Debates of March 12th, 2020

This is page numbers 659 - 708 of the Hansard for the 19th Assembly, 2nd Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.

The word of the day was community .

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

Northwest Territories Policing Priorities

Arctic Winter Games

Lack of Policing in Illicit Drug Trade

Small Businesses in the Northwest Territories

COVID-19 Plans for Small Communities

Frank Channel Bridge Replacement

COVID-19 Concerns in the Northwest Territories

Agricultural Land in the Northwest Territories

Gladue Reports

Beaufort Delta Youth Declaration on Climate Change

Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Mental Health Care for Children

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

COVID-19 Emergency Planning

National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

COVID-19 Planning

Contractor Suspension List

Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Gladue Reports

Housing Waiting Lists

Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Agricultural Leases in the Northwest Territories

Access to Child Mental Health Supports

COVID-19 Economic Cost and Support for Businesses

Business Investment Program

Tabled Document 60-19(2): Our Climate Our Arctic - Beaufort Delta Declaration, March 8, 2020

Extended Adjournment of the House to March 24, 2020

Extended Adjournment of the House to March 24, 2020, CARRIED

Bill 3-19(2):

An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act

Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Tabled Document 30-19(2): Main Estimates 2020-2021 - Northwest Territories Housing Corporation - Deferral of Further Consideration of the Estimates for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation

Tabled Document 30-19(2): Main Estimates 2020-2021 - Municipal and Community Affairs - Deferral of Further Consideration of the Estimates for the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs

Report Of The Committee Of The Whole

Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Hon. Frederick Blake Jr, Hon. Paulie Chinna , Ms. Cleveland , Ms. Green , Mr. Jacobson , Mr. Johnson , Mr. Lafferty , Ms. Martselos , Mr. Norn , Mr. O'Reilly , Ms. Semmler , Hon. R.J. Simpson , Mr. Rocky Simpson , Hon. Diane Thom, Hon. Shane Thompson , Hon. Caroline Wawzonek

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 659

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Item 2, Ministers' statements. Minister of Justice .

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Minister's Statement 35-19(2): Northwest Territories Policing Priorities

Ministers' Statements

Page 659

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, as Minister of Justice one of my responsibilities is to set the objectives, priorities, and goals of the Territorial Police Service. While the GNWT respects the operational independence of the RCMP, the intention of setting these objectives is to establish a broad strategic direction for the delivery of policing services in the Northwest Territories that incorporates the unique needs of our communities.

Through past priority-setting exercises, the RCMP have been asked to place a focus on increasing public trust in policing services, working with partners to improve responses to vulnerable populations, being innovative in addressing community safety, and ensuring a culturally-informed, safe approach to service provision.

Mr. Speaker, the annual policing priorities have traditionally been set directly by the Minister. To ensure that I consider the diverse perspectives of the many unique communities in the Northwest Territories and that this process is undertaken with transparency, I have invited the leadership of Indigenous, municipal, and community governments to share their views with me on what is most important to their community when it comes to community policing services.

As leaders in their respective communities, I know they are best positioned to share this perspective with me. Seeking their input reflects Cabinet's commitment to support and enhance our relationships with community and Indigenous governments and to promote community self-sufficiency. Their contributions in this regard will be used to guide the development of the 2020-2021 broad strategic direction that I will set for the RCMP. It is my intention going forward to engage in this outreach on an annual basis.

These priorities help lead the RCMP and community leadership to develop annual policing priority action plans. This collaborative work supports the building of trust between RCMP members and the communities they serve, and formalizes the engagement efforts of RCMP detachment commanders across the NWT. The action plans are revisited annually and revised as necessary by the community and the RCMP, recognizing the shared responsibilities in addressing service provision. Through this process, communities have a direct role in making their community safer. I applaud the work that the RCMP and community leadership have accomplished together to enhance the quality of life in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, few services have as direct an impact on our citizens as the policing services provided by the RCMP. Although we are very fortunate to be provided a professional service by a national police force and by a division dedicated to community policing, it is incredibly important that we ensure that service reflects the unique context of our territory. The ultimate goal that we are all working towards together is safe communities where our citizens can thrive. I look forward to hearing and understanding the insights of community leadership in shaping the Ministerial priorities for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 35-19(2): Northwest Territories Policing Priorities

Ministers' Statements

Page 659

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister of Justice . Ministers' statements. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs .

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Minister's Statement 36-19(2): Arctic Winter Games

Ministers' Statements

Page 659

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, today, I wish to give well deserved recognition to Team Northwest Territories who were scheduled to compete at the 2020 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse, Yukon, from March 15 th to 21 st . At the same time as providing this recognition, we, of course, have to acknowledge the profound disappointment at the difficult but necessary decision to cancel the 2020 Arctic Winter Games due to the risk presented by the COVID-19 virus. The decision to cancel the games could not have been an easy one, but ultimately, doing what was in the best interests of the health and safety of all those involved had to be the priority.

Mr. Speaker, it is truly unfortunate that there will be no games. Team NT still deserves our thanks and our recognition. Mr. Speaker, I would like to provide Members with some information about Team Northwest Territories: at the territorial trials, 746 athletes, coaches, and chaperones from 23 NWT communities competed for the opportunity to represent the NWT. Of this, 344 were female participants and 402 were male participants.

The 2020 Arctic Winter Games Team consists of 355 participants, including athletes, coaches, and mission staff from 20 different communities. In addition, 17 officials from across the Northwest Territories were scheduled to be involved. Team Northwest Territories athletes were set to compete in all 20 sports. Team Northwest Territories also included a cultural contingent that was going to celebrate our cultural heritage. Seventeen NWT Youth Ambassadors, with representation from all regions in the Territory, were also set to go to Whitehorse as volunteers.

The Northwest Territories Youth Ambassador Program has been in operation in the Northwest Territories for 12 years, and offers a guided and structured volunteer experience for Northwest Territories youth at major territorial, national, and international events. Participants have the opportunity to develop life and job skills, as well as to build the confidence necessary to deal with complex life challenges.

Mr. Speaker, everyone who is part of Team Northwest Territories and the contingent who was going to the Arctic Winter games had worked hard for many months and, in some cases, years to prepare for these games. Team NT is built with the collaboration of so many people who deserve our thanks: volunteers, sport organizations, and the tireless efforts of parents. I want to say thank you to everyone for all their efforts in the early morning drives, the long hours of practice, and the lessons in fair play and determination. We know the life lessons that involvement in sports teaches are very valuable.

What we hope our young people take away from this difficult lesson is that the reward and pride in accomplishment is in the journey.

Mr. Speaker, I want to advise Members that Team NT will be refunded for their deposits and to keep their uniforms. Unfortunately, due to the scope and magnitude that goes into planning events of this type, postponing the games or holding alternative events is not an option. To close, I would like to extend my thanks to Mr. Doug Rentmeister, Chef de Mission, Mr. Damon Crossman, and Mr. Bill Othmer, Assistant Chef de Missions for Team NT, and all the rest of their mission staff as well as the Sport North Federation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 36-19(2): Arctic Winter Games

Ministers' Statements

Page 659

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Thebacha .

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Lack of Policing in Illicit Drug Trade

Members' Statements

Page 659

Frieda Martselos

Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the Minister of Justice's statement and respect it, but there are gaps in the system. Mr. Speaker, in my 13-plus years in leadership, I have constantly brought up the lack of enforcement in the drug trade in the community of Fort Smith. Members of the community have approached me on numerous occasions over the years and have stated that they have gone to the RCMP with pertinent information about suspected criminal activities taking place in the community but feel that nothing becomes of it.

There has not been a large drug bust in the community in about 20 years. Everybody knows who the drug dealers are. I have spoken about this problem at various Dene leadership meetings and with the present leadership of the RCMP, and there has not been a marked difference or positive results regarding this whole problem. Illegal drugs have inflicted our community and have brought many bearings on many families and must be addressed. The RCMP has a job to do, and as an MLA and leader of this community, I expect them to do their job.

There has been a sign that has gone up and down in Fort Smith and on the Internet, right under the welcome sign, the sign that says, "Welcome to Fort Smith," and this is what the sign says, "Fort Smith jobs wanted: Coke, crack, and meth dealers." The dealers we have are overworked and make too much money. The RCMP are okay with dealers and don't do anything about it. Residents shut their mouths. Apply with the RCMP, and then they give the RCMP phone number, 872-1111.

Mr. Speaker, see this type of signage, especially directly underneath the town's welcome sign is totally unacceptable. This message just underlines my point about the lack of policing enforcement in relation to the illicit drug trade. Even the drug leaders know they can get away with their criminal activities because of the RCMP inaction. Based on the sign, the dealers are literally laughing at the system that is supposed to enforce the rule of law and rein in on their criminal activities. I will have questions for the Minister of Justice later today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Lack of Policing in Illicit Drug Trade

Members' Statements

Page 660

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Thebacha . Members' statements. Member for Hay River South .

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Small Businesses in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 660

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The majority of businesses that operate in the North are mostly small businesses, and they are exactly that, small businesses. Most of the contracts for these small businesses would be government contracts and primarily with the NWT Housing Corporation or the Department of Infrastructure.

Small businesses operate in regional and isolated communities face hardships and costs associated with doing businesses. In the NWT, labour costs are generally higher than our southern counterparts. Although unemployment exists, these businesses experience labour shortages due to social policies that force local residents to turn down work. Businesses must then import workers which result in higher project costs. Small businesses also rely on barging and winter roads and air transport for delivery and material and equipment. This can make or break a small business if there are delays and payment is not timely.

Mr. Speaker, within the GNWT and no matter which department, our northern businesses expect to be treated fairly and with respect. Every so often, we will find a department or a government employee who, for one reason or another, strays from this practice of fairness. To give an example of where fairness is paramount would be the placement of a contractor on a suspension list which may or may not be for legitimate reasons or, for that matter, be based on factual information.

I know the use of suspension lists are a practice of both the NWT Housing Corporation and the Department of Infrastructure. Being placed on a suspension list with the GNWT could result in a business being forced to close down. It may result in layoffs of local employees. It may result in families going without financial resources to put food on the table or pay basic living costs.

Mr. Speaker, as it is this government's practice to place northern business on suspension lists, as such, I would expect that this government has policies in place that establish a fair and objective process with reasonable criteria in place. A decision such as this must incorporate factual information and/or circumstances from the person who is qualified to provide such information. The circumstances surrounding the suspension must be clear and unambiguous, and the business must be provided due process in a timely manner.

A northern business being placed on a government suspension list can immediately bankrupt the small business, the very reason we need fairness and opportunity for due process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Small Businesses in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 660

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Hay River South . Members' statements. Member for Nunakput .

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COVID-19 Plans for Small Communities

Members' Statements

Page 660

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Preparing for the coronavirus in small communities. Mr. Speaker, I'm reluctant to talk about the coronavirus a the second day in a row because it is important to let the people know not to panic, but knowing that good plans are in place to help reduce panic, so that's what I want to focus on today. Knowing that yesterday, the World Health Organization confirmed that the coronavirus outbreak is a pandemic. There's 149 cases in Canada today. There is no universal definition. There are three general criteria of the pandemic, Mr. Speaker. A virus that can cause illness or death, sustain person-to-person transmission, and evidence of spread throughout the world.

Yesterday's announcement sent a signal to many countries to shift focus on trying to stop the spread of the virus, trying to slow it down. In some countries, containment is not realistic in point, however, the remote location where our communities could take advantage of that, Mr. Speaker, in stopping the spread. We need to be clear communication from this government today about the illnesses. What are we doing? Is the NWT to confront this illness, Mr. Speaker? My phone is blowing up from my mayors regarding when are we going to start hearing from our Municipal and Community Affairs?

I want to know: where are they going to put all the people if there's illness in the communities, Mr. Speaker? What is the government considering on closing the highways or halting travel or checking people at the main airport in Edmonton or here in Yellowknife before they go north? Will there be more healthcare providers put in the community, and when? How is Health and Social Services marshalling respirators to send into our communities? How will the food supplies to get into our communities if there's a sustained outbreak, Mr. Speaker? They also need to know, when can we trigger the emergency plans?

Can we do that now, or do we have to wait until people are getting sick? We have to be proactive, not reactive, Mr. Speaker. We need emergency plans that have to get acted on. As I said, because of the remote location, we might still be able to stop the spread of the virus in or communities, but we'll have to take action fast, Mr. Speaker.

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

---Unanimous consent granted

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COVID-19 Plans for Small Communities

Members' Statements

Page 660

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I want the Deputy Premier to provide assurances that Health and Social Services and MACA are working together on emergency plans for the coronavirus that will be communicated to the public as quickly as possible, and be proactive, not reactive. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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COVID-19 Plans for Small Communities

Members' Statements

Page 660

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Nunakput . Members' statements. Member for Monfwi .

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Frank Channel Bridge Replacement

Members' Statements

Page 660

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

Masi, Mr. Speaker. [Translation] I'd like to talk about the bridge, the Frank Channel Bridge.

Mr. Speaker, last August, the territorial government announced that it had secured a $30 million contribution from the federal government's National Trade, and also a $10 million contribution will fund environmental assessments, and also, I would like to talk on this issue. [Translation ends]

Mr. Speaker, [microphone turned off] ...million contribution from the federal government in the National Trade Corridor Fund. This contribution coupled with a corresponding $10 million from the GNWT to fund the environment assessments and planning for the Slave Geological Transportation Corridor. The planning component of this $40 million investment will, along with other things, bring the first

section of corridor to a "shovel-ready" state.

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Frank Channel Bridge Replacement

Members' Statements

Page 660

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

We're having a technical issue. It keeps cutting out. Is everything okay? If we could start over, please. Thank you.

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Frank Channel Bridge Replacement

Members' Statements

Page 660

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

Masi, Mr. Speaker, I'll do it for a third time. Mr. Speaker, last August 14, the territorial government announced that it had secured a $30 million contribution from the federal government's National Trade Corridor Fund. This contribution coupled with a corresponding $10 million from GNWT to fund an environmental assessment and planning for the Slave Geological Transportation Corridor. The planning component of $40 million investment will, among other things, bring the first

section of corridor to a "shovel-ready" state. Mr. Speaker, that

section is running from the end of our existing Highway 4 to Lockhart Lake.

Mr. Speaker, the previous government is to be commended for acquiring federal support for Slave Geological Corridor. However, Mr. Speaker, it is regrettable that the territorial government has not had the same success with the Frank Channel Bridge, which the Minister of Infrastructure acknowledges is in dire need of replacement, Mr. Speaker, which is also the subject of an application for National Trade Corridor funding, and which is vastly more critical to the people of this territory than the Slave Geological Corridor. It's ironic, Mr.

Speaker, that, without the Frank Channel Bridge, the Slave Geological Transportation Corridor won't see a single truck axel, won't carry a single stick of freight. That is, of course, because one must cross the Frank Channel Bridge in order to reach that corridor.

Mr. Speaker, this department's "cart before the horse" logic makes me wonder if the Minister's department has given sufficient priority to the Frank Channel Bridge. It makes me wonder, also, if perhaps this department has been too busy pandering to the whims of mining industries rather than providing the real meat-and-potatoes infrastructure needs of our people. I will have questions for the appropriate Minister at the appropriate time. Masi.

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Frank Channel Bridge Replacement

Members' Statements

Page 660

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Monfwi . Members' statements. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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COVID-19 Concerns in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 660

Steve Norn

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Today, I would like to share some remarks regarding the ongoing situation on COVID-19, and I just want to add a little bit to what my colleague from Nunakput has already said regarding that. It is a pandemic, yes, and we need to be proactive as a government. I want to remind everybody, the general public, that there have been zero confirmed cases of this virus in the NWT to date, and officials within the Department of Health and Social Services have remained adamant that the risk of contracting this illness in the NWT remains low because of time.

As well, our territory's Chief Public Health Officer said just yesterday during a press conference that the NWT has already been treating the situation as a pandemic for two weeks. I want to make sure that everybody puts their mind at ease in my riding that our territorial government is actively monitoring the situation and responding accordingly.

However, Mr. Speaker, for all people in the NWT, they must remain vigilant and be cognizant and accepting of the fact that cases of this COVID-19 could very well occur in the NWT. This is a fluid situation that continues to unfold and change on a daily basis. As of this morning, Canada had one death, along with 149 confirmed cases of this virus, spanning across several provinces. As of this morning, this has resulted in dozens of planned public events being cancelled or postponed across the country, and around the world, as a precautionary measure to try to limit the spread of this virus.

Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, there was a travel advisory by our government for non-essential workers to not leave the territory, and I advise that our Indigenous governments and our industry should follow suit, as well, just to help contain this problem. Yesterday, our federal government has responded to the outbreak by responding with a $1-billion spending package to help our country's healthcare system and economy cope with this outbreak, and about half of this money is being transferred to the provinces and territories directly to prepare and react to this virus.

Overall, Mr. Speaker, I just want to reiterate to the public that it is important to remain calm and not to panic. As a territory, as a country, as a global community, we will hopefully get through this together. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services afterwards. Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker.

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COVID-19 Concerns in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 661

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Agricultural Land in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 661

Rylund Johnson

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think every day there are more and more reminders that we are living in an increasingly globalized world. Whether it be a pandemic or the crashing of oil prices, we are not immune from global forces, Mr. Speaker, none of which is greater than climate change. I increasingly think it needs to be stated that we are not doing enough, nor is any other government. Consistently, scientists are reporting that we will not meet our targets.

I would like to speak to one aspect of climate change adaptation that I think we must take swift action on, Mr. Speaker, and that is food security. Consistent reports have said those who will be affected first by food security due to climate change are those in rural areas, those on low income, those who are already food-insecure. I don't believe I have to tell this House that that falls to many of our people. No one in this House would deny the importance of food security for the North; in fact, our mandate includes increasing locally produced food as a priority.

As we face the challenges of adapting to climate change, it is key for us to be swift in our attempts to build a network of food producers in the North.

Mr. Speaker, the key to any agricultural endeavour, whether crop or livestock, is land. We currently have no leasing process which is regulated specifically for agricultural purposes in the North. Most jurisdictions around Canada allow you to apply for agricultural land at a small cost in order to promote the industry; in fact, the Canadian agricultural industry is largely subsidized as a recognition of the importance to a nation's sovereignty in having locally produced food.

Typically, agricultural land gives you a number of benefits, including allowing you to reside on that land, allowing you to have dwellings for caretakers. We do not have that set up in the Northwest Territories, Mr. Speaker. The agricultural strategy identifies land as a key pillar to the success of our agriculture industry and identifies that the GNWT will establish and review land tenure policies and procedures around this. I'm glad to hear this, but I am afraid that we are moving too slowly. The Department of Lands is going to take years to do this work.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Lands is at the middle of a Gordian knot that is land use in the Northwest Territories. There is an over-complicated process, and we need to simplify it. I believe, if someone comes to us wanting to produce agricultural land, the first thing should be: how can we make this happen swiftly and now? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will have questions for the Minister of Lands .

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Agricultural Land in the Northwest Territories

Members' Statements

Page 661

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Gladue Reports

Members' Statements

Page 661

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am continuing with my Justice issues theme week. The Yukon is piloting a new approach to the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in corrections. The Department of Justice there is funding a three-year pilot program to train people to write what are called Gladue reports. A Gladue report provides detailed information about the offender's background, including time spent in residential schools, in the care of child welfare, family and community history, as well as struggles with mental health and addictions; essentially, accounting for the traumas and tragedies of colonialism.

The reports are named after a Supreme Court of Canada decision given 20 years ago, which asked judges to consider unique factors when sentencing Indigenous offenders.

A Gladue report is a piece of a toolkit for the courts to consider when sentencing the offender. The intention is to encourage the consideration of restorative approaches to sentencing, rather than jail time or fines. During the first year of Yukon's pilot program, Gladue writers produced 37 reports for use during sentencing. What is new here is that the Yukon has formalized the production of these reports. Instead of someone doing them off the side of their desks, there is now a group of staff experienced in writing the reports. Further, the reports have been standardized so that the information is consistent and readily available to the judiciary.

Mr. Speaker, there are some noteworthy aspects to the Yukon's pilot project. First, it's collaborative. It includes both the Yukon Legal Services Society and the Council of Yukon First Nations. Second, there has been a focus on training Indigenous people as report writers because of their innate understanding of the context of the convicted. Third, the cost of the pilot project is $530,000 over three years. To me, this is a reasonable investment, considering the higher costs of jailing offenders and continuing the cycle of trauma.

There is no equivalent to the Gladue reports in the Northwest Territories. Pre-sentence reports are written by probation officers and focus on risk and risk management. In short, they serve a different purpose. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Justice . Mahsi.

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Gladue Reports

Members' Statements

Page 661

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Yellowknife Centre . Members' statements. Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes .

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Beaufort Delta Youth Declaration on Climate Change

Members' Statements

Page 661

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our youth are our future, and we need to ensure that we hear what they are saying, because the decisions we make today will affect them when we are no longer here. We continue to hear from our youth, and we need to be mindful when making decisions that we represent them when we are here in this House. Although many of these youth cannot vote, they are looking to us to ensure that, as NWT residents, they are being heard and listened to. I will therefore read the Youth of the Beaufort-Delta Declaration on Climate Change, as well as table the document in this House today. Our Climate Our Arctic - Beaufort-Delta Declaration made on March 8, 2020.

As the youth of the Beaufort-Delta, we are one with the land, the water, and the animals. We stand up for what we believe is right and consider the future of our environment while trying to understand the past and carry forward and value the knowledge of our ancestors.

We recognize that climate change is a worldwide problem; however, the rate of change in the North is much more rapid. Our region is a preview of the effects of climate change. The climate crisis is affecting every aspect of who we are. Our communities need to be less economically driven and more environmentally driven. We can't escape our changing climate, but we can adapt. We don't control our environment, but we are a part of it. We need to ensure that we have effective resources in order to implement our ideas for change into action. We encourage collaboration with the intent of creating a sustainable future.

We want to ensure that we as youth, and our future generations of youth, are able to maintain and expand our connection to, and respect for, the environment. We are trying to set a sustainable and well-cultured example. Our voices as youth are powerful and valuable, and we need to be heard.

Climate change is an overwhelming subject, and it's hard to fight the lack of hope. We will work toward our goals, even if they won't be achieved in our lifetime. We are resilient in the face of the challenges we encounter. And they were Maddysen Kingmiaqtuq, Helayna Cockney-Goose, Kata Kuhnert, Kyla Goose, Sienna Gordon, Davonna Kasook, Nicholas Cockney, Olivia Inglangaskuk, and Eriel Lugt. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Beaufort Delta Youth Declaration on Climate Change

Members' Statements

Page 661

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes . Members' statements. Member for Frame Lake .

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Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Members' Statements

Page 661

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. Last week, I raised some concerns around the continued funding for the Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board. There are some great people on that board and their work seems reasonable, but there are zero disputes that have come forward in the seven years since enabling legislation was passed. In light of this, I question the need for such a body. It also entrenches the antiquated free-entry system for mineral rights acquisition, a regime that seems out of step with even the Mineral Resources Act passed by the last Legislative Assembly.

The Harper government's Bill C-47, the so-called "Northern Jobs and Growth Act," lumped together a number of land rights agreements implementation provisions, including the Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board. GNWT's Surface Rights Board Act simply mirrors the federal legislative provisions including:

setting mining as highest and best use of the land. Mining trumps any other land use, even Aboriginal rights-based use. Land owners or users are only entitled to compensation in the event of a conflict; and

the Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board duplicates and overlaps with existing provisions for surface rights and access disputes resolution.

If GNWT needs to explore ways to modernize this legislation, it should do it in consultation with Indigenous governments and it should be along the following lines:

The Surface Rights Board should have the power to deny access where and when appropriate;

The legislation should not apply within municipal boundaries and municipalities should have the ability to control or prohibit mineral rights acquisition within their boundaries;

"Access" should be re-interpreted broadly to include air-only access through the use of aircraft;

The board should be given the power to require financial security to ensure compliance with its orders;

A co-management model should be adopted in terms of the board composition where Indigenous governments appoint half the members; and

The board should have the discretion to hear from those other than the parties to the dispute.

I will have questions later today for the Minister of Lands . Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Members' Statements

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . Members' statements. Member for Kam Lake .

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Mental Health Care for Children

Members' Statements

Page 662

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If a child broke their arm, we would immediately take them to the doctor, where they would have an x-ray, a cast applied, and given pain medication; but what happens when a child's injury is mental and not physical?

First, Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the work being done by organizations like the Rainbow Coalition of the NWT and FOXY/SMASH. However, recently I learned of the journey a child travels when they disclose mental health challenges. A family was contacted by an adult at their child's school advising them that the child had disclosed intent to self-harm and had a plan to end their life. As you can imagine, Mr. Speaker, this was devastating for the family.

The parent called the Primary Care clinic to request an appointment with a counsellor. As Yellowknife residents know, same-day appointments are highly sought after but rarely found. Next, the parent called a local private therapist. They could see the child in a month, at a rate of $200 an hour. The parent again called the Primary Care clinic and insisted on seeing a family physician. The family physician identified the child as urgent, meaning that the child would be seen by both a counsellor and a child psychiatrist.

Mr. Speaker, this is what the journey to care looked like from the perspective of the child. First, the child told their story to an adult; a brave first step. Second, the child told their story to the family physician. Third, the child was expected to tell their story to the intake counsellor before they would then, if found to be in need of mental health support, share their story with the counsellor. Fifth, Mr. Speaker, this child would speak to the child psychiatrist's intake nurse and then, as a sixth step, would see the child psychiatrist.

All while the parent assured the child that they are important, that they matter, that they have a place in this world, and that, yes, the adults are listening.

The wait times children experience while working their way through a six-person triage is not realistic or responsive, and to be honest, Mr. Speaker, the family never made it to territorially funded mental healthcare. Because, just as we would not expect a child to continue through life with a broken arm, how can we expect them to heal without mental health supports? Mr. Speaker, expecting anyone, let alone a child, to share their story six times is not care. We must review our mental health triage processes, and we need to ensure that mental health is accessible and responsive. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Mental Health Care for Children

Members' Statements

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Kam Lake . Members' statements. Item 4, return to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Nunakput .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I have visitors. Thank you for coming. I would like to welcome Tony Lucas, Sr., Donna Keogak. Thank you for bringing down my Pages from the community of Sachs Harbour, and my pages, Tony Lucas, Jr., and Rylan Esau, for working so hard and helping us here in the Assembly and in the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Nunakput . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

Rylund Johnson

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize my constituent from Yellowknife North, Irene Hache, here with us today. It's always good to have visitors. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Yellowknife North . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Hay River North .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

R.J. Simpson

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to recognize a couple of Pages who are returning, Ms. Charlotte Buth and Ms. Josee Touesnard. I want to thank them for their help this year, and last year, as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Hay River North . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Kam Lake .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to recognize Page Alexander Ramsay, who is with us today in the House. Thank you.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Kam Lake . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Welcome to the Chamber. If we've missed anyone, I hope you are enjoying the proceedings. It's always nice to have an audience with us. Thank you. Item 6, acknowledgements. Item 7, oral questions. Member for Nunakput .

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 662

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. COVID-19, 145 cases in Canada to date. I need to know if the Emergency Measures Act that was updated by the last Assembly to the GNWT overhauled its emergency plan, besides the planning that is underway right now to give the residents of the Northwest Territories, especially the small communities that we represent, direction on how the government is handling this outbreak. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Deputy Premier .

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 662

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Nunakput . Deputy Premier .

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 662

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has been declared, as we are aware, a pandemic by the World Health Organization, and requires enhanced public health and emergency preparedness. The Member is asking: what is the government doing to prepare? The GNWT has a territorial planning committee which is leading a broader, all-of-government approach emergency response planning to address potential disruptions and essential community, regional, and territorial services and support.

The Health and Social Services emergency operations centre has been fully activated to permit the Health and Social Services system to coordinate rapid planning in advance of a Northwest Territories outbreak. The chief medical public health officer is leading the public health preparations and surveillance and providing subject matter expertise to the Health and Social Services system and the GNWT on pandemic planning requirements. The NWT COVID-19 pandemic planning guide and checklist is guiding the Health and Social Services system preparations.

The Health and Social Services authorities are planning for a surge in cases that may affect regular delivery of health services. Decisions around deferring the delivery of non-essential health services may be made as necessary. Staff have received fresher training on infectious disease protocols. The Northwest Territories receives routine updates from the Canadian public health office officials on suspected and confirmed cases reported in other parts of Canada and the world. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 662

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

What are the plans to assist small communities for the pandemic?

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 662

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

The Departments of Health and Social Services and Municipal and Community Affairs are providing information, guidance, and support to community and Indigenous governments. The department will continue to share information necessary for their planning efforts. The local and regional authorities, governments, agencies, and businesses should be finalizing emergency readiness plans in light of the potential for a COVID-19 outbreak.

An outbreak in the Northwest Territories could impact community services and may increase the need for basic supplies, as well as water delivery, sewage pump-out, and facilities to the homes. Organizers of these events and gatherings should assess their plans, recognizing that this is an evolving situation that may require rapid decisions to protect the health and well-being of our residents here in the Northwest Territories. We know that community members will band together and support each other in the event that COVID-19 reaches their community.

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 662

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Is MACA doing outreach to the municipal and community governments in our 33 communities across the territory in regard to what is happening with COVID-19, and when are they able to start their emergency action plans?

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

Yes, the departments are working together, and there was a meeting yesterday, my colleagues here have just informed me. Plans are underway, and our departments and the Northwest Territories, we take this seriously. We are all working together as a department to ensure that messaging and information to our communities is done, and it's immediate.

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Deputy Premier . Final supplementary, Member for Nunakput .

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask the Deputy Premier : does the GNWT have plans to stop highway travel, or are we checking the drivers? Are we stopping any aircraft in regard to being checked in Edmonton or here in Yellowknife for pre-screening before they head North for the safety of our citizens? If this COVID-19 hits our communities, nursing stations are not going to be able to give aspirin and Tylenol and send them home. This has to be dealt with. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

I am sincere with the Member's concerns. I am from a small community, as well, and in preparation for our week coming up, we will be going home. This is fairly new, and we have been planning and planning. There are measures being taken within our departments to ensure that we have safeguards in all of our communities, all 33 communities in the Northwest Territories, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Question 186-19(2): COVID-19 Emergency Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Deputy Premier . Oral questions. Member for Monfwi .

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

Masi, Mr. Speaker. [Translation] I spoke earlier about the Frank Channel Bridge earlier today. I also spoke about the federal government and the impossible road to the mines. We have a lot of Ministers. The Minister that is here, the Minister of Finance , my question is directed to the Minister of Finance . [End of translation]

[Microphone turned off] ...spending on the less critical Slave geological transportation corridor. Mr. Speaker, I guess we have to juggle the departments, but I will ask the Minister of Finance : could the Minister of Finance please explain how the Slave Geological Transportation Corridor took precedence over one simple bridge project on which the corridor usefulness is entirely based on? Mr. Speaker, I am referring, of course, to the replacement of the Frank Channel Bridge. Masi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Monfwi . Minister of Finance .

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are any number of projects that are constantly being evaluated across the Northwest Territories, and it's not that one takes precedence over another. There are a number of factors that go into evaluating these projects and a number of factors that go into evaluating which projects are supported. Ultimately, this particular project, I understand that money was sought from the National Trade Corridors Fund, and that kind of funding would support and assist in moving this project forward.

As far as any specific reason why that project might have been denied or put down on the list, I would have to get back on the Member on that, other than to say that there is a recognition that there is any number of projects that would all like to be advanced. We are going to simply have to distribute those resources to one project at a time sometimes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

That leads to my next question about being transparent. I want to see for myself if this Minister's department has given sufficient weight to the Frank Channel Bridge replacement project. With this in mind, could the Minister of Finance , working with her colleague, the Minister of Infrastructure , please provide historical data comparing her department's submissions, milestones, application timelines, intergovernmental meetings, relating to the Frank Channel Bridge and the Slave Geological Transportation Corridor.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

The Member raises quite an exhaustive list of items that are being requested, some of which, to the extent that they are involving other governments, may not be items that I can directly disclose. What I would suggest is that I certainly will arrange for a technical briefing in conference with the appropriate standing committee and ensure that I work with the Member so that as much information meets with the requests that are being made here in order to prepare for that briefing.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

Obviously, I would like to see some sort of correspondence between the federal government and the territorial government. There has been a lot of discussion on this subject, even from previous governments until today. I am asking the Minister of Finance to table this in the House, her department's, and also the Minister of Infrastructure's department, most recent proposal for federal, national, trade corridor funding respecting the Frank Channel Bridge replacement project.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

I anticipate that that application was made by Infrastructure, so I will certainly be in contact with the responsible Minister and ensure that we work together to put to the House what is disclosable and appropriate so that we can ensure that we are being transparent and that we continue to move forward in applying for whatever funding is available for all of the many infrastructure projects that are still necessary, including the Frank Channel Bridge that the Member is speaking to specifically.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Member for Monfwi .

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

Masi, Mr. Speaker. My final question, obviously, pertains to the process. When I spoke to our MP, Michael McLeod, a couple of months back, he was also asking about the proposal, the bridge, the Frank Channel Bridge, if it was submitted. I just want to ask the Minister of Finance if there was a submission made for the Frank Channel Bridge with the federal government, the corridor funding. If I can get some sort of correspondence pertaining to that, Mr. Speaker, I would greatly appreciate it. Masi.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

I will personally look into this and see what the status of any applications are. I don't know offhand. Certainly, it's not a new project, and it is an important project. I will look into it, and see that I respond directly to the Member, and that any information that can be tabled in this House, that we do so this session. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 187-19(2): National Trade Corridor Submission for Frank Channel Bridge

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Steve Norn

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. I have some questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services . Just to do some follow-up questions from my colleague from Nunakput. Can the Minister comment if she has worked with our federal Minister of health on a plan to battle the virus, and if so, what resources are being committed to the territories? Marsi cho.

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh . Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

The federal government announced $500 million, and I think what the Member is asking is: how much of this money will we receive here in the Northwest Territories and the provinces, and is this amount sufficient? We are pleased that the federal government has announced this funding. We have heard from the federal Minister of Health that this funding is just the beginning of support which is great because that is not a lot of money. We are currently working to identify areas where funding can support us and how much we will need to do this.

Officials in my department are working to prepare a list of our needs and finalizing proposals, and we are expected to complete this by tomorrow. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

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Page 663

Steve Norn

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Thank you to the Minister for her response. That's encouraging. It may fall to the Minister of Finance's purview, but hopefully, the Minister of health can answer this. Will the Minister be extending any additional sick-day benefits for residents who may need to take some time off work to self-isolate?

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

The Member is correct; it should go to Finance. However, we've been briefed in Cabinet, and there was an e-mail that was sent out to the employees yesterday, informing them of some of the questions and answers. One of the questions that was asked was: according to the GNWT policy, employees experiencing symptoms of cough, fever, difficulty breathing, experiencing those symptoms, and waiting for test results or have been diagnosed with the COVID-19 will have access to sick leave with pay.

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Steve Norn

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Probably, the biggest question I think I have on here is: in terms of our public institutions, are there any plans in place to close schools, community halls, and other work places?

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

At this time, we are not considering closing any public institutions. There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 here in the Northwest Territories as of a few minutes ago, and if there was, I'd be the second to know. There are no cases here. As a result of that, we are not planning on closing down any public institution. However, as a precautionary measure, our government is enhancing surveillance for the COVID-19 to include those individuals who present flu-like symptoms within 14 days, or have travelled outside the Northwest Territories. The best precautions, however, are what we've been communicating.

If you are sick, stay home. If you have flu-like symptoms, stay home. Monitor yourself. Practice safe hygiene and respiratory practices.

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 663

Steve Norn

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. I heard the Minister, as well, mentioning that there are some committees. There are some plans in place. My main concern, too, is as for some of the smaller communities. Will there be any sort of a compensation, if in the event it ever goes down as a lockdown, to help out with food and rationing and that sort of thing? Compensation, I guess, is where I'm going with that, emergency planning. Marsi cho.

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

Oral Questions

Page 664

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

We're not aware of compensation yet. I think we're still in the planning stage. The Northwest Territories COVID-19 pandemic planning guide and checklist is guiding our system preparations. The Health and Social Services authorities are planning for a surge in case this may affect regular delivery of health services. As we prepare to respond for a potential pandemic, there are certainly risks that we will face. We are planning to address these risks, even as the situation changes quickly. These areas are planned, is preparing to respond to, and what will be reflected in our proposal to the federal government to help support and provide us with funding. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 188-19(2): COVID-19 Planning

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Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Hay River South .

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The questions are for the Minister responsible for NWT Housing Corporation. Earlier, I spoke about suspension lists for contractors. I'd like to ask the Minister, does the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation have a suspension list for contractors in place? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Hay River South . Minister responsible for Northwest Territories Housing Corporation .

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are very few suspensions in the Northwest Territories. We do have a list that we do keep, but we do also try to work with our contractors to get them back into good standing so we are able to further do more business with them. We try to educate them through the process, as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

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Page 664

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

The Minister indicated that there were only a few on there. Can she tell me exactly how many is on that list?

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

I don't have that information in front of me as to how many contractors we have on suspension right now, but I really want to emphasize that we do try to work with our contractors so they do remain in good standing with the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation. I could request from my department to provide a list for the Member's riding of the contractors that the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation does do business with.

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

I'd like to ask the Minister: how is it determined if a contractor should be placed on the suspension list?

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

It is determined by the service that is provided and if the contractor defaults in the projects that are put forward. We really try to work with the contractors in-depth to make sure that they are successful in receiving the contracts that they do receive from the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation.

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Member for Hay River South .

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Every contractor deserves due process, and I'd like to ask the Minister: can the Minister supply me with a copy of the policy or legislation that sets out the process and criteria for determining whether a contractor is to be placed on the list? Thank you.

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Oral Questions

Page 664

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

The Northwest Territories corporation administers through policies. I will direct my staff to find this policy that identifies the defaulting contractors, and I will provide that information to the Member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

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Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral question. Member for Thebacha .

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Frieda Martselos

Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, my first question for the Minister of Justice is: partnerships and relationships with the RCMP are important in small communities and regional centres. I am proud to say that I have a positive relationship with the commander of "G" Division and the local members of the RCMP at our local detachment. Enforcement in the drug trade is also important. Would the Minister relay the message to the commander of "G" Division of the concerns of the community of Fort Smith and the constituents of Thebacha?

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Thebacha . Minister of Justice .

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, absolutely. As I quite coincidentally was speaking about policing priorities, one of the roles that I have is to develop policing priorities that guide the unfolding of policing services across the Northwest Territories. I certainly heard that today and do intend, as I said earlier, to take that into account when developing those priorities. Yes. Absolutely, I will reach out to the commander of the detachment. We have regular meetings, but I will also engage with the Member more to ensure that there is input about these concerns when I am developing those priorities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Frieda Martselos

Thebacha

Would the Minister consider asking the commander of "G" Division, or his or her designate, to meet with the community leaders of Fort Smith to address this major problem that is inflicting many members of our community and affecting family life?

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

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Page 664

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

I can certainly add the concerns raised here and, indeed, perhaps provide a copy of the Hansard of this Member's statement to the detachment commander to ensure that they are aware of those concerns that are being raised and encourage them to do what they can to engage directly. I can also ensure that, when we have meetings and engagements with communities, including with the community of Fort Smith, that I, too, am also being made aware of exactly the concerns by the community members directly from them so that we can continue to address them throughout the course of the next few years by the Department of Justice, as well.

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Frieda Martselos

Thebacha

Would the Minister consider that the commander of "G" Division, or his or her designate, meet with the two schools in Fort Smith to address the dangers of illegal drugs and the consequences of getting involved in the drug trade and the use of these substances?

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Again, as I have said, I will certainly be raising with my counterpart at the RCMP, with my colleague at the RCMP, the concerns being raised on behalf of Thebacha. I know that going into the communities and going into the schools is a significant part of the work that the RCMP does. They spend a lot of time and a lot of effort making sure that they are continuing to be engaged in exactly that fashion. I am confident that they will continue to do that.

I can also say that, on the part of community justice, which is within the Department of Justice, that we can look, too, to what is happening with our community justice committee in Fort Smith and ensure that they are making best efforts and all efforts to be engaged in the community and to reach out exactly as the Member has described to the youth in the community.

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary, Member for Thebacha .

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Frieda Martselos

Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, would the Minister ensure that the commander of "G" Division makes it a priority for the members of the Fort Smith detachment to make enforcement of criminal activity in the drug trade a priority?

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

Oral Questions

Page 664

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

I am not in a position to say what the police priority action plans will be that are developed between the RCMP and a specific community, but again, I can certainly look at the policing priorities that are developed on the Ministerial level. Then we'll certainly have engagement again with our RCMP and to speak to them about the concerns that are being raised. I am confident that, when they go through their own process with the community, it is a direct engagement.

I have asked them in the past about that process and sought assurance that they are developing their community policing action plans in a timely fashion and with direct engagement from the community. I will continue to have those conversations with the RCMP, and I am confident that, certainly, from the detachment level, they also recognize the importance of that direct community engagement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 190-19(2): Lack of Enforcement in Illegal Drug Trade

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Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 664

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Justice . As I said in my statement, the Yukon government is piloting a program to train Indigenous people to write Gladue reports. The purpose of the report is to inform the court of the background and circumstances of an Indigenous offender so that courts have consistent information when considering sentencing. My question is: has the Minister given any thought to funding a report-writing program like the one being piloted in the Yukon? Thank you.

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 664

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you. Minister of Justice .

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 664

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, we have given thought, and I have personally given thought, to whether or not we can fund that. As the Member is aware, Gladue report-writing's purpose is to provide better information to the courts so that they can make better decisions in a way that respect somebody's Indigenous heritage but also respects, sometimes, the systemic issues that impact an individual when they come before the courts. The ultimate purpose of that, Mr. Speaker, is to reduce the over-incarceration of Indigenous people in Canadian prisons, particularly in Northwest Territories prisons.

Ultimately, while having given thought to whether or not this is a direction we want to go, at this time, our focus is on other ways of actually achieving that same goal and putting those resources towards achieving that same goal in other ways. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

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Page 664

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

That was an intriguing answer. Can the Minister tell us what other equivalent ways she is looking at reducing Indigenous representation in the justice system?

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

The Department of Justice will be doing some strategic planning when session is over. During the course of that, one of the priorities that we have that has been a personal priority for me is to achieve some movement in terms of the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in prisons. There are ways of doing that by increasing our community engagement; by increasing community justice programming; by looking to diversion programs; by truly avoiding people going into the jail system in the first place; by, for example, reducing the amount of people who are in remand.

There are a number of levers that we can pull, and those are all going to be levers that we are looking to to see what changes we can make both quickly but also systemically over time.

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Any and all attempts to reduce Indigenous representation in the justice system and in corrections, I think, are welcome. I see the potential in Gladue reports, and I hope that the Minister will include this in her strategic planning session. Could I have that assurance, please?

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

More information doesn't hurt. More information is better, and certainly, we do need to ensure that the reasons that bring people before courts are fully understood. I have personally seen the difference that that can make in the course of a court proceeding. Yes, I will certainly assure that consideration is given to whether or not full Gladue reports can or should be included and whether resources should be directed in that vein.

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Final supplementary, Member for Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the Minister for that. One of the intriguing ideas about the Yukon example is that it is a collaboration between the Council of Yukon First Nations, Legal Aid, and the territorial government. I encourage the Minister to have some research done into that program to see how it may be beneficial there. Is she able to make that commitment? Thank you.

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

I had the opportunity to meet with my colleagues from the Yukon at the First Ministers' Meeting that was held not long ago, and we had a very good conversation about a lot of initiatives that are happening in the Yukon right now. Indeed, some of our alternative courts were modelled after systems back in the Yukon. I can certainly assure the Member that those exact conversations with that jurisdiction will continue and that we will both continue to share best practices. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 191-19(2): Gladue Reports

Oral Questions

Page 665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes .

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

Oral Questions

Page 665

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister for Housing Corporation . Can the Minister tell me whether or not they have a way to triage their housing waiting list, knowing that, in my community, there are 80 single people on that list? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

Oral Questions

Page 665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes . Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation .

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

Oral Questions

Page 665

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I hear the Member's concern about the waiting list, and it is an ongoing problem throughout the Northwest Territories. Going forward, I will be working with my staff and trying to establish a way of how are we going to work with the people on the list and look at the differences between if the people are on Income Support or if they are on the public housing list. It's very complicated, and I need to pay a lot closer attention to understand why our waiting lists are so high. I will be working with the Member going forward. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

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Page 665

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you for that response. The commitment that I'm looking for is to take a look at that list in my community, where there are people who have been on there, like I said, six-plus years that I've actually dealt with. I know, after speaking to the Minister of ECE , that policies have changed, and maybe they've been sitting on that list all this time, not knowing that policies have changed in Income Support. Will the Minister commit to reviewing that list, going through that list, and possibly working with the Minister of ECE to ensure that clients who are on that list who could be supported by Income Support get some help?

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

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Page 665

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Thank you to the Member for her question. Like I said, the housing list is a huge concern for me as the Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation . Going forward, I want to look at an assessment of the list that is currently throughout the Northwest Territories. I want to assess that list and I want to work with my colleague, the Minister for Education, Culture and Employment, and try to look at solutions going forward and look at our policies and see where we need to amend our policies in order to be more effective in the Northwest Territories.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

Oral Questions

Page 665

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

If you could provide the checklist or triage list, because I always hear they get points, and the more points they have, then the faster they will get a unit. If you could provide that kind of a document that the LHOs are using to score clients, that would be great. It would help us to be able to work with clients who are coming to us.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

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Page 665

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Yes, I will look at that list, and I will provide that to the Member. I want to do an assessment to look at this issue that we do have with the Housing Corporation. It is, honestly, very concerning. I do see that we have some people who have been on the waiting list for years, and I need to change that. I need to start working with the Northwest Territories and with my employees at the LHO level and start to find and identify solutions on how we are going to deliver a strong program and strongly work with our clients in the smaller communities.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

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Page 665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary, Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes .

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

Oral Questions

Page 665

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The reason I bring this up, as well, is that we do have the homeless shelter, and the Minister responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation is the Minister who is responsible for homelessness. The people who have been living in our homeless shelter have been there for years, you know, and there is no movement in there where people transition into private accommodations, or anything, so maybe that's another area where she has staff in that department who can look at the people who are living there transitioning into, if they can transition into, support by Income Support, to make room for more people in there. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

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Page 665

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Yes. As the Housing Corporation, we need to find stronger solutions. We need to find stronger initiatives to work with the people who are in our communities who are experiencing the homelessness, and we need to find stronger ideas on how we are going to be working with them going forward and exercising the programs and services the Government of the Northwest Territories currently has. Going forward, I will be working very closely with the Member and looking at solutions that will honestly probably affect the rest of the Northwest Territories and finding solutions on how we're going to work throughout the territory, as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 192-19(2): Housing Waiting Lists

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Page 665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake .

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Oral Questions

Page 665

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. My questions are for the Minister of Lands . In my statement earlier today, I outlined a number of issues or problems with the Surface Rights Board Act. These problems included the board's inability to refuse access, application of the legislation within municipal boundaries, air-only access, use of financial security to ensure compliance, compensation of the board, and allowing the board to hear from others than the parties to the dispute. These are in addition to the fact that the board hasn't actually been asked to resolve any disputes in seven years.

Can the Minister tell us whether any of these issues, or others, have been raised with the department? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . Minister of Lands .

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 665

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Surface Rights Board is a land claim obligation in the Gwich'in final agreement and is referenced in the Sahtu and the Tlicho agreements. The department has not heard from any IGOs or other governments or organizations about issues with this board presently. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 665

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

I want to thank the Minister for that. During the review of the department's 2020-2021 Main Estimates, the Minister committed to look into the need to continue the Surface Rights Board; I've got that in Hansard here. This is a very helpful commitment because the legislation itself contains no provision for any kind of review. Can the Minister tell us how he intends to carry out this review, in consultation with Indigenous governments and the NWT?

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 665

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 665

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

The Minister is right. There are provisions in the agreements for the board, and there is one year of funding, apparently, one year of funding. Many of these issues that I have raised about application within municipal boundaries, use of financial security to ensure compliance, these are not inconsistent with what is found in the agreements. I actually participated in the review of the original federal legislation. There was very little support for it at the public hearing in Yellowknife, except from the mining industry. Will the Minister commit to engaging Indigenous and the public, including the mining industry, during the review of the Surface Rights Board Act?

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 665

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

As the request, right now, we haven't heard anything from Indigenous governments. We haven't heard from the mining industry. Right now, we haven't heard, besides our Member here, and I appreciate his work leading up to this. Right now, we haven't heard anything from them. I can reach out to the three land claim agreements to see if they have concerns with it, but right now, we're not going to review this because it's an obligation in the agreements.

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Oral Questions

Page 666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary, Member for Frame Lake .

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 666

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Minister for that. There are provisions in the agreements for interim arrangements, as well, in the absence of legislation. This legislation was forced on us by the federal government, and I think it's time that we looked at it. Look, this board has been in place for seven years; not one dispute. That's, I don't know, over $2 million spent on this work, and no disputes to resolve. Can the Minister give us a

schedule for the review that he has committed to undertake on the Surface Rights Board Act? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

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Page 666

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

As I said, we have not heard anything from Indigenous governments on this concern. We are under the process that we will review this if there is a new land claim settled, and we would actually start the process then. I am willing to work with the Member to see how we and the committee can start this process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 193-19(2): Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board

Oral Questions

Page 666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Question 194-19(2): Agricultural Leases in the Northwest Territories

Oral Questions

Page 666

Rylund Johnson

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I said earlier today in my statement, presently, there is no such thing as an agricultural lease in the Northwest Territories. My question to the Minister of Lands is: when can we see agricultural leases in the Northwest Territories?

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Question 194-19(2): Agricultural Leases in the Northwest Territories

Oral Questions

Page 666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you. Minister of Lands .

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Question 194-19(2): Agricultural Leases in the Northwest Territories

Oral Questions

Page 666

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Presently, people wanting agricultural leases need to apply through commercial activity. This work that Lands and ITI are currently undertaking will address agricultural activities. Right now, we are working on it, but presently, they would have to go through the commercial lease act process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 194-19(2): Agricultural Leases in the Northwest Territories

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Page 666

Rylund Johnson

Yellowknife North

I quite often hear that Lands is working on things, but I rarely hear that Lands has completed things. The issue with going through the commercial lease process is that you cannot live on a commercial lease. If you're going to farm, you should probably live there. My question is: is the Minister willing to review the commercial leasing process to see if agricultural people can live on the land?

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Question 194-19(2): Agricultural Leases in the Northwest Territories

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Page 666

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

I have heard this concern from the Member and other people in here. In the long term, we don't allow that, but in the present, what we are encouraging people to do is to actually apply for residential leases besides the commercial lease for the land so that they can live beside the land right now. We are in the process of trying to work on it, and the process takes some time.

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