Debates of June 11th, 2002

This is page numbers 695 - 716 of the Hansard for the 14th Assembly, 5th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.

The word of the day was project .

Topics

Members Present

Item 1: Prayer

Western Premiers' Conference

Corporate Income Tax Changes

Ministers Absent From The House

Selective Application Of The Business Incentive Policy

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Forest Management Education Programs

Strategic Infrastructure Funding Proposal Meetings In Ottawa

Commenting On Consensus Government

Western Arctic Leadership Program Fundraiser

Safe Travel On NWT Waterways

Summary Of Intersessional Activities

Recognition Of Inuvik Speedskaters

NWT Track And Field Championships In Hay River

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Critical Social Housing Needs

Fire Ecology Camps Program

Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Achieving Consensus Government

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Responsibility For North Slave Correctional Project

Alternatives To Suspension Of The Bip

Impacts Of Health And Social Services Reorganization

Supplementary To 231-14(5): Impacts Of Health And Social Services Reorganization

Inclusion Of Swimming Pools In Capital Plan

Review Of The Business Incentive Policy

Reorganization Of Health Boards

Return To Written Question 2-14(5): Ministerial Travel

Bill 3:

An Act To Amend The Public Service ActBill 6:

An Act To Amend The Financial Administration Act

Bill 11:

An Act To Amend The Liquor Act

Tabled Document 31-14(5): Annual Report Respecting Members' Indemnities, Expenses And Allowances For The Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2002

Tabled Document 32-14(5): Members' Election For The Supplementary Pensions

Tabled Document 33-14(5): Members' Statutory Declarations Of Residency

Tabled Document 34-14(5): Hay River Hub

Article Entitled "the Big Picture"

Item 15: Notices Of Motion For First Reading Of Bills

Bill 12:

An Act To Amend The Elections Act

Bill 13:

An Act To Amend The Income Tax Act, No. 2

Bill 14:

An Act To Amend The Revolving Funds Act

Bill 15:

An Act To Amend The Real Estate Agents Licensing Act

Bill 16: Interjurisdictional Support Orders Act

Bill 17: Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 1, 2002-2003

Bill 12:

An Act To Amend The Elections Act

Bill 13:

An Act To Amend The Income Tax Act, No. 2

Bill 14:

An Act To Amend The Revolving Funds Act

Bill 12:

An Act To Amend The Elections Act

Bill 13:

An Act To Amend The Income Tax Act, No. 2

Bill 14:

An Act To Amend The Revolving Funds Act

Item 22: Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Honourable Roger Allen , Honourable Jim Antoine , Mr. Braden , Mr. Delorey , Mrs. Groenewegen , Honourable Joe Handley , Mr. Lafferty , Ms. Lee , Mr. McLeod , Honourable Michael Miltenberger , Mr. Nitah , Mr. Roland , Honourable Vince Steen , Honourable Tony Whitford .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

-- Prayer

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 695

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Roland . Please be seated. Good afternoon, colleagues. I wish to advise the House that I have received the following message from the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories:

Dear Mr. Speaker,

I wish to advise that I recommend to the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories the passage of Supplementary Appropriations Act, No. 1, 2002-2003 during the Fifth Session of the 14th Legislative Assembly.

Yours truly,

Glenna F. Hansen, Commissioner

Colleagues, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you back to the House, as well to the staff and the visitors who are here, for a short summer session of the Fifth Session of this Legislative Assembly. Sadly, since we last met, we have mourned the passing of Mr. Goo Arlooktoo, a former Member of this Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Arlooktoo was the Member for Baffin South from 1995 to 1999. After the creation of Nunavut he returned to Baffin Island to live and to work. During that time, he retained many family and business ties with the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Steen and I were able to travel to Iqaluit to attend Mr. Arlooktoo's funeral and to represent this Assembly. It was a very sad time, as he left us much, much too early. I know I speak for all Members when I pass along our deepest condolences to Mr. Arlooktoo's widow Dorothy and to their children and their extended family.

After a very late spring, we are now able to enjoy the Northwest Territories' wonderful summer session. I know that the Members of this Assembly have been hard at work in their constituencies since we last met and I would like to encourage you all to continue to enjoy the summer with your families when we are finished this sitting.

At this time, I would like to advise the House of a very important event occurring today. It is the silver anniversary of the Honourable Jim Antoine and his wife, Celine. Congratulations.

-- Applause

Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Deputy Premier , Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 43-14(5): Western Premiers' Conference

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 695

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and good afternoon. Welcome back, everybody. Today I would like to report back to the Members on the Western Premiers' Conference attended by Premier Kakfwi in Dawson City from June 4th to 6th. Premiers from all three territories, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba attended the conference. They were joined for portions of their meetings by the U.S. ambassador to Canada, Paul Cellucci; the Canadian ambassador to the U.S., Michael Kergin; as well as Governor Knowles from Alaska and Governor Geringer from Wyoming. The Premiers reviewed progress reports and discussed several issues, including climate change, trade, infrastructure, and health.

I am happy to report that the NWT made significant progress by forwarding its position in support of the Kyoto Protocol on climate change. The Premier reiterated the position that I previously put forward at the Joint Meeting of Energy and Environment Ministers on May 21, 2002, that the Northwest Territories supports the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol while recognizing that all provinces and territories will have to work hard to do their part to reduce emissions over time.

National consultations on the Kyoto Protocol led by the federal government are taking place all across Canada with engaged stakeholders and will be in Yellowknife on June 13th. Municipalities, industry, environmental organizations and government, including aboriginal and territorial governments, are expected to participate.

During their discussion of Canada-U.S. trade issues, Premiers talked about U.S. agricultural subsidies, the recent softwood lumber decision and energy. The Premier spoke out against the U.S. Senate energy bill because it would guarantee a floor price for Alaskan gas. Such a subsidy would work to strand Mackenzie Delta gas and would have a negative impact on all other Canadian gas producers.

The Premier made a convincing argument about the parallels between U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber, agricultural subsidies for American farmers and setting a subsidized floor price for natural gas. I am pleased to say that Premier Kakfwi got excellent media coverage, which is evidence that the Northwest Territories was successful in stating our interests and participating actively in the conference.

Working with our neighbours in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories called for economic development funding for the Territories. We managed to get agreement from all Premiers that the federal government should begin discussions with all three territories to determine how current and future federal programming can best meet the economic and diversification needs of northern people.

Premier Kakfwi, together with Premiers Okalik and Duncan, managed to gain the support of fellow Premiers to collectively urge the federal government to fulfill its fiduciary responsibility to provide health care to aboriginal people, regardless of whether they reside on or off reserve. They also noted that that health status of aboriginal people continues to lag behind that of non-aboriginal residents, which is unacceptable.

In

summary, the Western Premiers' Conference was a success for the Northwest Territories and placed us in an excellent position to continue discussions on energy and climate change at the upcoming Annual Premiers' Conference in Halifax this summer. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 43-14(5): Western Premiers' Conference

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 696

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Mahsi, Mr. Antoine . Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Finance, Mr. Handley .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 44-14(5): Corporate Income Tax Changes

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 696

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, one of the goals this Legislature set for itself two years ago was the creation of a healthy and diversified economy. We wanted to see more businesses starting up and more businesses locating in the Northwest Territories. To keep our economy healthy, and to encourage businesses to grow and to create jobs, our tax regime must be competitive.

The Northwest Territories has long maintained a very competitive tax environment, with both personal and corporate tax rates among the lowest in Canada. These competitive rates have helped us attract individuals and businesses to the North. In fact, our competitive corporate tax rates have, in the last two years, resulted in several large revenue gains. These corporate tax revenues have allowed this government to make important investments in programs and infrastructure that would not otherwise have been possible.

Recently, however, a number of provinces and territories have announced significant reductions in their personal and corporate income tax rates. These changes have reduced the NWT's overall competitiveness.

In the Budget Address last February, I announced changes to the personal income tax system that lowered taxes for all NWT residents. Effective this July, NWT taxpayers will see these changes reflected in their payroll deductions.

I also indicated in February that this government would be monitoring the changes made by other provinces and territories in order to keep our tax structure competitive. Our position, relative to other jurisdictions, could have negative effects on our tax base, as companies look to do business where the tax climate is most favourable. Even existing businesses may re-examine their corporate structures to minimize their tax liability.

Mr. Speaker, I am announcing today our government's intention to make changes to the NWT corporate income tax regime. If the Legislative Assembly agrees, effective July 1, 2002:

The general corporate income tax rate will be reduced from 14 percent to 12 percent, that is a reduction of 14 percent in tax payable; and

The "small business" rate, that is, the rate applicable to the first $200,000 in income of Canadian-controlled private corporations, will be reduced from 5 percent to 4 percent. This represents a reduction of 20 percent in the small business tax rate.

The legislation required to enact these changes will be introduced later this session. We will be looking for an early indication of Members' response to this proposed change, in order to be able to confirm the effective date with the federal government, who administer the corporate income tax on our behalf.

These changes will send a message, Mr. Speaker, that the Northwest Territories welcomes businesses that want to locate here, to create jobs here, and to contribute to our bright economic future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 44-14(5): Corporate Income Tax Changes

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 696

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Handley . Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Deputy Premier , Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 45-14(5): Ministers Absent From The House

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 696

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi will be absent from the House for today, tomorrow and Thursday to attend meetings in Ottawa regarding the Federal Infrastructure Program funding.

Also, Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that, regrettably, the Honourable Jake Ootes will be absent from the House for the duration of this sitting. As you are aware, Minister Ootes is currently recuperating from coronary bypass surgery. His doctors have termed the surgery successful, are pleased with his progress and have placed him on a cardiac recovery program. I would also like to pass along a sincere thank you from Mr. Ootes to the medical staff for their excellent care and to all those who sent flowers, get well cards, personal notes and books.

As well, I would like to extend his appreciation to all those who came to visit him in the hospital, but especially to his wife, Margaret, and son, Luke, for all their personal care, concern and love. On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I would like to wish Mr. Ootes a speedy recovery.

Finally, I would like to advise the House that the Honourable Joe Handley will be acting Minister of Education, Culture and Employment until Mr. Ootes is fully able to return to his duties. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 45-14(5): Ministers Absent From The House

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 696

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Mahsi, Mr. Antoine . Indeed, the House wishes Mr. Ootes a speedy recovery. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Hay River North , Mr. Delorey .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Selective Application Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 696

Paul Delorey

Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to be back in this House with yourself and the rest of my colleagues as we continue the Fifth Session of this 14th Legislative Assembly. Mr. Speaker, I had planned to make a statement full of good news and events that have taken place in Hay River. However, because of a situation that is unfolding as we speak, I feel it is imperative that I voice my concerns.

The issue I am referring to, Mr. Speaker, is the Business Incentive Policy and this government's intentions of cancelling the BIP in order to bring the construction costs of the correctional centre here in Yellowknife in line with projected estimates.

Mr. Speaker, I am not going to say that there are no problems with the BIP policy or that changes are not necessary. I might go as far as to say, Mr. Speaker, that the time may have come to do away with the BIP. The problem that I have with this situation is process.

This government should have learned by now that when they make decisions in isolation, with no input from impacted groups or all Members of this House, then they are guaranteed to receive nothing but a negative response from all concerned.

It is very frustrating, Mr. Speaker, when as a Member of this government, I get questioned about a major decision that has been made on such a big issue as cancelling the BIP and the people who are asking the questions know more about it than I do, simply because I happened to miss a radio news broadcast.

There are many reasons as to why this project's costs are in a runaway mode. Mr. Speaker, it is time to look at how this project was designed from day one and why the decision was made to build it in Yellowknife. It certainly was not from a cost-saving point of view. In my mind, it is another indication that the vacuum was in full operation.

It has been mentioned by some, Mr. Speaker, that living conditions for inmates in this facility will be far more glamorous than what most of our law-abiding citizens can afford. It will be full of recreational equipment that most of our communities can only dream about. Mr. Speaker, there is far more wrong with this project than what cancelling the BIP can rectify. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I say this is not the time to cancel the BIP.

I suggest, Mr. Speaker, that if there are huge problems with this project, then maybe the government should get rid of the project manager and take control of this project and use the same approach that the Minister of Education used in Hay River when we tried to get changes made to the Princess Alexandra School project to better meet the needs of the community. His answer, Mr. Speaker, "You can make all the changes you want, but there is no more money." Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and happy birthday to you.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Selective Application Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 697

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

I knew there was a reason I let you run over your time, Mr. Delorey . Thank you, Mr. Delorey . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 697

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, since this government, without any notice or consultation with the Members from this side of this House, unilaterally decided to suspend the BIP policy on the construction of the new jail in Yellowknife, we have been inundated with phone calls and letters from an outraged public. The general consensus is that this decision seems to have been a simple knee-jerk reaction to a very complex problem, which will not do much to address the cost overrun, but add many more serious problems in the process.

Mr. Speaker, I want to make it very clear that this government must avoid further damage and embarrassment, reverse this decision immediately and work with the industry representatives to find better ways out of this situation.

Mr. Speaker, it is very difficult to understand what the rationale of this decision is. I have to wonder what kind of debate Cabinet went through when making this decision. I wonder if Cabinet really thought about the wide implications of this decision. Have they thought about the damage and the message they are sending, Mr. Speaker?

Mr. Speaker, this government, from the Premier on down, has spent the last number of years convincing mega resource companies that they must engage in northern hiring and northern purchasing because it has been saying it is good for the North and we want to maximize the benefits that resource development will give to our people. The companies have agreed to do impact benefit agreements on this basis even though, Mr. Speaker, in many cases, this drives the cost of doing business in the North.

They have had little choice but to comply with the government's position, but apparently, this is not the principle the government has to live under. With this BIP flip-flop, how can this government expect to have any legitimacy anymore to take this position, Mr. Speaker? How can it have the moral ground to ask for this from the industry after this decision?

Mr. Speaker, we are all aware that the economy is on a high and there are not as many bidders on some of these contracts, but these times come in between very lean times. We know this is how our economy works. It has a lot of ups and downs and we should not lose sight of that. Our northern contractors maintain their businesses and keep their employees in the North through these lean times while waiting for the boom times. Could the government not come up with better ways to deal with this situation other than exempting themselves?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 697

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Your time is up, Ms. Lee . Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 697

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

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

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 697

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Ms. Lee . The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude her Member's statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays, Ms. Lee . You may conclude your statement.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 697

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, could the government not have come up with better ways to address this situation?

My last important point that I want to make is that this decision violates a very fundamental principle that we are supposed to live by in our society. No one, especially the government, should be above the law. We all have to follow the rules we set for ourselves. This is why we are here. If some rules do not work, we work to change them by building consensus and setting priorities. No one is free to declare itself exempt because it is inconvenient or costs more money or whatever. That is simply absurd and should not be tolerated, Mr. Speaker. I urge the government to reverse this decision immediately. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 698

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Ms. Lee . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Deh Cho , Mr. McLeod .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Forest Management Education Programs

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 698

Michael McLeod

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, youth involvement in the management of Northwest Territories forests is an issue that merits some attention. The forests of the Northwest Territories have sustained First Nations for thousands of years. They have fed, sheltered, clothed, transported and healed them. The transmission of knowledge about the land is the responsibility of the elders and the teaching begins when one is very young.

The youth learned how to live and care for the forest. The Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development has expended some forest fire management dollars in the past to deliver fire ecology camps in some regions. Mr. Speaker, I believe that five such camps were run in the Northwest Territories last summer. The purposes of the camps, Mr. Speaker, appears to be to get the youth involved in seeing the effects of fire on the forest.

The camps ran ten days in duration and involved ten to 15 youth from selected communities, and usually they are from the same communities year after year. There does not seem to be any opportunity for the youth from my constituency to be involved in forest management education programs of this nature.

Mr. Speaker, while it is good to know that some interest is being paid to the issue of youth involvement and development by the department, I would encourage the government to look further than the current program. I have learned about the existence of an Aboriginal Junior Forest Ranger Program that was developed in Ontario by First Nations and the National Aboriginal Forestry Association. The program is designed to develop leadership skills and to introduce youth to career opportunities in forest management. There are other youth corps-type programs in Canada that allow youth to gain exposure and experience through work practicum in forestry and environmental management.

Mr. Speaker, I would encourage this government to look at all options for providing youth programming and to ensure that all youth in the Northwest Territories gain an equal opportunity to participate in working, learning and caring for the forests.

Mr. Speaker, I will be asking questions to the Minister of RWED during question period. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Forest Management Education Programs

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 698

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. McLeod . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Strategic Infrastructure Funding Proposal Meetings In Ottawa

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 698

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. At the invitation of the Minister of Finance , I had the opportunity to join Mr. Handley May 22nd and 23rd to visit Ottawa to pitch for the GNWT Strategic Infrastructure Proposal.

Sometimes we wonder about the value of Ministers traipsing off to Ottawa, but the reality is that, along with all other jurisdictions in Canada, we have to get ourselves in line to compete for federal finance dollars. We are handicapped here in the NWT with our small population and we are a bit of a question mark with the power elite and mandarins of Ottawa.

How we can get their attention though, Mr. Speaker, is to highlight the impact on the national economy of what we have going on here in the NWT. How does northern development affect the constituents and the economies in Alberta and Ontario? The major objective of the meetings that we had was to brief federal Ministers on this infrastructure proposal. It is a $240 million plan to advance the Mackenzie River bridge, to build better ice roads into the Mackenzie Valley and into the diamond corridor.

The message that we took to Ottawa, among other things, was that over 20 years, the work going on here in the NWT could contribute $65 billion to the country's gross domestic product. It could create 270,000 person years of employment and add $17 billion in royalties and taxes.

We met with seven Cabinet Ministers and the chair of the Liberal Caucus Economic Development Committee, Mr. Tony Valeri, and Eddie Goldenberg, the senior policy advisor to the Prime Minister.

Mr. Speaker, we need to work continuously to raise our profile in Ottawa and keep our agenda alive. We need to illustrate the benefits of our development for the rest of Canada and there needs to be a consistent message and a common agenda pursued by this government. Today and tomorrow, we know that the Premier and our colleagues, Mr. Dent and Mr. Krutko , are in Ottawa to help deliver that message to other Ministers. We need to stay on that federal radar screen and I encourage the Premier and the Ministers to continue their visits and to continue taking Regular Members along.

It is one of the strengths of consensus government and it needs the backing of all the governments and leaders in this tremendously exciting time here in the NWT.

I look forward, Mr. Speaker, to the word that will come along, I am sure, that we will be seeing that $133 million from Ottawa that will make such a difference to Canada. Happy birthday.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Strategic Infrastructure Funding Proposal Meetings In Ottawa

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 698

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for North Slave , Mr. Lafferty .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Commenting On Consensus Government

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 698

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about consensus government. In April, I was in Ottawa, where I proudly explained our unique governing system to MLAs and aboriginal leaders from across the country. As one of only two consensus governments in Canada, we have a political system that is distinct from the more common party politics. The absence of party structures allows each Member to vote as he or she wishes on any subject matter. Approval of any decision requires agreement by the majority of Members. This is consensus government.

When we are first elected from our constituencies, we come to the Legislature and we choose a Speaker from amongst ourselves. We also choose our Premier and six Cabinet Ministers. Members, such as myself who are not in Cabinet, are referred to as Regular Members. I would like to point out that in our Legislature, Cabinet consists of only seven of the 19 Members. Since Cabinet is a minority, the 11 Regular Members can have a big impact on many of the decisions and the direction of the government.

While I was in Ottawa, I was proud to explain our system. I even stated how effectively it worked. When I returned, I became aware that, behind closed doors, Cabinet was making decisions that excluded my riding in major plans.

The reality is that Cabinet, which is a minority, is creating strategies and documents without including all MLAs. Cabinet picks and chooses which projects it wishes to develop. Regular Members become aware of the government's agenda by listening to the radio or reading the local paper. We are not part of the process.

When we came together as a government in January 2000, one of our first tasks was to create a working agenda for our term. The result was a document called Towards a Better Tomorrow. This document that all 19 Members created is being used as a blank cheque by Cabinet -- a minority of seven Members -- to fund whatever projects they want. This was not the intention of Members or the purpose for what the document, Towards a Better Tomorrow, was created for. I think we are doing both this document and consensus government a great deal of disservice by not actively involving all Members in the decision-making process.

Mr. Speaker, I was elected as a Member of a consensus government. I am beginning to wonder when we will be practicing consensus government. If we do...

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Commenting On Consensus Government

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Mr. Lafferty , your time is up. Mr. Lafferty .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Commenting On Consensus Government

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

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

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Commenting On Consensus Government

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his Member's statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Lafferty , please continue.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Commenting On Consensus Government

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I was elected as a Member of a consensus government. I am beginning to wonder when we will be practicing consensus government. If we do, then I can proudly say that I am a Member of a consensus government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Commenting On Consensus Government

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Thebacha , Mr. Miltenberger .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Western Arctic Leadership Program Fundraiser

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would just like to acknowledge a community event that took place this last weekend, the Annual Aurora Open, which is hosted by Aurora College and the Town of Fort Smith.

We had two fine days. It was not only the fact that we had over 100 golfers from all over the South Slave and North Slave golfing, but through this event we managed to raise $5,000 that we were able to contribute to the Western Arctic Leadership Program to assist them in their efforts to keep the program going.

I would just like to recognize the very hard work of the Aurora College staff, the president, Maurice Evans, Kerry Robinson, Tim Gauthier, and Michaela Miltenberger, who put in a lot of time. Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, this event would not have been possible without the strong corporate support from Diavik, BHP, NorthwesTel, NTPC, Enbridge, Imperial Oil/Midnight Petroleum, Canadian North, Northwestern Air Lease and Kaeser's.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank everybody who was involved, thank all the golfers who came to take advantage of the opportunity and I look forward to seeing everybody again next year. Thank you.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Western Arctic Leadership Program Fundraiser

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Mahsi, Mr. Miltenberger . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Inuvik Boot Lake , Mr. Roland .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Safe Travel On NWT Waterways

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 699

Floyd Roland

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, springtime in the Delta is a time that people look forward to and prepare for as the summer season comes upon us. At this time, Mr. Speaker, many of the residents from the community I represent have started putting their boats into the water, taking advantage of the waterways and going out to their camps in the Delta.

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, this spring we had an event in the community that brought much sadness to the community, the passing of a young man who has a young family. We had a drowning that occurred while the ice was still in the river, melting away. It brings us to this time when we must once again tell our constituents and residents that we must be safe, Mr. Speaker, that we must take appropriate action and be careful when we are preparing to travel on the land and travel between communities at this time of year.

As much activity goes on as people prepare to go to their fish camps and the summer camps for the season, I would just like to urge the constituents and residents of the Territory to be extra careful and be safe this year, Mr. Speaker, so we do not have the unfortunate incidents of any drownings and people going missing and leaving family members behind. I think we need to again encourage, as we have year-by-year, people to be safe on the waters and be wise, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Safe Travel On NWT Waterways

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Roland . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Nitah .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Summary Of Intersessional Activities

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

Steven Nitah

Tu Nedhe

Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome everybody back to Yellowknife. I look forward to a busy few days of discussions on the challenges that face us here in the Northwest Territories. We have heard today a lesson on consensus government, how government is supposed to be working. We have heard about the exciting prospects that we have in non-renewable resource development in our relationship with governments in the Northwest Territories and Canada.

I have had an opportunity since our last session, Mr. Speaker, to travel to many communities as chair of the special committee reviewing the Official Languages Act. When you travel to these communities, you do not really discuss the official languages. You discuss the challenges, concerns and issues faced by people in their communities in the Northwest Territories.

In the last session, I spent a lot of time on housing issues, on education, on renewable and non-renewable resource development, on government systems and the kind of programs and services we should be delivering here in the Northwest Territories.

I am more convinced, talking to people, that we are not doing a good job at delivering programs and services and providing an opportunity to people at the community level, Mr. Speaker. They still are lagging behind in housing, in education. We are still the highest users of our social programs. How can we change things here so we can provide better programs and services, provide better infrastructure so that our people can stay at the community level, Mr. Speaker?

You know, after this session and coming into the fall session, it is probably our last real chance to make some significant changes to how we deliver programs and policies that will see better results at the end of the day. After that, it is into election mode. I would like to spend this next ten days seeing which direction our social programs delivery is taking and what the Ministers responsible are thinking in that area. I will be starting with questions to Mr. Allen , as Minister responsible for Housing . I thank you and happy birthday, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Summary Of Intersessional Activities

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Mahsi, Mr. Nitah . Thank you. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes , Mr. Allen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Recognition Of Inuvik Speedskaters

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

Roger Allen

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In my Member's statement today, I would like to acknowledge the achievements of two young athletes from my riding who participated in the recent Arctic Winter Games in Iqaluit in March of this year.

Mr. Speaker, it is extremely important to recognize two young speedskaters from the riding of Inuvik Twin Lakes, who not only excelled in the Arctic Winter Games, but who, along with their team members, won the Sport North Team of the Year Award. I have been advised that this team brought home 26 medals in total from the games in speedskating.

Mr. Speaker, what makes this so special for these two young speedskaters from Inuvik is that this was the first time for any Inuvik speedskaters to attend a sporting event such as this. It is worth mentioning that the Inuvik Speedskating Club has been in operation for only four years.

Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I would like to personally congratulate Miss Alyssa Carpenter and Chris Lennie for an achievement well deserved. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Recognition Of Inuvik Speedskaters

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Allen . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Hay River South , Mrs. Groenewegen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

NWT Track And Field Championships In Hay River

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

Jane Groenewegen

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, once again, from June 5th to June 7th, Hay River hosted the Territorial Track and Field Championships. It was an exciting time again, starting with the opening ceremonies. Some schools who had never participated before were there, proudly parading into the arena under the banner of their schools. Appropriately, the previous chair and huge supporter of the championships, Mr. Guy Turvey, and his granddaughter brought in the torch and lit the flame. Over 1,000 athletes participated, accompanied by many coaches, parents and volunteers.

The local host committee of volunteers again did an outstanding job of making the logistics of preparing the grounds, coordinating the events, feeding the athletes and spectators, recording the results and much more look simple, but we know how much effort goes on in advance and we thank them for that.

Longstanding records were broken. Some folks had a slightly extended stay in Hay River due to ice stopping the Merv Hardie's operation for a few days, but we hope that they enjoyed that stay in Hay River and had a good time anyway. The cool breeze off Great Slave Lake presented some challenges to staying warm, but on the good side, we had no mosquitoes and no heat stroke.

The mayor of Hay River, Duncan McNeill, was on hand helping out with the activities and watching the students do the high jump. He momentarily forgot himself and tried to jump a chain link fence and unfortunately injured himself. I cannot give you any more detail than that, but we hope he has recovered.

I would also like to thank Minister Steen for offering the opportunity for other Members of this Legislature to attend, although this year, schedules did not permit MLAs to attend this territorial event. However, if the Minister allows, we will take a rain check on this generous support for next year's championships.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would just like to again say congratulations to all the athletes and the organizing committee in Hay River, and happy birthday, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

NWT Track And Field Championships In Hay River

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 700

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

I have to remind the Member, only one subject...

-- Laughter

...but thank you, anyway. Item 3, Members' statements. Are there any further Members' statements? Item 4, returns to oral questions. The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Handley .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 95-14(5): High School Graduation Requirements

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 701

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a Return to Oral Question asked by Mr. Bell on February 27, 2002 regarding high school graduation requirements.

Mr. Bell asked if students have to pass Alberta exams to graduate.

For grade 12 courses where diploma exams are written, Mr. Bell 's understanding is correct. The final mark in a course is a blend, 50 percent assigned by the teacher based usually on various assignment criteria determined by the teacher, such as assignments and class tests, and 50 percent of the mark comes from the diploma exam results.

In some circumstances, for example, when new courses are piloted, the weighting for the diploma exam may be reduced. For example, this year, for the new applied math course, the teacher determined part of the mark will count for 80 percent of the final mark and the diploma exam score will count for 20 percent of the final mark.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 95-14(5): High School Graduation Requirements

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 701

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes , Mr. Allen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

Roger Allen

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It gives me a distinct pleasure today to recognize my constituency assistant from Inuvik Twin Lakes, Mr. John Banksland, who I understand is also an old schoolmate of yours. Kindly help me welcome Mr. Banksland.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Allen . Welcome, Mr. Banksland. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Weledeh , Mr. Handley .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

Joe Handley

Weledeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It gives me great pleasure today to recognize Captain Karen Hoeft from the Salvation Army. Karen is one of our hardest working volunteers in the city. As well, with Karen are her parents, who are visiting from Regina, Saskatchewan, Bill and Gertie McFarlane. Thank you.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Handley . Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome to the gallery Hilary Jones, who is the managing director of the Arslanian Diamond Cutting Works here in Yellowknife, and the operations manager at Arslanian, Mr. Sargis Gyulinyan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome everybody in the gallery, but especially, I would like to recognize two very special people. One being Mrs. Speaker, Mrs. Elaine Whitford, who I understand celebrated her 60th birthday yesterday. Another special person in the House, who is arguably most respected, most liked and who continues to be most senior, but not with the most grey hair, you, Mr. Speaker. Happy 61st birthday.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Colleagues, at this time, I take great pleasure in recognizing in the gallery my wife, Elaine, and our two sons, Blair and Ian. Blair lives in Calgary and is visiting.

-- Applause

In addition to that, colleagues, bear with me a moment, we also have visiting us at our home from Perth, Australia, Hannah Edwards; from London, England, we have Mike Ormerod; we also have Sheldon Pearson from Edmonton; Rob Engle from Edmonton; and Jim Le Cleir from Grande Prairie. We have the house full. Welcome to the Legislative Assembly.

-- Applause

Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Thebacha , Mr. Miltenberger .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Ms. Youngblut, the executive director for the NWT Seniors' Society. With her is Mr. Ed Jeske, an esteemed senior in his own right. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 701

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Any further public recognitions? I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for coming to your Legislative Assembly and paying us that honour. Item 6, oral questions. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Nitah .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 701

Steven Nitah

Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, one of the biggest challenges to people in the Northwest Territories in the face of development, not only in the capital and regional centres, but more importantly in the smaller communities, Mr. Speaker, is housing. The Housing Corporation has different programs that see anywhere between two to eight houses built in the community, if they are lucky, Mr. Speaker. Two to eight houses in a given year does not compensate for the great need for housing.

I would like to ask the Minister, has the Housing Corporation done a survey or a study to determine the core need communities in the Northwest Territories? Maybe he could list off the top ten, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The honourable Minister responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation, Mr. Allen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Roger Allen

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just to put some

preamble to my answers, we are trying to balance a number of programs that would complement the rising need for social housing in the Northwest Territories. It also requires a combined issue of homelessness versus those who are in core need. We have established, in our recent survey, six communities that are designated as core need. We are still trying to develop a policy around those communities so that we can come back and enhance some of that funding to meet those immediate needs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. Nitah .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Steven Nitah

Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the six communities that were identified as core need, would the Minister be able to tell us in the House which six communities he is referring to? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The honourable Minister responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation, Mr. Allen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Roger Allen

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do not have the names of the communities at the moment. As I mentioned earlier, we are still drafting up some responses to those specific community needs. I will reply back to the Member as soon as I can. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. Nitah .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Steven Nitah

Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the commitment from the Minister. Mr. Speaker, in Yellowknife and Inuvik, there was a great shift of housing and there was a big grab at it. Within a year-and-a-half, we have seen all this housing development. I would like to ask the Minister, when can we expect any kind of progress or action in the six communities the Housing Corporation designated as core need? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The honourable Minister responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation, Mr. Allen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Roger Allen

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, just to add to my reply, in the major centres, most of the development for housing is done by the private sector. We are responding as fast as we can to those who are in core need through the Affordable Housing Strategy. As I said earlier, it has taken a bit of time to finalize our policy and also to amend certain policies to meet those increasing demands. I am prepared to push this as fast as I can and respond to the Member and also the Members of the House. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Final supplementary, Mr. Nitah .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Steven Nitah

Tu Nedhe

Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the people in the communities wait for the Housing Corporation to make some kind of move, they do not have any place to live, so they move to Yellowknife or Inuvik, the regional centres, creating a demand in those centres. The efforts and energies of the corporation seem to be at that level. I encourage the Minister to do this as quickly as possible. Can he give us an indication of what kind of programs or what types of programs the Minister is thinking about right now? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The honourable Minister responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation, Mr. Allen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Roger Allen

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, the fundamental shift is more towards assisting the communities make a transition, a transformation to self-reliance. Through that process, we are developing what we call a universal partnership agreement. Hopefully, the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation will eventually be looked at as being a funding agency and allow the communities to determine what their needs are, and then we can facilitate some development in the smaller communities with our assistance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Question 224-14(5): Critical Social Housing Needs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 6, oral questions. The honourable Member for Deh Cho , Mr. McLeod .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

Michael McLeod

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is a follow-up to my Member's statement. My question is for the Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development . I would like to ask him, can he tell me how much money was expended by region to deliver the fire ecology camps every summer? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 702

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. McLeod . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the fire program for youth in the regions is a very good program and we will continue to provide it. I do not have the exact details of the breakdown of how much was expended per region. I will get that information for the Member. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. McLeod .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Michael McLeod

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I look forward to those numbers from the Minister. I would like to ask the Minister, as he has indicated that it is a good program, can he tell me if these programs have been evaluated to determine what value the camps are serving and how the evaluations are carried out? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. McLeod . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will also provide that detailed information for the Member. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. McLeod .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Michael McLeod

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask the Minister can he tell me what other options the department has looked at for providing youth in all the communities some opportunity to participate in a youth forestry education program? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. McLeod . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camp Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do not have that information with me. It is more detailed information, so I will try to get that for the Member. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camp Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Final supplementary, Mr. McLeod .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camp Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Michael McLeod

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Minister will be providing me with a considerable amount of information at a later date. I wonder, at least, if he could reassure me that the youth in my constituency will receive equal opportunity to participate in some form of a youth forestry education program this summer and in the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camp Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you. I am not sure if that was a question, but the Minister may respond if he wishes. The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camp Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the fire ecology camp had been established in communities that have expressed interest in it, especially where recent forest fires have happened and where the communities are concerned about the fire.

Youth from a number of different communities, including Fort Providence, have been involved, especially in the International Crown Fire Modelling Experiment that was run out of Fort Providence for the last six years, so there is opportunity for communities to participate.

As well, RWED has developed a forest module which is taught in all schools and is in the curriculum of the school. We are trying to do what we can to provide this information. Like I said, I will provide a listing of activities that are available to youth throughout the whole Northwest Territories, but specifically to the Deh Cho area.

We are familiar with the Aboriginal Youth Forest Ranger Program in Ontario and I think it is an excellent starting point for us in the forestry area of RWED. It is a good place to start programming for our youth so they have an introduction to the forest management of the North. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camp Program

Question 225-14(5): Fire Ecology Camps Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 6, oral questions. The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question this afternoon is for the Minister of Public Works and Services . Ministers and MLAs, for the past several days, have received numerous letters from NWT construction businesses about the government's decision to waive the Business Incentive Policy to avoid cost overruns in phase two of the North Slave Correctional Centre.

Mr. Speaker, my question is, prior to waiving the Business Incentive Policy on this project, what other alternatives were explored in looking at ways to reduce costs on this project? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 703

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the department has had difficulties from day one with this project in that it was fast-tracked, so therefore, it was not the type of project that would have been designed prior to the price being put on the work. All along we have been experiencing difficulties as to how we could possibly keep the project on stream and still keep it in response to the programs that it was supposed to support. We have been going along and designing, so to speak, as we construct. That has been one of the problems with why the project is over budget.

What we have been doing is meeting with the client, the Department of Justice. We have been meeting with our project managers and discussing ways as to how we could possibly reduce the cost of this project, other than suggesting that we leave BIP for the time being. We basically ran out of options.

Short of reducing the scope of work down to where it would no longer be able to serve the purpose, we have also discussed the option of delaying the project for a better time, like say a couple of years from now...

-- Applause

...maybe the market will be better. Unfortunately, it is not an option. We have a basic timeline to get off of the property where our existing facility is and that is because we turned the property over to the new arena and we have a timeline to get off of there. We are very limited as to options.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. Braden .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Indeed, and that is part of the concern all across the NWT about this policy and this project. The NWT Construction Association has shown a lot of leadership in this. They have come up with a couple of alternatives. Mr. Speaker, will the Minister commit to meet with northern builders and constructors, with the association, to look at these alternative methods so that we can achieve this project on time and hopefully on a reasonable budget? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the Member for that suggestion. We already have a plan in place for a meeting. I believe it is on the 13th at eleven o'clock in the morning, to meet with that NWT Construction Association and discuss this whole ruling of the BIP for this project.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. Braden .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the government and the people involved in the Construction Association for taking the initiative, but on the Cabinet decision to move off BIP on this one project, what message is the government sending to other builders and other stakeholders in the North's economy, Mr. Speaker, the mining and petroleum industry? What is the message that we are sending when we waive our own policies meant to encourage northern buying? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, l do not know if I can speak directly to that question, but Public Works' intent was to broaden the field of competition. Rather than having just one or two bids come in, we were hoping that we would receive a number of bids from down south.

I am told that over the past number of years, we have been receiving less and less bids from down south. People are not even bothering to bid anymore, whereby in the past, they used to at least try. We think we are opening the field where competition will be larger and we will get better prices.

We are not only experiencing the problem in Yellowknife. We are experiencing a similar problem wherever there is a boom in the construction industry. It may be related to non-renewable resource activity. In Inuvik, for instance, we are also experiencing the same type of difficulties as we are in Yellowknife, in that many of our projects are going over and above budget.

Mr. Speaker, Public Works has been told by this Assembly and by the committee on a number of occasions when presenting our budgets and presenting our business plans and also when the supplementaries come forward, we have been asked if we have tried all options before we come forward with the supplementary request. Well, that is what we are doing. We are trying all options. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

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

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Mr. Speaker, all options should be before all of us at all times, but the Cabinet's decision to cherry-pick this one project to move off BIP is unacceptable. Will the Minister restore the Business Incentive Policy to this project? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, if I heard the question properly, the Member is asking me if I will ensure the Business Incentive Policy will apply to this project?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Steen . I will just ask Mr. Braden to re-ask the question. I think it was shorter than that. Mr. Braden .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 704

Bill Braden

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question was, will the Minister restore the Business Incentive Policy to this project? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Braden . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, at this point in time, I cannot give the Member that commitment. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Question 226-14(5): Reducing North Slave Correctional Project Costs

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 6, oral questions. The honourable Member for North Slave , Mr. Lafferty .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Deputy Premier , the Honourable Jim Antoine . In documents the Legislative Assembly gives to the public on our unique system of governance, it states that any decision made in consensus government involves approval by the majority of Members. This is the definition of consensus government and the way we should be operating as the Legislative Assembly.

I would like to ask the Minister, when will Cabinet involve all 19 Members in the decision-making process to ensure that we are a consensus government? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . The honourable Deputy Premier , Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this government, generally and overall since the beginning of this Legislative Assembly, has tried very hard to involve all Members in making the major decisions. I think that we have done fairly well. We have gotten this far, over halfway through our term with a lot of work together on a lot of issues.

Of course, there are differences of opinions on a lot of different issues and how things should be moving along. I think we have tried everything we could at different times. Perhaps we could have tried a little harder on some of the bigger issues like the tax issues, in trying to get everyone on board. In some instances, things did not work out.

Generally and overall, I think this government has involved the Members as much as we can to try to reach consensus on a lot of the major issues that we are working on today. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Deputy Premier . Supplementary, Mr. Lafferty .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In a short little while, we have had strategies that were put forward by Cabinet; the Highway Strategy, Corridors for Canada, the Hydro Strategy, the Energy Strategy -- all of these were Cabinet initiatives. Cabinet did not come to Regular Members for any input before they did this.

I would like to ask the Deputy Premier , will he ensure that all of the Regular Members are included in the government's decision-making process before a plan is chosen in the future, like the tax? Can the Minister do that?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . The honourable Deputy Premier , Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Certainly, Mr. Speaker. As a government, we need to have latitude to try to develop some plans. As a government, we have a responsibility to make sure that our budget is in place and that we follow it as much as we can for major initiatives that are required up here, especially the infrastructure money; we all need that.

You look at our highways today and they are in dire need of repair. If you travel Highway No. 7 into my region recently, it is all soup. It is very difficult to travel in that area. Major initiatives such as infrastructure, we certainly need to try to find different ways of trying to get additional dollars from the feds.

Taxation is one thing where we as a government have a responsibility to try to get more revenue from the people who make big dollars up here as we can, by the road toll, which is an example of one thing that fell by the wayside. However, certainly I think we are trying everything we can, Mr. Speaker, to include Ordinary Members in all the major decisions. If that is not the case, tell us which area you think we need to be more involved in and we will try to have better communications and closer working relations in those areas. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Antoine . Supplementary, Mr. Lafferty .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Members from the other side know, for two-and-a-half years I have been talking about roads and about the strategies that have been put in place by Cabinet with no input. Whenever the Minister had input from us, we all agreed we did pretty good projects together.

I would like to ask the Deputy Premier if he will ensure that his Ministers will talk with the Regular Members whenever they are doing any projects out there. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . The honourable Deputy Premier , Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 705

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with something like this topic that the honourable Member is talking about, it is certainly very important to have everyone involved. There are a lot of areas where we as a government work with the Ordinary Members through their standing committees to try and have a good government.

There are major initiatives out there that are evolving and we do not know whether we are going to get funding in some areas or not. Certainly, as of this point, we need to work closely together. I will say yes to the Member that we will make sure that the Ministers, whenever they are working on major initiatives, include the Ordinary Members in the decision-making we need to get done. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Deputy Premier . Final supplementary, Mr. Lafferty .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Leon Lafferty

North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask the Deputy Premier if he can ensure that all of his Cabinet Ministers get a briefing on how consensus government works. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Laughter

-- Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . The honourable Deputy Premier , Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Yes. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Question 227-14(5): Achieving Consensus Government

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you for that short answer. Item 6, oral questions. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question goes to the Minister responsible for Public Works regarding the cancellation of the BIP policy. I was listening carefully to answers that the Minister was giving to my colleague, Mr. Braden , and I am still not convinced at all that the cost-benefit analysis of this works to lifting this policy.

Mr. Speaker, could the Minister indicate what evidence he has that shows that the lifting of this policy would result in a reduction in the cost of building this facility? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Ms. Lee . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this is exactly the type of question that we have in our minds as Cabinet Ministers, and the department also. We do not know. We do not know the effect of BIP on our project at this point in time, but we believe that it does have an effect on the economy as a whole. We believe that everything is inflated due to the BIP.

However, we are not putting this forward to test the waters, so to speak. What we are doing is trying to find out if in fact there is a connection between the cost increase on our projects and the BIP. We are aware that other authorities, such as the city, for instance, have been experiencing cost overruns as well, even though they do not have any relation to BIP. We are trying to find out if in fact this is going to result in more bids and better bids. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Return To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with all due respect to the Minister, this sounds so absurd. I wonder if the Minister would just listen to what he is saying. The Cabinet has decided to cancel their own policy, one of the hallmarks of this government, with all its faults, the Business Incentive Policy. They have thrown it out the window and they are reaching in the dark to see if maybe this will save us money, but the Minister is saying to us he does not know that for sure. This is just so absurd.

Why is it so difficult for the department to figure out what the cost of this project is and how much impact BIP has? Why is that so difficult?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Ms. Lee . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Public Works has taken on face value the fact that we were to assume that it was a 20 percent increase on this bid because of BIP. We had automatically assumed that because we believe that people are bidding the 20 percent, knowing that they can bid higher relative to bids coming from down south.

However, we do not know that until we get bids that we can see and then compare. If in fact the bids that we received from down south on this project are the same as the bids, or relatively the same as the bids, we received from the northern contractors, we would then know that BIP has very little effect.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I must say, Mr. Speaker, that is based on very, very unsound presumptions. That is saying that the northern contractors arbitrarily increase their bidding by 20 percent just to inflate the cost. What the Minister is saying is really troubling, Mr. Speaker.

The Minister has already said that for years now, we have not been getting bids from southern Canada. Maybe it has nothing to do with BIP. It has to do with the fact that Alberta, BC and everybody is in full economy -- full, booming economy. Why should Northerners not take advantage of that? Does he understand the unsoundness of his argument, Mr. Speaker?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 706

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

I am not sure of the question. The Chair is uncertain of the question. Ms. Lee , I will give you the opportunity to ask a question. Ms. Lee .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 707

Sandy Lee

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, is the Minister saying that the northern contractors, just out of habit are just arbitrarily increasing their bidding by 20 percent, just for the heck of it? Is that what the Minister is saying?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 707

The Speaker

Tony Whitford

Thank you, Ms. Lee . The honourable Minister responsible for the Department of Public Works and Services, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Question 228-14(5): Suspension Of The Business Incentive Policy

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 707

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not saying that. Mr. Speaker, I was saying that if we take things at face value, we could assume that, but we do not know that. We do not know whether the bids are inflated by 20 per