Debates of March 2nd, 2022

This is page numbers 3665 - 3710 of the Hansard for the 19th Assembly, 2nd Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.

The word of the day was know .

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards

Advancing Aging in Place Initiatives

Premier Absent from the House

Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Pandemic Recovery

Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Taltson Hydro Expansion

Pandemic Recovery

Socio-Economic Issues

Post-COVID Education

Pandemic Recovery

Volunteers of Nahendeh

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Ms. Cleveland's Reply

Reply 16-19(2): Ms. Martselos' Reply

Reply 17-19(2): Ms. Weyallon-Armstrong's Reply

Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

Carbon Tax

Education

Education

Labour Market Supplement

Russian Plane Landed at Yellowknife Airport

Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

Tourism

Tabled Document 582-19(2): Northwest Territories Integrity Commissioner Annual Report to the Legislative Assembly for 2021

Tabled Document 583-19(2): Territorial By-Election 2022 Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh Official Voting Results

Consideration Of Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Hon. Diane Archie , Hon. Frederick Blake Jr., Mr. Bonnetrouge , Hon. Paulie Chinna , Ms. Cleveland , Hon. Caroline Cochrane , Mr. Edjericon , Hon. Julie Green , Mr. Johnson , Ms. Martselos , Ms. Nokleby , Mr. O'Reilly , Ms. Semmler , Hon. R.J. Simpson , Mr. Rocky Simpson , Hon. Shane Thompson , Hon. Caroline Wawzonek . Ms. Weyallon-Armstrong

The House met at 1:31 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 3665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Ministers' statements. Minister responsible for Municipal and Community Affairs .

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Minister's Statement 216-19(2): NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards

Ministers' Statements

Page 3665

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the NWT volunteer awards program was developed in 1991 as a way to recognize outstanding volunteers and highlight the importance of volunteerism in the NWT communities. Today, I want to congratulate everybody nominated for the 2021 NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards, and to share some of the incredible achievements of the award winners.

We received a total of 23 nominations this year, including three in the elders category, six in the group category, 12 in the individual category, and two in the youth category.

Mr. Speaker, each of these nominations are noteworthy of their own but I want to highlight the contribution of the award winners. I am pleased to announce the recipients of the NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards for 2021 are:

Outstanding Elder Award, Margaret Henderson;

Outstanding Youth Award, Madison Pilling;

Outstanding Individual Award, Kurtis Sheane;

Outstanding Group Award, Edward and Bertha Landry.

Mr. Speaker, Margaret Henderson had been nominated at the Food Rescue Yellowknife -- volunteering at the Food Rescue since 2008. She has been instrumental in the development of the Food Rescue board structure and has served as a board member herself for many years. She has volunteered at all levels of the Food Rescue's operations and acts as a liaison between the Food Rescue and the food contributors in Yellowknife. She currently acts as a volunteer kitchen manager and helps run the day-to-day operations.

Margaret's compassion, organizational skills and outreach and leadership has contributed greatly to the high regards in which the Food Rescue is thought of in the Yellowknife community and beyond.

As part of the winning this award, Margaret received $1000 to donate to an organization of her choice. She chose Food Rescue. Congratulations, Margaret, and thank you for your contributions.

This year the award winner for the 2021 volunteer award in the individual category is Kurtis Sheane. Kurtis has been an invaluable volunteer in Hay River for many years. He has made and served food to hundreds of community members and provided one-on-one support to members of the vulnerable sector through peer support and access to local services. Kurtis offers food delivery to local elders and assists them in getting to and from medical appointments. As well, he offers youth mentorship and manages the homeless shelter in Hay River.

He goes above and beyond to provide support to the vulnerable sector in Hay River and has helped improve the lives of hundreds of people. His tireless commitment to the members of his community means that he is the person who is called in the middle of the night for help, and he has proven time and again that he is willing to lend a hand to those in need. Kurtis received $1000 to donate to an organization of his choice. He chose the Hay River Committee for Persons with Disabilities. Congratulations, Kurtis, and thank you for your contributions.

Finally, Edward and Bertha Landry are the recipients of the 2021 Outstanding Volunteer Award in the group category. Edward and Bertha started the Fort Providence minor hockey group many years ago in efforts to bring hockey to the youth of Fort Providence. Together they organize fundraisers for the minor hockey group and reach out to local businesses and organizations for support. They work to get parents in the community involved with the group and has made great efforts to get hockey equipment delivered to the community so that all the kids are able to play.

Edward and Bertha spent an exceptional amount of time and work together to overcome challenges that often act as barriers to youth participating in small communities. They act as chaperones when the group travel for tournaments and frequently offer financial support to make these out-of-town trips possible for children for Fort Providence. Edward and Bertha received $1000 to donate to an organization of their choice, and they chose Fort Providence Minor Hockey. Thank you for your contributions, Edward and Bertha Landry.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize all the individuals receiving an award this year and to everyone who has been nominated. Congratulations, and thank you for your dedication. I want to thank everybody who submitted a nomination this year. I would like to remind everybody that nominations for the NWT volunteer awards are open year-round. Please encourage your constituents to send the nominations at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 216-19(2): NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards

Ministers' Statements

Page 3665

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you Minister. Ministers' statements. Minister responsible for Health and Social Services .

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Minister's Statement 217-19(2): Advancing Aging in Place Initiatives

Ministers' Statements

Page 3665

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the Minister responsible for Seniors to update Members on our mandate commitment to enable seniors to age in place with dignity. This is an important commitment to me personally because of the number of seniors who live in my constituency. I continue to hear from them that they want to stay in their homes as long as possible. That means taking a cross-department approach to providing seniors with access to various services and supports when and where needed.

The GNWT has identified several ways in which this goal will be achieved, including:

Increasing support for seniors to stay in their homes and communities, including home care;

Funding actions that enhance inclusion and safety;

Expediting the removal of barriers to aging in place; and

Protecting seniors from abuse and neglect.

The Department of Health and Social Services, the NWT Housing Corporation, and the Department of Education, Culture and Employment are working together to advance this mandate priority.

For example, the NWT Housing Corporation has amended its policies which will result in improved access to housing for low income seniors. These changes include eliminating the requirement for applicants to have land tenure or insurance when they apply for homeownership repair programs. In addition, specific to seniors the NWT Housing Corporation no longer counts the income of adult children or grandchildren when calculating whether they are within the income threshold of the program they're applying for. As a result of these changes, we have seen seniors' participation in home repair programming increase by up to 25 percent.

The NWT Housing Corporation also has several other relevant housing initiatives underway, including the Seniors' Aging-in-Place Program, and new and innovative public housing designs that have wide doorways and halls to accommodate barrier-free use.

To assist in addressing the current demand for seniors' housing, the NWT Housing Corporation is preparing a submission to the federal government's National Housing Co-Investment Fund for new public housing. The NWT Housing Corporation also supported Avens with its application to advance the Avens Pavilion Project, which will add 102 new seniors' housing units in Yellowknife later next year.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment is also working on improving life for seniors by creating a new stream of the income assistance program tailored to them and to persons with disabilities. The department is currently engaging various groups to ensure that this program will meet the needs of NWT residents.

Mr. Speaker, for our part the Department of Health and Social Services is ready to engage the public to gather information for the development of an NWT Seniors Strategy. Our hope is that the dialogue will identify gaps in services and offer solutions. The NWT Seniors Strategy will be complete by September of 2022.

The Department of Health and Social Services will also make funding available in 2022-2023 for communities to deliver services and provide support to seniors so they can age in place with our unique Age-Friendly Grant Program. The detail is online, and we are now taking applications.

We are also working to ensure NWT seniors are better protected from abuse and neglect. Mr. Speaker, three key initiatives are already underway:

A review of current programs, services and regulatory frameworks;

An examination of training options for staff and bystander intervention; and

The development and launch of a public awareness campaign.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT is committed to understanding and addressing the needs of seniors so they can remain in their communities for as long as possible. It is critical that our government offer a sustainable approach to meeting their diverse requirements. We have made and continue to make significant progress towards achieving this priority. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 217-19(2): Advancing Aging in Place Initiatives

Ministers' Statements

Page 3666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Ministers' statements. Honourable Premier .

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Minister's Statement 218-19(2): Premier Absent from the House

Ministers' Statements

Page 3666

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise the House that I will be absent from the House for a portion of today's proceedings to participate in the Residential School Survivors Workshop here in Yellowknife. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 218-19(2): Premier Absent from the House

Ministers' Statements

Page 3666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Honourable Premier . Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member for Hay River South .

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Member's Statement 972-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Members' Statements

Page 3666

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in November 2021, the federal government implemented a mandatory vaccine policy that would impact employees and contractors working in federally-regulated sectors, as well as travelers in Canada. The two federal sectors that directly impact the NWT are air and marine transportations services.

Mr. Speaker, to enhance the safety of its residents, this government implemented vaccine policies of our own to public sector workers and contractors in the NWT. The policies are comparatively uniformed throughout departments, except for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation and marine transportation services. Due to the federal mandatory vaccine policies, both opted for stringent policies.

It went further by committing to engaging with Indigenous groups and territories.

Mr. Speaker, in the Northwest Territories, communities outside Yellowknife rely on the knowledge, experience, supports, and multiple of services provided by public sector employees and contractors living throughout the NWT. Not all employees require access to the communities which is, in part, why there is the allowance for accommodation and enhanced use of PPE and testing.

Almost two years of operating without terminating or placing any employees on leave without pay, this has become a reality in the last month; in part, due to the mandatory federal vaccine requirements to board aircraft.

Mr. Speaker, I am concerned that we are not only losing long-term employee but we are placing our small communities at risk through the loss of northern expertise, knowledge, and experience.

I would ask those on the other side of this floor to actively lobby, based on our unique circumstances in the Northwest Territories, the federal government for relaxation of vaccine requirements for all air travel in the NWT or, in alternative, the charter flights. Mr. Speaker, I'll have questions for the Minister responsible for Human Resources. Thank you.

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Member's Statement 972-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Members' Statements

Page 3666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Hay River South .

Colleagues, before we continue I'd like to recognize former Member, former Minister, and former Premier , Mr. Jim Antoine, first elected in 1991 and 1995 and 1999. Welcome to the House.

---Applause.

Members' statements. Member for Great Slave .

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Member's Statement 973-19(2): Pandemic Recovery

Members' Statements

Page 3666

Katrina Nokleby

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I consider a post-pandemic world, one that appears more chaotic by the day, I'm reminded of the quote by Deepak Chopra: "All great changes are proceeded by chaos."

A year ago, I was speaking about the need for realistic or zero-based budgeting instead of sticking with the status quo and putting faith in the idea that we could wait until things got "back to normal." Just like the world after 9-1-1, I think we can all finally agree we are not going back to a pre-COVID world. And rather than waste time crying over spilt milk, we must use this time of chaos to create real and meaningful change for the people of our territory.

The resource extraction sector is our largest economic driver and will remain so for a long time. Therefore, we must take measures now to ensure that this revenue source is protected and that exploration is able to rebound. Remember, Mr. Speaker, it takes over a decade for an exploration project to go through permitting before it becomes an operating mine producing royalties. Given the lack of exploration projects on the horizon, we should all be very concerned about where our economy will be in ten years.

Our massive infrastructure deficit is hurting our territory. Mines want clean energy to operate and need roads to move supplies and concentrate. Therefore, it is imperative that our three strategic infrastructure projects continue to advance, Not only to directly lower the cost of living and connect our residents but also to encourage investment in our territory.

I can't stress enough how critical the Taltson Hydro Expansion, the Slave Geological Corridor, and the Mackenzie Valley Highway are to the NWT's future prosperity. We must ensure northern companies that hire northern people are given priority in procurement. We need to end the lip service around Indigenous involvement and introduce financial repercussions when obligations aren't met. Whether they be infrastructure projects or mining-related, our people need to be more than just laborers or housekeepers on site.

Government must work with Indigenous governments to advance regional mineral strategies and help facilitate the conversation between them and industry And we need to expand funding initiatives such as the Mining Incentive Program.

Mr. Speaker, one thing we know how to do is build roads. With climate change, it's imperative we replace melting infrastructure with permanent all-season community access. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you.

---Unanimous consent granted.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I promise this is the last time.

With climate change it is imperative we replace our melting infrastructure with permanent all-season community access. Further investment in roads, including pushing for 100 percent federal funding, will keep Northerners employed while addressing the critical infrastructure gap that impedes investment in our territory. We should also plan for linear infrastructure corridors where telecommunications and power lines are run alongside transportation routes to facilitate development in the region. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of ITI at the appropriate time. Thank you.

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Member's Statement 973-19(2): Pandemic Recovery

Members' Statements

Page 3666

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Great Slave . Members' statements. Member for Frame Lake .

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Member's Statement 974-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Members' Statements

Page 3666

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. On May 31st last year the Premier released Cabinet's plan for economic recovery called "Emerging Stronger." Following pressure from this and other MLAs, a public engagement web page was set up and it's still open. I am not aware of any response or "what we heard" report from that public engagement. I am not aware of any progress report or tracking of any of the commitments made in Emerging Stronger.

On June 4th of last year, we had a discussion of Emerging Stronger in Committee of the Whole right at the end of the sitting. As I said then, I was hoping for something more bold leading to fundamental changes. In September 2020 I endorsed the Just Recovery Initiative led by NGOs from across the NWT that called for:

good jobs;

living wages and sick leave for all;

guaranteed livable income;

affordable housing for all;

universal access to internet;

community healing and wellness; and

a green new deal.

What we got in Emerging Stronger is a document closely linked to Cabinet's mandate or, quite frankly, more of the same. We have an opportunity to help rebuild an economy to make it more sustainable and just. I would like to see broadband service made a strategic infrastructure priority over the other big projects that this government continues to push.

We did make some progress with our vulnerable populations in Yellowknife, Hay River, Fort Simpson, and Inuvik, and we need to keep those gains.

There was nothing in the document about fiscal sustainability or tax fairness and a new relationship with Ottawa. There is very little in Emerging Stronger about the climate emergency or remediation economy. Most of the so-called "economic diversification" is around promoting more mining. There is very little that addresses the mental health crisis that's arisen during the pandemic and there is nothing on food security.

Most revealing was the lack of any financial information or specific programs or initiatives. There is some reporting to be done but it's not clear exactly what's going to be reported; Some key indicators but nothing really about how the analysis is going to be undertaken or how on those key indicators and, more importantly, how that leads into a response or action by our government. I will have questions later today for the Premier on where Cabinet is at with regard to rebuilding our economy and a just recovery. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 974-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Members' Statements

Page 3667

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Member's Statement 975-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion

Members' Statements

Page 3667

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we know in the North we face the most severe impacts from climate change, and the world is looking to the North to be a leader in climate change adaptation. Climate change will continue to increase rainfall, flooding, and coastal erosion, and increasing temperatures will affect habitat, change the availability of country foods, especially meat, disrupt Indigenous subsistence, and increase the cost of living here in the territory. We cannot afford to ignore climate change, Mr. Speaker.

At the beginning of this Assembly when all members established our priorities, the Taltson Hydro Expansion was identified as a critical infrastructure project to advance. The Taltson Expansion is not only critical to support major resource development in the Slave Geological Province; it is central to achieving the objectives of both the 2030 Energy Strategy and the GNWT's climate change action plan.

This infrastructure project is the GNWT's primary solution to meet federal greenhouse gas emission targets. With estimates of generating 60 megawatts and offsetting 240,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually, Mr. Speaker, it's clear to say that without the Taltson Hydro Expansion Project, the GNWT may very well fall short of their emission goals. The GNWT's climate change action plan contains the roadmap for the NWT to meet international, federal, and territorial benchmarks for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The goals include:

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent below 2005 levels by 2030;

Improve knowledge of the climate change impacts in the NWT; and

Build resilience to adapt to a changing climate.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT has a number of infrastructure projects underway to facilitate achieving these goals, including Taltson. But I am concerned about the pace of the Taltson project and our ability to meet our climate change adaptation energy and cost of living goals on time. I am concerned that as we press forward with our eggs all resting in the Taltson basket, we are still unclear about where the GNWT intends to sell power, the funding supports to back this project, and whether it has the support of Indigenous governments.

Mr. Speaker, in 2019, the NWT was 16 percent below our 2005 emissions. But at the same time that our emissions were declining, so were our major mineral economies. The GNWT is working hard to promote and build our mineral resource industry but the question is, will this come at the expense of our energy strategy, or will Taltson be done in time to save the day? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 975-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion

Members' Statements

Page 3667

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Member's Statement 976-19(2): Pandemic Recovery

Members' Statements

Page 3667

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I want to take time to focus on the pandemic recovery of our people. While there are many areas that we need to recover after this pandemic, today I want to focus on our men; and, more so, our young Indigenous men in the territory.

Mr. Speaker, social limitations and isolation affected us all but I'm very concerned with the impact COVID-19 has left on our young men. I'm concerned, Mr. Speaker, that our young men face addictions, depression, loss of hope, and in the worst case scenario, overdose suicide take the grips of our young men.

Mr. Speaker, we have already lost too many young men. What can we do as a government to offer hope as we emerge from this pandemic? One thing, Mr. Speaker, is jobs. Jobs create a sense of worth.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT provides employment for 6,249 people. The GNWT has made the vision clear that GNWT wants a public service to reflect its population. Of the 6,249 employees, 1,832 are Indigenous. Indigenous people represent nearly half the NWT population and 29 percent of the GNWT employees.

I've said this before, this gap grows significantly however when you look at Indigenous males. As of March 31st, 2021, only 527 Indigenous males work for the GNWT, a mere 8.4 percent of the total workforce. Mr. Speaker, this statistic needs to change.

The GNWT should be proactively working to recruit and develop Indigenous young men to fill positions across the NWT to ensure that this is a representative government. The Indigenous Career Gateway was established in 2018. This program was created to target Indigenous candidates for entry-level positions. Mr. Speaker, what has been the success of this program? How many new Indigenous applications have been added to the GNWT payroll? Which communities?

When I've asked questions to the Minister on the use of this program, I'm told it's used when requested by the hiring manager but I've also heard that it's the responsibility of the HR staff to ensure that it's used. I'm confused, Mr. Speaker. If there's no policy to provide clear guidance, no reporting requirement, no accountability, then it won't be used, Mr. Speaker. We need policy teeth to actually make progress on these initiatives. Mr.

Speaker, we need HR professionals in place to ensure that any Indigenous applicant to the NWT has extra support to ensure that their resume checks the boxes for screening, to ensure the resume gets considered in programs we have in place, and to ensure that entry-level positions are filled across the NWT, provide first consideration to P1 candidates by utilizing these programs every time.

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

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We need to put authority and accountability on to HR staff to ensure competitions and hiring decisions are run accordingly to the vision of the GNWT, to have a public service that reflects our population. I will have questions for the Minister of Finance later today.

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Member's Statement 976-19(2): Pandemic Recovery

Members' Statements

Page 3667

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Member's Statement 977-19(2): Socio-Economic Issues

Members' Statements

Page 3667

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I'm doing it on socioeconomic indicators.

Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier in the House, we know that Tlicho region has some of the worst socioeconomic health indicators across the NWT. When compared to the rest of the NWT, Tlicho region has the lowest level of education, second highest unemployment rate, low levels of family income, and highest income assistance.

Mr. Speaker, in my region nearly 60 percent of residents do not have a high school education. 24 percent of our region lives on less than $30,000. Mr. Speaker, that's nearly one out of four families in my region living on less than $30,000. How can you feed your family, pay your bills, or improve your life on less than $30,000?

The Tlicho region also has the smallest proportion of families in the NWT earning above $75,000.

The Tlicho region has the second highest rate of unemployment in the NWT at nearly 21 percent. It is no surprise, Mr. Speaker, that Tlicho has the highest rate of income assistance in the NWT at 17 percent. What is the GNWT doing to improve the socioeconomic health of Tlicho residents? I will have questions for the Minister of Education at appropriate time.

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Member's Statement 977-19(2): Socio-Economic Issues

Members' Statements

Page 3667

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Member's Statement 978-19(2): Post-COVID Education

Members' Statements

Page 3667

Rylund Johnson

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As we move into the post-COVID world, we can't forget all of our students who have had a pandemic disrupt their last three years. According to the Yellowknife school boards, due to the various closures the schools here in Yellowknife have lost up to one year of school days. And I know that this is a problem that the entire world is facing and that students around the world got behind during COVID-19, but the reality is is that our students were already falling behind before COVID and a pandemic certainly didn't help.

This worries me, Mr. Speaker. Our teachers have been performing performance assessments and many say that their students are already one year behind. And what does this mean in the long run? I think we have to provide extra resources to our schools to make sure that we are not going to see a COVID generation graduating in the decade to come.

Further to literacy and numeracy skills, students have not been able to explore the arts throughout the pandemic. With rules of no singing or public-staged performances, I worry about the socialization of those children and I think we need to see some extra support to make sure that our students can once again sing and dance and be children in the classroom, Mr. Speaker. Academics are not the only recovery in the schools that will need to be addressed.

I know many students are seeing signs of increased anxiety and the pandemic just highlights the importance of in-person learning, and that it's just more than education. There are various nonacademic supports that we need to see. And I know the Minister has been meeting with the school boards, and he's been hearing these concerns, but I'll have some questions to make sure that we provide our school districts and our schools the resources in the years to come to get our children caught up. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 978-19(2): Post-COVID Education

Members' Statements

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Yellowknife North . Members' statements. Member for Deh Cho .

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Member's Statement 979-19(2): Pandemic Recovery

Members' Statements

Page 3668

Ronald Bonnetrouge

Deh Cho

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm trying to come with solutions or views as to the pandemic recovery is quite the task, especially trying to address mental health issues. Something like this is best left up to the mental health experts who are trained to deal with a person's wellbeing, including mental health. I do know that what we have experienced since the coronavirus showed up on our doorstep is one of total disbelief and concern.

The first thing on people's minds were that of the 1921 Spanish flu, where millions of people were infected and died. People were throwing their arms up in the air, like what is really happening? Travelling to communities and to the south were suddenly shut down. You weren't allowed to visit anyone, especially your own immediate family. Everyone was posting signs on their doors and windows stating no visitors allowed. Border sentry posts were set up at all roads leading in to the territory, and even communities were setting up their own. A total lockdown.

That lockdown presented a whole new set of other issues, whether they be related to health or for one's own release of emotions or the pleasures they missed.

There was more alcohol intake than before due to the lockdown. We now have more drug use than ever before. We now have more cases of domestic violence due to the excesses of alcohol and drugs. This pandemic recovery exercise is not an easy one considering what we have to deal with and not being the authority to address mental health issues, that is best left to the trained.

It is up to the individuals to say enough is enough, and seek mental health counselling. We need to offer more guidance to provide avenues to access the mental health experts in every community. The mental health workers need to be visible and accessible to the community. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 979-19(2): Pandemic Recovery

Members' Statements

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Deh Cho . Members' statements. Member for Nahendeh .

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Member's Statement 980-19(2): Volunteers of Nahendeh

Members' Statements

Page 3668

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I know each community and region in the NWT have amazing volunteers out there. They are individuals that make things happen for the betterment of our residents.

This year, I would like to recognize three ladies from the Nahendeh that were nominated for the outstanding volunteer award. As you heard me speak earlier today in my Minister's statement, the NWT outstanding youth volunteer was Madison Pilling from Fort Simpson.

Madison has been a volunteer in Fort Simpson for many years with a variety of organizations. She sits on volunteer boards and committees in local hockey, curling, NWT speed skating, and Sport North. Madison has helped organize community events, coaching various sports. To add to this list, she's an active member of the Fort Simpson volunteer fire and ambulance department for over five years, spending many hours taking the ambulance calls and acting as a leader on the fire grounds.

In 2021, Madison was named the department's training officer where she designed, trains, and tracks the training of her fellow volunteer members. Madison acts as a role model within her community, and her volunteering efforts have impacted the life of many in Fort Simpson.

Mr. Speaker, Beth Hudson has been recognized by her peers in Fort Simpson for her volunteerism and leadership. And during the 2021 flood that ravaged the community, Beth's contribution helped residents in need get access to food, water, shelter, firewood, among many other necessities. Beth also lends her hands-on approach to mental health support in the community, mentoring youth, volunteering at community events, and hosting archery competitions, both in Fort Simpson and around the NWT.

Mr. Speaker, Vanessa Merceau was born and raised in Fort Simpson and has volunteered in many different facets throughout her life. She was most recently nominated for the NWT volunteer award for the time, effort, and leadership she dedicated to the Fort Simpson volunteer fire and ambulance department. In 2021, Vanessa was promoted to the rank of lieutenant within the department in recognition of her hard work.

In this role, Vanessa volunteers her time for training and administrative duties in support of the department in addition to activities providing medical and fire support for emergency calls within the community. Vanessa's dedication to the Fort Simpson fire and ambulance department has been invaluable to the village of Fort Simpson and she makes the lives of residents safer daily.

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour of knowing these three ladies personally. I can say they are amazing individuals and make a difference in everybody's life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 980-19(2): Volunteers of Nahendeh

Members' Statements

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Nahendeh . Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Honourable Premier .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize Premier Jim Antoine, the 8th Premier of the NWT. When I first met Premier Antoine, I asked for wise words of advice. He said, "Get'er done." I took that pushing our departments. With 22 priorities and halfway through this Legislative Assembly, I take those wise words even more appropriate today. I apologize, Mr. Speaker, I know this more of an acknowledgement but I'm not sure how long he will be in the House today, so I apologize. But I do welcome him in the House. Thank you.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Honourable Premier . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Yellowknife South .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Antoine's leadership didn't end when he left this building. Since the inception of the NWT Health and Social Services Authority, he's been chair of the leadership council, and he has provided strong leadership through the transformation of our health system. And he continues to provide wise counsel, and I sincerely appreciate his role. Thank you.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Frame Lake .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. I too would like to recognize Jim Antoine. I first met him probably over 30 -- about 35 years ago as a former Chief in Fort Simpson, and I can vouch that he's still a pretty good hockey player. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Deh Cho .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Ronald Bonnetrouge

Deh Cho

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Although I can't see past honourable Member Jim Antoine, I'd like to acknowledge that he's a respected Indigenous leader in our region for the Deh Cho First Nations and whatnot, and welcome him to the House today. Mahsi.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Richard Edjericon

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too want to recognize Jim Antoine, former Chief and Premier . I also had the privilege as a former Chief going to Dene Nation meetings et cetera and serving, and so I just want to recognize Jim Antoine.

Also, I just want to recognize also Dennis Drygeese, a translator from Lutselk'e, and all the translators in the House that are doing a wonderful job. Mahsi.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Sahtu .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Paulie Chinna

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also want to recognize former Premier Mr. Jim Antoine as well too. And as I sit here as an Indigenous woman and being a member of Cabinet, it's a paved trail for Indigenous people to put their names forward and it's a line of encouragement. And I'm in -- in complete awe, to be honest, and I just -- it's an honour to be in his presence. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Nahendeh .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Jim, thank you very much for being here. Jim is a constituent of mine, and he's done amazing work. Everybody's acknowledged him here so I thank him for the work that he's done for Nahendeh, Fort Simpson, and the Deh Cho region and the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 3668

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Welcome. If we have missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to the Chamber and I hope you're enjoying the proceedings. It's always good to have an audience in the House. Mahsi.

Replies to the budget address. Member for Kam Lake .

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Ms. Cleveland's Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3669

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to reply to the 2022-23 Budget Address. I'd also like to acknowledge the work of staff across the government who have worked hard to prepare the budget.

Mr. Speaker, in total, the budget increased by $43 million, representing a 2.1 percent increase in expenditures over the previous fiscal year. In various ways, departments report on the progress of their initiatives that relate to the Assembly's priorities. However, it would be helpful if the budget reflected both the budgets and expenditures for those priorities come budget time. This would allow us to see the return on our investment, the financial effectiveness of the money we are spending, and make some judgement whether these investments are worth it. It's been said that what gets measured gets managed.

So it would be worth measuring what we are spending on our priorities to ensure that these initiatives are well managed.

Mr. Speaker, while this is largely a status quo budget, four departments do show decreases and the most significant budget increase is for the Department of Finance at 13.9 percent. This increase needs to be evaluated along with what I would like to speak to today -

The almost 2 percent decrease in the NWT population over the last five years,

The 5 percent increase in inflation over the previous year,

The forecasted approach of the debt cap, and

The Assembly's housing priority.

Mr. Speaker, this government has been largely silent on attracting new Northerners. With the economic and social potential from growth, this government needs to take every opportunity to remind the world that we are open for business not to mention a great place to plant roots. Budget time is a great time for this by identifying the specific and broad potential that infrastructure investment creates. For example, the Road to Whati opens access to bismouth deposits for the Tlicho people, and the multitude of R and D investments across the government open doors to reimagine the way the GNWT serves the NWT.

Mr. Speaker, inflation alone could increase costs significantly beyond budget projections, especially when petroleum products have increased by as much as 33 percent. This will affect operational costs in every building the GNWT occupies as well as the fuel it uses in government and medical travel. As costs rise, departments will find it difficult to operate within their budgets. The GNWT's reliance on government renewal to change the way it uses its budget is clear - find the path to change or start cutting. And Mr. Speaker, what is required may be a bit of both.

Mr. Speaker, after the introduction of seatbelt legislation, buckling up did eventually become nearly automatic behavior every time we climb into our cars. Managing the pandemic needs to cost less over time.

This fiscal year will see the Covid Secretariat budget reduce from $26 million to $12 million, but the number of people employed by the Secretariat remains untouched. About half are directly involved in compliance, monitoring, and enforcement. Given the demands on our system, surely there are positions around the territory that would better support the ability of our territory to thrive.

Mr. Speaker, this is a business-as-usual budget, But these are not business-as-usual times. This is an opportunity to budget for a different future.

For instance, even after COVID global political disruptions just aren't likely; they are already happening. Look at the devastating realities of the war in the Ukraine. Here at home, these are likely to disrupt supply chains and especially the availability and cost of refined petroleum resources.

This increase in cost of living, coupled with the caution imposed by COVID, will continue to affect specific industries like tourism, our overall capital investments, operational costs and, yes, our cost of living.

Climate change will have increasingly wicked impacts. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change tells us we are still on a collision course with average temperatures warming greater than two degrees Celsius in our lifetime.

Increased extreme weather will continue to disrupt food production and transportation. Last year, we experienced historic Mackenzie River flooding with huge impacts to Jean Marie River, Fort Simpson, Fort Good Hope, and Aklavik. The West Coast experienced the same with significant impacts to key highways and the cost of food. We will continue to see climate change increase rainfall, flooding, and coastal erosion here in the North. Increasing temperatures will affect habitat, change the availability of country foods, especially meat, disrupt Indigenous subsistence, and increase the cost of living.

Although we are moving forward toward a 30 percent decrease in GHG emissions by 2030, our goals depend on the mitigative actions of industry and the expansion of the Taltson, and neither of these are assured.

Mr. Speaker, I question whether it is the efforts of our government or the reduced mining activity in the North that has reduced our GHG emissions. We have a lot of work to do, and implementing the GNWT portions of the approved 2030 Energy Strategy largely depend on federal contributions.

In June 2021, the federal government renewed its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and passed Bill C-12, raising the bar to a 40 percent GHG reduction and a target of net-zero by 2050. The spectrum of issues will change and the costs will increase, Mr. Speaker.

Demographically, we are becoming fewer in number but older in age. Housing options and care will need to change for seniors to live in place with dignity or, alternatively, further hollow out our small communities through rural to urban migrations. The spectrum of housing and care requirements will change, and the costs will increase, Mr. Speaker.

Although the legacy of colonization has been recognized through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry, the repeated discovery of unmarked graves at residential schools, the work of decolonization and its impacts on collective trauma, structural inequality, and political self-determination, has hardly begun. The spectrum of issues will change, and the costs will increase, Mr. Speaker.

My point is that the future is uncertain and more complex than before. If we are trying to build resilience to return to business-as-usual following each coming disruption, we will not win, Mr. Speaker. A status quo budget does not serve us at a time when the world is anything but status quo. At the least, we must innovate and adapt. But the goal, really, is to innovate and transform.

A sense of urgency needs to pervade government renewal exercises. We need to redirect our little remaining debt capacity toward a very different and even more prosperous future. The word "bold" was peppered across the first half of the 19th Assembly, but this budget is not bold. Instead, I want to see this government take risk by rethinking the way it serves its residents and developing realistic budgets to implement the most desired futures while preparing to prosper through the worst-case scenarios.

We need to make budget decisions that position us with the flexibility, strength, and courage to choose wisely and be well prepared to pivot. I hope the government renewal process will evolve GNWT program evaluations to focus on outcomes and value for dollar of the programs. In keeping with that I would like to see the government move to a results-based budget format in the future, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, this seems like a good place to end. But I'm not done. And I ask that if you only remember one thing I say today in response to the 2022-2023 Budget Address, remember this: The Housing Corporation cannot meet its mandate with a capital investment of $11 million.

The Housing Corporation owns 2500 public housing units. At an average cost of $600,000 per unit, the Housing Corporation holds $1.5 billion dollars in public housing assets. The industry standard for O and M costs to upkeep units is 2 percent per year. That is $30 million for 2500 units. The standard life of a public housing unit is 50 years. And industry standard says that the annual cost of unit replacement is 2 percent per year. This is another $30 million. This means, Mr. Speaker, that the average cost to maintain 2500 public housing units is $60 million a year. This budget allocates $11 million in capital funding to the Housing Corporation, leaving an annual shortfall of $49 million.

Mr. Speaker, you might be thinking but what about all of those federal funding announcements? And this is great news story. But the new funding from the federal government is not for operations and maintenance or replacement of existing stock. It is to build new stock.

The Housing Corporation has to fulfill its mandate to provide suitable, adequate and affordable housing and has a fiscal responsibility to upkeep and care for those investments. This budget does not do that. The NWT Housing Corporation cannot be responsible for its mandate within this budget.

This session, Regular Members have spent hours grilling the NWT Housing Corporation about the GNWT's investment in housing. The Housing Corporation responded that it follows the budgeting processes of the government. But over the last ten years, the Housing Corporation has seen incremental increases of 31 percent to its budgets while the GNWT has seen an average increase of 51 percent to its overall budget. In this budget alone, we see a 13.9 increase to the Department of Finance.

In truth, Mr. Speaker, this is not solely on the Housing Corporation. This responsibility lies with all of Cabinet who have heard Regular Members, for three budgeting cycles, beg for increased funding to housing, who demanded it in budget negotiations, and now I stand here with the main estimates for Housing Corporation that is lower than the previous two years. Do not tell me that Cabinet hears our demands because these numbers show they clearly do not. This budget shows that housing is not a key priority of this government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Ms. Cleveland's Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3670

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Kam Lake . Replies to budget address. Member for Thebacha .

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Reply 16-19(2): Ms. Martselos' Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3670

Frieda Martselos

Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, today I am going to provide my response to the 2022 Budget Address, which was tabled by the Minister of Finance last week on February 22, 2022. As I prepared my budget reply, I reviewed my speech from last year's budget reply and much of what I said last year is largely still how I feel today about this year's budget.

Mr. Speaker, as someone with several decades of experience with business in the private sector, my primary focus has almost always been about the economy. First of all, now that our government is changing its approach towards COVID-19 and treating the virus as an endemic rather than a pandemic, it is now high time that our government also shifts its approach toward the economic recovery. I've said this before and I will say it again, if we don't have an economy then we don't have money to pay for all the social programs or services.

Mr. Speaker, at the moment our government is not on a sustainable fiscal path. We have an ever-increasing amount of debt, and we are already very close to our federally-imposed debt ceiling. At this rate by this time next year, if not sooner, we are more than likely going to need to ask the federal government to raise our borrowing limit which would be the second time doing so during the 19th Assembly. That's twice our borrowing limit would increase within just three years. Our debt is rising at an accelerated pace, and it is going much faster than our revenue streams can keep up with. That is worrisome.

Our government needs to find some concrete, long-term solutions in addressing the debt that we continue to accumulate. I am not seeing that in this budget address for 2022.

Mr. Speaker, further adding to our fiscal uncertainties is the record level of national inflation that Canada has reached. Statistics Canada reported last month that the country has reached a 31-year high for inflation, by increasing 5.1 percent since last January. Costs in the NWT for consumer goods have increased for just about everything.

I shared several statistics last week about the costs going up for everything from food to shelter to gasoline. These costs hurt everyone, but especially people who are low income, persons with disabilities, and seniors. Plus, with a war brewing in Eastern Europe, costs for goods will almost surely increase even further. The world finds itself going from fighting a global pandemic into what I hope will not be a global war. I understand that this a worrying statement to make but that is the reality we are living in right now.

Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, another major issue that the NWT is facing is a crisis of housing. There are housing waiting lists that are sky-high in all communities and regions of the NWT. In Fort Smith alone, there are 212 people on the housing waiting list and some folks have been on that list for many years. There is not nearly enough housing supply being created to keep up with the needs of the communities.

There are also many structural and inherent flaws within the NWT Housing Corporation as it currently stands. There are many outdated policies it has which simply do not help people. Mr. Speaker, despite our government releasing the Emerging Stronger document last May, I have not seen any real substantive plan outlining economic recovery for the NWT.

For the last two years our government has been reactive to the evolving situation around COVID-19. Much of the response towards the economy was to provide temporary financial relief to help industries stay afloat and not close entirely. Well, we've now entered a new

chapter with COVID-19 therefore our government must now shift how it engages with the economy. We need more collaboration with Indigenous governments and organizations, such as the NWT Indigenous Leaders Economic Coalition. We need more results on the review of our government's procurement policy. An Indigenous procurement policy and improvements to the Business Incentive Policy are needed as soon as possible. We need to eliminate inefficient and time-consuming red tape in certain areas.

Moreover, Mr. Speaker, we also need to advance the work on settling and implementing the various treaty, land, resource, and self-government agreements. Doing so we would create greater economic stability and conditions to attract and secure more investments in the NWT. We also need to consider devolving certain powers and responsibilities to Indigenous governments. That would cut costs by our government and provide greater autonomy to Indigenous governments. Changes in those areas would go a long way to improving our long-term economic outlook in the NWT.

Mr. Speaker, we also need to continue to pursue large infrastructure projects, such as the Mackenzie Highway, the Slave Geological Corridor, and the Taltson Hydro Expansion. These projects need to go forward, and they need to be done in partnership with Indigenous governments. We also need to continue with other projects such as the new territorial fire centre and construction of new seniors facilities that are currently underway in several NWT communities.

Overall, Mr. Speaker, given the unprecedented situation we endured with the pandemic and the speed with which governments acted in responding to it, our government now must also respond with urgency and haste toward our economic situation. I've said this before, we need to be able to think outside the box and to move with greater pace to improve our delicate economic situation. We need to come up with innovative ways to retain more of the wealth that is generated here in the NWT.

We need to find new sources of revenue to help with our debt load, and the best way to do that is to increase the level of business and economic activity across the NWT. That is how we pay the bills and create a stronger economy for future generations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Reply 16-19(2): Ms. Martselos' Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3670

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Thebacha . Replies to Budget Address, day 7 of 7. Member for Monfwi .

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Reply 17-19(2): Ms. Weyallon-Armstrong's Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3670

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the people in my riding make up 6 percent of the territorial population and represent four of 33 communities. The Government of the Northwest Territories' budget is $2.3 billion. Mr. Speaker, if that money was allocated based on population, Tlicho would be at least $120 million. I am waiting on the Minister to provide me with the information but I estimate the amount we receive is half.

According to the 2019 Government of the Northwest Territories Health Status Report, their own report says Tlicho region has the worst outcome in education, health, social issues, crimes, mental health, and housing yet no additional funding is being allocated to the Tlicho region.

Mr. Speaker, with this in mind, Tlicho people did not negotiate land claim and self-government to be part of the North Slave region.

Mr. Speaker, the Tlicho region should not be considered as part of the North Slave region administrative boundaries. The North Slave region boundaries bring the Tlicho into Akaitcho territory and the city of Yellowknife. Being part of North Slave is not helping to serve Tlicho people.

Socioeconomic Condition

Mr. Speaker, earlier this week I spoke about social and economic challenges in the Tlicho region. We have high rates in income assistance, low levels of family income, low levels of education. We have high rates of addictions and substance abuse. Mr. Speaker, we have little options for housing. We have highest overcrowding in the NWT, with many homes in need of repair. We also need safe shelter options for women and children fleeing domestic violence.

We are also lacking infrastructure and services. Mr. Speaker, most of our infrastructure is over 30 years old. For example, Mezi Community School in Whati and Chief Jimmy Bruneau School in Edzo is over 50 years old. The Mezi School in Whati was originally built to serve elementary school children. It was not built to accommodate high school students. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, the school is beyond their capacity and is in need of retrofit or replacement. Chief Jimmy Bruneau School is also over 50 years old. The community wants a new school built in Behchoko. Wekweeti and Gameti health facilities are also over 30 years old.

What I would like to see, I would like to see the following:

Transfer child and youth care counsellor to the Tlicho government without restriction;

Dedicate funding to create a safe shelter for women and children in the Tlicho region;

Additional houses built in the Tlicho region and housing policies that meet the needs of the people;

An evaluation of both community and Government of the Northwest Territories infrastructure in the region.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Reply 17-19(2): Ms. Weyallon-Armstrong's Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3671

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Monfwi . Replies to budget address, day 7 of 7. Colleagues, we will take a short recess.

---SHORT RECESS.

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Reply 17-19(2): Ms. Weyallon-Armstrong's Reply

Replies To Budget Address

Page 3671

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake .

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. My questions are for the Premier . Today I spoke about the less-than-spectacular Cabinet plan for economic recovery called Emerging Stronger.

Can the Premier tell us whether there were any comments submitted on the document and what, if anything, was done with those comments? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . Madam Premier .

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Comments were received from the standing committee on the development of the plan from Indigenous governments, the NWT Association of Communities, and the Business Advisory Council prior to its first release. Since the release we received some comments, and EIA is tracking the feedback provided. We received comments from the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce, the Business Advisory Council, the NWT Chamber of Commerce, and the Yellowknife Dene Nation after this. We also solicited feedback from the public through the EIA websites, and a small number of responses were received.

We do have a commitment that the economic Emerging Stronger document will be updated and tabled in May 31st, 2022. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Premier for that. I'm glad to hear that there were some comments because there's nothing posted on the website about those.

Can the Premier tell us whether there's any intention to actually respond to the comments that have been submitted and when that's going to happen and whether those responses are going to be made public? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Government of the Northwest Territories provided written responses to the groups that I listed in our response. The comments from the public were received anonymously. The Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce posted their letter and our response on their website. The NWT Chamber of Commerce posted their letter to us on their website, and other groups are welcome to share correspondence as well.

We also responded to the standing committee's written feedback on the draft plan and provided responses to individual Members' questions when the plan was discussed in the Committee of the Whole and a public committee briefing back in June 2021. We won't be publishing individual responses when we update the plan but we will be doing -- including all feedback when we table the plan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Premier for that. I think it would be more helpful for us to actually post some of those responses on the engagement portal. But I noted in my statement that Emerging Stronger commits to some tracking of key indicators, and I haven't seen anything yet in terms of tracking or public reporting.

Can the Premier tell me whether any key indicators of recovery have been identified, whether they have been tracked, and when the public can expect some sort of progress reporting? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We did commit to quarterly reporting of the economic and social indicators. EIA has worked with all the departments to compile a list of the social and economic indicators to reflect how we're doing. We're now working with the information shared Services and the bureau of statistics to create a dashboard that'll provide the public with easy access to view progress. This will be completed early this summer. The dashboard's going to be a living document, and the public can access it at any time.

In the meantime, much of the information that will be included in the dashboard is accessible on the bureau of statistics website, and details of the current economic situation and outlook are also found in the economic review that accompanies this budget. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. I want to thank the Premier for that new information. I acknowledge that the pandemic is not quite over but we have to start to turn our mind to rebuilding our economy, and that's going to take some enthusiasm, creativity, and justice.

Can the Premier tell us whether Cabinet is committed to progressive change and specifically how it is going to -- how that's going to happen in collaboration with Regular MLAs and the public? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I like to think that our government's working towards progressive change all the time. We've got comments from Members so I'm excited for that. We engage with Regular Members on a regular basis through normal processes, process conventions. We also engage with Indigenous government partners, more so than any other government in the past. We have the Council of Leaders, the modern treaty and self-government tables, for example. And as well as other -- numerous other organizations, community governments, and the public on important initiatives.

Just one example is the Minister of Finance engages in budget dialogues every single year now with the public and stakeholders. This engagement provides a further opportunity for the public to express their views on the recovery priorities and to inform our actions coming out of the pandemic.

And we will make a commitment that we will be providing an update to standing committee prior to the tabling of the updated document. Thank you, Mr. Speaker?

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Question 962-19(2): Emerging Stronger - Government of the Northwest Territories Economic Recovery Plan

Oral Questions

Page 3671

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Madam Premier . Oral questions. Member for Hay River South .

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. These questions are for the Minister responsible for Human Resources.

Can the Minister provide the number of GNWT public sector employees impacted by the GNWT vaccine policies and what is the break down by accommodation, enhanced PPE and testing, early retirement, terminations, those that have resigned, leave without pay? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Hay River South . Minister responsible for Finance .

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with respect to the vaccination policy, accommodations to begin with, I can advise that no employees have submitted a medical reason at this point for not providing proof of vaccination. We don't have any duty to accommodation files in this regard.

Mr. Speaker, less than 5 percent of the GNWT's workforce, or approximately 325 employees, have opted to use enhanced PPE and testing rather than providing a proof of vaccination.

As for early retirement, Mr. Speaker, I don't expect employees to give reasons for when they choose to retire or why they might choose to retire. I have no information or awareness that there are any who have chosen to retire as a result of vaccination policies. Similarly, no one has been terminated, Mr. Speaker.

If someone's choosing to resign right now, they well have done so during the course of the pandemic but I have no indication that there's been any resignations as a result of vaccination policies.

Mr. Speaker, only 13 employees out of the some 5,000 or so that we have with the public service are currently on leave without pay. One of those actually, I think, may have indeed provided a proof of vaccination and is going to be heading back to work. So that would put us down at around 12. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister confirm the breakdown by Indigenous and non-Indigenous employees, specifically those who have, I guess in this instance who are using the enhanced PPE and testing and leave without pay, due to the vaccine policies? Thank you.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don't have a breakdown of the 320 or so employees who are opting for the PPE option. I can certainly see if we do have that breakdown.

With respect to the 12 or so who are on leave without pay, that's too small a number, Mr. Speaker, and I'd be concerned about identifying individuals who have made that option. So I don't know that I'll be able to break that down. But I will look into the other number for the Member. Thank you.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister, for those employees placed on leave without pay, will those persons eventually be terminated if they're not vaccinated or will they be on leave without pay indefinitely with the possibility of returning to their work positions at a future date? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3671

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So again, to reiterate, Mr. Speaker, no one has been terminated. And coming back from leave without pay, really, it just depends on the reasons why they're on leave without pay. For those -- and I'm assuming the numbers that I have are reflective only of those who may be on leave without pay likely or very likely because of the federal travel requirements or federal regulations on their federal -- federally-regulated locations, as such we may be in a situation where we're waiting on the federal government to modify their policies.

And I did certainly take note of the Member's statement earlier about ensuring that we are doing our part to on top of what's happening in that regard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3672

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Final supplementary, Member for Hay River South .

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Rocky Simpson

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister confirm what discussion, if any, has taken place been your department and -- her department and the federal government with respect to how the federal government vaccination policies is affecting not only employees and contractors but potentially our communities as well? Will the Minister commit to asking the federal government for relaxation on air travel in the NWT? Thank you.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The lead thus far in terms of ensuring that communities and residents of the Northwest Territories continue to have access to the necessary services that often involve a flight has really fallen thus far with the Minister of Health and that -- as was I think discussed earlier in the Member's statement, there are concessions available for individuals who are not vaccinated so that they can get access to medical care and have family reunification.

As far as seeking adaptations of the regulations solely for the handful of employees who may be choosing to not get vaccinated, Mr. Speaker, I don't know that that's going to get us very far. I will certainly commit, as I've said, to ensure that we continue to monitor, that we are staying on top of what's happening with the public service federally but also with other jurisdictions. And as we've done throughout the policy, this vaccination policy for the public service will be flexible and responsive as the pandemic continues to evolve. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 963-19(2): Government of the Northwest Territories Vaccine Policy

Oral Questions

Page 3672

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Infrastructure .

Mr. Speaker, I'm wondering to date how much funding has been secured and spent on the Taltson Hydro Expansion?

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Oral questions. Minister responsible for Infrastructure .

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you. Since 2018, the federal government has allotted $20 million to the GNWT to advance the Taltson Expansion Project. It's important to note that this is 100 percent federal funding. The funding has supported the establishment of partnerships with Indigenous governments as well as the collection of information to be able to define the project and move it towards so that we could get our regulatory applications. The discussions with the federal government are ongoing in regards to the continued financial support so that we could get this project moving forward. Quyananni.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, what is today's estimated cost of the total project, and what is the status of securing that funding as federal funding? Up here in the Northwest Territories, we love 100 percent federal dollars, and we will take as many as we can get our hands on. Thank you.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

Quyananni. A preliminary cost estimate for the project renewed in 2019 estimated the project construction costs in the range of $1.5 billion. It is very important to note that this is preliminary costs estimate which will be reviewed and refined as our work to define the scope is advanced. Significant financial support from the federal government is key, again, to move this project forward.

The GNWT maintains active communication with both Canada infrastructure bank and officials from the Crown Indigenous relations as well as Northern Affairs Canada so that we can have potential -- so that potential funders are informed on the project as it progresses. Discussions and correspondence at the political level have also occurred. There is much interest from the federal government in this green energy project. Quyananni.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm wondering if the Minister can speak to the status of discussions to secure partnerships on this project. In order to make this project really worthwhile for the NWT, the GNWT is going to need to secure both purchasers and also ensure that it has the support of partners like Indigenous governments. Thank you.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

Quyananni. The Member's correct. Working in collaboration with our Indigenous partners is key to the success of this project. A memorandum of understanding on the project was signed in June 2021 with the GNWT, the Akaitcho Dene First Nation, and the Northwest Territories Metis Nation. The MOU outlines how we're going to work together to advance the project. A steering committee of leaders has been established under this MOU to provide direction to the project. Two steering committee meetings have been held to date, and work is still underway.

We have also had discussions with Salt River First Nation, and we have encouraged them to work with us under this MOU so that we can continue to advance this project. Quyananni.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Caitlin Cleveland

Kam Lake

Mr. Speaker, one of the questions I had asked about was about purchasers for the power, and I'm wondering if the Minister can speak to any partnership discussions about securing partners to purchase the power as well from Taltson? Thank you.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Diane Archie

Inuvik Boot Lake

Quyananni. Yes, those discussions are ongoing. You know, you look at the Taltson project, and it's -- you know, it's a $1.5 billion project. There's still a lot of work to do, including maintaining the -- building the partnership, being able to look at the three different phases that's included with this Taltson project. So yes, Mr. Speaker, we are having those discussions now because it is also key. Thank you.

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Question 964-19(2): Taltson Hydro Expansion Project

Oral Questions

Page 3672

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

Oral Questions

Page 3672

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm concerned that there are too many ways for GNWT staff not to apply the Affirmative Action Policy the GNWT has created. Many tools to support Indigenous hires, but these tools are not being applied consistently.

Can the Minister commit to issue an HR directive or policy that holds HR staff accountable to ensure that for every entry-level position posted across the GNWT, that full consideration is provided to Indigenous applicants on the record with GNWT. Staff need to be held accountable, and can the Minister ensure there is accountability measures in place that require HR staff to report on the use of ICGP for every entry-level hire? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

Oral Questions

Page 3672

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes . Minister responsible for Finance .

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when we started this Assembly the ICGP, or the Indigenous Career Gateway Program, was not being fully utilized. There was gaps in terms of the funding available and its usage. I'm happy to say, Mr. Speaker, it is now fully subscribed. So departments are becoming aware, and they're becoming aware that it is a useful program to help bring young Indigenous people in to the public service and to ensure that they have the adequate training to get them to the next stage.

And as for accountability, to make sure that we continue, I'd rather have that program be oversubscribed and be looking at ways to expand it. Mr. Speaker, that's why we have the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework. That is going to provide and does provide the accountability. It's providing accountability in terms of the highest levels where the performance measures are actually going to be part -- or the performance appraisals of senior management are actually going to be looking at the achievement of the targets that are there, and the targets are now being made public department by department.

So I'm happy, again, to have that reinforcement here so that departments are aware that this is something that is, in fact, now a live issue and the targets are there and the accountability is present. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Page 3672

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister create a departmental procedure within HR to ensure that every Indigenous candidate on the casual pool or Indigenous career gateway receive one-on-one support from an HR professional to provide advice and support for securing GNWT positions?

I understand that this is a -- this is something that the HR does provide to all -- anyone who needs the support on writing -- or resumes and things like that. But knowing what we know, that our Indigenous population is so low in our GNWT statistics, is this something that her department can commit to? Thank you.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Page 3672

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, under the action no. 1 of the IRRF -- the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework, it is that the Department of Finance will create resources and tools to improve the applicant's experience when applying for positions.

Mr. Speaker, I take the Member's point, and I don't disagree. It's not about asking someone to ask for help. Some people simply will not ask even if they could use and benefit from that help. So as we move forward with this recruitment and retention framework, Mr. Speaker, we are, indeed, going to create those resources and tools, and I will certainly commit to get back to the Member as to what that's going to look like so that we can, in fact, achieve that action goal. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that I know that is a big barrier with a lot of people looking at the resumes and stuff, and I know it's part of a lot of the review that they're doing within the human resource department, is looking at these overinflated job descriptions. My worry is is that if the job description is rewritten and, you know, that the pay goes down but is there a possibility of a way that HR can review a lot of these entry-level positions that have been overinflated to accommodate salaries, which is the way that the job eval works with the Hay Plan and the whole union thing.

I really would like that a lot of these entry-level positions are looked at with the salaries remaining the same. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And Mr. Speaker, as mentioned in the framework, the point of reviewing the job descriptions isn't to find a way to reduce pay. The point of reviewing the job descriptions is to make sure that we are aligning the necessary level of credentials to the job that is to be performed. So there's no intention or desire to reduce pay.

Again, it's really about finding a way to make sure that we are matching skill sets and matching opportunities to the labour market, to the labour force, and bringing in a more representative workforce, bringing in more people who are otherwise not seeing themselves because of too narrow a job description that doesn't actually fit what is required.

So -- and Mr. Speaker, I know -- I know the Member's had a lot of personal experience. I've had -- actually have had her sit down with folks from Finance before, and they found that helpful. Perhaps the way to address some of the bigger issues in this question is to have the -- see if she'd be willing to do that one more time now that we're at a different point in the framework and that we can benefit from her experience. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Page 3673

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

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

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Page 3673

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think this is the first time I get to say yes, Minister.

Can the Minister commit to making the NWT Indigenous labour force statistics by gender and community available? You know, the reason why I'm asking that is we do get statistics broken out by Indigenous, regional, Yellowknife, but it's the age. Like, within -- like, I'm talking about in my Member's statement is these young males that are -- are -- starting careers and, you know, and needing this step in the door. So I'm really hoping that we can get this and be -- have it public so that we're transparent for the rest of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Page 3673

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. So the public service annual report does provide some of the information with respect to the breakdowns by community, by gender, and Indigenous and non-Indigenous. Meanwhile, I know ECE also does reporting with respect to the overall labour force although not directly to the public service.

So I'll certainly commit to going back and seeing if there's a gap between what's reported by ECE and what's reported by the Department of Finance public service report if there's something more that we can do to put those information pieces together so they're more clear and make it more useful, with the goal always of ensuring that we are being transparent about who's being hired and being transparent about areas where we still have some work to do.

So, you know, again, I don't know if that's quite what the Member's looking for but if she is going to take up my offer to sit down again, we can work through any other gaps that she may see. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 965-19(2): Indigenous Recruitment and Retention

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Page 3673

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Minister. Oral questions. Member for Great Slave .

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Question 966-19(2): Carbon Tax

Oral Questions

Page 3673

Katrina Nokleby

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment or Finance, with whichever hat she would like to put on. I'm going to ask about some of the things I see as variables towards our economic recovery, and one of the things I hear a lot from the private sector is around the carbon tax.

Can the Minister maybe explain to me -- it's my understanding that currently a lot of the carbon tax and other fees for, say, a shipment gets rolled up together and then the GST is applied on top of that. To me, that sounds like a tax on a tax. So perhaps the Minister could speak a little bit more to that and whether or not the upcoming changes to the federal government's -- sorry, I'm having trouble speaking today. The federal government's changes that are coming up, how they will affect us as a territory? Thank you.

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Question 966-19(2): Carbon Tax

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Page 3673

The Speaker

Frederick Blake Jr.

Thank you, Member for Great Slave . Minister responsible for Industry, Tourism and Investment .

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Question 966-19(2): Carbon Tax

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Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Conscious of Mr. Speaker's direction that we be brief, I will try to wrap this up quickly. And Mr. Speaker, the federal carbon tax system does indeed create a system whereby it is indeed a tax on tax design. It's a tax that is in all of the inclusive price of a thing. It is then -- the carbon tax is then placed upon that on top of that. That's administered by the federal government. It's not something about which the GNWT can necessarily change or alter.

That said, also, Mr. Speaker, with respect to changes that are coming and that have been introduced in the last several months by the federal government, we certainly are expecting those changes to be fairly significant to the GNWT and we are right now quite actively working on how that's going to impact the Northwest Territories in terms of industry and consumers. We want to, of course, ensure that as a jurisdiction that's at the frontline of climate change that we are leading the way but also cognisant that we are quite far behind in terms of the tips -- the tools we might have at our fingertips to respond.

But Mr. Speaker, we are going to come up with that plan and make sure that we are aligned and ready to respond to those new benchmarks when they come into force. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 966-19(2): Carbon Tax

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Katrina Nokleby

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I appreciate the Minister's response. One of the things I heard at COP, and was the messaging that we took there, was that we can't afford to, as a territory, pay for the federal government's commitments.

My next question is a little bit along the lines of my colleague from Kam Lake. I just wanted to know if the Minister could provide us with an update on the Taltson Hydro Expansion business update. I know that there has already been some conversation around this. I'm just wondering if there's been any change now with respect the way that the world is changing with COVID and whether we have more interest from the feds? Thank you.

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Question 966-19(2): Carbon Tax

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Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm not sure if COVID has been the motivating factor, but certainly the realities of the climate change as they become only ever more pressing, I think are having an impact. And as my colleague already today spoke to today, Minister Archie and I are both sitting together on the steering committee where we sit with Indigenous governments who are signatories to the MOU, provided they continue to wish to participate in that, and it's in that context that it's progressing.

We are, as I think my colleague has mentioned, at a stage of having our preliminary business case and moving that through approvals to have that shared with other Members of this House. And once we've done that, we'll also be sharing it with -- continuing to share with the federal partners that we know we need to have.

And Mr. Speaker, it's, you know, picking up on my -- the Member's point, that this is about climate change and adapting our missions, Mr. Speaker, when I do hear the ITI hat and engage with industry on the mineral resources sector, there's a lot of interest in this project because they also want to reduce their GHG emissions, not only because of the cost but because it's good practice; it's social licence. So there's -- this is a good time, and it's a good opportunity for us to continue to move that business case forward. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 966-19(2): Carbon Tax

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Katrina Nokleby

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think the Minister and I align fairly well with our feelings on the importance of the Taltson Hydro Expansion.

Next, I just want to ask, again further along about emissions, there has been new benchmarks brought in to Canada for the first time enshrined in law, as my colleague from Kam Lake was saying. I'm just curious to know, does the Minister know if there will need to be updates for applications or projects that we already have underway in order to assess them for these changes in the climate emissions?

I think of the Frank Channel Bridge, which I know had a climate lens study as part of the application under the Trade Corridor Fund. So I'm just curious to know if we'll have to do any updates on that type of work, or are we sort of brought in a