Debates of Oct. 19th, 2006

This is page numbers 335 - 362 of the Hansard for the 15th Assembly, 5th 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 work .

Topics

Members Present

Item 1: Prayer

Speaker's Ruling

Developing A Macroeconomic Policy Framework For The Nwt

October 15-21, 2006 Is Small Business Week

Foster Family Appreciation Week

Support For Residential School Survivors

Territorial Dementia Centre Funding

Fort Liard Housing Conditions

Social Housing Rent Payment Processes

Team NWT Soccer (under 19 Boys) International Victories

Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Recruitment Process For The Rcmp Access Program

GNWT Employees' Overtime Issues

Premier's Comments Regarding Residential School Survivors

Regulatory Problems Within Mineral, Oil And Gas Exploration Industry

Acknowledging Department And Employee Concerns

Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Social Housing Rent Calculations

Measures To Address Youth Crime In Inuvik

Funding For Public Library In Behchoko

Support For Residential School Survivors

Human Resources Policy Regarding Overtime/lieu Time

Ministerial Interaction With Departmental Employees

Federal Funding Budget Reductions Impacting The North

Social Housing Rent Scale Policy

Recruitment Of Front-line Social Service Workers In Ulukhaktok

Territorial Dementia Centre Funding

Written Question 15-14(5): Territorial Residential Schools Interagency Committee

Written Question 16-15(5): GNWT Funding For Literacy Programs

Item 11: Petitions

Tabled Document 43-15(5): Petition To The Tlicho Community Government Regarding Security Services For Residents Of Behchoko

Tabled Document 44-15(5): Letter From The Mackenzie Recreation Association Regarding Federal Budget Cuts

Tabled Document 45-15(5): Agricultural Products Marketing Council Annual Report 2004-2005Tabled Document 46-15(5): Agricultural Products Marketing Council Annual Report 2005-2006

Revocation Of Appointment To The Executive Council

Revocation Of Appointment To The Executive Council

Recorded Vote

Bill 14:

An Act To Amend The Legislative Assembly And Executive Council Act, No. 2

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Item 22: Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Honourable Brendan Bell , Mr. Braden , Honourable Paul Delorey , Honourable Charles Dent , Mrs. Groenewegen , Honourable Joe Handley , Mr. Hawkins , Honourable David Krutko , Mr. Lafferty , Ms. Lee , Honourable Michael McLeod , Mr. McLeod, Mr. Menicoche , Honourable Michael Miltenberger , Mr. Pokiak , Mr. Ramsay , Honourable Floyd Roland , Mr. Villeneuve , Mr. Yakeleya

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---Prayer

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 335

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Please be seated. A Member is rising on a point of privilege. What is your point of privilege, Mr. Ramsay ?

Point Of Privilege

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Item 1: Prayer

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Page 335

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today on a point of privilege. Yesterday in the House I clearly heard and saw the Minister of Health and Social Services , Mr. Miltenberger , threaten me and members of my family. I feel that my privileges have been breached because all Members have the right to sit in this Legislature and carry out their duties free from threats, intimidation, obstruction or interference. The Minister's words and gestures, in my mind, constituted a threat to my wife and my brother's livelihood.

He pointed his finger squarely in my direction like this and said quite clearly, "your wife, your brother" and gestured with his hand like that, Mr. Speaker. I find this breach extremely disturbing in the sense that my wife and my brother cannot defend themselves nor are they protected by parliamentary privilege.

In my 10 years in politics, Mr. Speaker, at both the municipal and territorial levels, I have never witnessed such a gross breach of conduct. The Minister, in his attempt to explain his remarks, at page 690 of the unedited Hansard stated: "However, my intention is not to threaten the Member. It's to make a point to reflect those facts. If I have caused him discomfort or caused him any unhappiness, then I would be very happy to withdraw that particular comment as it may be recorded in Hansard. My intention is not to drag his spouse into this, but just to point out that there is a clear connection."

Those very comments of the Minister constitute an unjust damaging of my good name and act as a further impediment to me in carrying out my duties as a Member, and they prevent me and any Member from speaking freely in this Chamber. I truly believe this is paramount to our privileges as Members, that we are able to state our views and those of our constituents free from intimidation and threat, Mr. Speaker. I await your ruling on this very important matter. Mahsi.

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Item 1: Prayer

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Page 335

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay . Mr. Ramsay has risen on a point of privilege, which is a very serious matter. I will, therefore, allow some debate on the point of privilege. To the point of privilege. The honourable Minister of Health and Social Services , Mr. Miltenberger .

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Item 1: Prayer

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Page 335

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday in this House, I made reference to two individuals. This was a conversation, as I sat in my chair, as Mr. Ramsay was talking. Those comments were not on the record, but when he called the point of order I recognized, very clearly, that I had caused him some unhappiness, that I had spoken inappropriately to the point where he wanted to call a point of order.

I thought it would be incumbent upon me to do the right thing, which is stand up and acknowledge that, yes, there were comments made and that I was prepared to withdraw them. Those comments referenced two individuals. As a long-serving Member of this House, I should have been more aware that my comments were not only inappropriate, but potentially hurtful.

I recognized that fact when I stood up to withdraw them when the House broke. I also went up to find Mr. Ramsay and to personally apologize for those comments. In the heat of political battle, Mr. Speaker, and debate, we can sometimes be guilty of using words against those who cannot defend themselves. Mr. Ramsay has the right to stand and defend his family, and I believe Mr. Ramsay and I share deeply the belief that family is the most important aspect of our lives. I say that as a father and grandfather and a man who has been married for nearly 32 years.

I would once again like to apologize to Mr. Ramsay and his family for any distress my comments have caused and I, of course, deeply regret using a personal comment to address a political issue. Once again, I indicate I would, without reservation, withdraw those comments.

I would also like to assure my constituents that I will work harder than ever to ensure that your interests are represented and that, as a Cabinet member, they can be proud of my work ethic and my commitment to the people of the NWT. Mr. Speaker, I would ask that the Members of this House accept my apology offered with no qualification and unreservedly, and be very well assured that I am aware of the distress my comments have caused and I deeply regret that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Item 1: Prayer

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Page 335

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .

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Page 335

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Political life is something that we all enter into because we seek to do something for ourselves, for our communities, for our families, and it can be tremendously rewarding and satisfying when things go right. Good things in life and the satisfaction and the respect that can come from engaging in this does not come cheap. There is always a price to pay. We all walk a fine line every day, depending on the issues or the subjects or the problems that are before us, and we do what we think is right.

Of course, that does not always work with everybody, so there are consequences to this kind of thing, to our own reputations, sometimes to our own sense of self-worth and self-respect. You know,

we are constantly asking ourselves did I do the right thing that day, that time, that moment.

Mr. Speaker, along with that goes a level of, I guess, risk and faith and trust and belief from those who are closest to us, our families, our colleagues, our friends in our communities and in our neighbourhoods. They, too, can sometimes be drawn into this because of their affiliations with us. They endure perceptions that may not be correct. They, I think, are sometimes under degrees of suspicion and sometimes exclusion from what they might otherwise enjoy in a community, because of their affiliations with us. We all know that, I think, when we get into this game, and our families should too.

But it is something that we have to be very vigilant, very mindful, that when in formal session and on the record in chambers like this, that connections or aspersions are made to families, that it is absolutely inappropriate. One of the things that I think this House, this Assembly, has been vigilant on is not to allow that to happen. And when it does, as it did yesterday, it is something that we need to bring out, we need to deal with, and set the standard that works not only for us, Mr. Speaker, but everybody in all elected fields of life in the Northwest Territories; municipal councils, band councils, these people also and their families take this same risk.

So I want to conclude, Mr. Speaker, by saying I, too, observed Mr. Miltenberger make these remarks and these gestures yesterday. I find it inappropriate, Mr. Speaker.

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Page 336

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Braden . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Page 336

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I, too, observed the proceedings of yesterday and I was very gravely disturbed that the rights of another Member may be even threatened, or even perceived to be threatened, Mr. Speaker, and that's one of the foundations that I find of having the honour and privilege of working in our great Legislature, is that we're free to say and do what we can on behalf of all our constituents, and especially giving up our public life for those that we love and those that share their love with us, Mr. Speaker.

They're giving up a lot for us to be up here doing what we have to do on a daily basis, and the last thing a Member needs is to be worried about them and their security.

So I observed that that happened, and I perceived it to happen, as well. And that's a big distinction here, as well, Mr. Speaker. I, too, cannot accept that kind of behaviour from any Member whatsoever. Mahsi cho.

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Page 336

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Hay River South , Mrs. Groenewegen .

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Page 336

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to speak to this point of privilege in the House today. I've been here for a little bit longer than some of the Members on this side of the House and I think I've pretty well seen it all when it comes to different forms of intimidation, threats, I think since I've been here. I take it very seriously, because I think since I've been here I've had my business threatened, I've had my family threatened, I've been threatened.

As a matter of fact, there was even an RCMP inquiry had to made into a threat that was made, that somebody actually physically wanted to harm me in my service and in my standing to represent my constituents in this House. That goes back a long ways and I have no intention of standing here and dredging up history; however, I think we have a responsibility to uphold a high standard of integrity and accountability in this government.

It's very unfortunate the events that happened yesterday. I also saw the gesture and I did hear the words. Mr. Miltenberger knows that certainly I think he is one of the hardest working Members on that side of the House and certainly makes a very, very valuable contribution. But having said that, I guess we're all human, we're all susceptible to making errors in judgment, saying things that we wished we hadn't said and doing things that we wished we hadn't done. But when we begin to compromise on the responses that we have when these sorts of things happen, I think we embark on a downward spiral and we lower the bar, and I think that is a dangerous thing for us to do.

It is not always easy for people outside of this Chamber to know all the nuances, and all the workings, and all the different things that go on in the exchanges in this House. Sometimes people say, well, you know, let's just talk about positive things, let's just be constructive. You know, sometimes we have to stop, correct the course, deal with a matter, and then move on.

So I wanted to stand and speak to this today to confirm that I did see the gesture. It was extremely unfortunate and I believe we have to have a very low tolerance for anything that is perceived to intimidate or obstruct Members in the performance of their duty on behalf of their constituents. It is an extremely honourable and high calling and it must be treated with the greatest of respect. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Page 336

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mrs. Groenewegen . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Sahtu , Mr. Yakeleya .

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Page 336

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Legislative Assembly is highly regarded as a very respectful place with the people of my own region. They expect a high degree of integrity standards from me as an MLA representing my people. It's an institution that's revered by many people in my region; sometimes not so revered because of the way sometimes we come across in the media and how we say things or do things, or not quite understanding the process of the bureaucracy or the management of certain programs and services. Somewhat, Mr. Speaker, we have a role model. We're playing a role model for people in our communities.

We are in a fishbowl, so to speak. Even though we don't want to be in it, we're still in a fishbowl. People make remarks, too. Some are good and some are really, like Mrs. Groenewegen said, are very hurtful. You know, when you walk down any street we're very under the microscope, I could say, and especially in this House here. So there is a lot of respect for Members. Even though we don't agree sometimes, we still agree to be respectful to the Member across you or sitting next to you. Sometimes we bite our tongue to say something, and sometimes we slip on this. That's part of being human. We're not a machine.

We're part of being human. I said to my colleagues that any reference or threat to my family I will take it very seriously. As Mr. Miltenberger has said, he is a father and grandfather and he wants to say to Mr. Ramsay that

family is number one important in our life first. They are the ones that help us get to this position here.

So, Mr. Speaker, I ask that you consider the institution as a whole; the integrity is bigger than we are. It must be carried forward, and the institution must be upheld to a high degree of standards and integrity and respect for everyone. That's a real big word for us in our language; respect. Sometimes even I need to continue learning about the word respect.

Sometimes I get told by my own people, and to put it back in the face of respect and sometimes I don't think it's the way they should be going, but my people, the ones who put me here, I have to listen to them and be respectful to their concerns and their thoughts, Mr. Speaker. That is the degree of leadership that we, as Members of the Legislative Assembly, need to carry out either in this House or in the other meetings that we tend to. I want to say that on the point here that you were speaking about is the word respect and feeling safe.

As Members on this side here, who are in the opposite of Cabinet, that we can talk freely, we can say what's in our heart, what's on our mind, without any type of perceived or any type of repercussion on our families, our communities, or in our role as a region. We have to talk on behalf of our people. It is not us personally, and that's what the elders said. You speak on our behalf, so do not be afraid to say what you have to say, you know? But sometimes the balance, and I don't quite know the balance. Is it me or is it my people sometimes speaking?

Sometimes I may not come across very clear or in a way that the Ministers understand it, but I'm also learning, too. I'm grateful that they're respectful enough to answer some of my questions. Trying to figure out, well, this is what he's saying.

So I wanted to say that the House here, Mr. Speaker, that I have lots of respect for the Legislative Assembly and for the honourable Members and I think that we need to continue and show that to our people back in our communities that we represent. Mahsi.

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Page 337

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Nunakput , Mr. Pokiak .

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Page 337

Calvin Pokiak

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think what happened yesterday is really important in regard to what happens in the Assembly here. I, too, did hear and see the Minister point to Members on this side, especially to a particular Member here, and I find that very disappointing and appalling. You know, we're all sitting here as Members to represent the people of our constituency and the NWT. I think it's only fair that whether you're sitting on this side of the House or sitting on the other side, that we have respect for all our Members and families.

To hear a Member on the other side doing something like this, you know, I think to the people of the Northwest Territories, it shouldn't happen.

I respect my colleagues here. Like some of the Members said already, that, you know, I do represent the people of Nunakput and I also represent people in the Territories as a whole as we sit down in this Assembly.

So just having said that, Mr. Speaker, on the point of privilege, I think the Minister's comments that came out yesterday and the gestures shouldn't be tolerated in a place like this. So I'm very disappointed. It shouldn't be tolerated and I think we should move on from there. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Page 337

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Pokiak . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Monfwi, Mr. Lafferty .

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Page 337

Jackson Lafferty

North Slave

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today we're talking about the point of privilege that we're faced with of what happened yesterday. What happened yesterday is a very serious issue that we're faced with. We've all seen it. Some of us heard it, of what took part. Here we may have rules like gesture equals recording. We've seen it and we've heard it and it's uncalled for. As Cabinet Members, you know, there's accountability. We're accountable to the public, the general public at large, and also our constituents, 43,000 people living in the Northwest Territories.

My fear is that if it happened yesterday, is it going to happen again tomorrow or today? We must prevent that from happening again. We have to show respect, from over there, across the table here. There's no need for this gesturing or passing notes, getting each other frustrated or mad, whatever it may be. But we have to hold on to our profession. How we deal with issues, we may be frustrated at times, mad, on dealing with certain issues. Especially Mr.

Minister that has one of the biggest portfolios, we understand his situation, what he's going through but, at the same time, dealing with issues has to be at a professional level.

Family, again, comes first. I fear for my wife as a teacher. I fear for the kids in the community. I fear for those that are going to be nurses in the communities, lay dispensers, community health reps. They're not here to defend themselves. Even though it's remarks let's say to Mr. Ramsay from Kam Lake, are remarks to all of us sitting around this table. It's remarks to CHRs, lay dispensers in the communities.

So I take a real offence to this, that this came out. I'm very disappointed in this government that we're faced with. So I'd just like to show my disappointment and that we must show respect. As Norman Yakeleya indicated earlier, our elders have always showed us respect; respect for one another. So I'd just like to elaborate on the point of privilege that was put forward. Mahsi.

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Page 337

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .

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Page 337

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to add my comments to the point of privilege being raised by Mr. Ramsay . He stated some of the circumstances related to this yesterday when he raised a point of order and at the time we didn't have the records or more objective evidence as to exactly what happened. But I think listening to the comments being said today and also the statement that the Minister made yesterday, and the fact that we do have witnesses in Mrs. Groenewegen and Mr.

Pokiak and some other Members, I think that there's enough statements on record that suggest that there is no question about what happened. Something did happen and what happened is a threat on the part of the Minister to the economic security and well-being of the family members.

Mr. Speaker, I just want to say that I believe that the Minister is very sincere in his regrets and apologies, and although I think some of my constituents might not agree,

because there's, in the Minister's job you can't make everybody happy. I'm sure there are many who feel that the Minister might not be, might not have done the greatest job, but I have to tell you, in watching his work day in and day out here I don't think there's any dispute that he's a hardest working Member and he's one of the better performing Ministers. So I don't think there is any question about his performance as a Minister. But I think he's also aware of the seriousness of the Members being threatened in this House for doing what we have been elected by the people to do.

Mr. Speaker, on many occasions as a Member here in my time of seven years, I have raised points of privilege on my right to be a Member and do my job and to have the freedom to speak. There is a long tradition in our parliamentary tradition to put mechanisms, laws and rules in place to protect that. There is a reason why the Members cannot be sued for things we do say in this Chamber. We have a wide room for privilege, so we do have the right to speak on behalf of constituents. There are consequences of us doing our job. We are threatened. I have been personally threatened by supporters of Ministers.

My family members have been threatened. There is a daily intimidation going around because sometimes what we do here and the laws we make or the questions we ask could cost people jobs. I don't mean...Policies could affect people's businesses and people come and do express and sometimes we feel intimidated by doing things we are sent here to do.

It is a very unfortunate moment. I regret that this has happened. I don't know what happened yesterday. It was one of those moments in time, things that the Minister regrets and that the Minister should not have done, but when it comes to the freedom of Members to function fully, in order to speak for people who cannot speak for themselves, whether they are employees, businesses or people on the street, sometimes they are scared of coming and telling us what they want us to bring up.

The last thing we need in the well-being of democracy that we value and the system of government we value, we have to be very careful when the right of Members to speak on these issues are in any way intimidated.

I am sure, Mr. Speaker, you will use your resources to look at the very well established precedence in this regard. I don't think there is a question about the facts of the case. I await your ruling on this, but I do have to say this is a very serious issue, very regrettable, and it is very unfortunate that it happened, but it is something that we do have to stand up and be accountable for. Thank you.

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Page 338

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Ms. Lee . To the point of order. The honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes , Mr. McLeod.

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Page 338

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we take great pains sometimes in refraining from speaking about some parts of the government because everybody, I am pretty sure on this side of the House and probably on that side, have someone they know working within the government. We feel that we can't ask questions or make comments on certain parts of the government for fear of something like what happened yesterday. You can talk about our ability or inability as Members and the way we present ourselves here, but I believe, Mr.

Speaker, when you mention a person's family or you perceive to be making threats towards a person's family, you cross a fine line. I back Mr. Ramsay up 100 percent in bringing this forward. Anybody who would like to protect their family wouldn't stand for anything like this.

So, Mr. Speaker, I think it's an unfortunate incident, but I can understand where my colleague is coming from and I commend him for it. Thank you.

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Page 338

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Villeneuve .

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Item 1: Prayer

Page 338

Robert Villeneuve

Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also have to express my dismay at what happened yesterday here in the House. I know everything here spoke in this room is public and any gestures that are made in this House are made to the public also and not just to Members sitting here today. Just on that point, Mr.

Speaker, if something like that takes place in this House, which is obviously not allowable, what kind of message is that going to send to the public when people that actually have concerns with government operations, government programs and the delivery of services, when they write a Minister a letter concerning a friend, relative or family member who is employed in that same department that they have concerns with, what kind of message is that going to send to them? They are going to say I don't want to write that letter because I have family members that are actually working there.

Even though I don't like the service, I don't want to get them in trouble. That was shown to us here yesterday of people who are actually going to start thinking like that because they don't want to raise the concerns with anybody anymore, especially in this department, because of my family works there. They are employees and they have some kind of connection to that department. I think that will send a bad message out to the people of the NWT.

I know the ability for us to distance ourselves from issues that may seem too close to home is a trade in itself and it's a real privilege to be able to stand here and be able to walk on that fine line which allows us to bring issues that we discuss in our own living rooms with our own family members about how government operates. These issues are sometimes, nine times out of 10, overshadowed by the fact that we are a small territory. Every issue that we do raise, there is some connection; some connection that is not at arm's length for everybody. This government has been in operation for 40-plus years.

We all know the dynamics of how the issues are brought forward and how they should be dealt with. I think that whole dynamic and all the things we have been working to achieve has been breached yesterday. It has kind of knocked us back into the dark ages of diplomacy and consensus government. Therefore, I can't help but offer my support to the Member that is bringing this point of privilege forward. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 338

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Villeneuve . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Hawkins .

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 338

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This situation reminds me of the old saying that you can pick your friends, but you can't pick your family. Mr. Speaker, the public picks us, our friends pick us, our families pick us to all come to this Assembly as a family and to work together. Like many things, events in real life, things happen that we regret. I can personally tell you that I regret seeing what happened yesterday. I can feel the concern that Mr. Ramsay has. You can hear it in his voice.

That said, I also feel the sincerity from the Minister of his regret, because he made it quite clear, without restriction and without any qualification, he truly withdrew his comments. I can see it. He is a good man and I can see that he truly meant his apology. I certainly hope that we can all work together beyond this point. I really felt that, so I want to acknowledge that.

I can personally tell you, Mr. Speaker, that sometimes when unfounded suggestions are played out, sometimes even in the public, it is really distressing on the family. Again, whether you are completely found innocent or unfounded of any suggestion, your family takes quite a thrashing regardless of how it's been drawn out and spit out. They are the backbone and they prop us up every day. Sometimes it's when you kiss your kids on the way out the door, you just can't wait to get home to see them again and you say I just can't believe I got through this day.

It's difficult standing here in the sense that it makes me think of how important my family is and how distressing it is, because they carry stress as much as we do, but again their hands are tied by the situation. It gives them no chance to help us defend our causes. I asked myself then, what happens when it's not my name being thrashed around by the public, either by the press or other Members? What happens if it was my family's name? I am going to have to stand with my Members today. I underscore that I honestly feel the Minister's apology.

I don't think that should ever be forgotten that he does sincerely apologize, but unfortunate events have happened and we will have to see how the House proceeds. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 339

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . To the point of privilege. The honourable Member for Kam Lake , Mr. Ramsay .

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 339

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would really like to sincerely thank my colleagues here on this side of the House for their courage and conviction to speak to this very important issue. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to your ruling on this important issue. Thank you. Mahsi.

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Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 339

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay . The issue before the Chair right now is to determine whether a prima facie has occurred to a Member. That is an issue that I, as a Chair, and other Legislatures across the country, have taken very seriously. I think that every Member in this House should also take it very seriously. So in wanting to try to do the best decision I can on this and taking the importance on this and having heard the Members' views on it, I would like to review everything that has been said. So I will take the matter under advisement and come back with my ruling on the breach of privilege.

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Speaker's Ruling

Item 1: Prayer

Page 339

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

I will now rule on Mr. Ramsay 's point of order. Yesterday, the Member for Kam Lake , Mr. Ramsay , rose on a point of order under Rule 23(

i) with respect to remarks made by the Minister of Health and Social Services . The Member claimed that the Minister's remarks imputed motive.

The initial remarks made by the Minister were not heard by the Chair, nor were they recorded in unedited Hansard. Beauchesne's Parliamentary Rules and Forms, 6th Edition, on page 143, states that: "Remarks which do not appear in the public record and are, therefore, private conversations not heard by the Chair, do not invite the intervention of the Speaker, although Members have apologized for hurtful remarks uttered in such circumstances. The Minister, in an opportunity to speak to the point of order, did make reference to the alleged remarks and offered to withdraw the remarks if they offended the Member from Kam Lake .

Specifically on page 690 of the unedited Hansard, the Minister did state, and I quote: "However, my intention is not to threaten the Member, my intention is not to drag his spouse into this, but just to point out that there is a clear connection."

Had the Minister not made reference to those comments, I, as chair, would not have been able to find a point of order. I do, however, appreciate the input of all Members who offered their views when the opportunity arose. The Member for Kam Lake does, indeed, have a point of order. No Member should input false or hidden motive to another Member. I would like to remind Members that they are all honourable Members and I would ask that the Minister of Health and Social Services apologize to the Member and the House and withdraw the offending comments. I have heard the Minister do that, but I will, in a moment, give him the opportunity to do it again.

Further, I would like to remind all Members that they should refrain from naming family members and, for that matter, any members of the public who are unable to defend themselves in this House and are not protected by parliamentary privilege. Mr. Miltenberger .

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Speaker's Ruling

Item 1: Prayer

Page 339

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Once again, for the record, I would like to stand before this House and unreservedly and in an unqualified way withdraw comments. I apologize to the Member and this House for those comments and indicate that I am sorry for any distress that I have caused to him or his family. Thank you.

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Speaker's Ruling

Item 1: Prayer

Page 339

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Orders of the day. The honourable Minister responsible for Finance , Mr. Roland .

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Minister's Statement 32-15(5): Developing A Macroeconomic Policy Framework For The Nwt

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 339

Floyd Roland

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When I presented my budget to this Assembly in February I spoke about a need to develop a broad macroeconomic policy for the NWT. Today I want to talk about how we will accomplish this.

We have all heard the statistics about the tremendous economic growth the NWT has experienced; 71 percent growth in gross domestic product since 1999, the highest employment rates in Canada and higher levels of income for workers. Much of this growth has come from investment in the construction of diamond mines and from exports of diamonds, with some growth associated with oil and gas exploration activities. Spin-offs from this growth have been experienced more strongly in the construction sector, manufacturing, and in the area of professional and technical services.

The labour market in the NWT is operating at close to full capacity. Higher incomes have resulted in increased

consumer spending. The NWT retail sector and even our population has grown since 1999, but at a slower rate than the economy as a whole.

Despite a healthy economy, the linkages between the key economic drivers and the rest of the economy are still not well established. The local impacts of economic activity in the NWT are lower than would be seen in other parts of Canada.

Economic activity in the NWT over the next decade is forecast to continue to be strong. Expansion of the diamond mining industry, the construction of the Mackenzie gas project, and other potential projects all contribute to a positive economic outlook.

As I stated in the February budget address, the Northwest Territories faces important questions as we proceed with economic development. What do we want the NWT to look like in five, 10 or 20 years? What does this mean in terms of the types of economic development we should encourage? Do some types of economic development provide a better return to NWT residents than others? How do we address labour force issues? What key strategies and actions are needed to meet our goals? What government expenditure and taxation policies will best help us achieve our objectives?

We know we need to make investments in our economy and in our people, but our resources are limited. We will need to make choices and set priorities. We need a policy framework that will help guide us in setting these priorities.

Over the next few months we will be seeking advice from northerners on what this framework should look like. These questions will be presented to NWT residents, aboriginal and community leaders, business leaders, and other organizations. Advice from recognized experts will be sought to complement the research and analysis of our own staff. Guidance from the Members of the Legislative Assembly will be an important element of these consultations. We will solicit views through public advertisements, by writing the key stakeholders and organizing a number of roundtable discussions. This process has begun.

People will be receiving materials and information soon, and two roundtables are scheduled to take place in Yellowknife and Inuvik in November.

When I present the 2007 budget next February, the Assembly will be presented with a document that summarizes the consultation results and presents proposals for next steps. I plan to seek further advice after that before coming back with a final paper with answers to the questions posed earlier.

That, of course, will not be the end of the process; it is only the beginning. Over the coming years, as we need to make choices, those choices can be analyzed and examined to determine the net economic benefit to the NWT, and recommendations can be made in light of the priorities that NWT residents have identified.

Mr. Speaker, I have been told by people in southern Canada that the message they hear from the NWT on development is foggy. Do we want development? It is not clear to those who view us from a distance. The answer may be yes, we want development, but we want it to happen in a way that will provide long-term, sustainable benefits for the NWT. To ensure this occurs, we, as NWT residents, need to be clear about our goals and priorities and what choices we are prepared to make to achieve them. A macroeconomic policy will help provide that clarity and direction. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Minister's Statement 32-15(5): Developing A Macroeconomic Policy Framework For The Nwt

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 340

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Roland . Ministers' statements. The honourable Minister responsible for Industry, Tourism and Investment , Mr. Bell .

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Minister's Statement 33-15(5): October 15-21, 2006 Is Small Business Week

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 340

Brendan Bell

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this is Small Business Week across Canada.

Every year for the past 27 years, the Business Development Bank of Canada has championed Small Business Week to pay tribute to the contribution that small and medium-sized businesses make to our economy.

Approximately 90 percent of businesses in the NWT are considered to be small businesses. These businesses are the foundation of our most vibrant sectors and have been key components in our emergence as a leader in resource exploration and development.

In the NWT, it is small business that provides the energy and innovation behind our increasingly competitive and prosperous northern business environment. Our tourism industry, for example, is a sector built almost entirely on the commitment, hard work and endurance of entrepreneurs and small business owners.

In celebration of Small Business Week, Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to have the honourable Member from Thebacha join me on Wednesday in showcasing a new videoconference facility now available at

Canada Business NWT here in Yellowknife and also in Fort Smith. Together, my colleague and I were able to talk face to face with the general manager and representatives of the Thebacha Business Development Services in Fort Smith.

The technology we were demonstrating will allow

Canada Business NWT to deliver an expanded menu of small business information, training, and services through the Alberta Business Link to our northern entrepreneurs. For business owners, particularly in Yellowknife and Fort Smith, it's a venue through which to network with southern counterparts and those interested in and dedicated to small business and its development. We're working to expand this service to several other NWT communities.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment, through its support of the NWT Business Development and Investment Corporation and

Canada Business NWT, is committed to supporting small business as the primary driver in the development and diversification of our rapidly growing northern economy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Minister's Statement 33-15(5): October 15-21, 2006 Is Small Business Week

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 340

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Bell . Ministers' statements. The honourable Minister responsible for Health and Social Services , Mr. Miltenberger .

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Minister's Statement 34-15(5): Foster Family Appreciation Week

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 341

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In recognition of National Foster Family Appreciation Week, October 15th to the 21st, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the contributions our foster families make in the lives of many children and families in the NWT.

For the past several years, over 400 foster families have provided a safe, caring home for over 600 of our most vulnerable children who require this service. Some of these foster families provide short-term care in emergency situations, while others have been providing a service to the same children for many years and thereby creating permanency and stability in the lives of those children.

I am pleased to report that the majority of foster homes in the Northwest Territories are either extended family or provisional homes that means that the foster families are known to the children and their families. It is our intention to continue to promote families helping families within their own communities.

Every day our foster parents provide safe and loving homes to help children and their families overcome hardships. Becoming a foster parent can be a sacrifice and

an act of true selflessness. It is important to recognize that fostering involves the entire family and not just the parents. As such, I would like to say a special thank you to the children of our foster parents as they too open up their homes and hearts to other children in their community who require an alternate home during a period of crisis within their own family. The commitment and compassion shown by the foster parents and their families will not be forgotten, especially in the memories of the children they have touched.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to report that the Department of Health and Social Services, in consultation with key stakeholders, is currently reviewing foster care rates across the territory. We are currently finalizing recommendations that would allow for an equitable and standardized foster care rate system for all communities in the Northwest Territories.

Foster parent recruitment and retention continues to be a challenge in some communities. It is essential that our children be provided with services that they require while continuing to recognize the importance of family, community and culture in their lives. Our goal is to address these issues through continuing to provide support, to provide standardized training to all foster parents, and to adequately compensate foster families by recognizing regional cost of living differentials across the Northwest Territories.

This week, activities are happening all across this territory to recognize the contributions of foster families. Acknowledgement in local newspapers, radio stations, dinners and gifts of appreciation are some of the examples of how our regional authorities are demonstrating their appreciation to our foster families.

I would like to highlight that in one particular community, Aklavik, the community social services workers and community wellness workers hosted a community radio show with generous support from the community. The radio show was both informative and entertaining, with local musicians giving of their time to recognize the important contribution of foster families in that community.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I wish to convey my appreciation to the foster families in the Northwest Territories for their continued dedication, commitment and compassion that they demonstrate in such practical ways to support the children, their families, their extended families and their communities. Thank you.

---Applause

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Minister's Statement 34-15(5): Foster Family Appreciation Week

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 341

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Ministers' statements. Members' statements. The honourable Member for Sahtu , Mr. Yakeleya .

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Support For Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 341

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last year this Assembly was the first government in Canada to fully support May 26th each year as a National Day of Healing and Reconciliation for residential school survivors and impacted communities. Mr. Speaker, I was very proud of the honourable Members and this government to demonstrate to all of Canada and, more importantly, to the residential school survivors in the Northwest Territories, that we believe that the message was that we believe in them and we offer our support to them in their healing and their forgiveness.

Mr. Speaker, the devastating impact of living in one of those residential schools have profoundly impacted our family lives and destroyed our way of life in the northern communities, life for the Dene and the Metis and the non-aboriginal people. We even had the non-aboriginal people live with us. They were like brothers. But residential school had no discrimination. It impacted everybody in that institution.

Mr. Speaker, only now we are truly beginning to see the serious injustice that happened to the nation of people and the price that was paid for being taken away or forced to attend these residential schools.

Mr. Speaker, it is said that we, as aboriginal people, are a patient people, we're an understanding nation of communities and that we are survivors to whatever comes our way. We seem to adapt to changes, be they in the education system, learning a whole different way of life, just to make a living. Mr. Speaker, we are reminded that we are the fastest nation in the healing movement to get away from the abuses of the residential school.

Given that only in the late 1950s that we as a nation of people were allowed to vote in this great democratic society called Canada, that's just over 40 years, and were still considered wards of the state under the Indian Act of 1876. Childlike characters, as we were once referred to.

Mr. Speaker, what does this have to do with the residential school? It speaks to the very core of who we are now and who we are as we were characterized by other people. Mr. Speaker, our people are healing from very painful, shameful, and hurting parts of our lives, and the toughest

part is that you have to live each day, to reconcile with people in institutions that supported and implemented the residential school policy.

Mr. Speaker, we are once again faced with the various attitudes...

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Support For Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Mr. Yakeleya , your time for Member's statement is expired.

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Support For Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

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

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Support For Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

The Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. You may conclude your statement, Mr. Yakeleya .

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Support For Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, honourable colleagues. ...faced with various attitudes by people that want to keep our hearts buried and so in sufferance, Mr. Speaker, I am proud of this government to fully support May 26th as the national healing and reconciliation day. I am one of the residential school survivors. Hundreds of them are in the Sahtu region and I will not go back to the dark places of don't talk, don't feel, don't trust. We need to free our people, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

---Applause

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Support For Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Hawkins .

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Territorial Dementia Centre Funding

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In Mr. Roland 's fiscal update yesterday to the people of the Northwest Territories, there were two potentially positive announcements that could have a positive impact and a serious effect on our capital infrastructure in the Northwest Territories. The first was the $18 million increase in the operating surplus for the last fiscal year, and the second was the commitment by the federal government to respond to a request to remove the $300 million debt limit by the end of this year.

Mr. Speaker, two things arise out of this. The first one is, I'm definitely concerned that we may be overtaxing our citizens in an unnecessary way to have such a large surplus. The next one is, well, now that we have the money, what are our plans to do with it, this un-projected windfall?

The reason I raise this, Mr. Speaker, is there's a capital infrastructure project in Yellowknife that definitely needs serious attention from this government, Mr. Speaker. Of course, if anyone hasn't figured this out yet, I'm talking about the territorial dementia centre to be built here in Yellowknife in partnership with the Yellowknife Association of Concerned Citizens for Seniors. This would be a great godsend to the people of the Northwest Territories and Yellowknife that are struggling to care for their loved ones with these types of diseases.

Our present hospital and long-term care facilities do not have the equipment to deal with the demands that have arisen because of these problems. Advanced dementia in the hospitals and the costs associated with them are a difficult course that we follow and it's difficult to pay for those and treat folks in a proper and fair way.

Mr. Speaker, what I'm really saying is, we need a dedicated dementia facility today and we have heard yesterday that we have, potentially, the funds to do this. Mr. Speaker, we need this facility because our residents with these advanced cases of dementia need to be cared for in an environment appropriate to their specific medical needs and we cannot treat these folks in the manner that we are.

I know the government has to make tough choices, Mr. Speaker, and sometimes we have to advance projects over others, but now we have possibly identified a source to get this project moving. So I believe, as many of my colleagues do, that this was positive news yesterday. So let's do something positive with it. We have a territorial dementia facility plan. We have a group that wants to work in partnership with the Department of Health and Social Services, or Government of the Northwest Territories, in a positive way to do constructive things for our citizens.

So, Mr. Speaker, in closing, I will have questions for the Health and Social Services Minister later today to expect some decisive action about ways we can help solve these problems. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Territorial Dementia Centre Funding

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Fort Liard Housing Conditions

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 342

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to address the limited availability of housing in Fort Liard. Many of our 27 small communities experience these problems. Fort Liard's situation is critical and requires immediate attention by this government. Time after time I have stood before this House and requested action to address the housing crisis in Fort Liard, Mr. Speaker, and very little has been done. For the past two years there has been only two houses built there and no one is living in them because of deficiency issues. This year alone we have five scheduled homes. These are replacement homes.

It doesn't add to the community; it merely moves eight people out of a mouldy home into a new one without mould.

My leadership have been telling me that they have heard ideas and commitments from territorial and federal governments time and time again with no real action. We must not allow this cycle and circle of political merry-go-round to go on any longer. A new North has arrived, said the Prime Minister. Now let's complement this with new and decisive actions.

The availability of housing and the unsafe housing conditions, such as indoor mould, affects the community's ability to even recruit and retain professional staff, Mr. Speaker. How can we expect teachers and professionals and their families to live in motels for months at a time and still teach effectively, or, more importantly, to stay in our communities?

In the Nahendeh community of Fort Liard, the housing condition is at a critical point and we, as an Assembly and as a government, must take leadership and address these issues. Today we must take care of these needs, Mr. Speaker, not tomorrow. Mahsi cho.

---Applause

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Fort Liard Housing Conditions

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 343

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . Members' statement. The honourable Member for Hay River South , Mrs. Groenewegen .

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Social Housing Rent Payment Processes

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 343

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I'm going to outline the convoluted process that our constituents who live in social housing must go through when attempting to pay their rent. These are the actual experiences of one of my able-bodied constituents in Hay River and does not take into account the additional struggles that are faced by the elderly, handicapped, or those who do not live close to the downtown core.

Mr. Speaker, first you have to go to Northland Utilities and pay your power bill, as proof must be submitted at the time your rent is calculated. Then you have to walk over to the ECE office with your pay stubs and have your rent calculated. Unfortunately, the employee who calculates the rent is not always there, so it can take up to two weeks to have your rent calculated. The ECE office is then supposed to fax the rent calculation over to the housing office in a timely fashion. But this does not always happen. However, Mr.

Speaker, my constituent did tell me that the housing authority is at least very timely in sending you reminder letters that your rent is due on the first of every month and when you cannot get your rent calculated by ECE, when you figure that the information may have been sent or when you have confirmed the receipt by telephone, you can then walk down the street a couple of blocks to the housing office and if you're lucky the information has arrived from ECE and they can tell you how much your rent is going to be that month.

Unfortunately, since the housing office doesn't accept cheques or have a debit machine, a person must then be prepared to pay cash on the spot, get a money order, or make a trip to the bank. If ECE hasn't managed to get the required information to the housing association, the only way that you can stay out of arrears with housing is to pay what you paid the previous month and do an adjustment later when the rent calculation information finally arrives from ECE.

Mr. Speaker, this is a monthly source of aggravation to our constituents in social housing. I realize that there are growing pains associated with the transfer of any program, but if a program does not work in the second largest community in the Northwest Territories, I cannot imagine what is going on in the rest of the Territories and in the small communities.

Clearly, Mr. Speaker, there is a need to streamline the process and make it more user friendly. For example, just installing debit machines in the housing authority offices would make it somewhat easier for the clients. Having the ECE office attended on a regular basis would make it easier for the clients.

Since my constituent's case...I don't know what that means, but anyway. The bottleneck appears to be with ECE and I will have questions for that Minister at the appropriate time today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Social Housing Rent Payment Processes

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 343

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mrs. Groenewegen . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Monfwi, Mr. Lafferty .

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Team NWT Soccer (under 19 Boys) International Victories

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 343

Jackson Lafferty

North Slave

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it's truly an honour to acknowledge and recognize the NWT soccer records set by under 19 boys soccer team. For the first time ever, Team NWT won gold medal at major international outdoor soccer tournament, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Team NWT, 2 to 1, won over Team B.C. We have two previous bronze medals. Also, the first ever in NWT soccer history at major international outdoor soccer tournament in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, in 1993. Most goals ever scored by Team NWT at major international outdoor soccer tournament, 22 goals in total. Mr. Speaker, most goals ever scored by Team NWT in one game at major international outdoor soccer tournament, 17 goals in total. First ever shut-out earned at major international outdoor soccer tournament, Donovan Bishop earned one zero-shut-out to win against Team Manitoba, Mr. Speaker.

First time ever Team NWT beat Team B.C., two to one. First time ever Team NWT beat Team Alberta, 17 to 1, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Most goals ever scored by a single player in a single game, record set by two players, Marvin Migwi and Tyrone Fish. Each scored five goals apiece against Team Alberta.

---Applause

Youngest player ever on Team NWT to score one or more goals at major international outdoor soccer tournament. Tyler Sage scored two goals against Team Alberta. First goal ever scored by Team NWT against Team B.C. First goal ever scored by Team NWT against Team Alberta. Youngest team ever to represent Team NWT at a major international outdoor soccer tournament; three-quarters of the team was between the ages of 14 and 17 years of age playing in the under 19 age category, Mr. Speaker. Youngest goalkeeper ever to play for Team NWT at a major international outdoor soccer tournament, David Junior Wedzin was only a fresh 15 years old when he played against Team Alberta, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, congratulations Team NWT. You have proven yet again another success story to cherish and share. Mahsi.

---Applause

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Team NWT Soccer (under 19 Boys) International Victories

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 343

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Villeneuve .

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Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 343

Robert Villeneuve

Tu Nedhe

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Today I just want to talk about the great elders' facility in Deninu Kue. Currently, there are no elders living in the main building that is designed to accommodate up to four residents or elders. The community is well aware that this facility is

not a long-term care facility, but they do support the options proposed in the review of the memorandum of understanding and the possibility of the reprofiling of a facility to better meet the needs of the community.

Mr. Speaker, the issues brought to the Minister's attention about the proposed uses of the facility are not issues that are specifically related to the need to have the facility full of seniors at all times, but these concerns are just about the management and the authority, or lack thereof, of the community organizations respecting the use of the building.

One of the main concerns is the fact that the Housing Corporation that owns the great elders' main building or the facility in Fort Resolution has more say than any other community organization when it comes to what the allowable uses of the facility are and could be. I don't think that the Housing Corporation consults with the Deninu Kue First Nations or Fort Resolution's Metis Nation, the Deninu Community Council or any residents when receiving requests from these organizations and residents alike on possible uses or even temporary ones.

The requests such as having wakes for deceased residents and elders and their relatives held within the main building or perhaps providing temporary shelter to victims of domestic abuse within the community. Also, temporary residents for possibly the homeless or some seniors who are still living at home but are waiting for emergency home repairs. These are just some of the ideas that always seem to fall on deaf ears, Mr.

Speaker, when they are brought to the proper authorities to seek permission and gain access to the building, which, in turn, always results in residents becoming frustrated with protocol and with the lack of compassion shown by this government and its officials toward community requests to use the main facility, which is usually empty, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the next Health and Social Services...

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Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Your time for your Member's statement has expired, Mr. Villeneuve .

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Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

Robert Villeneuve

Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to conclude my Member's statement. Thank you.

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Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Villeneuve . The Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. You may conclude your statement, Mr. Villeneuve .

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Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

Robert Villeneuve

Tu Nedhe

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. Mr. Speaker, the next Health and Social Services Authority board meeting will be held in Fort Resolution this Monday on October 23rd. I encourage the Minister to direct board members to provide some assurances that it is working to address these matters and provide timelines, deadlines and recommendations from the two reports that have been drafted since March 2006 that hopefully will address and rectify problems in this area. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Elders' Facility In Fort Resolution

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Villeneuve . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Nunakput , Mr. Pokiak .

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Recruitment Process For The Rcmp Access Program

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

Calvin Pokiak

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, for the past two and a half years, I have been talking about the RCMP presence in Sachs Harbour, but today I would like to go through a little different process.

Last night, on CBC North, there was an interview with Corporal Violet Pokiak of "G" Division of Yellowknife here regarding the recruitment of people for RCMP programming in Halifax. I understand Corporal Pokiak will be travelling to all the communities in the Northwest Territories over the next four years, trying to recruit people in the Northwest Territories. I think, on behalf of the RCMP, that is a good process out there that they are working towards.

I hope that during the travels of Corporal Pokiak, that she will be able to draw all the young people into the communities and look at the workshop that she's having. I hope that at some certain point they will be able to encourage all the young people that we do need the RCMP aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories and I hope they can take advantage of this process.

Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to recognize that the RCMP and "G" Division are doing a good job in trying to recruit people in the Northwest Territories to go south to try the RCMP Access Program. I wish them very well in their endeavours to recruit these young people .Thank you.

---Applause

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Recruitment Process For The Rcmp Access Program

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Pokiak . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .

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GNWT Employees' Overtime Issues

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 344

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the last few months, the GNWT introduced a policy where across the board, with very few exceptions, the GNWT employees cannot bank any more than 75 hours of overtime. Not only that, once an employee has reached that in any fiscal year, they cannot refill it again. Mr. Speaker, this means that most of your overtime, above and beyond that, is paid out in cash. This is a problem, Mr. Speaker, because, believe it or not, money is not everything to our people.

They want to have the choice of being able to take the time off instead of getting cash, but the shortage of workers sometimes does not make it possible, Mr. Speaker. For all the positions in the GNWT that are required to perform clawback and travel duty, the bulk of which are in the health care field, this policy has been detrimental to the morale of these employees, Mr. Speaker. The fact that some sections of the Stanton Territorial Hospital, for example, are allowed to bank more than this is a problem as well.

Mr. Speaker, I have been receiving correspondence from the workers who say they feel that they work so hard and they do many hours of overtime and are on call, some by choice and some not by choice. These extra hours of work are necessary because there is a shortage of allied health care workers everywhere and the patients deserve access to health care services in the Territories 24/7. It is our public right, they say. But as a result of these restrictions, they feel penalized for providing the quality care northern patients deserve. The loss of the ability to refill their

overtime banked means they have lost their freedom to choose when and how their time in lieu is taken. Until the GNWT takes responsibility of this serious retention and recruitment issue and provides the money necessary to fill those vacant intermediate positions in hospitals and in all health care offices and facilities in the territory, Mr. Speaker, this seriously affects the health care services in the North. I would like to take this moment to ask the government to revisit this issue and scrap this policy that is demoralizing all of the health care workers who are working tirelessly because of the shortage of labour and the importance of the health care services. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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GNWT Employees' Overtime Issues

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 345

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Ms. Lee . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes , Mr. McLeod.

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Premier's Comments Regarding Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 345

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just recently my colleagues were making a statement on residential schools. I would also like to make a statement, Mr. Speaker, to that effect.

Growing up in Inuvik, I was one of the town boys. There were the town boys and the hostel boys. I grew up beside these boys. I went to school with them, but I didn't realize, Mr. Speaker, the conditions that these boys had to live in. Lately, with all the research that I have been doing and questions I have been asking, I had a chance to reflect on the conditions that they put up with. I have a whole new admiration, Mr. Speaker, for the many boys who went to residential school and the way they are doing today.

I hear them talking about the term survivor and that's a real appropriate term because, Mr. Speaker, I believe that's what they are. They are survivors. To hear comments being made questioning some of that has upset me that much more. It's hard to imagine the frustration that a lot of these survivors felt when they heard the comments coming from the Premier to the media. Have these people not suffered enough, Mr. Speaker, without having the head of the government make such comments and open old wounds?

When I heard this, Mr. Speaker, I have to ask myself a question; a very serious question. Have I not done enough to hold the Premier accountable for his remarks? Have I not done enough to show my support for these survivors and hold the Premier accountable for these remarks? Mr. Speaker, in speaking to a lot of them, some of them wish they were town boys, so they could go home at the end of the day, but that was impossible. To this day, Mr. Speaker, all they wanted was to be believed. Thank you.

---Applause

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Premier's Comments Regarding Residential School Survivors

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 345

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Members' statements. The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .

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Regulatory Problems Within Mineral, Oil And Gas Exploration Industry

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 345

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. In the area of development and regulatory matters, the Northwest Territories does not have a great score card in the industry of mineral and oil and gas exploration, Mr. Chair. We often hear the statistic quoted that Alberta, on an annual basis, processes hundreds of applications for exploration of natural resources and, yet, a number of approvals here in the Northwest Territories, basically you can count them on a couple of hands.

The major deficiency that's been identified, a chronic deficiency, has been the lack of capacity in the regulatory boards established under the Mackenzie Valley Resources Act. Getting appointments to this board has been a chronic problem for our government, Mr. Speaker. We have allocated, as the GNWT, a number of seats on these boards and we have had some difficulty of late getting the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, who has the duty to appoint, to listen to our nominations.

We have had refusal by the Minister of Northern Affairs to accept our appointments and now, with at least one of these vacancies running up 10 months, it certainly is easy to understand why the resource exploration and development industry sees the Northwest Territories as not a very attractive place to do business. At the real front end, we can't even process the paperwork. Getting the nominees on this board and having our voice at this critical decision-making point is an essential part of the way we do business. Mr.

Speaker, I think we are being denied that opportunity by a Minister in Ottawa who's got some other agenda other than our best interests, which he has a duty to represent, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Regulatory Problems Within Mineral, Oil And Gas Exploration Industry

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 345

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Braden . Members' statements. The honourable Member for Kam Lake , Mr. Ramsay .

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Acknowledging Department And Employee Concerns

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 345

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have been a Member of this House for almost three years and I continue to enjoy the opportunity and privilege to stand in this Legislature and represent the constituents of the riding of Kam Lake, the city of Yellowknife and this territory. I take my job and this position very seriously.

Yesterday during question period, while my colleague Ms. Lee was questioning the Minister of Health and Social Services and this was in response to an off the record comment I had made that the Minister of Health and Social Services should perhaps ask his colleague Mr. Dent about what happens when you just solely listen to your top level bureaucrats in your department and you shouldn't perhaps accept for fact everything that your deputy minister or CEO may tell you.

Mr. Speaker, I have a message for the Premier and his Cabinet. Maybe they should all go for a tour of the various departments that they represent and are responsible for every once in awhile just to touch base with the employees who are there on the ground doing the front-line work, and discuss with them and meet them to see what their concerns are and make an effort to address them.

As a Regular Member, I take great pride in the fact that employees from all areas of our government's operation can call me and get me to address their concerns. Mr. Speaker, they should be allowed to continue to do just that. Mr. Speaker, I will stand up and continue to fight for their issues. Our employees should not feel scared or

intimidated to come forward because of reprisals of senior managers. Why is this such a touchy subject for this government? Are they afraid that they might be taken to task for something or might actually have to do something? It's a problem, Mr. Speaker. I believe what this government needs is some whistleblower legislation and the sooner, the better. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

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Acknowledging Department And Employee Concerns

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay . Members' statements. Reports of standing and special committees. Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Monfwi, Mr. Lafferty .

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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 346

Jackson Lafferty

North Slave

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize my constituent Peter Huskey that's in the audience. There is another constituent, Francis Washie, who was here also. I would like to welcome them to the gallery. Mahsi.

---Applause

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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Premier , Mr. Handley .

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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 346

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize one of my constituents. It was an oversight yesterday, Arlene Hache. I didn't recognize her yesterday.

---Applause

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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Handley . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. If we have missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to the Legislative Assembly. It's always nice to have an audience. Oral questions. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Hawkins .

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Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My Member's statement today, as well as on many other occasions, I speak about the need to ensure that we have a territorial dementia centre built sooner rather than later. Mr. Speaker, it is a serious concern that I have that there may not be funding in this upcoming capital budget plan for our next budget fiscal year. Mr. Speaker, my question to the Minister of Health and Social Services is, what is the current status of the territorial dementia centre facility that is supposed to be a partnership between the Yellowknife Association of Concerned Citizens for Seniors and his department? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . The honourable Minister of Health and Social Services , Mr. Miltenberger .

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Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I met with YACCS a couple of weeks ago and indicated to them that the dementia facility is not in the '07-08 capital plan. It is on our list should there be any new money that comes available, along with a number of other projects. We continue to do the work. There was $1 million allocated to the dementia facility planning last year. That money has not been fully expended. In fact, it's only been partially expended. So we are continuing to look at that. We have been in contact with YACCS.

We are going to be much more actively involved to work with YACCS in terms of the scope of the project. We will keep the need clearly identified and make sure it stays on our business plan request for the coming year. Thank you.

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Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Your supplementary, Mr. Hawkins .

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Supplementary To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I know the Minister was in the House yesterday when our Finance Minister gave his statistical update. Mr. Speaker, I know he must have heard the Finance Minister say we had $18 million higher than our original projection. So what is the Minister doing about putting this dementia centre up on the priority list? What is he doing to knock down, kick down at whatever, get that door off to speak to that Finance Minister to make this project a real go? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Supplementary To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . Mr. Miltenberger .

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Further Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have been going through the business planning process, the capital planning process. The Minister of Finance gave a statement in the House about the fiscal update. He indicated that there is a requirement to have a certain amount of surplus to be able to fund our capital infrastructure. The money that was in the budget, the money was fully subscribed to. We have a much longer list of projects than we have resources. It is on our list should new money come available, but at this time there has been no money added to the capital budget and that is the reality as far as I know. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Supplementary, Mr. Hawkins .

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Supplementary To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to hear the Minister's list of priorities, because I am not sure we have another need out there that demands such a high priority as our dementia facility. We need to be treating people in a proper facility suited to this specific need. Will the Minister tell me today, where are his priorities on this facility in comparison to any other priorities? Is it the top priority of his department to get this dementia facility built in a timely way in the city of Yellowknife? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Supplementary To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 346

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . Mr. Miltenberger .

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Further Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to point out to the Member that this is not just a list of health projects, but there is a government-wide list of a whole host of projects that are important, not only to Yellowknife but to communities all around the Northwest Territories. Our decision is to focus on Stanton, as we have indicated to committee, as well as a potential to move on to the consolidated clinic.

The dementia facility clearly is on our to-do list but, for the funding that was available for this year, the focus is on those two particular projects in Yellowknife. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Final supplementary, Mr. Hawkins .

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Supplementary To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say this with respect both to the Minister and other departments, but I don't really care about other departments when I talk about the Health Minister . I want to hear about the Health Minister 's priorities. I know other Ministers will be kicking on the Finance Minister 's door if they heard there was one single dollar available for any of their projects or programs. I would like to hear from the Minister. With respect to other departments, like I say, I don't care about that. I want to hear about the facility for the dementia centre.

What is he doing to kick down that door to say I heard there is some loose money out there somewhere in a surplus, let's do something with it that will have real needs. So what is the Minister doing? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Supplementary To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . Mr. Miltenberger .

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Further Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am not aware of any loose change within the context of our entire fiscal circumstance. I have outlined to the Member the process and where the facility stands. There is also many other critical projects out there. The dementia facility has just come into the capital plan this year. It's now on there and we will continue to move it forward in the coming business planning cycle. Thank you.

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Further Return To Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Question 133-15(5): Territorial Dementia Facility Centre Funding

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Oral questions. The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .

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Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions this afternoon are for the Premier and this is in relation to the appointment of GNWT representatives to the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board...I'm sorry, the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board, a position that has been vacant now for some 10 months.

Mr. Speaker, the Premier was, I recall, quoted in a recent media interview as saying that while the initial nominee of our government has been rejected by Minister Prentice of the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs, that our government should really undertake to give him a few more selections. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to ask the Premier in this regard, just what is the discretion of the Minister of Northern Affairs to reject our nominee?

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Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Braden . The honourable Premier , Mr. Handley .

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Return To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Because this is a federal board, the federal Minister has the final decision on any of the members. We simply put forward nominations; he can choose to reject them if he chooses. Thank you.

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Return To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Handley . Supplementary, Mr. Braden .

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Supplementary To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Bill Braden

Great Slave

You know, Mr. Speaker, when these boards were created, and we are going back about 10 years now, the NWT fought for a degree of representation and autonomy so that we knew that our voices were indeed going to be heard, along with those of many First Nations who also have designated spots on those boards. Just why is it that we are not pressing the Minister to accept our nominee so that we can be assured that our position is being heard as clearly as possible and not subject to the whims or biases that a federal Minister might want to have, Mr. Speaker?

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Supplementary To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Braden . Mr. Premier .

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Further Return To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Mr. Speaker, I can assure Members that we have been pressing the Minister for several months now and, as I say, it is the Minister's discretion, the final decision, I should say, on our nominations as well as nominations from other parties including aboriginal organizations. So he has that final say. Mr. Speaker, in order to resolve this, we recognize the need to have someone and have that position filled. In order to move ahead with this, we have agreed with the federal Minister to give him more names. If he can't make a decision based on the names we have provided, we will give him more names.

Recently, the Minister responsible, the Minister of ENR , had sent a letter out asking for nominations from Members and others. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Further Return To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Handley . Supplementary, Mr. Braden .

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Supplementary To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 347

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Indeed, Mr. Speaker, I have that call letter in my hand right now and it's certainly something I am going to give a lot of attention to. We went through this process earlier this year. We came up, I believe, with a good name, one that had my confidence. I wanted to ask the Premier if he got any reason from the Minister of Northern Affairs for the rejection. What are the criteria that

the federal Minister wants to put on our nominee, Mr. Speaker?

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Supplementary To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 348

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Braden . Mr. Handley .

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Further Return To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 348

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Mr. Speaker, no, I have not gotten any reason why the Minister will not select the one individual we provided. The Minister did say, though, that if we give him one name, the answer is yes or no. He appealed to me, can you give me more than one name so I can choose. In order to get this position filled, I have agreed to. Yes, we will give you more names, if that is what you wish, Minister. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Further Return To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 348

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Handley . Final supplementary, Mr. Braden .

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Supplementary To Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Question 134-15(5): Appointments To Mackenzie Valley Land And Water Board

Item 7: Oral Questions

Page 348

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Here we go again, Mr. Speaker, still under Ottawa's thumb trying to get anywhere at all with resource revenue sharing and devolution. It's tough enough that we can't even secure our own independence with one of 20 people on a board. We are not even able to get that far with Ottawa. Will the Premier , indeed, once consultation is through, put forward a name that we know we have confidence in and insist that the Minister of Northern Affairs take that as the t