Debates of May 12th, 2011

This is page numbers 6547 - 6588 of the Hansard for the 16th Assembly, 6th 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 territories .

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

Minister’s Statement 11-16(6): Labour Force Development Framework And Symposium

Minister’s Statement 12-16(6): Volunteerism

Proposed Amendments To The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act

Aboriginal Employment In Education

National Nursing Week

Enbridge Oil Spill

Impacts Of Federal Election Results

Special Needs Long-Term Care Facilities In The North

Need For Rehabilitation Centres For Substance Abuse In Yellowknife

Core Housing Needs In Tu Nedhe

Federal Resources For NWT Highway Between Tuktoyaktuk And Inuvik

Canadian Forum On Women’s Homelessness And Health Attendees Arlene Hache And Lyda Fuller

Summer Employment For NWT High School And College Graduates

Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Motion To Receive Committee Report 1-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole

Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Motion To Receive Committee Report 2-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole

Committee Report 3-16(6): Report On The Review Of The 2009-2010 Human Rights Commission Annual Report

Motion To Receive Committee Report 3-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole

Committee Report 4-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Office Of The Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner Annual Report 2009-2010

Motion To Receive Committee Report 4-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole

Passing Of Cody Dempster

Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Impact Of Recent Federal Election On Major Northern Infrastructure Projects

Alternative School Program In Hay River

Housing Issues In Tu Nedhe

Proposed Amendments To The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act

Independent Review Of Leishman Incident At Stanton Territorial Hospital

Need For Rehabilitation Centre For Substance Abuse In Yellowknife

Federal Resources For NWT Highway Between Tuktoyaktuk And Inuvik

Status Of GNWT Homelessness Framework

Student Employment

Written Question 6-16(6): Office Of Consumer Affairs

Bill 3: Electronics Transactions Act

Bill 4: Miscellaneous Statute Law Amendment Act, 2011

Tabled Document 21-16(6): NWT Tourism Draft Advertisement Tabled Document 22-16(6): 2011 Celebrity Auction – Mad Hatter Spring Gala Poster

Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters

Concurrence Of Td 9-16(6), Supplementary Estimates (Operations Expenditures), No. 1, 2011-2012

Report of Committee of the Whole

Orders of the Day

The House met at 1:35 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Good afternoon, colleagues. Welcome back to the Chamber. Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers’ statements. The honourable Minister of Education, Culture and Employment , Mr. Lafferty .

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Minister’s Statement 11-16(6): Labour Force Development Framework And Symposium

Ministers’ Statements

Jackson Lafferty

Monfwi

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Improving skills for living and working is one of the ways the Government of the Northwest Territories is working to maximize opportunities for our residents and pursue the Legislative Assembly’s goal of a diversified economy. The Department of Education, Culture and Employment makes significant investments in skills training and employment development to ensure that northern residents can meet the demand of northern employers.

The Northwest Territories Labour Force Development Framework -- People, Partnerships, Possibilities -- is the result of northern partners coming together to find common ground to ensure our people and our economy are strong now and in the future. The framework is the territory’s new tool for working together towards improved labour market outcomes.

Although our labour market conditions remain fairly strong during the global recession, there were a number of challenges ensuring employment opportunities were available for Northerners. Much has happened over the past four years to overcome these challenges:

enhancement of the Northwest Territories

Literacy Strategy, especially in the areas of youth and labour market literacy;

strengthened apprenticeship programs including supports to women and Aboriginal

people to successfully complete trades programs;

Aurora College expanded community-based

delivery of programs in areas such as teacher education, labour market and industrial training and student wellness;

a new NWT Nominee Program to support

employers in meeting skills gaps; and

targeted supports for community and economic development in our rural and remote communities.

Mr. Speaker, on May 25 and May 26, 2011, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment will host a labour force symposium for key NWT stakeholders. At the symposium, ECE will launch a new Labour Force Development Framework and stakeholders will have the opportunity to:

share labour market information linked to

programs, services and supports;

highlight the connection between skills

development and regional economic development activities and projects; and

discuss potential structures for, and functions of, a territorial coordinating body to champion the new framework.

Mr. Speaker, all levels of government must continue to invest in and support this framework so we can achieve the shared vision. Together we can build a productive future for our people, our communities and our economy. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister’s Statement 11-16(6): Labour Force Development Framework And Symposium

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . The honourable Minister for Municipal and Community Affairs , Mr. Robert McLeod .

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Minister’s Statement 12-16(6): Volunteerism

Ministers’ Statements

Robert C. McLeod

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A strong volunteer sector contributes directly to sustainable, vibrant and safe communities, one of the priorities of this Legislative Assembly. I would like to speak today about the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs’ work to support the volunteer sector in the Northwest Territories and about the importance of volunteers to our communities.

MACA offers a number of programs intended to support residents in their volunteer efforts. Through the Volunteer Organization Development Contribution Program, MACA provides cost-shared opportunities for volunteers to seek training or gain knowledge. Funding under this contribution program was increased in 2009-2010 to provide financial assistance to a greater number of organizations. Amongst other items, funding supports registration cost for volunteer workshops, training and courses, instruction and consultation fees, and travel costs directly related to attending or hosting and volunteer organization development event.

Another volunteer program delivered by MACA is the Youth Ambassadors Program. This program has provided a guided and structured volunteer experience for youth since it was first piloted during the 2007 Canada Winter Games. Most recently, four youth ambassadors traveled to Los Angeles where they demonstrated traditional northern games during the LA Times Travel and Adventure Show as part of Industry, Tourism and Investment’s Spectacular NWT program that promotes the NWT’s potential visitors.

Through the Youth Ambassador’s Program, MACA is helping youth to develop life and job skills, and to build confidence through public interaction, mentorship, and the assumption of responsibilities.

In addition to these programs, MACA hosts the annual Outstanding Volunteer Awards to recognize and promote volunteers in our communities. This year’s awards ceremony is scheduled for June 10th during the Northwest Territories Association of Communities Annual General Meeting here in Yellowknife. While the 2011 awards will be presented to three individuals and one group, the Northwest Territories is home to many volunteers, each of whom deserves recognition for their hard work and dedication.

Volunteers provide an essential service to our communities. They are the volunteer firefighters who keep our communities safe; the neighbours who help the elderly with groceries, shovelling snow or chopping wood; and the coaches, referees and mentors who help us stay healthy through sport and physical activities. I encourage my colleagues and everyone across the NWT to volunteer by supporting a local community group, coaching a local sports team, or helping an elderly neighbour. Give back to your community and give back to volunteers. If you know someone who donates their time in your community, nominate them for an outstanding volunteer award or thank them for their hard work.

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Minister’s Statement 12-16(6): Volunteerism

Ministers’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Item 3, Members’ statements. The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Krutko .

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Proposed Amendments To The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act

Members’ Statements

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It has come to our attention that the amendments to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act concludes the consultative process tomorrow, which again shows the lack of respect for the Aboriginal claimant groups in the Northwest Territories for the land claims and the people of the Northwest Territories to have the decision-making process in the Northwest Territories for the people of the Northwest Territories, and simply leaving the decision-making process up to the governments, whether it’s the federal government or a panel of so-called specialists. We’ve been talking about the McCrank Report or talking about the reports done previously.

I think it’s important for this government to declare where we stand on the list of outstanding issues and the items that were being discussed between the Government of the Northwest Territories and the federal government about Indian and Northern Affairs. What exactly was the list of items? How will those items affect the regulatory system in the Northwest Territories and those groups that do have land claims?

The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act came into force and effect to ensure that we implemented those land claim obligations into a regulatory system that meets their requirements, and ensure that the Tlicho Government and their land claim agreements are also enacted.

I think it’s important for the Government of the Northwest Territories to come clean and say where exactly we stand as a government when it comes to making those major revisions to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act in regard to the regulatory system in the Northwest Territories. Do we support regional boards or don’t we? Do we want to have one system of regulation in the Northwest Territories by a centralized board? Do we accept the land use planning provisions that are in those arrangements?

Do we allow for the environmental assessment to have an independent process so that it’s independent from government, it’s independent from industry, and it does give us the decisions that are there for the benefit of the public, the people of the Northwest Territories and communities?

At the appropriate time I will ask questions of the Minister of Environment on where this government stands when it comes to the changes to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act.

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Proposed Amendments To The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Krutko . The honourable Member for Weledeh , Mr. Bromley .

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Aboriginal Employment In Education

Members’ Statements

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As a society we need to cultivate and promote our strong northern candidates for positions of leadership in education. Through its Aboriginal Student Achievement Initiative, ECE is placing top priority on improving the academic performance of Aboriginal students, and rightly so. Grade standings, competencies, and graduation rates among Aboriginal students remain unacceptably low in comparison with non-Aboriginal students across the NWT. Here in Yellowknife 50 percent of our students are Aboriginal.

Regional consultations note that strong teaching and program administration is key. Looking closely at our biggest success stories, it’s the teachers and school administrators with long northern experience that are making the biggest difference. In Weledeh, Kalemi Dene School exemplifies this. Checking the staff list you see teachers with decades of service improving and refining culturally relevant, locally knowledgeable programming. Leadership has been critical.

Kalemi Dene’s principal is well known for her 18 years-plus of Aboriginal teaching experience, her master’s in education, the recognition of her excellence through national awards and national Aboriginal mentorship programs, and above all, her inspirational leadership and commitment.

Given her credentials, numerous Aboriginal students in the district and lack of Aboriginal personnel in upper management positions, many were shocked when the recent staff position for a Yellowknife education district assistant superintendent position passed over such an exemplary candidate in favour of a southern hire, especially in the case of an assistant superintendent. Others and I saw this as a missed opportunity for progressive leadership and succession planning.

Northern students and their teachers need strong role models. Northern hiring practices need to place great weight upon the value of long northern service and accomplishment. Staffing policy at the education boards is a matter of board policy. Yet, incredibly, no affirmative action, northern hire, or appeal policies are in place in at least one board. However, this government contributes about 80 percent of the funding to boards and can rightly take a strong role in urging policy.

I’ve raised this issue with the board and the Minister. We need to learn from this experience, work with our partners, develop and promote the excellence of our local candidates. Mr. Speaker, let’s get it done. Mahsi.

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Aboriginal Employment In Education

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Bromley . The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Abernethy .

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National Nursing Week

Members’ Statements

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This week, May 9 to 13th , is National Nursing Week, and

today is International Nurses Day. I would like to take this opportunity today to highlight the valuable services that nurses provide to all residents of the Northwest Territories. This year’s theme of the National Nursing Week is “Nursing – The Health of our Nation.”

According to the Registered Nurses Association of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, there are 434 nurses registered to practice in the Northwest Territories. Their work helps to improve the health of our territory in substantial and meaningful ways. Whether it is new graduates from the Nursing Program here at Aurora College or veteran nurses with many years of experience, these people are activists, advocates, caregivers, innovators, and researchers who seek holistic ways to build healthier communities.

On a day-to-day basis they do this with the use of skill sets gathered and maintained through education and practice that are governed by a rigorous code of ethics. We have nurses with many different diplomas, degrees, certifications and specializations who work in a range of locations. This includes hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, public and community health centres and nursing homes. Some may work with patients and the public directly in our homes or public offices, while others have practices that involve management, administration, and work with other professionals.

There are occasions for nursing care throughout all ages and stages of our lives. These are often periods of our greatest transitions. Many of us can recall examples of when nurses have played vital roles in meaningful moments of our lives or the lives of friends and family members. This week is an opportunity for us to stop and think of those moments, to consider the many ways the nursing profession benefits us, and appreciate it.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the nurses throughout the Northwest Territories for their dedication and commitment to all of the residents of this great territory. To each and every one of you nurses working and living in our cities, towns and small remote communities, thank you for your contributions. They are truly appreciated. Thank you.

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National Nursing Week

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Abernethy . The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Enbridge Oil Spill

Members’ Statements

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. The words “oil spill,” which we’ve heard far too often lately, strike fear into the hearts of residents, and for good reason. An oil spill always provokes concern for our water, our animals, and the safety of the public.

Just this Monday, Enbridge Pipelines confirmed the spill of approximately four barrels of oil near Willowlake River north of Fort Simpson. The leak was reported by Chief Timothy Lennie of Wrigley, who had discovered it. Unfortunately, Chief Lennie’s exposure to the oil has affected his health. He has reported that his eyes are burning and that his throat is sore. In addition to the effects that Chief Lennie is now suffering, we don’t know how many animals will be affected either by direct contact with oil or by drinking any contaminated water. The chief has also reported that he had found one duck soaked in oil.

Although four barrels seems minor compared to the 28,000 barrel leak in Alberta last week, it is important that we take any leak very seriously.

Mr. Speaker, Chief Lennie has met with officials from Enbridge Pipelines, but has not heard from our GNWT or the federal government. We have oil spill emergency plans, and I’m sure it involves meeting with leaders and communities to advise what steps we as regulatory bodies are taking to monitor the leak.

Chief Lennie has many concerns and questions, but no one is taking the time to contact him or his community. I think it is disrespectful as the leak is in his backyard and he has band members living in the immediate vicinity. He has health, environmental and safety concerns that are not being addressed by our government. His band has limited resources and capacities to deal with this situation and requires our help, yet there’s no one talking to him. He also wishes to investigate possible compensation issues, but he does not have the resources to even begin this type of discussion.

We simply must, as a regulatory agency, be proactive and be involved in this incident, Mr. Speaker.

I will be asking questions of the appropriate Minister at the appropriate time. Mahsi cho.

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Enbridge Oil Spill

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . The honourable Member for Kam Lake , Mr. Ramsay .

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Impacts Of Federal Election Results

Members’ Statements

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to speak today about the recent federal election. I’d like to congratulate Mr. Dennis Bevington on his re-election as Member of Parliament for the Western

Arctic. I’d also like to thank the other candidates who so greatly put their names forward to run: two former colleagues of many of us here today, the Conservative candidate, Ms. Sandy Lee, and Liberal candidate, Mr. Joe Handley; Mr. Eli Purchase of the Green Party, and Ms. Bonnie Dawson of the Animal Alliance Party.

What an election does, Mr. Speaker, is it gives the candidates an opportunity to debate the many issues that face this territory, and I would like to thank them for their efforts in that. Canadians now have a majority Conservative government in Ottawa.

I’d like to congratulate Prime Minister Harper on his successful campaign. As a territorial government, we are heavily reliant on the federal government to provide us with the financial resources to deliver the day-to-day programs and services we provide to the residents here in the Northwest Territories. That’s roughly $900 million on an annual basis, Mr. Speaker. Having a majority government, in my opinion, will be an opportunity to foster and grow our relationship with the federal government. Finally there is stability back in Ottawa. We know who we will need to work with over the next four years, and this is great news for our government to have that type of stability.

Three elections in six years was not conducive to us advancing major files in Ottawa. The residents of this territory have elected Mr. Bevington, a New Democrat, who will now be sitting in opposition, and hopefully Mr. Jack Layton, the leader of the New Democrats and leader of the official opposition, will allow our veteran Member of Parliament to play a prominent role in that opposition.

The reality is the Northwest Territories is the only province or territory in this country today without an MP in the governing party. That means, Mr. Speaker, that we must work that much harder as a government to get our issues and concerns addressed in the nation’s capital.

We have many big issues to deal with, such as the Mackenzie Gas Project, the Mackenzie Valley Highway, ensuring the $150 million commitment to the Tuktoyaktuk-Inuvik road gets done, devolution, and finding help for the urgent infrastructure needs for the residents of Northland Trailer Park here in Yellowknife. As soon as the federal Cabinet is sworn in, we need to ensure as a government that we’re able and ready to advance our concern and our issues with the federal government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Impacts Of Federal Election Results

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay . The honourable Member for Hay River South , Mrs. Groenewegen .

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Special Needs Long-Term Care Facilities In The North

Members’ Statements

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to take this opportunity to thank Minister Miltenberger , the Minister for Health and Social Services , for attending the grand opening of a long-anticipated facility in Hay River that’s been under construction. On April 28th we had the grand

opening of the Hay River Supported Living Day Program Centre. Prior to that, Mr. Speaker, we had the official opening of the campus, the rooms, the homes where the clients reside.

I would like to just say that since the campus opened two years ago, it has helped people with disabilities live productive, independent, and meaningful lives within the community and our territory. It is equipped to house up to 12 residents, including two beds for respite care.

With the opening of the Day Program Centre, programs will now be offered to both residents and clients from the surrounding area of Hay River. The centre will provide residents with an opportunity for personal growth, life skills, and peer and social supports.

The opening of this facility in Hay River is about repatriating Northerners to the North, something that we’ve talked about for a long time. It is important for many reasons. The jobs of the caregivers are jobs which are provided to northern residents. The economy associated with those jobs and those activities stays in the North. Most importantly, the clients who we were before referring to southern institutions now have an opportunity to stay in the North.

I believe we need to look at every opportunity, not just talk about it but let’s do it, talk about it, and observe and respond to every opportunity where we have as the Government of the Northwest Territories to care for our people and residents with special needs here in the Northwest Territories.

I would like to thank the government. I know the Minister has only been in this position for a short while, but this entire government played a large role in seeing this facility built in Hay River. It is fully functioning now and I believe it is serving the intended purpose and I believe it is a very good day for Hay River and the North.

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Special Needs Long-Term Care Facilities In The North

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mrs. Groenewegen . The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Hawkins .

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Need For Rehabilitation Centres For Substance Abuse In Yellowknife

Members’ Statements

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is an incredible need for intense alcohol and drug treatment programs to be based here in

Yellowknife. Alcohol and drug abuse, as we’ve all seen, continues to have a profound impact on this city and the North in every single community. This problem, as we all know, is longstanding, but right now, wherever I look, people are united in wanting to take support and action on this particular issue. We have seen what easily could be defined as a rare and united consensus on taking action on this particular issue.

It is not often that a very respected Supreme Court justice advises this government that rehabilitation services are needed in the communities, such as John Vertes did in March. As well, the business community has been calling for action for some time. Our government needs to heed the advice the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce has been offering, and I will remind the government that in April the executive director, Tim Doyle, told the media that in our capital city’s downtown area alone, the human cost and the business cost are incredibly huge. He is correct in his assessment and comments.

In Yellowknife the burden of the downtown issues are many. However, substance abuse is the cornerstone of many of those problems. And if that’s not enough, then there’s the territory’s chief coroner comments -- that’s Cathy Menard -- and the jury’s recommendations after the death of Raymond Eagle. The coroner’s jury recommended a rehab centre for substance abuse in Yellowknife and a halfway house to help the people cope with alcohol and drug problems.

If that’s still not enough, we have the good advice of the Members of this House. Even the Standing Committee on Social Programs recommended in its Report on the Review of the Child and Family Services Act that “alcohol and drug treatment be readily accessible and convenient to all communities.” In response to that recommendation, this government has accepted that point. However, they shamelessly qualify their acceptance by saying “subject to the availability of resources.” That is why I’m here today: to focus resources to help the people of the Northwest Territories. Because I, like many us here in the building, am here to help those who cannot help themselves.

I can tell you from experience, when I worked years ago at the corrections centre as a corrections officer, that many good souls were lost to the ills of drugs and alcohol.

I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Need For Rehabilitation Centres For Substance Abuse In Yellowknife

Members’ Statements

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

What I found, working at the corrections centre, was that when many of these souls did dry up and cleaned up from their alcohol and drug problems, I would find that they rid themselves of those drug and alcohol demons and

they were truly decent people. Clearly there is a problem.

By now what I’m trying to say is this territory needs better options. We need a treatment centre in Yellowknife and it should be a program that includes treatment for crack, meth addiction, as well as prescription abuse. I remind the Health Minister that this is truly an important issue in the public that needs addressing.

Later today I will raise the particular issues of what experience has taught us, that we may not be able to build a centre immediately but we can commit today to a plan of action on addressing these particular issues that is significant not just here in Yellowknife but to the territory as a whole.

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Need For Rehabilitation Centres For Substance Abuse In Yellowknife

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Beaulieu .

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Core Housing Needs In Tu Nedhe

Members’ Statements

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe

Mr. Speaker, the NWT Housing Corporation has policies that guide them as they attempt to reduce the housing needs across the Northwest Territories. These policies are designed to address three areas of core need as identified in social housing across this country. Those areas of core need are: adequacy where families have structural, electrical, mechanical or architectural issues with their houses; suitability where families do not have enough bedrooms to accommodate their family sizes; and affordability, where more than 30 percent of the gross income is being used to house their families.

In Tu Nedhe the majority of the needs are adequacy. This means that the people in Tu Nedhe have adequacy issues with their homes and cannot afford to complete the repairs without the assistance of the NWT Housing Corporation.

I believe that the Housing Corporation must change its policies to allow them to address the issues of houses across the NWT that have adequacy issues. I do not feel that the Housing Corporation should continue to build any new homes in Tu Nedhe.

I think that the NWT Housing Corporation should begin the process of going from door to door using local program officers, and work towards addressing the greatest needs in Tu Nedhe according to the Housing Corporation’s own document, the 2009 Needs Survey. I am very concerned, as are the constituents of Lutselk’e and Fort Resolution, that more new houses will be built for a few lucky people to get into those units when the majority of the people who are homeowners cannot afford repairs and watch their houses fall

into disrepair and eventually beyond economical repair.

I feel the first step towards addressing this serious issue is to decentralize NWT Housing Corporation staff so that they can begin to build files on these clients and take them through the process and avoid the potential of having huge deferred maintenance issues with the homeowners across the territory.

I urge the Minister of NWT Housing Corporation to shift resources from new construction to renovations of existing units, and expand those resources...

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Core Housing Needs In Tu Nedhe

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Mr. Beaulieu , your time for your Member’s statement has expired.

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Core Housing Needs In Tu Nedhe

Members’ Statements

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe

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

---Unanimous consent granted

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Core Housing Needs In Tu Nedhe

Members’ Statements

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe

I urge the Minister of NWT Housing Corporation to shift resources from new construction to renovations of existing units, and expand those resources by using a decentralized model by putting program officers and project officers in the communities where they are delivering the programs.

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Core Housing Needs In Tu Nedhe

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu . The honourable Member for Nunakput , Mr. Jacobson .

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Federal Resources For NWT Highway Between Tuktoyaktuk And Inuvik

Members’ Statements

Jackie Jacobson

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Several months ago the federal government tabled a budget that included $150 million for the Tuk-Inuvik highway, not Highway No. 7, finally linking Canada coast to coast to coast. The result of many years of lobbying and hard work from the community, the leaders in the Beaufort-Delta, my office, and other organizations.

Unfortunately, with calling the election, the budget was not ratified in the House of Commons. However, the residents of Inuvik and Tuk and all over Nunakput are hopeful that the commitment with the first budget with this new federal government that this project will provide employment for the Beaufort-Delta, reduce the cost of living for the residents of Nunakput, and will be a vital piece of infrastructure for the industry in the region. Once the highway is built, many contractors and their employees will benefit from maintenance contracts to keep the road open and in good operating condition.

We’re all facing a delicate situation here that needs to be coordinated in a focused approach, to ensure that the funding commitment from the federal government does not fall through the cracks. The Tuk-Inuvik highway is an important first step for

building the Mackenzie Valley Highway. It is important that we remain focused on the prize, and that it does not fracture along regional lines and confuse messaging to the federal government.

The Mackenzie Valley Pipeline is another important consideration that makes building the highway down the river more feasible for Canada to consider.

I’m urging the government to work with me, the leadership of the Beaufort-Delta and other organizations that work tirelessly for funding in this important project and important infrastructure for the whole territory. This will create jobs for everybody that we haven’t had work in the Beaufort-Delta in the last four years. Everybody is finding there’s a lot of struggling going on.

I will have questions for the Minister of Transportation at the appropriate time.

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Federal Resources For NWT Highway Between Tuktoyaktuk And Inuvik

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Jacobson . The honourable Member for Frame Lake , Ms. Bisaro .

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Canadian Forum On Women’s Homelessness And Health Attendees Arlene Hache And Lyda Fuller

Members’ Statements

Wendy Bisaro

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I want to use my Member’s statement to speak about two accomplished Yellowknife women. Arlene Hache and Lyda Fuller are both well-known non-government organization leaders at the Centre for Northern Families and at the YWCA. Both of these women work diligently and tirelessly on behalf of all NWT women and families who are in need. These talented ladies have just demonstrated their skills and commitment at a national conference: the first ever Canadian Forum on Housing and Safe Communities for Women. They were presenters at several sessions.

A few years ago both the Y and the Centre for Northern Families collaborated with the Yukon and Nunavut women’s organizations to research women’s homelessness in the North. That research was compiled into a valuable report entitled, You Just Blink and It Can Happen: A Study of Women’s Homelessness North of 60. Ms. Hache and Ms. Fuller presented that research project at one of the conference breakout sessions this past Monday. In addition, Ms. Hache presented at another breakout session on Tuesday on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder and Women’s Health, and she was a panellist for the closing plenary yesterday.

The NWT is blessed to have such accomplished, nationally recognized women working to provide better living situations for NWT women. Housing is a huge issue in all of our communities, and the work that these ladies and their organizations do on behalf of northern women provides the NWT with a

vital part of the continuum of housing that we need in the North.

Many women move here to the NWT capital and then become at risk. When they do, their saviours are the Centre for Northern Families and Ms. Hache, and the YWCA and Ms. Fuller. For Ms. Hache, a resident of Weledeh, and Ms. Fuller, a Frame Lake constituent, their goal is to provide the following for their clients. This is a quote from Susan Scott, who is the author of a book entitled, All Our Sisters, “Home is about safety. A home where they can sleep unmolested, where their children are safe and their treasures secure.” I hope that this government agrees with that goal and that we will soon see that goal accomplished.

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Canadian Forum On Women’s Homelessness And Health Attendees Arlene Hache And Lyda Fuller

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Ms. Bisaro . The honourable Member for Sahtu , Mr. Yakeleya .

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Summer Employment For NWT High School And College Graduates

Members’ Statements

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s graduation season and many students are preparing to move onto the next phase of life. They will be entering into the workforce. Who will hire them and where should they apply?

This year in our Sahtu communities there will be 22 high school graduates and nine Aurora College graduates. All these graduates have one thing in common, it is the commitment, the commitment to start something and finish it. As the government, we need to show our students our commitment and our support for their achievement.

We have an aging workforce in the GNWT. The 2009 Public Service Annual Report tells us that 25 percent of the employees are expected to retire in the next 10 years. That translates to nearly 1,200 employees who will need to be replaced.

We have increased the graduation rates. We have made improvements to boost our education attendees. We have had regional education forums and heard from our own people about getting good academic education. So let’s support our students with a job this summer. The ones who graduate from Aurora College, let’s put them in a position to begin a career in line with their training. For the high school graduates, let’s reward them with jobs so that they can have money for colleges or universities next year.

Mr. Speaker, we have to show our students that it pays to get an education, and that if you are making a commitment, it means something. We need to instil the value of good, honest work. These students deserve the best from us and this government.

Mr. Speaker, our students are entering into the workforce. I trust it will not be as scary as they think it will be because they will know we are with them.

We are the leaders. Let’s show our leadership today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Summer Employment For NWT High School And College Graduates

Members’ Statements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . Item 4, reports of standing and special committees. The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the Report of the Auditor General on the Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project – 2011, Department of Transportation, and commends it to the House.

The Standing Committee on Government Operations held its public review of the report of the Auditor General of the Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project – 2011, Department of Transportation, on April 19th and 20th, 2011. The committee thanks the Auditor General, Ms. Sheila Fraser, and her staff for their work in preparing the report and in assisting the committee with its review. The committee also thanks the deputy minister of Transportation and his staff for their participation, as well as officials from the Financial Management Board Secretariat and the Department of Justice.

General Comments

The committee’s mandate includes reviewing reports of the Auditor General of Canada, and making recommendations to the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT). The committee wants to ensure that the GNWT demonstrates its accountability to the public.

The audit was undertaken at the request of the Legislative Assembly in March, 2010. It covered the period between September 2000 and October 2010. The Auditor General’s work for this report, “Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project – 2011, Department of Transportation” was substantially completed by October 29, 2010. It was tabled on March 1, 2011, during the Fifth Session of the 16th Legislative Assembly.

Bridge construction was in progress throughout the audit and it remains under construction with a target completion date of November 2011.

Phase I refers to the period between 2000 and 2010 when the Deh Cho Bridge project was referred to as a public-private partnership (P3). Phase II began in April 2010 when the GNWT

formally assumed full responsibility for the project, including construction management.

The Auditor General found that the project was not a P3, in that no significant risks were shared with the private partner. The project’s risks increased substantially when the GNWT authorized construction without a fully developed bridge design. After taking over the project, the Department of Transportation (the department) had a framework in place to manage the key risks, but the audit found weaknesses in the risk matrix. In the auditor’s view, significant risks remain in the areas of scope,

schedule and cost.

The focus of the audit was to determine whether the GNWT adequately managed the risks of entering into a P3; and, whether, since taking over the project, the department had established a framework to manage the key risks associated with the project’s quality, schedule, scope and cost. The audit considered only the actions of the GNWT, not other aspects of the project such as the Deh Cho Bridge Corporation (DCBC) or contractors.

The audit report makes three recommendations related to the Deh Cho Bridge and future projects. The committee agrees with the recommendations and supports the department’s response to them.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to return the rest of the reading of the report to my honourable colleague, Mr. Robert Hawkins .

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Hawkins .

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I’d like to thank our committee chair, Mr. Menicoche , as well.

Phase I

As the audit report explains, the purpose of a P3 is to shift a portion of the risks of a public project to a private sector partner who brings technical and financial capacities to the project. A P3 procurement strategy carries risks in that the public sector must establish a working relationship with a suitable partner and clearly negotiate each party’s obligations to the project.

In the case of the Deh Cho Bridge, the audit found that the project was not a P3 because the private sector partner had no equity to invest in the project, and limited capacity to manage a project on that scale. The GNWT assumed more and more risk as the cost of the project increased, without shifting any significant risks to the private partner as anticipated in a conventional P3.

As a sidebar, the Auditor General’s report presents an exhibit of the perspective of the community of Fort Providence and its relationship with the GNWT throughout the Deh Cho Bridge project. The committee does not want to preclude the possibility

of future partnerships between communities and the GNWT in the area of infrastructure projects, but stresses that an approved process must be followed, consistent with the Auditor General’s recommendation that the GNWT establish a senior project oversight committee to provide advice on the steps required to develop a major project and act as a forum for discussing project objectives, risks, procurement and other relevant matters.

Recommendation 1

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the GNWT finalize a public-private partnership policy. This policy should include provisions to ensure that:

the GNWT undertakes an analysis of its full financial exposure;

the roles and responsibilities of the GNWT and its partner(

s) are clearly defined;

due diligence is carried out on the

partner’s capacity to fulfill its roles and obligations.

risks and opportunities are proportionately shared; and

the GNWT establishes a clear

understanding of a community’s objectives and abilities when entering a partnership with a community.

Cabinet should provide a timeline for the finalization of the public-private partnership policy within the life of the 16th Legislative

Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, at this time now I’d like to pass the report on to Mr. Abernethy , my colleague from Great Slave.

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Abernethy .

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I’d like to thank my colleagues Mr. Hawkins and Mr. Menicoche .

Members are pleased that the Department agreed to share the Process Convention for Review for alternatively financed projects with the committee, mentioned in the department’s response to the Auditor General’s first recommendation. This process convention forms the basis of a P3 policy.

The findings in Paragraph 33 of the Auditor General’s report raised concern among some Members. In September 2007, the Contract of Indemnification Exemption Regulations was amended to allow for a specific indemnity in the Concession Agreement in favour of the Deh Cho Bridge Corporation. This amendment exempted the Minister of Finance from, among other statutory requirements, the requirement to give Members of the Legislative Assembly at least 14 days notice,

and enabled the GNWT to make a major financial commitment that now approaches $200 million. Members noted that the Concession Agreement was signed and the amendment to the regulations made after the Legislature had been dissolved.

During the public meeting, the Auditor General’s review team expressed the opinion that the Executive Council acted within its legal authority to make the amendment. The Financial Management Board Secretariat confirmed that the GNWT had used exemption regulations to enter into a contract or agreement on previous occasions.

The committee is pleased that, as indicated in the public meeting, the government is considering bringing forward changes to the Financial Administration Act that would modify the current process so that all indemnities would come before the Legislative Assembly.

Phase II

The committee is satisfied that the department has updated the information in its risk matrix in response to the Auditor General’s second recommendation, that the department update the risk matrix and provide more complete information on mitigation measures responding to potential risks.

The department provided the committee a measure of confidence that it is closely monitoring the day-to-day progress of the bridge. Department officials identified plans for environmental remediation at the site, electrical work, and clean-up within the project’s current budget and general environmental liabilities. The department has considered the cost of an ice bridge and ferry service should the bridge be delayed. The department has $1 million in a separate budget for toll collection, which, it concedes, is small, but the amount is being discussed.

The department did not address lifecycle or additional remedial costs in its responses. The committee observes that paragraph 65 of the Auditor General’s report includes mention of a catwalk as a necessary part of the design, however, in the public meeting, the department stated it has decided to build the bridge without one. The committee is at a loss to explain this discrepancy.

Recommendation 2

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Transportation thoroughly investigate the necessity and practicality of installing a catwalk, and report back to Members with other options for maintenance and inspection duly compared, within the scope of the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to pass on the continued reading of this report to my colleague Mr. Yakeleya . Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Abernethy . The honourable Member for Sahtu , Mr. Yakeleya .

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you honourable Members.

The Auditor General’s final recommendation is that the department ensure that a single authority certifies that the design and construction of the bridge meet the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code, and that certification be obtained before the bridge is open to traffic. The department assured the committee that it is seeking the most practical means to ensure that the bridge is signed off by an Engineer of Record.

Further quality testing will be required for a single Engineer of Record to sign off on the bridge, which will carry additional costs. If the GNWT’s own engineer signs off as Engineer of Record, the GNWT will once again assume all the risk that entails.

Recommendation 3

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that before the Deh Cho Bridge opens to traffic, the Department of Transportation ensure that a qualified authority certifies that the design and construction of the Deh Cho Bridge meet the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code.

The committee is concerned that the department may bury or delay costs in an effort to remain within the current project budget. The committee noted that the Deh Cho Bridge Project includes many costs that are internal to the department and the GNWT as a whole. For example, the committee understands that legal action is being considered, but cost implications are unknown.

Recommendation 4

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the department keep all Members of the Legislative Assembly fully apprised of progress on the bridge and cost implications, and provide regular updates to the Standing Committee on Economic Development and Infrastructure. These updates should include details specifically related to project risks, schedule, toll collection and establishing an Engineer of Record.

The department should provide Members with a timeline and total cost for the completion of the Deh Cho Bridge project at the earliest possible date.

Recommendation 5

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends the department

should provide an all-in, total cost for the project when it is complete that clearly identifies internal costs to the Legislative Assembly and the public.

The committee understands that the department has yet to provide a formal action plan on how it will implement the Auditor General’s recommendations.

Recommendation 6

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Transportation provide and make public a detailed action plan to implement the recommendations contained in the Auditor General’s report on the Deh Cho Bridge Project, within 90 days.

Mr. Speaker, I now return the report back to the chairman, Mr. Menicoche .

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

Conclusion

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Committee Report 1-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Deh Cho Bridge Project - 2011, Department Of Transportation

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Members expressed varied levels of satisfaction that the department is working to implement the Auditor General’s recommendations. Further work is needed to finalize a policy for alternatively financed projects, address inspection and maintenance requirements for the bridge, and ensure it is certified as an integrated unit by an appropriate authority. The committee is keenly aware that risks remain in the areas of the project’s schedule, scope and cost, and expects to be kept fully apprised of the progress made toward the project’s completion.

Recommendation 7

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a comprehensive response to this report within 90 days.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 1-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , that Committee Report 1-16(6) be received by the Assembly and moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 1-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . Motion is on the floor. Motion is in order. To the motion.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 1-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Some Hon. Members

Question.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 1-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Question is being called.

---Carried

Committee Report 1-16(6) will be moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations held its public review of the Report of the Auditor General on Northwest Territories Health Programs and Services – 2011, Department of Health and Social Services, and commends it to the House.

The Standing Committee on Government Operations held its public review of the Report of the Auditor General on Northwest Territories Health Programs and Services – 2011, Department of Health and Social Services, on April 19 and 20, 2011. The committee thanks the Auditor General, Ms. Sheila Fraser, and her staff for their work in preparing the report and in assisting the committee with its review. The committee also thanks the deputy minister of Health and Social Services and her staff for their participation.

General Comments

The committee’s mandate includes reviewing reports of the Auditor General of Canada and making recommendations to the Government of the Northwest Territories. The committee wants to ensure that the Government of the Northwest Territories demonstrates its accountability to the public.

The Auditor General’s work for this report, Northwest Territories Health Programs and Services – 2011, was substantially completed by September 30, 2010. It was tabled on March 1, 2011, during the Fifth Session of the 16th Legislative Assembly.

The committee is pleased to report that the Auditor General found that the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is managing the health system adequately and setting clear direction for the future. However, new technology, rising costs, and national shortages of professional staff are driving systemic changes in the health system.

The Auditor General found that the department’s ability to achieve its priorities is limited by the absence of system-wide performance indicators, the lack of performance agreements with health authorities, and the fact that there is no service agreement with the Department of Human Resources, which has a key role in recruiting health professionals. The lack of performance indicators and agreements also

hampers reporting on the performance of the health system to both the public and the Legislative Assembly. This must change.

The Auditor General’s review team focused on programs and services for diabetes, home care, long-term care, medical travel, and recruitment of professional staff. Social services were not reviewed. Authorities were not officially included, but three were visited and consulted in the context of the departmental review. Although the review did not and could not reasonably be expected to cover the entire health system, the committee is satisfied that the review was very thorough, reliable, and fair. Despite the limitations noted above, the review sheds considerable light on the state of our health system, particularly the department’s ability to assess its effectiveness and plan accordingly.

The Auditor General made seven major recommendations to improve the administration and effectiveness of the NWT health system. All were accepted by the Department of Health and Social Services, and where relevant, by the Department of Human Resources, as well. The committee is pleased that the departments intend to implement the prescribed changes. The government should have a plan and timeline for doing so, and provide them to both Members of the Legislative Assembly and the public.

Recommendation 1

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories develop a plan for implementing all the Auditor General’s recommendations on health programs and services, and provide it to Members of the Legislative Assembly and the public.

The implementation plan should include a timeline and quarterly progress updates to the Standing Committee on Social Programs, beginning in June 2011.

Mr. Speaker, I turn the reading of the report over to my deputy chair, Mr. Robert Hawkins . Mahsi.

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Hawkins .

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Mr. Menicoche .

The committee agrees with the Auditor General that the department’s capacity to achieve its priority of a sustainable, effective health system depends on the ability to monitor performance and health outcomes. As both are currently deficient, both must be improved. The government must support the department’s efforts to do this, including appropriate funding through the annual budget process. It must be understood that data collection and performance monitoring are crucial to sound

planning, determining spending priorities, and shaping a client-focused health system.

The committee also recognizes that many factors affect the sustainability of the health system, some of which are beyond the department’s control. Demand for health services and the general health of the population are also influenced by education, the availability of employment, housing conditions, addictions, and poverty. The government’s overall priorities and strategy must address these problems at the same time as DHSS modernizes the health system as outlined in “A Foundation for Change.”

Setting Direction for the Health Care System and Funding Health Authorities

The Auditor General found that DHSS has set clear goals, priorities and actions to improve the health system, and set them out clearly in “A Foundation for Change.” Strategic plans of three health authorities were reviewed and found consistent with DHSS’ priorities.

However, there are no performance agreements with the authorities, and the model for funding them is being overhauled to better align resources with patient flow and program delivery. Essentially, this will result in realistic budgets for each authority, reflecting the work that is done and the resources allocated to it. DHSS stresses that “right-sizing” budgets is a prerequisite for performance agreements with the authorities.

This is critically important work, as it is the job of the authorities to actually deliver health care services and programs to the people of the Northwest Territories. Therefore, the committee stresses that DHSS and the government must make it a particular priority to implement the Auditor General’s recommendation in paragraph 31 during the 2012-13 fiscal year, as promised in DHSS’ response.

Recommendation 2

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Health and Social Services follow through on commitments made in its strategic plan and action plan to:

revise the model to allocate funding to

Health and Social Services authorities, and

develop performance agreements that

include expected results for key programs and services, and corresponding reporting requirements.

Mr. Speaker, that now brings me to the point to pass the further reading of the report on to my colleague Mr. Yakeleya , MLA for Sahtu. Thank you.

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins . The honourable Member for Sahtu , Mr. Yakeleya .

Supporting Health Programs and Monitoring Delivery

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Norman Yakeleya

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In reviewing the diabetes, home care and long-term care, medical travel, and human resources recruitment programs, the Auditor General examined DHSS’ support of program delivery and its monitoring of results.

A consistent theme emerged in the reviews of diabetes, home care and long-term care, and medical travel. In each, there is no mechanism for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of the program. Insufficient data is collected to support evaluation of diabetes, home care and long-term care programs; a deficiency that must be corrected, as DHSS has pledged to do.

The department will not have a territory-wide strategy to prevent or manage diabetes until the completion of the Chronic Disease Management Model, which is due in 2012. Meeting this deadline should be a special priority, given the prevalence of diabetes and the impact of chronic conditions on the people of the Northwest Territories, as well as their health system.

The committee is especially concerned about the recruitment and retention of health care professionals, which is a joint responsibility of the Department of Health and Social Services, the authorities, and the Department of Human Resources. The Auditor General found that the Department of Health and Social Services has identified its human resource needs. However, vacancy rates are significant, and many experienced staff are expected to retire over the next 10 years. The Auditor General noted that staff shortages represent a serious risk to ensuring consistent and equitable access to quality health services across the NWT.

This risk is compounded by the uncertain success of the current joint recruitment system. The Auditor General advised that the lack of a comprehensive human resource recruitment plan, and the lack of a service level agreement between Human Resources, the Department of Health and Social Services, and the authorities, must be addressed. The committee strongly agrees. While the two departments agreed with the Auditor General’s recommendations to remedy the situation, there must also be firm commitments with respect to timing.

Recommendation 3

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Health and Social Services, health authorities, and the Department of Human Resources develop a comprehensive system-wide recruitment and retention plan for health professionals, for implementation in 2012-13,

and monitor progress against the plan on an ongoing basis.

Recommendation 4

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Health and Social Services, health authorities, and the Department of Human Resources develop a service level agreement for recruitment and retention of health professionals that sets out roles, responsibilities, timelines, and services to be delivered. This agreement should be in place and functional by April 1, 2012.

Mr. Speaker, somebody else wants to talk. I turn it over now to the honourable Member Mr. Abernethy .

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya . The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Abernethy .

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to thank my colleague for letting me talk.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health and Social Services has also identified growing demand for home and community care staff, as well as training gaps for home support workers and resident care aides. While training of NWT residents for jobs in health care was not part of the Auditor General’s review, it is a key element in the stability and quality of a workforce that will of necessity include many southern hires. The committee was pleased with the input received from DHSS on this topic.

Successful training of northern health workers requires solid collaboration between DHSS, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE), and Aurora College. Training and educational opportunities delivered by ECE and Aurora College must be flexible enough to meet the needs of the health system, and produce graduates who meet accepted standards. The committee strongly supports the development of homegrown health care workers who have the added advantage of knowing local people, traditions and communities.

In this area, Department of Health and Social Services, Education, Culture and Employment and Aurora College should build a strong cooperative relationship that will advance the goals set out in “A Foundation for Change”.

Measuring and Reporting on Performance

Only limited information is reported to the Legislative Assembly and the public on the performance of the NWT health care system. The Auditor General found the lack of system-wide performance indicators at the root of this problem.

There is still no agreement between the Department of Health and Social Services and health authorities on a set of performance indicators, yet these indicators are essential, along

with a risk management framework, to system-wide evaluation.

Department of Health and Social Services has not published a territorial Health Status Report since 2005, although a new one is in the works. Overall, there is no clear picture of how the health system is performing. Measurement and reporting must be improved. Given these facts, the committee emphasizes that Department of Health and Social Services must remedy this by 2012-13, as agreed in paragraph 81 of the Auditor General’s report.

Recommendation 5

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Health and Social Services and the health authorities:

develop a set of system-wide performance indicators and identify key data requirements;

develop a program evaluation plan setting out areas it plans to evaluate; and

regularly inform the Legislative Assembly and the public about the performance of the NWT health care system.

I’d like to pass the conclusion of this report on to my colleague Mr. Menicoche . Thank you.

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Abernethy . The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

Conclusion

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Committee Report 2-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Report Of The Auditor General On Northwest Territories Health Programs And Services – 2011, Department Of Health And Social Services

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The committee recognizes that the Department of Health and Social Services staff have faced tremendous challenges during the first years of the 16th Assembly. It is no small feat to overhaul the

health system, incorporate new technology, and directly oversee three of the eight health authorities while supporting quality, day-to-day care under considerable fiscal pressure. Committee members heartily congratulate Department of Health and Social Services’ and the authorities’ staff for these achievements.

However, the Auditor General’s review confirms there is still much work to be done. Committee members are confident that the Department of Health and Social Services, the health authorities, and the Department of Human Resources are up to the task, and will diligently implement the Auditor General’s recommendations. The committee is also confident that the Standing Committee on Social Programs will assist in supporting that work.

Recommendation 6

In light of the time remaining to the 16th Legislative Assembly, the Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories

provide a comprehensive response to this report within 90 days.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 2-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Sahtu , that Committee Report 2-16(6) be received by the Assembly and moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration. Mahsi cho.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 2-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

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The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . Motion is on the floor. Motion is in order. To the motion.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 2-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 2-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Question is being called.

---Carried

Committee Report 2-16(6) will be moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Committee Report 3-16(6): Report On The Review Of The 2009-2010 Human Rights Commission Annual Report

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2009-2010 Human Rights Commission Annual Report and comments it to the House.

Introduction

The Standing Committee on Government Operations has completed its review of the 2009-2010 Human Rights Commission Annual Report. This report covers the Human Rights Commission’s sixth year. The committee would like to thank Ms. Mary Pat Short, chair of the Human Rights Commission, and Ms. Thérèse Boullard, director of human rights, for their appearance before the committee.

2009-2010 Annual Report

In 2009-2010, the NWT Human Rights Commission had a national presence as Ms. Short held the position of president, and Ms. Boullard, treasurer, of the Canadian Association of Statutory Human Rights Agencies (CASHRA). The committee congratulates both of these women on their leadership of the Canadian Association of Statutory Human Rights Agencies.

Rita Mueller from Behchoko, Yacub Adam from Yellowknife, and Tammy Rogers from Inuvik were the members of the Board of the Human Rights Commission. The members and chair deserve

recognition for their contribution to human rights in the Northwest Territories.

The annual report provides an overview of the NWT Human Rights Commission’s activities. Over the year, commission staff responded to 280 inquiries and 26 new complaints. Two complaints were forwarded to the NWT Human Rights Adjudication Panel for hearing.

The commission provided information sessions and workshops to GNWT Human Resource staff, hamlet staff, secondary school students, and students at Aurora College learning centres. The commission visited Fort Smith, Fort Providence, Hay River, Deline, Tulita, Ulukhaktok, Dettah, and Yellowknife.

The commission also distributed a human rights handbook to all teachers for use in offering related educational activities in their classrooms. The committee recognizes the effort and accomplishments of the commission and how staff follows through with plans.

In partnership with the Yukon Human Rights Commission, the NWT Human Rights Commission published “Know Your Rights,” a well-presented, plain language document that explains on what grounds a person is protected from discrimination in the NWT and the Yukon.

When the committee reviewed “Know Your Rights,” it observed that the Yukon prohibits discrimination based on “unrelated” criminal convictions or criminal records, while the NWT does not. The committee asked Ms. Short to speak to its possible value in the NWT Human Rights Act. Ms. Short advised that its inclusion was recommended in the commission’s 2004-2005 report. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight brought the recommendation forward to government in its Report on the Review of the 2004-2005 Annual Report of the Human Rights Commission.

At its meeting on December 3, 2010, the Standing Committee on Government Operations expressed interest in a review of this matter to ensure NWT residents receive proper protection from discrimination and because it may be in the best interest of people in the NWT to allow more people to have access to work that is presently unavailable to them.

Recommendation 1

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Department of Justice review and assess the advisability of prohibiting discrimination based on “unrelated” criminal convictions or a criminal record.

Conclusion

The committee commends the commission’s work and achievements to date and looks forward to continued progress in informing NWT residents of

their rights and responsibilities so that justice and fairness is strengthened.

Recommendation 2

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends the Government of the Northwest Territories provides a comprehensive response to this report within 120 days.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 3-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 3-16(6) be received by the Assembly and moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 3-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

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The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . Motion is on the floor. Motion is in order. To the motion.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 3-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 3-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Question is being called.

---Carried

Committee Report 3-16(6) will be moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Committee Report 4-16(6): Report On The Review Of The Office Of The Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner Annual Report 2009-2010

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. If I can get the Assembly’s attention one more time on a report.

Your committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the Office of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner Annual Report 2009-2010 and commends it to the House.

Introduction

The Standing Committee on Government Operations (SCOGO) met on March 3, 2011, to review “The Office of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner Annual Report 2009-2010.” The committee would like to thank the Languages Commissioner, Ms. Sarah Jerome, for presenting her report.

Commentary

The Office of the Languages Commissioner is accessible through its website, a toll-free phone line and an office in Inuvik. It is promoted through radio advertisements in all official languages, and by Ms. Jerome, in her frequent attendance at public

functions, and when she is interviewed by the media.

The committee notes that promotion of languages is not in the Official Languages Commissioner’s purview. However, it is Ms. Jerome’s role to promote the office of the Languages Commissioner, the rights, status and privileges of official language speakers pursuant to the Official Languages Act, and her availability to answer questions or investigate complaints.

The committee is also pleased with the approach taken by Ms. Jerome. As part of her regular practice, she attends summer assemblies and regional council meetings throughout the Northwest Territories. In 2009-2010 the Commissioner made more than a dozen presentations on official languages at these assemblies and other meetings and conferences. Ms. Jerome’s presence and her sincere interest help to support community members involved in promotion, revitalization and enhancement of first languages.

When she is attending meetings, conferences and school functions, Ms. Jerome responds to many inquiries. She also investigates complaints. The committee respects and values Ms. Jerome’s observations and good judgment. Ms.

Jerome,

subject to

Article 20(2) of the Official Languages Act, may investigate any matter, not just complaints, on her own initiative. If Ms. Jerome deems an issue worthy of study, Members will welcome reading her findings and recommendations in future annual reports.

Conclusion

The Standing Committee on Government Operations would like to thank Ms. Jerome for her activities promoting the role of the Languages Commissioner. Her many community visits to make presentations and to listen to peoples’ concerns give her a valuable perspective on language issues.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 4-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , that Committee Report 4-16(6) be received by the Assembly and moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration. Mahsi cho.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 4-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

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The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . Motion is on the floor. Motion is in order. To the motion.

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 4-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

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Motion To Receive Committee Report 4-16(6) And Move Into Committee Of The Whole, Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Question is being called.

---Carried

Committee Report 4-16(6) will be moved into Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

Item 5, returns to oral questions. Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 7, acknowledgements. The honourable Member for Frame Lake , Ms. Bisaro .

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Acknowledgement 3-16(6): Passing Of Cody Dempster

Acknowledgements

Wendy Bisaro

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the recent and untimely death of a young Frame Lake resident. Cody Dempster was just 16 years old, and as noted by his family, he leaves behind a life unfinished. My condolences and those of this House to Cody’s parents and extended family and his friends. Thank you.

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Acknowledgement 3-16(6): Passing Of Cody Dempster

Acknowledgements

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Ms. Bisaro . Item 8, oral questions. The honourable Member for Weledeh , Mr. Bromley .

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are following up on my Member’s statement yesterday on the report from the Coalition Against Family Violence. They are for the Minister of Health and Social Services and Deputy Premier . Recent statistics, sadly, show that family violence continues to get worse. Two hundred and thirty-eight women and children came forward to violence shelters for the first time in 2010-11; that’s new incidents. NWT women seek escape from violence and shelter at five times the national rate.

Ninety-two percent of 27,000 people responding to the 2007 survey said more shelters are critically needed and, of course, phase 3 recommendations call for special initiative funds for family violence shelters outside of Yellowknife, to top up their funding so they can pay better wages, add hours, and meet O and M costs. Will the Minister start now to identify funds to meet this need? Mahsi.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

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

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Thebacha

Michael Miltenberger

Minister of Health and Social Services

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The government is committed to all the obligations that are there for phase 2. To date, through the life of phase 2 we will have committed nearly $4 million. This is an ongoing issue and as we move forward from phase 2 to phase 3, that work will go through the business planning process, and in this instance, while preparatory work will be

done, it will be a decision in the life of the 17th Assembly on how we will proceed further. Thank you.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

I appreciate the commitment from the Minister. The 238 women and children last year, Mr. Speaker, the major coalition partners like the YWCA Yellowknife, the Centre for Northern Families, Inuvik, Hay River and Tuk shelters, NWT Seniors, Salvation Army and a host of others are our long-established and indispensible leaders and service providers in this area. So why is core funding for multi-year funding agreements for these groups even an issue? These partners are in for the long haul and shouldn’t be made to flounder between annual funding agreements.

So I ask: will the Minister commit to partnering respectfully with these enduring organizations and move to multi-year agreements with core funding as a standard model? Mahsi.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Thebacha

Michael Miltenberger

Minister of Health and Social Services

I’ve always, as well, been an advocate of multi-year funding and I will be working with the Department of Health and Social Services to review the list to make sure that we can do multi-year funding in all the cases where it makes good sense.

The Member raises the enduring relationships we have with some of these ongoing programs, and that is one of the critical factors, in my mind. Thank you.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

Thanks for the commitment from the Minister, once again. Mr. Speaker, last session I spoke of overlap and duplication and the development of programs for men who use violence with a GNWT program that had been developed without even the knowledge of all coalition partners. The coalition was created as a clearing house of this work and is recommending a three-year community-based pilot program to create a territorial program standard. Will the Minister commit to working with his Cabinet colleagues to support this program and ensure that the departments use the coalition forum as their partners as their focus of consultation and collaboration? Mahsi.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Thebacha

Michael Miltenberger

Minister of Health and Social Services

We will continue to work constructively with the Family Violence Coalition. We, as well, will look closely at the work that’s been done in regard to the recommendations for phase 3. As well, we are doing, at this moment, an evaluation of how effective our commitment and involvement has been and the outcomes that have been generated through the work through phase 2. Thank you.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Your final, short supplementary, Mr. Bromley .

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Bob Bromley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thanks again for the Minister’s comments. I guess I would just ask: will the Minister commit to keeping

the House apprised and committee apprised with as much faithfulness as I commit to bringing forward concerns that I hear from the coalition to the Minister? Thank you.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

Thebacha

Michael Miltenberger

Minister of Health and Social Services

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will ensure that we work closely with the Social Programs committee and keep them apprised of events as they progress, and work as it’s done, and any milestone issues that would be in the interests of the committee to know about. Thank you.

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Question 56-16(6): Coalition Against Family Violence Recommendations

Oral Questions

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Menicoche .

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to ask my questions today to the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources . In my Member’s statement I spoke about the Enbridge Pipeline Incorporated, the oil spill just south of Wrigley at the Willowlake River. I’d like to ask the Minister what is the role of the Department of ENR when there’s an oil spill incident and an emergency of this nature. Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche . The honourable Minister responsible for Environment and Natural Resources , Mr. Miltenberger .

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In a spill of this nature, the immediate folks that are involved, of course, are the owners of the pipeline. The National Energy Board has the lead. Environment and Natural Resources has a support role in that process. If it’s a significant spill, then it will trigger a broader group that will come into play, but in this case, given the size of the spill, it’s those two parties that are initially involved.

We have been working, as the Member’s aware, very closely with all government agencies as well as Enbridge and Imperial Oil in Norman Wells. In terms of the spill itself, we are being kept up to date and we are involved in making sure that the environmental concerns are going to be addressed. Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

I spoke with Chief Tim Lennie last night and he said that none of our regulatory bodies or even federal regulatory bodies contacted his community to offer assistance, to advise him about the nature of the incident or anything like that. In fact, the only person that reached out was, of course, the people that spilled the oil, which is Enbridge Pipeline. I’d like to know what our government’s role is in contacting the community, offering assistance, advising them where they can go for health concerns, environmental concerns and safety concerns, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

As the full extent and impact of the spill is determined, as the

cleanup proceeds, if there’s further follow-up work that’s needed, then we will be there in our support role. If there are health concerns, then Health will be involved. But clearly at this point we’re working through and following the National Energy Board lead. At this point, the issue seems to be under control. If there are very specific community concerns from Wrigley, then I would be happy to talk to the Member about those. Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

I’d like to ask the Minister to work with the National Energy Board, because even them, they did not make any contact with the chief or the residents of that community to advise of their role, how can they be of assistance to the community, because it is very significant to them. They are concerned about the environment and they’re concerned about the water. They’re concerned about public safety, but no one’s reached out and tried to deal with them and try to answer their questions there, Mr. Speaker. With that, can our government do that?

Can they contact and work with their federal counterparts, the National Energy Board, and reach out and talk to the community of Wrigley and the chief there? Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

I’ll commit to ensure that we encourage and push the federal agencies, in this case the National Energy Board, to become visible, to make sure that there’s adequate information and that there’s an opportunity, and if necessary, they have resources put by their people to deal with the affected communities like Wrigley. Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . Your final, short supplementary, Mr. Menicoche .

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Kevin A. Menicoche

Nahendeh

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. There was also Chief Lennie, as I indicated in my Member’s statement, who was impacted. His health was impacted. He has serious concerns. He would like to know when will the Department of Health and Social Services take a role in this incident, advise the community of the health concerns of potential H2S and the effects of just the odours, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to get some certainty that even the Department of Health and Social Services can contact the community. Mahsi.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I understand the spill is about 70 kilometres outside of Wrigley. If the chief has specific health concerns, then I would encourage him to contact the Deh Cho Health Authority through his community if he has those symptoms that the Member’s talking about. If there are broader issues, as well, once again, we’ll make note of those and I will ensure that the chair as well as the CEO of the Deh Cho Health and Social Services Authority is prepared to respond, if necessary. Thank you.

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Question 57-16(6): Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill

Oral Questions

The Speaker

Paul Delorey

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger . The honourable Member for Kam Lake , Mr. Ramsay .

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Question 58-16(6): Impact Of Recent Federal Election On Major Northern Infrastructure Projects

Oral Questions

David Ramsay

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Deputy Premier . In my Member’s statement I spoke about the recent federal election. We here in the Northwest Territories only have four months left in the life of this government and we have some major files currently at play in Ottawa, like the M