able to provide affordable energy as the energy landscape in the NWT shifts away from diesel.
Mr. Speaker, in the length of this term, NTPC's board has been represented by the GNWT's deputy ministers - capable people, but with competing focus and priorities. This board has not been able to fully achieve NTPC's vision and mission. NTPC's public governance structure needs to be reinstated with a goal of designing a creative, sustainable system eager to move into the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1404-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Members' Statements
Page 5519
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Kam Lake . Members' statements. Member for Frame Lake .
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Member's Statement 1405-19(2): Mining Royalties
Members' Statements
Page 5519
Kevin O'Reilly
Frame Lake
Merci, Monsieur le President. The review of mining royalties continues to grind along. Industry, Tourism and Investment released a discussion paper in February 2022. Public engagement closed at the end of July 2022, more than six months ago. A so-called "what we heard" report was finally released quietly during the Association for Mineral Exploration Roundup in Vancouver in late January.
The report attempts to summarize 13 submissions that appear to have been sent, 11 online and two written submissions. Those written submissions are actually appended and consist of a detailed 12-page letter from Alternatives North and a two-page letter from the Chamber of Mines criticizing Alternatives North. No details are provided on any of the other submissions.
Three types of engagement seem to have been undertaken.
Submissions could be sent by email.
Requests could be made of ITI for meetings, and ITI initiated some "targeted engagement" which appears to have been 25 secret meetings with the mining industry.
There were also 21 different surveys open only to those holding prospecting licenses. No data from these surveys is compiled or presented in the "what we heard" report. It's not clear why these surveys were only open to those holding prospecting licenses.
Ironically, the first item in the report on the targeted engagement, those secret meetings with the mining industry, is called "transparency and confidentiality." Public trust and the need for a lot more public disclosure are mentioned. Again, rather ironic that this was discussed at meetings that ITI held secretly with the mining industry.
I tabled the presentations from those secret meetings I obtained under access to information last week. Then there is a classic statement that "the public release of total royalties and production information is not seen as an issue going forward." What? All we're going to get out of this royalty review is the public reporting of separate resource revenues for mining and petroleum?
Quebec already has a mine-by-mine public disclosure of royalties paid. Many countries already release this kind of data as part of their public reporting and all we can do is separate mining and petroleum royalties? Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
Merci, Monsier le President. To be fair, the document only says that the views gathered will be thrown into a hopper and combined with some financial modeling and other research and analysis to form policy options for future regulations.
The Yukon government recently started its review of mining legislation being done collaboratively with Yukon First Nations. There is a discussion paper with policy options that I tabled in the House. Public meetings open to everyone, Mr. Speaker - We could learn a lot from their better engagement process.
I will have questions later today for the Minister of mining on the status of the royalty regime review and when the public will be engaged again. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1405-19(2): Mining Royalties
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Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . Members' statements. Member for Nahendeh .
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Member's Statement 1406-19(2): Eulogy for John Moreau
Members' Statements
Page 5520
Shane Thompson
Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today it saddens me to stand in this House and speak about the passing of a well-known man from the community of Fort Simpson.
John Moreau was a hard worker, told it like it was, and was an honest businessman. I watched him work and his commitment to his work was excellent. Nothing was too small or too big for him to take on.
John was born and raised in Winnipeg, a '50s greaser that use to race T-birds down the Pembina Highway. John was always a very independent man who raised his children with his wife Louisa, who were married for 54 years.
John was an avid traveler who went from New York, Vegas, Nova Scotia, to Alaska and heard about the Yellowknife gold mines in Edmonton. In true John fashion, he hopped on a plane to Vancouver, got his explosive technician training, and headed to Yellowknife to work and this is where he met the love of his life Louisa Tsetso.
John and Louisa decided to go back to Fort Simpson for a two-week visit and, as the stories go, they never left. John had many business ventures in Fort Simpson since the '60s with line lopping, gas stations, arcade, and various construction businesses.
Mr. Speaker, I can tell you there wasn't a house, roof, door, and fence he hadn't touched or looked at in Fort Simpson. John was a self-taught carpenter.
Mr. Speaker, John was a good listener, advocate for fairness, amazing family supporter, avid golfer, and dart player. I had the pleasure of golfing with him and his wife a few times throughout the golf seasons. I can tell you, like everything else in his life, he was willing to share and tell stories that engaged you.
Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity to visit him about two weeks before he passed away. I can tell you he spoke a lot about his children and how proud he was of them. He loved the fact that they were all independent, hardworking, and had strong family values. He talked about his son taking over the business and him being able to work with both his sons. He spoke about his daughters being successful in their adventures in life, whether it was competing at a national dart tournament to operating a successful business or making life choices.
He spoke about how proud he was of his grandchildren and the things that they were doing and accomplishing. As he said to me, his children and grandchildren were Louisa's and his legacies.
Mr. Speaker, when it came to his wife, he was very proud of her. He spoke about how she was willing to share her traditional knowledge with their children and others in the community. When it came to getting help to look after moosehide, from the very beginning to the end of the project Louisa was the person to contact.
Mr. Speaker, I can tell you that he will be sadly missed by his friends and family. He will always be in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 1406-19(2): Eulogy for John Moreau
Members' Statements
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Nahendeh . Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and community at this time.
Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery.
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Colleagues, I am pleased to recognize a group of legislative interns visiting us from Ontario. They are here this week to learn more about our consensus form of government. With us today is Alia Mufti, Esma Boztas, Karissa Singh, Leah Wilson, Lucas Fisher, Sharon Lee, Sky Shi, Sophie Williams, Teah U-Ming, and Administrative team member Michael Vidoni.
Please join me in welcoming them to our proceedings. And I hope you enjoy your week here at our beautiful legislature. Thank you.
Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Honourable Premier .
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 5520
Caroline Cochrane
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Range Lake constituent Ms. Samantha Stuart. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Madam Premier . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Acknowledgements. Oral questions. Member for Nunakput .
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
Jackie Jacobson
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I was going off of power limiters and, you know, state of housing in my riding in Nunakput. Today, Mr. Speaker, it's minus 39 in Sachs Harbour, 30 in Paulatuk, minus 42 in Ulukhaktok, and minus 41 in Tuktoyaktuk.
Mr. Speaker, what work is the NTPC undertaking to address issues of power limiters, especially to the residents in the High Arctic; what has the Minister done? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Nunakput . Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation .
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories Power Corporation puts limiters on houses and anybody that has overdue accounts. So if you have an outstanding account that's 28 days after the billing, then the corporation may give notice of disconnection of service in writing to the customer. Where accounts are not paid before the expiration of such notice, then, you know, we work with the customer and perhaps have to install a limiting device. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
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Page 5520
Jackie Jacobson
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, what has the Minister accomplished in the life of the Assembly to bring down of the cost of the power in Nunakput riding? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just for context here, in December of 2022 we had 3,423 resident customers' accounts that are in arrears. We had 387 commercial customers that are in arrears. Mr. Speaker, we are working with the customers to be able to work and try and get their bills paid so that we don't have to put these limiters on. Thank you.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
Jackie Jacobson
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Is the Minister thinking of getting rid of all those bills on behalf of the whole territory then we could start over?
Mr. Speaker, you know what? Many residents are on income support in our territory. It's hard for them to pay their bills. Can the Minister commit to work with ECE to ensure that the clients can pay their power bills in the winter without having to give up the income support for food and other essential supplies; can she work with that with the Minister? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
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Page 5520
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we already do work with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, and we also work with our income support program to be able to help the residents to work together and get their payments. So, yes, we do work together and perhaps we will continue to work together. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary. Member for Nunakput .
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
Jackie Jacobson
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you know, our units in our small communities, the appliances are old and they suck the power and the power bills go up, Mr. Speaker. In that turn, the residents struggle to pay for that.
Has the Minister done any work with the Minister responsible for housing to get energy efficient appliances in the public units across the territory, especially in Nunakput riding? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5520
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yes, the department works with NWT Housing. And, you know, we work with our partners like Arctic Energy Alliance. Mr. Speaker, there are some great programs out there that help support some of the housing that, you know, needs some work in the communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1406-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Limiters
Oral Questions
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes .
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5520
Lesa Semmler
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned, my questions are for the Minister responsible for the NWT Power Corp.
I'd like to ask the Minister how the work of NTPC is considering the operating realities in my region? We continue to focus on the Taltson Hydro Expansion but in the Beaufort Delta what are we doing to build energy security and lower cost of power? And please, Mr. Speaker, I don't want to hear about the wind project and I don't want to hear about how it's saving us 3 to $4 million in offsets to the diesel costs, you know, because we already know that project is double in costs and is far from complete and we're going to be making it up for years. So what other strategic plans are in place? Thank you.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5520
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes . Minister responsible for Northwest Territories Power Corporation .
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I know the Member doesn't want me to bring up the wind project, so I won't. Other than, you know, we are on target. It's, you know, a great project when it gets completed. But talking about in our region actually, Mr. Speaker, I'm the Member for Inuvik as well. So I mean, working together, we are working with the Indigenous groups trying to look at strategic ways. The Inuvialuits got the line perhaps coming in for the natural gas. That's one strategic work that we could do together. The Nihtat Band has some great opportunities for other sources of renewable energy.
So we are working together in the region. Perhaps we don't have access to a hydro system that is elsewhere in the territories. But I just want the Member to know that we are having discussions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Lesa Semmler
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with our governance board in place right now, I'm just wondering, like, I hear the Minister with the answers that we got but what other -- like, what I'm asking is what is -- in the Beaufort Delta, we are the highest cost of power. We use the most diesel up there to run. We don't have trees in half the region of the Beaufort Delta. Our barges don't make it in because of, you know, weather and different things so we can't get supplies up there so then we're flying stuff in. All this stuff is going to get passed down.
But we have a board that's supposed to be making these strategic decisions. So what strategic decisions has this board made for my region that's going to make a big difference? Thank you.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, yes, we do have a board of directors, and I'm sure I'll have further questions based on all the Member's statements that was said today, so, I mean, I'm quite prepared to speak on that. In terms of dealing directly with the Member in the riding that, you know, we can further discussions and just to see if perhaps there are recommendations that the Member may have and have that discussion to see how we can collaborate and get some projects going. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
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Page 5521
Lesa Semmler
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd go on about net metering and I'd go on about the board, but I know my colleagues are going to ask those questions so I'm just going to continue down this path.
So has this Minister secured increased funding, or is there even talks of increased funding, to cover these overruns that the wind project is going to cost because we've already heard what they were at, about 60 to $70 million of a $40-million project. So are these costs going to passed off to residents of the Northwest Territories on their power bills? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, so we will talk about the Inuvik Wind Project now. We talk about it, we don't talk about it, yes, there's costs overruns. And I want the Member to know that, you know, I've been to Ottawa several times speaking with federal ministers in terms of green energy and how we can reduce our GHG emissions here in the territories. So that is further discussions we will have. And yes, I'm sure I'll speak more about it all afternoon today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5521
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary. Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes .
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Page 5521
Lesa Semmler
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I guess my question was have we asked for money to pay for these overruns or are we passing these off to NWT residents? But, you know, I guess the final thing is, as a Member of the 19th Legislative Assembly, am I going to be able to go the celebration party of the opening of the wind turbine in Inuvik? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
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Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
I hope it's blowing there too, Mr. Speaker, because, you know, there was a lot of work that was put into this Inuvik Wind Project. You know, we've secured the funding from the federal government. So I mean, we've had to go back and request further funding to be able to complete this project. Right now we have -- we're hoping that this fall, or to the spring of 2023 to address some of the issues. So I will give the Member enough notice so that she can come with me to the Inuvik Wind Project and have the opening. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1407-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation
Oral Questions
Page 5521
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North .
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Question 1408-19(2): Snare Hydro
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Rylund Johnson
Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Snare Hydro System is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, which is perhaps not something to celebrate, and that's approaching the end of its life and replacement costs of hydro systems are in the billions of dollars, Mr. Speaker. Not a number any of us are happy to see. I know the system is actually -- it's something like seven turbines at four different locations that have been built up over the years at different times. But I'm hoping the Minister can provide me with what is the end of life for any of the current infrastructure at Snare? Thank you.
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Question 1408-19(2): Snare Hydro
Oral Questions
Page 5521
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Yellowknife North . Minister responsible for Infrastructure .
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Question 1408-19(2): Snare Hydro
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'll just keep standing here. But it is a common practice for hydro utilities to upgrade and overhaul hydro infrastructure, to ensure we have continued operations of hydro assets in a safe and reliable manner with no foreseeable end of life date. Northwest Territories Power Corporation will continue to manage its assets, complete maintenance and overhauls to hydro infrastructure so we can extend the life of the hydro assets. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1408-19(2): Snare Hydro
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Page 5521
Rylund Johnson
Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, I guess I'm happy to see that there is no current end of run but I'm not sure that's exactly how dams work. I think at some point they just eventually need to be replaced. I note that we are doing a complete overhaul on the Taltson system, which is going to be shut down, and the result of that will be some more efficient turbines to get some more power out of that. Are there any overhauls planned on the Snare Hydro System? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1408-19(2): Snare Hydro
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Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm going to correct the Member to say that we have six hydro turbines that are ranging in size from 8 megawatts to 500 kilowatts. So I want to talk a little bit further because I think this is important.
Over at the Snare Rapids plant, we have completed a large -- an overhaul on unit number 2 back in 2022, and it's expecting to complete an overhaul on unit 1 in the next five years. Over at the Snare Falls plant, we completed an overhaul in 2017. At the Snare Cascades plant, which is owned by Tlicho and we lease it through -- at the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, an overhaul is expected to be completed in the next five years. And finally at our Snare Forks plant, Northwest Territories Power Corporation completed an overhaul on unit 1 in 2021, and we're expected to complete an overhaul in unit 2 in the next five years. So we are doing work at the Snare plants. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5521
Rylund Johnson
Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That's a lot of overhauls; I'm glad to hear that. I'm curious whether there is any plans to increase capacity on the Snare Hydro System or whether any of these overhauls will actually result in that? I note that about 20 percent of our power here is actually from diesel at Jackfish because of water levels and lots of different problems that occur at Snare over time to time. And there's no way that that system has capacity to open up another mine on it, allow for electrification of vehicles, or population increases. So are there any plans to increase capacity in the future on the Snare Hydro System? Thank you.
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Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm happy to see that the Member has did his homework too, because capacity building is so important. So I'm happy that the Member raised this question with me.
There is no plan to increase at the Snare system; however, the Department of Infrastructure, which I wear my other hat on as well, is looking into updating the hydro -- I can't even say it. Hydrology work right across the Northwest Territories, including the North Slave region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5521
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Thebacha .
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Question 1409-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board of Directors
Oral Questions
Page 5521
Frieda Martselos
Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we all know in this House that the current makeup of NTPC's board of directors consists solely of deputy ministers from our government, and it has remained that way for seven years.
Does the Minister have any timeline for when a new group of board of directors will be appointed at NTPC? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5521
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Thebacha . Sounds like a theme day here. Minister responsible for NTPC .
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Page 5521
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm starting to -- yes, there's definitely a theme happening here, right? Anyways, I want to -- so the Northwest Territories Power Corporation governance review, it continues, Mr. Speaker. Recommendations from that review will inform some of the decisions and on the next steps in this regard. So we expect this work to be completed within the life of this Assembly. So I think that's very good news, Mr. Speaker. The Member had talked about this being a seven year process. And, you know, we are getting to this. So I'd like to, you know, reassure that we are working on this. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1409-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board of Directors
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Frieda Martselos
Thebacha
Mr. Speaker, I know this current NTPC Minister was not the Minister when the decision was made to appoint deputy ministers to the board of directors; however, can the Minister tell us if Cabinet or NTPC has anticipated that it would be seven years and counting for the NTPC board of directors to be solely deputy ministers? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I can only speak to what has been done since I became the Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation . And I want the Members to know that I support the undertaking of this governance review which will be able to determine the decision in this matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5522
Frieda Martselos
Thebacha
Mr. Speaker, it was stated in 2016, by the NTPC Minister of the day, that appointing deputy ministers to the board of directors was a cost saving measure that would save $1 million per year.
Can the Minister confirm if that turned out to be true and provide some dollar figures for how much money this decision has saved NTPC over the last seven years? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The Northwest Territories Power Corporation did benefit from some of the cost reduction in things like public relations, donations, public association dues, professional development, retainers, utility advisors, consultant contractors - I can just go on. Especially in our board chair. So in the period of 2014 to 2022, the savings range from approximately $415,000 to about half a million dollars. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5522
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary. Member for Thebacha .
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Question 1409-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board of Directors
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Frieda Martselos
Thebacha
Mr. Speaker, can the Minister provide the House with an update on the status of the Taltson Hydro Expansion and if she expects more funding confirmed in this year's federal budget? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Good progress continues to advance the Taltson Hydro Expansion Project with our Indigenous partners, Mr. Speaker. That's very important key to this project going forward. So we have now focused on two routes. So one is right across the lake here and the other one is right around the western side of the lake, and we hope to have a preferred route this year. We are working to collect Indigenous knowledge, environmental engineering information to be able to support the future regulatory applications. As well, Mr. Speaker, we continue to work towards a final business case for this project.
Taltson has been a key federal item that is related to Budget 2023, and we have had strong signals from federal ministers that they are supportive of this project. Mr. Speaker, you know, when we were down in Ottawa as Cabinet and attending FPTs, we continue to hear a theme from the federal government that, you know, we need to reduce GHGs and work together. But we don't want to get -- we'll not get confirmation of what's in the federal budget before it's announced other than to say that, you know, we've been working together and pushing it as our agenda. It is a mandate of this Assembly so that is something that is a priority for us in this government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1409-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Board of Directors
Oral Questions
Page 5522
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wasn't around in 2019 when the MLAs got together and they went to a retreat and they put in all their wish list into a bucket, and then they came up with 24 recommendations. But part of those recommendations was very clear, that there will be no power increase. In the Northwest Territories, we got the highest power rates in Canada, next to Nunavut, Saskatchewan, and so on. And right now, in last year, just after the budget was ended, this government made an announcement to increase the power rates by 20 percent over a two-year period.
Mr. Speaker, now that the public utilities board has squashed the power corporation's excessive demands for power rate increases, what is the Minister's plan to make up for revenue shortfalls that this increase was supposed to cover? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Minister responsible for NTPC .
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The Northwest Territories Public Utility Board has issued a decision on NTPC's rate application. The public utilities board gave very specific direction to NTPC and NTPC is filing a response to these directions. Again, Mr. Speaker, I need to say this again: It's the public utilities board's role to be able to determine final energy rates here in the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
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Page 5522
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just picking up on where the Minister left off there; my question is a two-part question: Is the power rate going to go up now when you bring back an application to the utility board; are we looking at another power increase? At the same time, Mr. Speaker, the Minister made the announcement to raise the power rates only after the 2022-2023 budget was passed last year, without the opportunity for debate in the House. I'm asking the Minister to commit to more transparency around rate increases and commitments to consult with Regular MLAs before giving direction to the power corporation. Will the Minister do this? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, again, the Northwest Territories Public Utilities Board is the body that determines rates for all utilities here in the territories. Northwest Territories Power Corporation has previously provided Regular MLAs information on rates. And, Mr. Speaker, we will continue to do so. Thank you.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
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Page 5522
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So I take it that the power rates is going to be going up. So if that's the case, Mr. Speaker, then why do we have retreats? Why do we go to these things and bring our voices to the table when we're not consulted? You know, we got over 9,000 customers here in the Northwest Territories and, you know, we want to raise powers rates? Maybe it's time to review the power corporation and maybe quit giving out these bonuses.
Mr. Speaker, the high cost of power is breaking the backs of residents, small businesses, and big industry in the Northwest Territories. How does the Minister propose to reduce these costs and make more power rates affordable in the NWT? Thank you.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories energy policy seeks to balance reliability with sustainability and affordability. Projects such as the Taltson Expansion Hydro Project would allow for increased mining activity using socially-accepted, clean, green energy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
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Page 5522
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Okay, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Unfunded infrastructure projects, mega projects, that are decades away from completions are not a solution. Northerners can count on what short- and medium-term solution is the Minister working on to provide our residents with relief from high rates of power and to also meet the mandate of this government that they put out in 2019-2023? Thank you.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Northwest Territories Power Corporation has signalled a Memorandum of Understanding with Osisko Metals to use excess power at the existing Taltson hydro facility. So revenues generated from that industry sales would be used to mitigate some of the increased cost of power. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1410-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Rate Increases
Oral Questions
Page 5522
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Great Slave .
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Katrina Nokleby
Great Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The problem with the theme day is sometimes your questions get asked and answered ahead of you getting your opportunity, so bear with me. But I'm really excited to hear that one of the routes that the Minister says they're looking at is the west side of the lake. I just want to emphasize that given my statement today, about allowing for future development, I would prefer that versus going across the lake; therefore, we could have expansion off the power lines on the west side of Great Slave.
That being said, can the Minister please tell me where the total costs for the Taltson Hydro Expansion Project is at; how much of that funding is secured and how much are we still waiting on? Thank you.
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
Oral Questions
Page 5522
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Great Slave .
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
Oral Questions
Page 5522
Katrina Nokleby
Great Slave
Minister responsible for Northwest Territories Power Corporation .
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Page 5522
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, and I'm happy to know that the Member's quite excited about one of the two routes because when we first had these discussions, there was several routes that were contemplated. So, you know, we will continue to engage. Right now we have -- the federal government has allocated about $20 million to the GNWT to advance this Taltson expansion project. So funding is being used right now to develop Indigenous partnership, talk about some of the planning, the regulatory and feasibility work that needs to be done. So in addition, additional support from Canada will be needed to move this project to the construction phase.
Mr. Speaker, we don't have that final number yet. We're still such in the early stage of looking at this project. And, you know, I'm sure it will cost a lot of money. I just don't have that in front of me right now without having some of the work done. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Katrina Nokleby
Great Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I guess it's good that there's been no final number before now so that we don't have to listen to how the cost of the supply chain has driven that number up and that's the reason why nothing has advanced on the project. So I'd say that's a good thing here.
Can the Minister speak to how much of that $20 million will be retained using northern businesses and how much of it is sole sourced to former bureaucrats? Thank you.
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Page 5523
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'm always happy to hear good things that are happening on this side. So I mean, when you hear that that's very exciting that we're doing good things, such as working with Indigenous groups, looking at MOU, starting all this planning work, until we know the exact costs of what's the project going forward, I don't have that number in front of me, Mr. Speaker. That's very technical, and I just won't be able to answer that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
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Page 5523
Katrina Nokleby
Great Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the Minister was responding to my question before that one. I asked how much of the $20 million that has already been secured and is being used towards all the work that she's listed, like the regulatory and the pre-feasibility, how much of that is being retained with northern businesses and how much is being sole sourced to former bureaucrats? Thank you.
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I really don't have that number in front of me. I'd be happy to get back to the Member and respond so I'm just going to have to take notice on the costs. I just don't have that in front of me. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1411-19(2): Renewable Energy
Oral Questions
Page 5523
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Notice is given. Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake .
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Caitlin Cleveland
Kam Lake
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I have questions for the Minister responsible for NTPC about greening -- I know, it's a shocker -- about greening our electricity mix without making rates less affordable than they already are.
One of the GNWT's main policy tools to green the electricity mix is net metering. But that policy isn't sustainable for ratepayers or for our 2030 Energy Strategy goals. A 2021 policy review found that by 2030, electricity utilities will be losing up to $2.7 million per year on net metering, and that's without going beyond the 20 percent cap on renewables. That policy review made five recommendations. I'm not aware of what, if any, the GNWT has done in response to the review in the last two years.
So my question for the Minister is, can the Minister tell this House whether she's been briefed on the findings and recommendations of the report and what the department is doing in response? Thank you.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Kam Lake . Would the Member for NTPC please stand up.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Again, Mr. Speaker? So I do want to note, Mr. Speaker, in 2020-2021, Infrastructure commissioned and released three independent studies to be able to look at the policy options to develop more renewable power in remote communities and in the hydro zones while establishing electricity rates and ensuring grid reliability. These studies -- three things: Assess the maximum limits of renewable power in thermal communities. It also explored how the Northwest Territories could generate additional revenues from excess power. And looked at options to contain rate inflation from the current net metering and self-generation policy.
Mr. Speaker, in the 2022-2025 Energy Action Plan that was just released here in December, the GNWT committed to provide direction to the public utility board to make changes to the current policy framework so that we could support renewable power built without compromising grid reliability and impacting electricity rates. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Caitlin Cleveland
Kam Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the report recommended that within one or two years the GNWT reduce the credit for renewable generation and allow utilities to increase their fixed charges by 5 percent. Is the GNWT considering reducing the credit for renewable generation and will the GNWT consult before making such changes? Thank you.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As mentioned, we committed in the new energy action plan to provide direction to the public utility board to make changes to this current policy framework so that we can support renewable power build out without compromising grid reliability and impact electricity rates. I'm sorry, I repeated myself; I think that's really important to say.
Regarding the credit for the renewable energy, it's important to remember that utilities operate within a very complex and regulated environment. The GNWT cannot unilaterally decide to change rates like the one establishing the compensation received for renewable generation. It is up to the public utilities board to decide following a detailed process of investigation and public consultation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Caitlin Cleveland
Kam Lake
Yeah, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm aware of Indigenous-led renewable energy projects that can't go ahead because of this 20 percent cap that NTPC currently has. While our energy strategy commits us to reduce emissions from diesel power generation in communities by 18 kilotons every year by 2030, we are turning down proposals for renewable projects.
So can the Minister commit to make changes to the policy so that NTPC will work with any business or community that bring forward green energy projects even if they are above the 20 percent cap? Thank you.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is exactly why we're actively looking at this issue and why we made a commitment, not only to assess it but to provide an update direction to the public utility board on this matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary. Member for Kam Lake .
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Caitlin Cleveland
Kam Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would have liked to have heard a yes, not a -- I want a yes, just a passionate yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
My last question for the Minister is can the Minister clearly confirm whether our 18-kiloton reduction goal is attainable with only 20 percent renewables in diesel communities? Thank you.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Diane Archie
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, achieving the 18-kilowatt -- kiloton, sorry, big difference here -- kiloton reduction in the electricity sector is still possible. This will be achieved by a combination of things like the Inuvik Wind Project, the LNG projects, Fort Providence Transmission Line, as well as assuming some of the 20 percent intermittent generation limit. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1412-19(2): Northwest Territories Power Corporation Policies
Oral Questions
Page 5523
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake .
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Kevin O'Reilly
Frame Lake
Merci, Monsieur le President. My questions are for a different Minister, the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment . There are only two written submissions to the five-month long public and targeted engagement on mining royalties and 11 other online submissions.
Can the Minister tell us more about these online submissions and provide a list of who made them? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5523
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . Minister responsible for Industry, Tourism and Investment .
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5523
Caroline Wawzonek
Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm glad the Member got my name right. It was the Minister of mines earlier and that of course doesn't exist. There is the Minister for Industry, Tourism and Investment , sometimes known as Minister for the economy for which I'm responsible for the mineral resources sector and all of the work to get the Mineral Resources Act implemented, the mineral resources regulations ready to go. And in the process of doing that, one part of that is the royalties and for that purpose, Mr.
Speaker, there was a five-month long process, as the Member's made the point of helping me out in explaining. I am grateful for that. That was an extensively long engagement process. That's the formal engagement.
There's actually been, since 2017, when this process began, lots of engagement around mineral resources, mineral resource industry, Mineral Resources Act, the mineral resources regulations, and all of the different parts that go into it.
With respect to this one particular part, unless we, as the GNWT, tell someone that's bringing their opinions to us that we're going to turn around and publish them, it would be fully inappropriate for me to now stand up and read out names of the submissions. The "what we heard" report is a standard process that all departments go through. Once there's been a formal engagement putting the information out of what we heard, the point is to summarize it so that individual people who are making submissions don't have to be putting their names forward.
So I'm certainly glad to commend that report to the House and hope folks out in the public will read it and be reviewing it and can consider whether or not it reflects their views. We're still open to receiving information. I'm always open to receiving information and -- because the decisions haven't been made yet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Kevin O'Reilly
Frame Lake
Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Minister for her statement there. There was also 21 different surveys open only to those holding prospecting licenses. No data from these surveys is compiled or presented in the "what we heard" report. If these surveys had been open to others, there could have been some useful data generated on, you know, possible divergence of views.
Can the Minister explain why these 21 surveys were only open to prospecting license holders and indicate whether any actual data will be publicly presented? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Caroline Wawzonek
Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, these were specifically intended to gather information from prospector licensing holders because, of course, they're asking questions along the lines of "do you agree with adopting the PDAC exploration assessment digital data form EADDF for work assessment reports for data submission and digital format including PDF reports or other acceptable files, metadata, spatial map locations, geophysics submissions, including raw field data." Mr. Speaker, the average member of the public does not want to be answering that question. It would not be appropriate.
It was targeted to the folks who understand this, who work in this, and who can provide us that valuable feedback. And as with all other things, Mr. Speaker, we are gathering it and it does go into "what we heard" reports in due course. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Colleagues, I think our interpreters are running at full speed here. So please, please take your time. Member for Frame Lake .
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Kevin O'Reilly
Frame Lake
Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Minister for the response. Yeah, I actually tabled that information earlier this week in the stuff that I obtained access to information. But, you know, people shouldn't have to buy a prospecting license to be able to participate in targeted engagement.
Ironically the first item in the "what we heard" report from those secret meetings -- sorry, from the targeted engagement/secret meetings with the mining industry is called transparency and confidentiality. It appears that all ITI is going to do in terms of transparency is to separate resource revenues from mining and petroleum. Quebec and many companies already report this information mine by mine.
Can the Minister tell us exactly what is going to be in the royalty regulations regarding public disclosure of mining royalties? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Caroline Wawzonek
Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to the translators, I am sorry; I will try to slow down.
Mr. Speaker, I take issue with the continued characterization of an engagement process as "secret." This has been since 2017 that we have been going out and talking about the Mineral Resource Act and its regulations, before I even came in here. And part of the concern was raised in 2019, when are you going to start to do something and stop keep going and doing consultation processes? We hear that all the time.
And, yet, ITI is out doing both public meetings, engagements, forums, sessions, surveys, and targeted engagements with the sector, which of course means Chamber of Mines, operating mines, advanced exploration projects, prospectors and developers, people who are interested in the industry, secondary members of the industry. It is not inappropriate for them to be doing that. It would be wholly inappropriate for them to not be doing that. And what we are at the point of right now, Mr.
Speaker, with this is being able to go do the modelling to develop, to take back to the Intergovernmental Council about what should be determined and what types of policy options should go forward for drafting under the royalties. That's the stage we're at now. It is clear that one of those things is going to involve publishing more data from the mines about what types of royalties they have. That's obviously not the system we have now. I can't go out and change that right now. But we've received that information, and we'll be going forward with that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Final supplementary. Member for Frame Lake .
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Kevin O'Reilly
Frame Lake
Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Minister for that. I promise I'm not going to call them secret meetings anymore but as long as the department can find a way to share that information with everyone, which they don't do. So they continue to be secret meetings.
But there remains a lot of work and public engagement required for the Mineral Resources Act to be brought into force. The engagement report also mentions other research and analysis on royalties. So can the Minister tell us what other research is being done, whether it's going to be released publicly, not just shared with others, and whether all this work is going to be completed before the end of the 19th Assembly? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Caroline Wawzonek
Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I said, at this point, Mr. Speaker, having received feedback and being aware of interest in the area over the last six years, the department is at the point of being able to do the modeling and to be able to then take that, develop a policy, and develop it in concert, of course, with the Intergovernmental Council and the technical working group with whom we've been developing the Mineral Resources Act regulations from the start. It's part of a co-development process. They will make some decisions as a group. That will be what determines what the drafting instructions might look like.
And I would just note, Mr. Speaker, one other thing: This is the first Assembly that actually has open to it, a process by which draft regulations do go out for publication. That is a new thing. Typically it's only with bills that would get published. But now there actually is a process where a draft regulation itself would actually be open for input before being final. That's at the one end. There are certainly steps to come in between.
And once we have guidance from the technical working group, we'll be able to provide that and to come back and to speak to where we're at with those directions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1413-19(2): Mining Royalties
Oral Questions
Page 5524
The Speaker
Frederick Blake Jr.
Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Hay River South .
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Question 1414-19(2): Youth Games COVID Proof of Vaccination
Oral Questions
Page 5524
Rocky Simpson
Hay River South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker