Oral Questions, Rent Control, Health and Social Services — 3 March 2026 (20th Assembly, 1st Session, pp. 3545–3598)
2026-03-03, 20th Assembly 1st Session, pp. 3545–3598
Northwest Territories — Debates (Hansard)
Debates of March 3rd, 2026
This is page numbers 3545 - 3598 of the Hansard for the 20th Assembly, 1st Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.
The word of the day was housing .
Topics
Oral Questions
Members Present
Prayer Or Reflection
Update on Implementation of the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework Action Plan
Progress Update on Public Administrator Workplan
Northwest Territories Association of Communities Annual General Meeting
Ministers Absent from the House
Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Rent Control Measures and the Residential Tenancies Act
Arctic Winter Games Tryout Location
Indigenous Employment Policy
Diabetic Footcare
Legislative Pace
Liquified Natural Gas
Violence Experienced by Frontline Healthcare Staff
Member's Statement 958-20(1): Establishment of Distinct Tlicho Administrative Region
Work of the Electoral Boundaries Commission
Fort Simpson New year's Eve Celebration
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Committee Report 38-20(1): Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, Carried, Deemed Read, Received and Adopted, Response from Government Requested
Regulation for Disposal of Low-Value Vehicles
Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Ineligible Hiring Lists in the Public Service
Stanton Territorial Hospital Emergency Room Security
Landlord Obligations under
Section 30 of the Residential Tenancies Act
Diabetes-related Foot Care Services
Location of Arctic Winter Games Trials
Private Security Contractors
Liquefied Natural Gas Development
Establishment of Tlicho Administrative Region
Review of Intergovernmental Agreement on Lands and Resources Management
Electoral Boundaries Commission Final Report
Private Security Contractor Regulations
Policy Basis for Establishments of Administrative Regions
Healthcare Reform
Review of Intergovernmental Agreement on Lands and Resources Management
Healthcare Referrals
Northwest Territories Physician Capacity
Referral of Tabled Document 483-20(1): 2025-26 Electoral Boundaries Commission Final Report
Referral of Tabled Document 445-20(1): 2025 Review of Members of the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly Compensation and Benefits Report
Protection of Transboundary Waters and Rights of Northerners
Strengthening the Government of the Northwest Territories' Medical Travel Policy
Transfer of Housing Northwest Territories Market Rental Units to Tenants
Waiving of Rent for Elders in Public Housing
Bill 46: Prevention of Proceedings that Hamper Expression on Matters of Public Interest Act
Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Orders Of The Day
Members Present
Mr. Edjericon , Mr. Hawkins , Hon. Lucy Kuptana , Hon. Jay MacDonald , Hon. Vince McKay , Ms. Morgan , Mr. Morse , Mr. Nerysoo , Ms. Reid , Mr. Rodgers , Hon. Lesa Semmler , Hon. R.J. Simpson , Mr. Testart , Hon. Shane Thompson , Hon. Caroline Wawzonek , Mrs. Weyallon Armstrong , Mrs. Yakeleya
The House met at 1:31 p.m.
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---Prayer or reflection
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Prayer Or Reflection
Prayer Or Reflection
Page 3545
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Please be seated. I'd like to thank the elder Judy Selamio for the opening prayer. Ministers' statements. Minister of Finance .
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Minister's Statement 190-20(1): Update on Implementation of the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework Action Plan
Ministers' Statements
Page 3545
Caroline Wawzonek
Yellowknife South
Mr. Speaker, increasing Indigenous representation in the public service has been a goal of the Legislative Assembly for over 30 years. Guided by our commitment to reconciliation, the Government of the Northwest Territories has taken a whole-of-government approach to addressing barriers to recruitment and retention by challenging the status quo, uplifting Indigenous voices, and advancing the implementation of the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework and Action Plan launched in 2021.
Mr. Speaker, over the past four years, the Government of the Northwest Territories has made meaningful progress in implementing the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework Action Plan. Departments have advanced this work through their Indigenous employment plans, which set out concrete measures to increase, develop and maintain Indigenous employees.
Today, I would like to highlight the progress that the Department of Finance and all GNWT departments have made in strengthening Indigenous representation since the launch of the framework and action plan.
Mr. Speaker, we are improving recruitment practices through the launch of the job description review guide to help departments set appropriate positional education, and experience requirements and include Indigenous cultural and social factors in job descriptions.
From September 1, 2022, to December 8, 2025, over 3400 positions have been reviewed for the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework Action Plan compliance by the job evaluation unit within the human resources ensuring job descriptions accurately reflect the minimum education and experience for people to be successful in the positons. The Department of Finance has also launched mandatory training for managers on the staffing process and recruitment programs.
Mr. Speaker, through the launch of mitigating unconscious bias training, we are ensuring Indigenous representation on selection committees within the recruitment process. Indigenous applicants now have the option to request representation on their selection committee, helping to enhance cultural competency, reduce bias and promote cultural safety throughout the hiring process. The department has also launched the establishment of an Indigenous eligibility list for LL pre-qualified Indigenous candidates and allowing applications to be reviewed for future vacancies before positions are opened to competition.
Mr. Speaker, we are strongly focused on supporting Indigenous employees. We have also completed our review of the leadership development program to ensure alignment with the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework. The program now incorporates strengthened Indigenous perspectives through collaboration with northern employers, the Indigenous employee advisory committee, and community partners, supporting the framework's focus on removing barriers and embedding cultural relevance.
An on the land learning component further enhances culturally grounded leadership development consistent with the values and goals of the framework. Over the past three years, the Indigenous Development Training Program, Indigenous Career Gateway Program and Building Capacity with Indigenous Governments have been fully subscribed. Additionally, we have created now a career pathways advisor position in 2025 to support Indigenous employees in identifying career pathways and achieving their career goals within the public service.
Mr. Speaker, we are also pleased to announce the official launch of the Indigenous Mentorship Program. This is a nine-month initiative designed to support Indigenous employees through meaningful mentorship relationships with Indigenous mentors. Participants in the pilot cohort will commit approximately two hours per month to the mentor-mentee relationship. While the pilot will include a small cohort of participants, mentorship resources and matching support will be available to all Indigenous employees across the public service.
And I was recently pleased to meet one of these teams during a mentee-mentor meeting that fell on a day when the senior mentor had meetings with their Minister here at the Legislative Assembly.
Mr. Speaker, we are also committed to supporting the health and well-being of our employees. This year the GNWT introduced a new Employee Assistance Program, GreenShield Plus, which has an enhanced focus on Indigenous health and wellness. Through our partnership with Noojimo Health, an Indigenous-owned Canadian organization that provides culturally safe -- supports Indigenous employees and their families have access to virtual mental health services exclusively for Indigenous people. All of these many initiatives and actions also helping us strengthen our own accountability.
We have implemented annual performance expectations for deputies that hold them accountable to their annual department Indigenous employment plan targets:
We have launched the GNWT-wide succession planning guide to align with the goal of increasing Indigenous representation in the public service;
An exit interview process is being launched on April 1, 2026; and
The Department of Finance maintains continuous collaboration with the Indigenous employee advisory committee on all human resources initiatives and programs.
Mr. Speaker, this is not an exhaustive list of all the work being done; it is a snapshot of key initiatives. I do want to thank every department and agency for their attention and efforts related to Indigenous recruitment and retention. In many cases, GNWT departments have not only met but exceeded their targets. All departmental Indigenous employment plans are publicly available on the Department of Finance's website, and I encourage everyone to review the progress being made and upcoming actions that our departments are set to achieve. Our shared goal, Mr.
Speaker, is to foster a culturally safe and inclusive public service where Indigenous people can pursue and sustain meaningful employment. These values and these efforts benefit not only Indigenous employees, they benefit our current and future employees as a whole but the whole of the public service as a workplace and the people across the Northwest Territories who we serve. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Minister's Statement 190-20(1): Update on Implementation of the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework Action Plan
Ministers' Statements
Page 3545
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Minister of Finance . Members' statements. Ministers' statements. Minister of Health and Social Services .
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Minister's Statement 191-20(1): Progress Update on Public Administrator Workplan
Ministers' Statements
Page 3545
Lesa Semmler
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Mr. Speaker, residents across the Northwest Territories depend on a health and social services system that is steady, responsive, and able to adapt under pressure. In recent years, our system has indeed faced significant pressures, which is a key factor in my decision to appoint a public administrator to lead the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority just over a year ago. His role is to help guide the authority through this period of transition and support the system as it responds to these pressures.
Today, in light of recent concerns raised by Members of this House about the pace and direction of the work being led by the public administrator, I want to provide a clear update on the progress underway, the challenges that have affected some timelines, and the priorities for the year ahead.
A major focus of the public administrator's work plan has been strengthening relationships with communities, regional wellness councils, and partners across the system throughout 2025. He and the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority met with residents, practitioners, and community representatives in every region. These conversations continue to identify local challenges, support community-driven solutions, and shape priorities for improving access to care for smaller communities and Indigenous residents.
Mr. Speaker, the work to improve access to care in the Dehcho region is one example of this partnership in action. Staff and community partners are collaborating to enhance local services and support care closer to home. Early results of this work include stronger service delivery for remote communities through increased staff training, a hybrid remote and on-site nurse practitioner model, and select point-of-care testing. Lessons from this work are informing planning in other regions and will support future community-focused service models.
In addition, the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority has advanced improvements in primary care operations. Targeted projects are supporting progress in areas such as diabetes care and scheduling for community health nurse appointments. The "52 in 52" initiative continues to encourage frontline staff to identify small but meaningful improvements each week that enhance access to care and improve the patient experience.
Work is also underway to reduce administrative burdens. The health authority has begun testing a new technological tool that helps primary care providers complete their notes more quickly so they can spend more time with patients. Staff have been clear that administrative paperwork is a challenge, and Mika AI Scribe is a practical solution being piloted and evaluated to support them.
The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority has also been focused on building leadership capacity within their own governance structure as they prepare to transition away from a public administrator led model. This includes training, mentorship, and strategic planning sessions. The organizational review completed last year provided recommendations to clarify roles, strengthen decision-making and improving alignment across programs. These findings are guiding changes, using existing resources, in areas such as corrections health services, dietician services, and adult services, with implementation planned for the coming fiscal year.
Mr. Speaker, some initiatives have required adjusted timelines. Work on the people strategy progressed well last year; however, it identified issues extending beyond the health authority's mandate and required a government-wide response. As the scope expanded, additional coordination became necessary, and that work continues.
Wildfire activity in 2025 also delayed planned engagement in the Dehcho region, and some reporting tools required additional time to ensure accuracy and consistency of data.
Mr. Speaker, while we have experienced delays in some areas, we understand the importance of reporting on progress. That is why regular progress updates are publicly available, and quarterly work plan updates will continue to be posted on the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority's governance web page. Briefings have been, and will continue to be, provided to Members and to partners like the Northwest Territories Medical Association. Monthly updates are shared with regional wellness council chairs, with staff, and with the public.
A performance indicator dashboard was launched in November 2025 on the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority's website, providing residents with easy access to information on key areas of service delivery.
In addition to public accountability, financial sustainability also remains a priority. The first phase of the budget review was completed in April 2025, and the health authority is working with the healthcare system sustainability unit to address the main drivers of this deficit.
Mr. Speaker, while significant work remains to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of our system, it is important to recognize the progress. In 2024-2025, the authority's year-end deficit was reduced by nearly $34 million compared to what had been budgeted. In the current fiscal year, targeted spending reductions have decreased the operations-related deficit by approximately $8 million. These improvements demonstrate meaningful progress in stabilizing the system while maintaining essential services.
Looking ahead, Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority is preparing for another important year of transition. In 2026, our work will focus on improving the medical travel experience, reviewing access to primary care in Yellowknife, strengthening risk management, and simplifying key processes. The public administrator will continue his engagement on health equity and will focus on supporting staff throughout the organizational changes underway. He will also continue working with me to develop options for a future governance model.
Mr. Speaker, the progress made over the past year reflects the dedication of staff, community partners, and leaders across the system. Their efforts have strengthened the foundation for the year ahead and will support a more stable and responsive system for residents. As we move through this transitional year, we will continue to focus on improving access to care, supporting staff, and working closely with communities, Indigenous partners, and Members of this House. Our goal remains clear: To build a system that supports healthy people and healthy communities and that better meets the needs of residents today and into the future. Quyananni, Mr. Speaker.
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Minister's Statement 191-20(1): Progress Update on Public Administrator Workplan
Ministers' Statements
Page 3546
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Ministers' statements. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs .
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Minister's Statement 192-20(1): Northwest Territories Association of Communities Annual General Meeting
Ministers' Statements
Page 3546
Vince McKay
Hay River South
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the successful conclusion of the 60th Annual General Meeting of the Northwest Territories Association of Communities, held February 25th to 28th here in Yellowknife. This milestone gathering brought together mayors, chiefs, and community leaders from across our 33 communities. For six decades, the NWTAC has served as a unified voice for community governments, and this anniversary was both a celebration of that history and a clear look toward the future.
The annual general meeting began with a mayor and chiefs' bootcamp providing dedicated leadership development for newly elected and returning leaders. Professional development sessions, sponsored by the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs, created opportunities for skill building and collaboration. Interactive sessions throughout the conference allowed delegates to share practical solutions to the challenges facing communities across the North.
This year's theme, Strengthening Our Communities, focused on resilience and sustainable growth. Delegates engaged in important discussions about infrastructure funding gaps, climate change adaptation, emergency preparedness, and community wellness. These conversations reflect the realities our community governments face every day, from protecting critical infrastructure to supporting healthy, safe, and vibrant communities.
Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to participate in the Cabinet session on Saturday afternoon, informally known as the Bear Pit, which provides an opportunity for direct dialogue between community leaders and Members of the executive council. These conversations strengthen our shared understanding and reinforce our commitment to partnership.
I was also honoured to attend the closing banquet and awards ceremony where we celebrated the exceptional leadership and dedication of individuals and communities across the territory.
The resolutions adopted during this AGM provide clear direction for the year ahead. As Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs , I am committed to working alongside the NWTAC and our federal counterparts to ensure community governments have the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed.
Mr. Speaker, the strength of the Northwest Territories lies in its communities. I extend my sincere thanks to the NWTAC board of directors, staff, sponsors, and all delegates for organizing a successful and forward-looking 60th Annual General Meeting. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Minister's Statement 192-20(1): Northwest Territories Association of Communities Annual General Meeting
Ministers' Statements
Page 3546
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs . Ministers' statements. Mr. Premier .
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Minister's Statement 193-20(1): Ministers Absent from the House
Ministers' Statements
Page 3546
R.J. Simpson
Hay River North
Mr. Speaker, the honourable Member for Kam Lake , Minister of Industry, Tourism, and Investment , will be absent from the House today to attend the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada's conference in Toronto, Ontario.
As well, Mr. Speaker, the honourable Member for Thebacha , Minister of Justice, and the honourable Member for Hay River South , the Minister of Infrastructure , will be absent from the House for a portion of today's proceedings to meet with the federal Minister of Public Safety here in Yellowknife. Thank you.
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Minister's Statement 193-20(1): Ministers Absent from the House
Ministers' Statements
Page 3546
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife North .
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Member's Statement 950-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Members' Statements
Page 3546
Shauna Morgan
Yellowknife North
Mr. Speaker, over the last few years in Yellowknife, we've seen security guards pop up everywhere. They're at the mall, the grocery store, apartment buildings, the day shelter, at hotels, and accommodations for medical travel patients.
In the NWT, a security guard is a low-wage job that doesn't necessarily require any particular education or training and like most of our low-wage jobs, they're often filled by recent immigrants, and guards often find themselves interacting with Indigenous residents. They might carry pepper spray, batons, handcuffs, and be directed to make citizens' arrests without necessarily being trained in the law. It sets everyone up, including the guards, for dangerous situations.
Last November, a security guard at the Yellowknife library was seen to hit and shove a man to the ground. The private security firm did its own internal review, but we don't know the results and may never know. Then in January, security guards contracted by Northview threw an Indigenous elder down some stairs. Those guards were fired and are supposed to appear in court today to face assault charges.
Neither of those outcomes represents proper accountability. We need to make sure these kinds of incidents can't happen again. That will require the GNWT to establish legislation to regulate private security, like every other jurisdiction in Canada does aside from Nunavut. Regulation would set standards, limits on weapons that could be used. It would stop someone from, for example, acting as a peace officer in their day job and moonlighting as private security. Citizens could launch complaints to a registrar which could revoke a license for either an individual guard or a security company.
In the meantime, a policy can be set to ensure that any security services contracted by the GNWT, or Housing NWT, meet a certain standard including training and direction on the use of force. The contracts should mandate trauma-informed training, cross-cultural awareness and de-escalation techniques. But, ultimately, it's regulation that will help businesses who rely on private security by standardizing the industry and providing recourse for businesses when security firms are not delivering services appropriately. Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
Mr. Speaker, while we might be considered frontier country in the Canadian imagination, we do not want to be an actual wild west where people are running around in uniforms, taking the law into their own hands. And at the appropriate time, I will have questions for the Premier and justice Minister. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 950-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Members' Statements
Page 3547
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Yellowknife North . Members' Statements. Member from Great Slave .
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Member's Statement 951-20(1): Rent Control Measures and the Residential Tenancies Act
Members' Statements
Page 3547
Kate Reid
Great Slave
Thank you. Mr. Speaker, the Standing Committee on Social Development discussed the topic of rent scales and rent control in Committee Report 29-20(1), but due to the complexity and contentiousness of the feedback that they received, chose not to make any recommendations. Instead, they stated that consideration of these topics should fall to any future reviews the GNWT undertakes on the Residential Tenancies Act.
The Minister of Justice has noted publicly that in the 17th Assembly, when rent caps were last discussed under the Act, that the Assembly rejected these measures as not being fit for purpose. As this topic is brought to me by my constituents on a regular basis, and I do have several rental buildings in my riding, I reached out to the Minister directly. He let me know that the department does not intend to make a recommendation on rent caps or control but investigate it further in the 21st with possible amendments to the Act.
One issue I hope that the Minister will be considering in his review, as it is ongoing right now, as it dovetails with public safety legislation, is the safety and state of repair of rental units and complexes. There are numerous concerns with the ongoing state of some rentals in my riding, some reported on recently by local media. I am concerned that there are many buildings in contravention of
section 30 of the Act, which outlines landlord obligations to keep units and residential complexes in good repair. I am often copied on emails from frustrated constituents that nothing is being done to solve or address these problems. My office often sends folks with questions to the NWT rental office, but it is not clear what resolution, if any, takes place.
While I agree that public housing rentals should be an asset of Housing NWT that can be maintained and managed publicly, and I am glad that a mixture of units are being slated to include social housing and transitional housing with additional supports, I am concerned that when public housing tenants begin to exit private rentals in greater numbers that the disrepair will multiply and gentrification will take hold.
Raising rents and compounding affordability concerns for my constituents will once again lend itself to amplifying calls for rent caps and rent control, which may or may not be the best solution for the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time, I'll have the questions from the Minister of Justice . Thank you.
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Member's Statement 951-20(1): Rent Control Measures and the Residential Tenancies Act
Members' Statements
Page 3547
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Great Slave . Members' statements. Member from Mackenzie Delta .
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Member's Statement 952-20(1): Arctic Winter Games Tryout Location
Members' Statements
Page 3547
George Nerysoo
Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I would like to express my concerns regarding the current shift towards regional sports tryouts and the unintended disadvantage this system creates for many community athletes. While regional tryouts may aim to broaden competition and identify talent across a larger geographic area, they also introduce significant barriers for families and athletes within smaller and remote communities. Travel requirements, associated costs, time commitments, and logistical challenges prevent many deserving athletes from even having the opportunity to participate.
As a result, talented and dedicated community players are being excluded, not because of ability but because of circumstances.
Mr. Speaker, there was a time when athletes from the small and remote communities felt the excitement about the Arctic Winter Games tryouts because they were eager to showcase their potential. That is not the case any longer. The athletes feel this is a Yellowknife representation and feel it is not worth it to even put their names forth to represent the NWT. I can recall teams from smaller communities represented Team NWT and brought home medals. For families, attending regional tryouts requires significant expenses including transportation, accommodations, meals, and time away from work.
In northern and rural areas especially, these barriers are amplified. The reality is that when participation depends on the ability to travel, equal opportunity no longer exists.
Mr. Speaker, sport should be an avenue for growth, teamwork, and fair competition. Mr. Speaker, I seek the unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, sports should be an avenue for growth, teamwork, and fair competition. A system that unintentionally excludes capable athletes undermines those values. I respectfully urge consideration of a more balanced approach, whether through reinstating community-level tryouts, offering multiple regional locations, or providing financial and travel support to ensure equal access for all athletes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 952-20(1): Arctic Winter Games Tryout Location
Members' Statements
Page 3547
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Mackenzie Delta . Members' Statements. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .
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Member's Statement 953-20(1): Indigenous Employment Policy
Members' Statements
Page 3547
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in 2024, the Northwest Territories Ombud issued a special report entitled Ineligible for Public Service Fairness and Rehiring. The report examined the Government of the Northwest Territories' practices of barring certain employees from reapplying to the public service.
The report found that this practice has never been considered through an equal equity lens despite the major consequences that these bans have for Northerners, particularly those in small communities, where the territorial government is one of very few employees. At the time, half of those banned were Indigenous, meaning the practices disproportionately affected Inuit, Métis, and First Nation people. Despite ongoing efforts to open the public service to Indigenous employees, a goal yet to be properly realized, the ombudsman found no mechanism to review such decisions and very little was recorded to justify them.
Many employees were never informed that they had been placed on the list. Some departments could not determine who was on the list, why, or for how long due to inconsistent documentation. Many constituents come to my office disputing decisions that led to their termination.
When workplace suffers from conflict, management always has the advantage, so it's not surprising that almost internal appeals are upheld, leaving employees with few options for recourse. With these decisions determined by internal discretion and shrouded in secrecy, many wonder whether they are ever truly unbanned and this effectively functions as a cross-department territorial blacklist. The ombudsman recommended, in 2024, that these bans are halted until a lawful authorization by the Minister or Public Service Act. Yet, as of last week, people are still being notified that they have been barred from working in the public service for years.
Mr. Speaker, this is another example of territorial government that not only fails to design policies that serve our people but also struggles to hire them to administer their own services. I will have questions for the Minister of Finance later today, whether banning Indigenous people from government employment is consistent with her stated goal for increasing Indigenous representation in public service. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 953-20(1): Indigenous Employment Policy
Members' Statements
Page 3548
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Members' Statements. Member from the Dehcho .
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Member's Statement 954-20(1): Diabetic Footcare
Members' Statements
Page 3548
Sheryl Yakeleya
Deh Cho
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mahsi. Today I would like to speak about an urgent and growing concern that touches far too many families across the Northwest Territories: The critical need for accessible and consistent food care services for residents living with diabetes.
Diabetes is lived every day by our elders, our parents, our young people. National data tells us that 3.9 million people in Canada, about 9.7 percent of the population, are living with diagnosed diabetes, and the numbers continue to grow year after year. We also know that diabetes remains a significant chronic health concern here in the NWT.
Mr. Speaker, complications from diabetes, including lower limb amputations, continue to place a heavy burden on people and on the health system. These are not just medical complications; they are life-altering experiences that affect mobility, independence, and well-being.
One of the most serious yet preventable complications is foot disease. Without timely care, nerve damage and poor circulation can lead to infections, ulcers, and, in worst cases, amputations. Regular professional food care can prevent this but many of our smaller and remote communities still don't have reliable access to this essential service.
Mr. Speaker, this is about fairness. It is about dignity. It is about giving our residents the care they need to stay healthy and to stay home in their communities.
Early intervention and regular monitoring are proven to reduce hospitalizations and long-term complications. My constituents need regular diabetic foot care and investing in accessible diabetic foot care today will save lives, reduce future health costs, and support healthier outcomes for families in my riding and in the Northwest Territories. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services at the appropriate time. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 954-20(1): Diabetic Footcare
Members' Statements
Page 3548
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from the Dehcho . Members' Statements. Member from Frame Lake .
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Member's Statement 955-20(1): Legislative Pace
Members' Statements
Page 3548
Julian Morse
Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, our government is severely challenged with timelines related to developing legislation, reviewing it, and bringing it into force. Over the first two years of this Assembly it has become apparent to me that this is a significant systemic problem we need to turn our attention to. I will cite some recent examples to illustrate the point.
The process of development and approval of the Forest Act spanned two assemblies, with the 18th Assembly citing the tremendous strain caused by a pile-up of legislation at the end of their term, and passing the Act onto the 19th Assembly. Despite the process being largely complete when they received it, the 19th Assembly still took four years to redevelop and finally pass the Forest Act in 2023, which I would note has not come into force as of 2026.
Mr. Speaker, it has been seven years since the Public Land Act received assent and regulations bringing it into force are still in development. The Mineral Resources Act was passed in 2019 and, according to the current schedule, regulations bringing it into force will happen in 2027 - eight years since the Act received assent.
While the previous examples are large and complex bills, even smaller, targeted issues require significant timelines. For example, after a number of years of advocacy by various groups, the government agreed to make targeted amendments to the Waters Act to respond in a timely way to the most pressing issues with that outdated piece of legislation. And that process is set to take us close to the end of the term of this Assembly. Mr. Speaker, the extensive timelines I have cited are severely hampering our government's ability to respond to current issues and the needs of stakeholders in a timely manner.
When a government is not responsive to the needs of the public and stakeholders, they increasingly lose faith in the institution. People either seek to bypass government process entirely, or they increasingly see the NWT as a place that isn't welcoming to innovation or business.
Mr. Speaker, the theme of this sitting has been meeting the moment. To do so, we have to look within and figure out how we can prioritize public need over process and figure out what can be changed on both sides of this House to improve our legislative timelines. I'll have more to say on this subject later and my first round of questions on this matter later today. Thank you.
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Member's Statement 955-20(1): Legislative Pace
Members' Statements
Page 3548
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Members' Statements. Member from Inuvik Boot Lake .
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Member's Statement 956-20(1): Liquified Natural Gas
Members' Statements
Page 3548
Denny Rodgers
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in my Member's statement from February 2025, I spoke about our energy strategy and its primary focus at the time had been solely focused on renewable, but the reality is, Mr. Speaker, we are still heavily dependent on diesel, LNG, and other non-renewable options in our northern regions.
Given the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation's M18 project is now fully funded and well underway, engaging with the significant discovery licence holders in the Beaufort Delta must be a priority for this government. I often spoke in this House about the 2021 MD LNG report that clearly states it's technically and financially feasible to develop and export LNG from the Beaufort Delta. What we need now, Mr. Speaker, is a plan. How are we supporting energy and, just as importantly, looking to lower costs for our residents?
We have spent millions on green energy initiatives. I understand the need to do our part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but, again, I don't see an overarching plan that integrates those initiatives into our existing, non-renewable energy grids, nor have I seen an analysis of what it means for the residents who are not able to take advantage of green energy. What cost will that be to them, Mr. Speaker?
As I've said before, I fully support a working group solution for my region, working with Indigenous governments, community leaders, and our government to find potential solutions that will attract industry back to the Beaufort Delta, to signal to the federal government that we are open for business and that the North can be an economic engine and a have-territory that can pull our weight on the national economy. As we have said in this House, it's about meeting the moment, Mr. Speaker, and the moment is upon us. Build using the natural resources we have. Let's build it. Let's be the economic engine that can power our territory for many years to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 956-20(1): Liquified Natural Gas
Members' Statements
Page 3548
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Inuvik Boot Lake . Members' Statements. Member from Range Lake .
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Member's Statement 957-20(1): Violence Experienced by Frontline Healthcare Staff
Member's Statement 958-20(1): Establishment of Distinct Tlicho Administrative Region
Members' Statements
Page 3548
Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Masi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, [Translation] I'm talking about -- I'm talking about the people on behalf of the Tlicho, Wekweeti, Gamèti, and also in Yellowknife as well. And also (audio) North Slave region. We have a lot of people here in Yellowknife [Translation Ends].
Mr. Speaker, the North Slave administrative region has a larger population than all the other regions combined; however, that population is not evenly distributed. More than 21,000 people live in Yellowknife while just over 3,000 live across the four Tlicho communities. No other administrative region in the territory has such a significant population imbalance. That imbalance has real implications.
Yellowknife is an urban centre with concentrated services and infrastructure. The Tlicho communities are rural and face distinct housing pressures, income challenges, social and educational needs. When communities with such different realities are grouped into a region dominated by Yellowknife populations, those differences are overshadowed. As a result, financial and performance reporting for the North Slave region is heavily weighted towards Yellowknife, making it difficult to assess and report on the circumstances of Tlicho communities. Management decisions and regional priorities are also influenced by that same population imbalance.
Mr. Speaker, I have raised this matter before, requesting a separate and distinct Tlicho administrative region. To date, it is unclear to me what is preventing this from moving forward. The issue is clear. The difference between Yellowknife and the Tlicho communities are not in dispute. The desire to establish a separate administrative region has been expressed clearly and consistently. My constituents have asked for it. Tlicho leadership has asked for it. I have asked for it on the floor of this House. Mr. Speaker, what I am asking for is straightforward.
The creation of a separate and distinct Tlicho administrative region will require effort and coordination on the part of government. That work may not be simple, but it is necessary to ensure that the needs of Tlicho communities are properly reflected and supported. What is needed now is a clear commitment to move forward so that this work can begin. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Finance . Thank you.
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Member's Statement 957-20(1): Violence Experienced by Frontline Healthcare Staff
Member's Statement 958-20(1): Establishment of Distinct Tlicho Administrative Region
Members' Statements
Page 3548
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre .
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Member's Statement 959-20(1): Work of the Electoral Boundaries Commission
Members' Statements
Page 3549
Robert Hawkins
Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the Electoral Boundaries Commission for producing their final report. It's a relentless task. They had to walk a tightrope, and certainly I admire the work they did. Their mission was very important. It looked at different types of dynamics of population, cultural, community interests, land claims, other types of regional concerns from size of communities, and even including languages, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, if we consider different type of dynamics, that tightrope I mentioned that they had to walk, I mean it would be easy to say we have this many people divided by this many MLAs, and there's the outcome. But it's much, much more complicated than that and hence we get to what's called relative parity, trying to find a path that balances certain interests, whether it's language, community, etcetera, bring them together in a harmonious way. And harmonious doesn't always mean exactly the same amount of people but a representation has to be fair. And that's the key. Not only effective, but to fair and to feel fair.
Our democratic process, the way we do it, is we recognize diversity as a strength, certainly not as something to wield a power but it's a sense of how do we embrace and grow stronger. Our Electoral Boundaries Commission, again, tried their best and I think they rose to the occasion of that demand.
Mr. Speaker, the democratic process, as they point out in their report, is worth the investment. And I would say it would be a mistake to think past it. We could get caught up quickly and say well, there's too many MLAs now or more would be bad, but other regions such as the Yukon and the Nunavut territory have larger legislatures than we do, and they find a way to do it. Mr. Speaker, democracy matters, and we must get there.
If we worked on strict voting fairness, Mr. Speaker, and I am saying just the raw data, if we want to treat every community like Yellowknife, let's just say for example Inuvik and Hay River, they would only have one MLA if you followed the standard deviation. Their populations fit exactly into one riding of Yellowknife. But yet so when we hear people saying Yellowknife's getting too many, I think it's a mistake. I think we have to ask ourselves where can we balance the fairness.
Mr. Speaker, the report of the commission was clear and very articulate. They do not recommend status quo. Status quo is a dangerous, dangerous path to take.
Currently, right now, I am going to say before the House there is recommendations, basically follow their 22, which they unanimously say this is the way to go. I'd say if this House does not find a way to support the final recommendation of the commission, I say all future commission reports are binding, and put it upon the Assembly to take the issue with it to court and let the public pay that way rather than putting it on the citizens, individuals, or communities to rise to those occasions. Mr. Speaker, let the data speak for itself. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Member's Statement 959-20(1): Work of the Electoral Boundaries Commission
Members' Statements
Page 3549
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Members' statements.
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Member's Statement 960-20(1): Fort Simpson New year's Eve Celebration
Members' Statements
Page 3549
Shane Thompson
Nahendeh
Colleagues, today, I realize that I am doing it a little bit late but I am recognizing a tremendous community effort behind the first annual New Year's Eve celebration in Fort Simpson, a truly heartwarming example of what happens when residents come together to create joy and connect for families. This initiative began in mid-October where a group of local mothers met to discuss ways to bring happiness to their children during the holiday season.
Their first project was Pumpkin Lane, which gathered over a hundred pumpkins for a family carving night hosted by the Open Doors Society with pumpkins donated by the Union of Northern Workers. This event also included a carving day at the Liidlii Kue Regional High School. A group of volunteers then worked to display and light the pumpkins for three evenings after Halloween bringing magic to the community.
Following that success, the same group met again to plan something special for New Year's Eve. Inspired by Joyce McLeod's event in Fort Providence, and driven by the dedication of Shawna McLeod and Dawn Bell, the idea came to life on December 31st. The day featured family games, prizes, food, and community donations, followed by a chili contest, fireworks, and a drum dance to usher in 2026. At midnight, balloons dropped with $400 inside, adding extra excitement to the celebration. I had the pleasure of participating in several of the family games and got to watch the fireworks. Unfortunately, I did not make it to the balloon drop as the fresh air and excitement tuckered me out.
Colleagues, this event was made possible through extraordinary volunteerism, local business support, and countless hours of preparation. The names of those who contributed have been provided, and I ask that they be deemed as read and included in Hansard.
Fort Simpson's first annual New Year's Eve celebration truly showcased the spirit, generosity, and unity of the community. I'd like to thank everyone for these amazing family activities on New Year's Eve.
Volunteers:
Shawna McLeod, Dawn Bell, Nicole Hanna, Jerri Brenton, Amy Fraser, Jackie Whelly, Whitney Tsetso, Danita Allaire, Brendan Whelly, Travis Hanna, Darren Hardisty, Ezra Whelly, Joyce McLeod, Michael Mcleod, Levi hanna, Lennox Hardisty, McKenna Hardisty, Ramona Hardisty-Gillis, Lisa Alikamik, Derek Squirrel, Betty Hardisty, Deneze Nakehk'o, Rylan Hardisty, Kai Nakehk'o, Ava Erasmus, Val Gendron, Cheryl Sibbeston, Cindy Browning and Dayna Burrill.
Businesses donations:
Fort Simpson Metis, Rowes Construction, Fort Simpson Beverages, Simpson Air, Village of Fort Simpson, Fort Simpson Speedskating Club, Beavertail Jamboree, Toys for the North, Mackenzie Manor, Union of Northern Workers, Open Sky, Bradbury Services, northern Store, Open Doors, Fort Simpson Fire department, NTPC and Thimbles Dene Crafts & Sewing Supplies
Members' statements. Recognition of visitors in the gallery.
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 3549
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
I am going to start first because I got a little bit of a long list. First of all, I'd like to recognize Mr. David Jones, the Integrity Commissioner. Welcome back. We look forward to meeting with you. As well, I'd like to recognize some special guests up in our gallery today, the participants, the 2026 Ontario Legislative Assembly intern program participants. Some of you had the opportunity to meet with them, and these are pretty amazing young people that have an opportunity to come here and see our government at work and how consensus government works. So I'd like to recognize them.
And I apologize -- I've already apologized to them at lunchtime that I may get their name wrong, and for that I apologize. The people up in the gallery: David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Emily Shi, Keena Cavero. Gee, right on. Geneva Follina, Nora Acrowi. There we go. Ev Ferry, Julia Yukiak-Bukichi, Sheikha Tuntan-Karen. I blew that one, sorry. And Tanzima King. Welcome to our Assembly, and I hope you are enjoying yourself, taking in the sights that our beautiful territories have to offer and learning new ways and better ways of doing things along the way. You're more than welcome here. Thank you.
Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from Great Slave .
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 3549
Kate Reid
Great Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too wish to welcome all the Ontario interns. I especially want to wish a warm welcome to Rob Ashton, NDP leadership candidate, and Sara Jayne Dempster, President of the Northern Territories Federation of Labour. Thank you for visiting us today and enjoy the proceedings. Thank you.
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 3549
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member from the Dehcho .
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 3549
Sheryl Yakeleya
Deh Cho
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize as well the Ontario interns, welcome. And Mr. David Jones, as well as my new CA Julie Landry, and some of my constituents, Jacinda Bonnerouge, Genevieve Canadian, Jacob Koza, and my sister-in-law Marilyn Bonnetrouge. It's her birthday today. Happy Birthday, Marilyn.
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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 3549
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you Member from the Dehcho . Happy Birthday, young lady. 21? 22? Oh, 22. Okay. Recognition of visitors in the gallery.
If we missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to your gallery. Thanks to you, 19 of us get to represent the people in Northwest Territories for four years, and we're past halfway through. I hope you are enjoying the proceedings. It's always nice to see people in the gallery.
Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Reports of committees on the review of bills. Member from Monfwi .
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3549
Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your committee would like to report on its consideration of Bill 34, Trespass to Property Act.
Bill 34 received second reading in the Legislative Assembly on October 31st, 2025, and was referred to the Standing Committee on Social Development for review. The committee held public hearings in Yellowknife and Hay River and received four written submissions on this bill. The committee also met with the Hay River health community committee. The committee carefully considered the feedback received throughout the review process and, in response, proposed nine amendments to Bill 34 , all of which were concurred with by the Minister of Justice at the clause-by-clause review on February 25th, 2026.
Mr. Speaker, the committee reports that Bill 34, Trespass to Property Act , is ready for consideration in Committee of the Whole as amended and reprinted. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Bill 34 stands referred to the Committee of the Whole.
Reports of committees on the review of bills. Reports of standing and special committees. Member from Monfwi .
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Mackenzie Delta , that committee report 37-20(1), Standing Committee on Social Development's Report on Bill 34, Trespass to Property Act , be received by the Assembly and referred to Committee of the Whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Monfwi . The motion is in order. To the motion.
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
Some Hon. Members
Question.
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Question has been called. All those in favour, please raise your hand. All those opposed, please raise your hand. All those abstaining, please raise your hand. The motion is carried. Committee's Report 34 has been received and adopted by the Assembly.
---Carried
Member from Monfwi .
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Social Development is pleased to provide its report on Bill 34, Trespass to Property Act , and commends it to the House.
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Mr. Speaker, Bill 34 : Trespass to Property Act seeks to address significant gaps in trespassing law by creating legislation intended to govern trespass to private property, to schools, and to certain types of private interests on public lands such as leases.
Bill 34 , as originally drafted, provides the Royal Canadian Mounted Police the authority to remove trespassers from private property, issue arrests, and pursue prosecutions.
Bill 34 received second reading on October 31st, 2025, and was referred to the Standing Committee on Social Development for review. This report summarizes committee's review of Bill 34 , starting with our engagement with the Government of the Northwest Territories, the RCMP, and the public.
This report also describes committee's efforts to review and strengthen Bill 34 , including nine motions to amend the bill - all of which were adopted at the clause-by-clause review - and six recommendations.
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Between December 2025 to February 2026, committee engaged the public on Bill 34 . Committee hosted one public meeting in Yellowknife - Somba K'e - on January 20th, 2026. At this public meeting, committee heard from the Minister of Justice and his officials, and the RCMP. A total of four people attended this public meeting.
The Minister's presentation is included in Appendix A.
Committee hosted one public meeting in Hay River on January 26th, 2026 with a total of 20 people in attendance. Committee met with the Hay River healthy communities committee on January 27th, 2026, to discuss Bill 34 , with a total of 12 people in attendance.
Committee sought written submissions on Bill 34 . We also sent targeted engagement letters to Indigenous governments across the Northwest Territories. Committee received written submissions from:
City of Yellowknife
Adrian Bell
Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce
Northwest Territories Chamber of Commerce.
These submissions are also included in Appendix A.
Committee appreciates those that offered feedback at public meetings and in written submissions. Contributors provided thoughtful input on the bill and raised important considerations related to trespassing in the NWT.
Committee categorized public comments received into three themes:
Operationalization of the legislation;
Expanding levels of response, and;
The Effects on the justice system.
And, Mr. Speaker, I would like to pass the floor to MLA for Mackenzie Delta. Thank you.
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Member from Mackenzie Delta .
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Committee Report 37-20(1): Standing Committee on Social Development Report on Bill 34: Trespass to Property Act, Carried Received and Referred to COW
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3550
George Nerysoo
Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Indigenous Rights
Indigenous rights are explicitly protected and upheld under clause 2 of Bill 34 . Clause 2 describes that any action under the Trespass to Property Act must be carried out in accordance with any applicable agreements and in the event of any conflict or inconsistency, the land resources and self-government agreements will prevail over the Act. The Department of Justice noted that Bill 34 in no way prevents an Indigenous government from establishing their own trespass legislation. The Act will therefore be interpreted in a manner consistent with existing Indigenous and treaty rights in
section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and in accordance with land and self-government agreements.
Loitering versus trespassing
At the public meeting in Hay River, there was discussion and requests for clarity regarding understanding the distinctions between trespassing and loitering in Bill 34 . These discussions were noted by small business owners who highlighted the example of loitering in stores as being a consistent occurrence.
Committee notes the definition of trespass that is found in Bill 34 : That a person is trespassing if they stay on a property after being directed to leave by the occupier or a person authorized by the occupier. In their presentation to committee, the department provided the example that a person can enter a store normally but would have to leave if the owner tells them to leave. Committee believes that loitering is captured in clause 3 of Bill 34 as part of the definition of trespass as an offence. In particular, clause 3(1)(
b) states that a person is committing an offence by trespassing when they remain on the premises after being asked to leave. In addition, the Act allows regulations to be created that will list activities that are or are not permitted.
Signage and notices
There were numerous questions raised during public meetings about the use of signage and how the notice of prohibition of entry would be provided. More specifically, members of the public had questions regarding the types of signage or notices, whether there are clear instructions on how signs should be posted, etcetera. Committee acknowledges these questions in hopes to provide some clarity in terms of the operationalization of providing notice of prohibition of entry and methods of signage under Bill 34 in the following paragraphs.
Bill 34 in clauses 4, 5, and 6 describe the prohibition of entry to a premises. Clause 4 notes that entry may be prohibited by notice, and subclause 4(2) lists premises that don't require any notice at all (such as a garden or field or location that is enclosed in a matter intended to keep people or animals off the property). Subclause 4(3) states that there is a presumption that the access for lawful purposes to the door of a building is permitted. Clauses 5 and 6 describe that notices can be posted for the prohibition of particular activities.
The department noted in their presentation to committee that the primary method of giving notice that someone is not allowed to access your property, in most cases is going to be by way of a sign. This is where clauses 7, 8, and 9 come into play.
Clause 7 describes that notices can be given orally or in writing or by means of a sign that is visible in the daylight under normal conditions or in accordance with any prescribed marking system. The department noted that no marking system has been planned yet as this would require additional thought and consultation. A marking system may be included in future regulations under the Act.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to pass the floor to MLA of Range Lake. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Page 3550
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Mackenzie Delta . Member from Range Lake .
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Page 3550
Kieron Testart
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Schools
There were questions from the public regarding the use of the Act with schools in the NWT. In particular, there was confusion about whether school property becomes municipal property after hours, and how quickly to call the RCMP for assistance if there were a trespasser on school property. It is the committee's understanding that education bodies are defined as occupiers under Bill 34 to ensure that the legislation will also be applied to both private and public schools.
It is important that schools in the NWT understand how the Act will be applied to them, and therefore committee presents the following recommendation to ensure smooth operation of the Act and to minimize confusion for school staff:
Recommendation 1:
The Standing Committee on Social Development recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories issue clear guidance and instructions to schools across the Northwest Territories on how to use and apply the Trespass to Property Act to their settings, including providing additional funds for producing prohibition of entry signage as needed.
Youth
Impact on unhoused populations
Numerous members of the public emphasized the need for targeted resources to support people experiencing homelessness and expressed concern that unhoused individuals could be inadvertently caught up in the legislation's application. There was also apprehension that vulnerable individuals could be convicted of trespass and lack the financial means to pay any resulting fines and therefore lead to inevitable imprisonment. Committee agrees these concerns are valid and wants to ensure the legislation is applied in a way that does not set up vulnerable people for failure.
On that note, committee is recommending measures that will create a graduated response to the enforcement of trespassing, including enforcement using tickets and allowing orders prohibiting entry to a premises. (See Recommendation 2 and Motions 4 and 5).
In addition to graduated responses, fine option and restorative justice programs should continue to be made available, even for those convicted of trespassing. Committee believes implementing a range of options will help ensure that individuals convicted of trespass are appropriately supported while also maintaining efforts to address public safety concerns. Committee would also like to highlight that Bill 34 requires clear signage or verbal notice to inform individuals when they may be trespassing (see Signage and Notice section). Committee also proposed an amendment to help ensure that "no trespass" signs are not posted falsely (see Motion 6).
Further, in their presentation to committee, the department noted that the NWT's Human Rights Act protects NWT residents from discrimination on protected grounds including race, nationality, political belief, ancestry, sex, and gender identity or expression. Anyone who tries to misuse the Trespass to Property Act provisions, such as if they posted a sign or asked someone to leave on a protected ground, would be in violation of the Human Rights Act.
And, Mr. Speaker, I would like to pass the floor over to the Member for Dehcho . Thank you
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Member for Dehcho .
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Sheryl Yakeleya
Deh Cho
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Expanding levels of response
Allowing enforcement by ticket
The Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce recommended reframing Bill 34 to prioritize warnings, banning and removal over arrest to help reduce criminalization and court backlog. They were supportive of refocusing the bill for compliance over criminalization and stated that relying on arrest as the primary enforcement outcome imposes significant front-end and back-end demands on law enforcement resources.
Committee believes it is crucial to expand the available enforcement options and
summary convictions measures under the bill. As mentioned in the previous section, numerous concerns were raised regarding the reality of an individual's ability to pay fines and the realistic application of a
summary conviction on a vulnerable person.
Committee seeks to expand upon the levels of response for trespassing, recognizing entrenched societal struggles with the justice system and criminal penalties. As a key example, the RCMP noted concerns that Bill 34 , as it stands, focuses solely on court process. The RCMP requested a measured approach whereby they could, in the first instance, issue a violation ticket and, in the second instance, issue a ticket for a higher amount. They provided the example that if there is repetitive behaviour, that may be a situation where they would seek an enforcement option leading to a court process where the judiciary could make that determination based on the facts presented.
Committee agrees that the peace officers should have the ability to issue tickets to individuals for trespassing. This would create an additional enforcement option and move away from Bill 34 's current focus on court process. Another effort to expand upon the levels of response for trespassing is included in Motions 4 and 5, to add the ability to issue orders prohibiting entry. Therefore, committee puts forward the following recommendation in an effort to expand upon the levels of enforcement of the Act:
Recommendation 2
The Standing Committee on Social Development recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories create regulations under the
Summary Convictions Procedures Act to include ticketable offences for trespassing prior to Bill 34, Trespass to Property Act , coming into force.
Effects on the justice system
System capacity and resource strain across the justice system
In their presentation to committee, the RCMP spoke to the extent to which the implementation of trespass legislation would increase calls for service. The witness noted that, with the implementation of trespass legislation, there would not necessarily be a significant spike in calls, since the RCMP is already receiving a significant number of calls related to trespassing, currently treated in some cases as mischief. He further reiterated that from the RCMP's perspective, there are many tools they can facilitate and the use of trespass legislation will not be at the very top of our toolbox.
He emphasized the importance of a measured approach, noting that trespass legislation can be used to manage certain behaviours.
Municipal enforcement personnel in Hay River also noted that using this legislation may help curb behaviours so that resources can be used towards more serious issues. Municipal enforcement and the RCMP in Hay River also brought forward the reality that they are already receiving calls related to trespass. During the public hearing in Yellowknife, the department noted that an increase to call volume would naturally be expected by way of introducing legislation that targets a specific activity such as trespassing.
Members of the public noted worries about overwhelming the courts with the prosecution of trespassing, including concerns with individuals not being financially able to pay fines which may result in overwhelming correctional centres. At the public hearing in Yellowknife, the Minister stated that the possibility of increased involvement in the justice system should not, in itself, prevent the legislation from being enacted where individuals are engaging in the behaviours the legislation seeks to address.
Committee emphasizes the importance of utilizing and promoting alternative justice programs such as restorative justice and fine options that help address difficult behaviours and the complex circumstances individuals may face while still ensuring accountability. Committee also believes in supporting the RCMP with the application of this Act. Accordingly, committee put forward Motions 3 and 9 to allow the Minister, through regulation, to prescribe classes of people authorized to enforce the Act. This will help ensure the RCMP are not overburdened by trespass enforcement and related calls for services while enabling other enforcement personnel to apply the legislation where appropriate.
Current use of Criminal Code provisions
The RCMP indicated they support the intent of the legislation and view it as filling a legislative gap. In its absence, they noted their options are often limited to taking no action or proceeding directly to a criminal offence under the Criminal Code. For instance,
section 430 of the Criminal Code creates the offence of mischief for any person damaging property or interfering with the lawful use or enjoyment of property, among other acts. Subsection 349(1) - being unlawfully in a dwelling house - states that any person who, without lawful excuse, enters or is in a dwelling house with intent to commit an indictable offence is guilty of an indictable offence. As the RCMP highlighted, committee believes that the Act will provide another tool for law enforcement to use to help curb behaviours outside of these Criminal Code provisions.
And, Mr. Speaker, I would like to pass the floor to the MLA for Yellowknife North. Thank you.
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Dehcho. Member from Yellowknife North .
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Shauna Morgan
Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Measuring the effects of the legislation
A member of the public questioned what efforts will be in place for measuring the effectiveness of the legislation. Committee believes in analyzing what value trespass legislation will bring to the overall picture of public safety in the NWT. Therefore, committee presents the following recommendation:
Recommendation 3:
The Standing Committee on Social Development recommends the Government of the Northwest Territories ensures that statistics on prosecution for trespassing are routinely included as part of general reporting on offences and convictions in the Northwest Territories once the Trespass to Property Act has come into force, to provide insight on the effectiveness of the legislation.
AMENDMENTS
Committee put forward nine motions to amend Bill 34 . These are included in Appendix B of this report.
1. Defining ‘occupier' as lawful occupier
The City of Yellowknife presented a recommendation to committee that the definition of occupier in Bill 34 be limited to "lawful" occupants only, referencing a definition found in British Columbia's trespass legislation.
The department's presentation to committee noted their definition of occupier, which includes someone who has physical possession of the premises or who has responsibility and control over the condition of the premises or activities on the premises or control over persons allowed to access it. Committee believes it important to bring this definition one step further to ensure that the lawful occupiers of a premises are protected and can bring forward trespassing concerns without a debate of true lawfulness to a premises.
The city provided a few examples to committee where this would come into play, including a person erecting a tent on municipally owned land with or without lawful authority could be considered an occupier under the bill as drafted. They noted that their ability to defend claims of adverse possession may be compromised or complicated. Committee would like to note that Bill 34 does not apply to trespass on public land, which would fall under the Commissioner's Land Act and the NWT Lands Act.
The RCMP were also in favour of this change to a "˜lawful" occupier, stating that as the definition of occupier currently stands in Bill 34 , there may be complications and threats to public safety should there be situations such as a drug dealer bullying their way into a home and arguing that they are an occupier.
There were questions raised regarding the relationship this Act would have with the NWT's Residential Tenancies Act and committee understands that with the change to specifying a "lawful" occupier, landlords and tenants are themselves both included in this definition. Case law would aid in determining the varying and competing levels of ownership.
Therefore, committee presented Motion 1 by adding to the definition of "˜occupier" that a person must be a "˜lawful" occupier. Motion 1 was met with concurrence from the Minister of Justice .
2. Improper use of signs
Concerns were raised regarding the improper use of no trespassing signs, particularly by those who are not the lawful occupiers of a premises, and may not have the authority to be issuing no trespass signage. While trespassing could not be legitimately prosecuted in such cases, it might dissuade people from enjoying lawful access to public lands. Committee believes that this is a significant risk and as such there should be an explicit penalty for those who post no trespassing signs without lawful authority to do so.
Committee therefore presented Motion 6 to amend Bill 34 . Motion 6 was met with concurrence from the Minister of Justice .
And, Mr. Speaker, I would like to pass the floor to the MLA for Range Lake.
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Yellowknife North . Member from Range Lake .
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Kieron Testart
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
3. Expanding enforcement powers
It was suggested by numerous stakeholders that enforcement powers in Bill 34 should be expanded to include peace officers (i.e. municipal bylaw officers). The City of Yellowknife recommended this change, stating this would increase the city's ability to respond to incidents of trespass on municipal property without increasing the burden on an already over-extended police force. The RCMP was in favour of this change, also providing the example of the potential use of sheriffs to broaden enforcement capability even further.
While the City of Yellowknife submitted its support on expanding powers of arrest to municipal enforcement officers for the offence of trespassing, a municipal enforcement officer in Hay River noted his support for municipal enforcement to have the power to issue tickets rather than the power to arrest.
The issue of allowing private security officers enforcement powers under Bill 34 was also brought forward to committee. There were varying degrees of concerns for allowing private security personnel the power to enforce, including worry for culturally safe interactions between members of the public and private security personnel, appropriate training for private security personnel, and the lack of regulating legislation for the profession in the NWT.
Some stakeholders were in favour of including the powers of enforcement for private security personnel, while some were apprehensive due to reasons such as increased liability and a lack of training to properly and safely execute arrests. The RCMP noted that including enforcement powers for private security personnel would warrant further exploration and assessment.
Recognizing the balance for further research and proper implementation to expand the powers of enforcement to private security personnel as well as expanding the bill to include peace officers as enforcers, committee proposed Motions 2, 3, 7, 8, and 9 to amend Bill 34 . These motions are all related to expanding power of enforcement to peace officers, including a provision whereby the Minister can prescribe classes of people in the regulations once research and potential future regulation of professional bodies is enacted. Motions 2, 3, 7, 8, and 9 were met with concurrence from the Minister of Justice .
In addition to the motions to amend Bill 34 , committee presents the following recommendations, in an effort to regulate private security in the NWT and streamline clear guidance on the use of the Trespass to Property Act:
Recommendation 4
The Standing Committee on Social Development recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories urgently create legislation that will regulate private security companies in the Northwest Territories and include a requirement for northern and Indigenous cultural awareness training.
Recommendation 5
The Standing Committee on Social Development recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories create and publicize clear policy guidance for the general public, private security companies, and Indigenous governments in the Northwest Territories on how the Trespass to Property Act can be used.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to pass the reading of the report on to the honourable Member for the Dehcho . Thank you.
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Member from the Dehcho .
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Sheryl Yakeleya
Deh Cho
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
4. Orders to prohibit entry
Members of the public, and business owners in particular, raised questions on their rights to ban people from their business premises who have consistently been removed due to loitering. Committee also had concerns with the fact that banning may already be occurring in the NWT in some business premises. The department confirmed in the public hearing that a standalone provision regarding orders prohibiting entry was not contemplated in the development of the bill.
Committee presented two motions that speak to Orders for the prohibition of entry due to trespassing. Firstly, committee presented Motion 4, which amended clause 3 of Bill 34 to allow for an additional penalty for the offence of trespassing, namely including orders prohibiting entry to a premises for a term not exceeding three years. Motion 5 added a
section under clause 3 that outlines the
summary convictions for when a person contravenes an order prohibiting entry. Motions 4 and 5 were met with concurrence by the Minister.
And, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to pass the floor to the Member from Monfwi .
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Dehcho. Member from Monfwi .
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Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Masi, Mr. Speaker.
CONCLUSION
On February 25th, 2026, committee held a clause-by-clause review where the nine motions described throughout the report to amend Bill 34 were carried and concurred with by the Minister of Justice . Committee passed a motion to report Bill 34 to the Legislative Assembly as ready for consideration in Committee of the Whole as amended.
This concludes the Standing Committee on Social Development's review of Bill 34 .
Recommendation 6
The Standing Committee on Social Development recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a response to this report within 120 days. Thank you.
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Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Member from Monfwi .
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Jane Weyallon Armstrong
Monfwi
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Mackenzie Delta , that Committee Report 37-20(1), Standing Committee on Social Development's Report on Bill 34, Trespass to Property Act , be received by the Assembly and referred to Committee of the Whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member. The motion is in order. To the motion.
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Some Hon. Members
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? All those abstaining? The motion is carried. Committee Report 34 has been received and will be moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.
---Carried
Colleagues, before I go any further, I'd like to recognize the honourable, now the grand chief of the Gwich'in Tribal Council, Frederick Blake, known as Sonny. He has been a Member for the Mackenzie Delta the 17th, 18th, and 19th, and he was the former Speaker of the 19th Assembly. Welcome to the Assembly, Sonny.
Reports on Standing and Special Committees. Member from Range Lake .
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Page 3553
Kieron Testart
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Your Standing Committee on Public Accounts is pleased to provide its report on the review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts and commends it to the House.
Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Nunakput , that Committee Report 38-20(1), Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, be deemed read and printed in Hansard in its entirety. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
*ed: Committee Report 38-20(1) can be found here .
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Member from Range Lake .
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Question has been called. All those in favour of the motion? All those opposed?
---Carried
Member from Range Lake .
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Kieron Testart
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Nunakput , that Committee Report 38-20(1), Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Motion's in order. To the motion.
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Committee Report 38-20(1): Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, Carried, Deemed Read, Received and Adopted, Response from Government Requested
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Page 3553
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Committee Report 38-20(1): Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, Carried, Deemed Read, Received and Adopted, Response from Government Requested
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? All those abstaining?
---Carried
Member from Range Lake .
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Committee Report 38-20(1): Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, Carried, Deemed Read, Received and Adopted, Response from Government Requested
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3553
Kieron Testart
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Nunakput , that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Committee Report 38-20(1): Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, Carried, Deemed Read, Received and Adopted, Response from Government Requested
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Member from Range Lake . To the motion.
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Committee Report 38-20(1): Standing Committee on Public Accounts Report on the Review of the 2024-2025 Public Accounts, Carried, Deemed Read, Received and Adopted, Response from Government Requested
Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? All those abstaining? Motion carried.
---Carried
Reports on Standing and Special Committees. Returns to oral questions. Acknowledgements. Oral questions. Member from Frame Lake .
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Question 1135-20(1): Regulation for Disposal of Low-Value Vehicles
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Julian Morse
Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I almost got ahead of myself there. Mr. Speaker, I have a question for the Minister of Infrastructure .
Earlier this sitting, I raised the need for a regulation under the Motor Vehicles Act for disposal of low-value vehicles. I note that the City of Yellowknife recently wrote the Minister about this issue again. So I wanted to ask the Minister again, can he commit to bringing forward a regulation under the Motor Vehicles Act for disposal of low-value vehicles within the term of this Assembly? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1135-20(1): Regulation for Disposal of Low-Value Vehicles
Oral Questions
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Minister of Justice .
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Question 1135-20(1): Regulation for Disposal of Low-Value Vehicles
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Vince McKay
Hay River South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I will commit to having that completed. Thank you.
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Question 1135-20(1): Regulation for Disposal of Low-Value Vehicles
Oral Questions
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Oral questions. Member from Yellowknife Centre .
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Robert Hawkins
Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to first begin by saying I was glad to hear another MLA spoke up about the crisis of lack of security guard legislation, so I applaud that Member, Mr. Speaker. I want to acknowledge that.
On February 4th, I brought up, and even tabled a working copy of the legislation, and of course I welcome any Member who wants to second the Private Member's legislation that I intend to bring forward.
So my question is, as the House may know and the Minister specifically knows this, after initiating the revitalization initiative on the Security Guards Act through a PMB path, the Minister assured me that he'd provide me any information the department has with respect to this matter and I am curious as to where that information is today so I can complete the draft of this bill. Thank you.
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Minister of Justice .
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Jay MacDonald
Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I did commit to the Member that I would share the information that was available on this issue, and I will commit to the Member to follow up with the department. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Mr. Speaker, just briefly, given the lack of regulation on security guards, including training and problems, as even noted by my colleague from Yellowknife North, how do you manage complaints currently through this process given that there's nothing?
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Jay MacDonald
Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, depending on the nature of the complaint, there are a number of pathways. Either that is backed through the employer to be addressed as an HR matter, or if it's a matter that's criminal in nature it would be moved along through the RCMP. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Minister of Justice . Final supplementary. Member from Yellowknife Centre .
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Robert Hawkins
Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I've noted even training for NGOs is lacking with respect and asked any future agreements include training because of this problem.
Mr. Speaker, my question is what can the Minister of Justice do on the interim of this gap until we bring forward a bill in some form that we can deal with this matter? Thank you.
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Jay MacDonald
Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think at this point, as we do not have any governing legislation in this area, I think certainly, you know, our ability to work with our communities, with our Indigenous partners, with our Indigenous organizations, and the GNWT across the NWT, you know, we're having conversations with those companies that are providing this service. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 1136-20(1): Training Standards for Northwest Territories Security Guards
Oral Questions
Page 3553
The Speaker
Shane Thompson
Thank you, Minister of Justice . Oral questions. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .
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Question 1137-20(1): Ineligible Hiring Lists in the Public Service
Oral Questions
Page 3553
Richard Edjericon
Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Finance , follow-up to my Member's statement.
Mr. Speaker, for many, many, many fear they are never truly removed from the rehire ineligibility list once they are placed on it. Given that the department may have access to this information across the public service, how does the government ensure that someone who is no longer on the list is not effectively and indefinitely prejudiced in seeking public service employment? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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