Budget, Oral Questions, Official Languages Act, Health and Social Services — 9 October 2003 (14th Assembly, 6th Session, pp. 1355–1396)
2003-10-09, 14th Assembly 6th Session, pp. 1355–1396
Northwest Territories — Debates (Hansard)
Debates of Oct. 9th, 2003
This is page numbers 1355 - 1396 of the Hansard for the 14th Assembly, 6th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.
The word of the day was tlicho .
Topics
Members Present
Item 1: Prayer
Effective Behaviour Support
Water Licence Contribution Program
Activities Of The Ministry Of Aboriginal Affairs
Release Of GNWT Response To "a Vision For The Arts In The Nwt"
Minister's Statements 110-14(6): Minister Absent From The House
Education And Training For Northern Resource Development
NWT Housing Corporation Policy On Rental Arrears
Support For Special Needs In NWT Schools
Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Need For A Health Care Facility On The Hay River Reserve
Pursuit Of The Traditional Trapping Lifestyle
Recognition Of The NWT Seniors' Society
Proposed NWT Sports And Recreation Partnership Council
Changes In The Nahendeh Leadership
Committee Report 20-14(6): Final Report On Planning Priorities
introduction
vision And Mission
progress On Committee Priorities
other Activities
oversight And Review Of Public Accounts
conduct The Overview Of The Budget And The Fiscal Framework
other Matters
fiscal Strategy Review
income Assistance And Impact Benefit Agreement Income
consultation On Major Initiatives
ministers' Travel And Absences During Session
theme Days
conclusion
Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 20-14(6)
Item 5: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Education And Training For Resource Development Employment
Community Health Centre
Support For Special Needs In NWT Classrooms
Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
NWT Housing Corporation Policies On Rental Arrears
Declining High School Graduation Rates
Meeting With Federal Justice Minister Cochon
Sale Of Property Proceeds To The Homeless Coalition
Education And Training For Resource Development Employment
Main Street Paving Program
Main Street Paving Program
Written Question 15-14(6): Opportunities For Taltson River Hydro Development
Tabled Document 104-14(6): Response To Petition 6-14(6): Financial Assistance For Students In Aklavik
Tabled Document 105-14(6): GNWT Response To "a Vision For The Arts In The Nwt" - NWT Arts Strategy Action Plan
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Bill 34: Tlicho Land Claims And Self-government Agreement Act
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Bill 22: Waste Reduction And Recovery Act
Bill 24: Midwifery Profession Act
Bill 32: Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 2, 2003-2004
Bill 25: Municipal Statutes Replacement Act
Bill 31:
An Act To Amend The Official Languages Act, No. 3
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Members Present
Honourable Roger Allen , Honourable Jim Antoine , Mr. Bell , Mr. Braden , Mr. Dent , Honourable Stephen Kakfwi , Mr. Krutko , Mr. Lafferty , Ms. Lee , Mr. McLeod , Honourable Michael Miltenberger , Mr. Nitah , Honourable Jake Ootes , Mr. Roland , Honourable Vince Steen , Honourable Tony Whitford
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---Prayer
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Item 1: Prayer
Item 1: Prayer
Page 1355
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Please be seated. Colleagues, before we begin, if you haven't already noticed, we do have a full visitors' gallery today for the very important matters that are before the House. I would like to draw your attention to and welcome Grand Chief Joe Rabesca to the gallery, along with many people from the Dogrib Nation.
The grand chief has also asked me to advise the Members who are here that they have interpreters and there are receivers, so you can hear in Dogrib as well. Because the gallery can only seat so many, there's a television set just outside the gallery for those who have not been able to find a seat. There are also rules that you must abide by. Please no clapping of hands in the gallery and please remove your head gear and no cell phones. The Sergeant-at-Arms will enforce that very strictly. No cell phones, please.
After all of that, welcome.
---Applause
Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Ootes .
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Minister's Statement 106-14(6): Effective Behaviour Support
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1355
Jake Ootes
Yellowknife Centre
Mr. Speaker, schools are more than books and buildings. Schools are places where students, teachers and staff spend much of their time. Schools are places where children should learn and grow and excel. Schools should be welcoming places. Regrettably, this is not so for some children. Taunting, teasing and bullying damages and can traumatize a child. Just a word can compliment, they can also hurt. I'm sure all Members will agree that this sort of damaging behaviour has no place in our schools.
I would like to speak on some actions that educators from across the Northwest Territories are working on to address this issue.
On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, over 100 educators, representing schools from each of the divisional education councils in the NWT, met in Yellowknife to work with Dr. Terry Scott, an internationally-renowned behaviour specialist, to learn about effective behavioral support.
Effective behavioural support is a school-wide system designed to prevent disruptive behaviour by all students, including those who exhibit chronic behaviour problems. EBS is being used in schools throughout Canada and the United States, and since 2001, in a number of schools in the Northwest Territories.
Under the EBS system, teachers provide students clear behavioural expectations, social skill instruction, acknowledgement and corrections. About 90 percent of students respond well to this program, others need additional help and support.
EBS schools have behavioural teams that work with teachers and parents to develop individual action plans for these at-risk students who have repeated behaviour problems. With the school and family working together, the behaviours taught at school can be reinforced at home, providing consistency for the children and support for the families.
Through the EBS system, all staff share responsibility for the behaviour of students in classrooms, as well as in common areas like hallways or the playground.
Mr. Speaker, this system is not a quick fix. It takes three to five years to develop and implement the systems and to see results, but I am pleased to announce, Mr. Speaker, that we are now seeing results.
One example is Mackenzie Mountain School in Norman Wells. Staff members report on the positive behaviours of students and celebrate them through their Gotcha Program. Student behaviour has improved and students feel more content and secure at school. Teachers are proactive and enthusiastic.
We want to build on the current success of EBS in our schools by providing out-of-school support for families and communities through programs like Second-Step Positive Discipline or Restitution, which are also being effectively used.
Schools that have been involved with EBS are in the South Slave, Sahtu and Dehcho divisional boards, Yellowknife Education District No. 1 and Yellowknife Catholic Schools. In addition to teams from these boards, we are pleased that the Dogrib and Beaufort-Delta divisional boards also participated in training this week.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased and proud to bring this positive news to the Assembly. Please join me in acknowledging the efforts of these school teams to make the schools in the Northwest Territories safer, happier, more productive and bully-free. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
----Applause
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Minister's Statement 106-14(6): Effective Behaviour Support
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1355
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Ootes . Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Member for Nunakput , Mr. Steen .
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Minister's Statement 107-14(6): Water Licence Contribution Program
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1355
Vince Steen
Nunakput
Mr. Speaker, our communities face a wide range of challenges each and every day and the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs strives in a number of different ways to support community governments in dealing with these challenges. To this end, I am very pleased to advise Members of this Assembly that Municipal and Community Affairs has established a water licence contribution program to provide assistance to community governments that are going through the process of renewing their water licences.
Requirements for water licence applications have become more rigorous and as a result, community governments are challenged to adequately meet them. We are all keenly aware of the importance of safe water sources and systems in the post-Walkerton world. In order to limit liability, land and water boards are seeking greater assurances regarding the safety of the overall system. This, in turn, results in a requirement for specialized expertise including engineering and technical services.
Several communities that are going through the application renewal process have approached the department to seek assistance and support. Although communities are responsible to budget and plan for all aspects of providing municipal services, the new requirements have in some cases caught communities off guard when their planning has been based on outdated expectations. Municipal and Community Affairs have assisted communities on a case-by-case basis and, at the same time, have recognized that this is the shape of things to come. Many community governments will face the same challenges when their licences come up for renewal and they must go through the new application process.
Therefore, through internal departmental reallocations, Municipal and Community Affairs have established the water licence contribution fund. Community governments can apply for financial support in accordance with the eligibility criteria that are outlined in the department's water licence contribution policy. Community governments are eligible to receive funding under this policy during years when their water licences are up for renewal, and there is a requirement for considerable research and technical work needed in order to meet application requirements.
In addition, community governments will be able to apply when unforeseen measures are required by a regulatory body in order to comply with licence requirements.
Mr. Speaker, this initiative supports the intent of the draft framework for managing drinking water quality in the Northwest Territories, which has been prepared by the departments of Municipal and Community Affairs, Public Works and Services, Health and Social Services and Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that my department is able to provide community government with this additional type of support and I look forward to working with all of our partners to ensure the safety of the water supply for all Northerners. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
----Applause
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Minister's Statement 107-14(6): Water Licence Contribution Program
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1356
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Steen . Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Antoine .
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Minister's Statement 108-14(6): Activities Of The Ministry Of Aboriginal Affairs
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1356
Jim Antoine
Nahendeh
Mr. Speaker, over the last four years, the Government of the Northwest Territories, through the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, has pursued a fast packed and ambitious agenda. I will take this opportunity to highlight the key achievements during the term of the 14th Legislative Assembly.
The mandate of the ministry is to manage and coordinate the participation of the Government of the Northwest Territories in all lands, resources and self-government negotiations. The ministry is also responsible for negotiating and developing implementation plans and providing strategic advice on aboriginal relations at a territorial and national level.
Mr. Speaker, one of the most symbolic achievements of the Legislative Assembly over the last four years was the implementation of legislation that recognizes the special meaning of National Aboriginal Day for the people of the Northwest Territories and establishes June 21st as a statutory holiday in our territory. The Northwest Territories is the first jurisdiction in Canada to take this step. By passing this legislation, we acknowledge the values, traditions, languages and cultures of the Dene, Metis and Inuvialuit that have helped define who we are as Northerners and residents of this territory.
I believe that the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs has maintained this spirit in all its work over the last four years. We have worked closely with aboriginal people and other governments to achieve the vision of the 14th Assembly. We have built mutually respectful and cooperative partnerships with aboriginal governments and we have seen the benefits of investing in these relationships. As well, we have participated in negotiations that resulted in key milestones and sat at several lands, resources and self-government negotiating tables.
Two final agreements and two agreements-in-principle are in place and we have made major progress with negotiations at a number of tables during the last four years. Currently we are negotiating or finalizing agreements with many aboriginal groups. These groups include the Tlicho, the Gwich'in and Inuvialuit, the Deline First Nations, the Deh Cho First Nations, the Akaitcho First Nations, the Northwest Territory Metis Nation and the Manitoba and Saskatchewan Denesuline. We have just begun the process of negotiating a self-government agreement with Tulita.
Mr. Speaker the first final agreement we signed during this Assembly was the Salt River First Nation treaty land entitlement in June 2002. This agreement established the first reserve in the North since the Hay River Reserve. The Salt River First Nation receives over $83 million and reserve land in and around Fort Smith and in Wood Buffalo National Park.
By working in close cooperation with the Aboriginal Summit, we have taken a step closer to the self-sufficiency and prosperity that the transfer of administration and control of public land and resources will bring to our territory.
Mr. Speaker, a framework for the devolution agreement was initialed in July 2003. This is an important step in the process. It demonstrates the parties' agreement on how negotiations will take place, the scope of the negotiations and the target dates. The framework agreement will serve as a roadmap for negotiations. The next step is an agreement-in-principle and the final stage will be the devolution transfer.
Mr. Speaker, the milestones I have just outlined are the major achievements that the Members of the 14th Assembly can be proud of. I am encouraged by the progress we have made over the term of this Assembly, and I look forward to continued progress in the negotiation and implementation of lands, resources and self-government agreements in the Northwest Territories.
In closing, I would like to commend the staff at the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs for their hard work and commitment to achieving the goals set by this Assembly. Mahsi cho.
---Applause
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Minister's Statement 108-14(6): Activities Of The Ministry Of Aboriginal Affairs
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1357
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre , Mr. Ootes .
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Minister's Statement 109-14(6): Release Of GNWT Response To "a Vision For The Arts In The Nwt"
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1357
Jake Ootes
Yellowknife Centre
Mr. Speaker, I am very happy to announce that later today I will be tabling the Government of the Northwest Territories response to the recommendations of the NWT Arts Strategy panel, "A Vision for the Arts in the NWT."
Mr. Speaker, art and artistic expression, in all its forms, enriches our lives and our communities. It is an important part of life, not only socially and culturally, but also economically.
Recognizing this, Education, Culture and Employment and Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development established an NWT Arts Strategy Advisory Panel in 2002. Made up of representatives from the private and public sectors, as well as non-governmental organizations, its mandate was to identify needs, current opportunities and gaps in support to the creative arts and cultural industries.
Mr. Speaker, we must acknowledge the care, time and efforts of the advisory panel. This group managed to hold consultations in every region across the territory. In addition, Mr. Speaker, we must acknowledge the dedication and commitment to each of the panel's co-chairs, Suzan Marie and Sonny MacDonald. It was, I believe, their passion for the arts that ensured the panel's success.
In advance of tabling our response, I would like to highlight the seven themes identified in the panels report: stakeholders partnership; communication and resources; programs and services; raw materials and equipment; markets and marketing; education and training; and, infrastructure.
Our response to this report identifies actions, both planned and taken, by the departments of Education, Culture and Employment and Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. Those already taken include:
• increased support to the NWT Arts Council by doubling the contribution budget to $280,000;
• increased funding to the Support to Northern Performers program by doubling the budget for a total of $71,000;
• the creation of an additional seat on the NWT Arts Council;
• indication of a process to develop a booklet entitled Jobs in Heritage, Culture and the Arts that will provide labour market information to artists seeking opportunities in the arts;
• designation of a headquarters staff person in RWED to focus on arts and crafts development effective September 2003;
• initiated the process to develop an arts merchandising system that will ensure that the art of the territory is recognized for its quality and authenticity; and,
• reviewing resources in preparation for the development of an NWT arts curriculum for kindergarten to Grade 12.
Mr. Speaker, both departments recognize that a lot of work has yet to be done in this area. One of the first steps is the development of a coordinated implementation plan between the two departments.
With the development of a coordinated implementation plan, it is our hope that the already vibrant arts sector in the Northwest Territories can flourish even more through further GNWT action and supports.
Mr. Speaker, the arts will play an increasingly important role in the cultural and economic health of our territory. We are looking forward to being able to further our support and assist artists, craftspeople and the cultural industries as they work in their communities enriching the lives of all residents of the North. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause
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Minister's Statement 109-14(6): Release Of GNWT Response To "a Vision For The Arts In The Nwt"
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1357
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Premier .
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Minister's Statements 110-14(6): Minister Absent From The House
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1357
Stephen Kakfwi
Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that the Honourable Joe Handley will be absent from the House today and tomorrow to attend the federal/provincial/territorial Finance Ministers meeting in Ottawa. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Minister's Statements 110-14(6): Minister Absent From The House
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1357
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Item 2, Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Krutko .
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Education And Training For Northern Resource Development
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
David Krutko
Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We all look around and see all the developments that are happening in the oil and gas sector, the mining sector, the diamond industry and now some $85 million of federal funding to improve our infrastructure in the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, it's important to realize that the biggest challenge we face in the small communities is just trying to achieve the basic minimums of getting those opportunities and taking advantage of the oil and gas sector jobs or maintenance jobs on our highways. We are now looking at the construction of a pipeline. We have to have the people who meet the requirements and qualifications by way of educational training programs.
Mr. Speaker, one thing we seem to strive for is just try to maintain enough dollars to keep our adult education learning centres open, so people can either take upgrading or programs to improve their education levels so they can take advantage of these training programs.
Mr. Speaker, on the pipeline alone, we are looking at almost 2,500 to 2,800 jobs needed to conclude that major project. Mr. Speaker, in the diamond industry, you are looking at many jobs in the mines, yet we continue to have social and economic projects in our communities because of the standard of living we have in our communities. A lot of it is has to do with literacy and people not having the minimums to take the programs out there to give them the tools to be equipment operators, welders and work in maintenance jobs.
As a government, we have to look at ways of using our program dollars with our infrastructure funding that we have to complement the projects that are going to come down the road, so that we have the numbers, we have the people in place to take advantage of those jobs. We are going to need 700 just as heavy equipment operators. Do we have enough bodies out there to fill those jobs? We might not have them today, but in the next three or four years, we could have enough people trained and enough people with their tickets that when this pipeline is built, we have people on the ground to do it.
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
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Education And Training For Northern Resource Development
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Krutko , you may conclude.
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Education And Training For Northern Resource Development
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
David Krutko
Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, as I noted, we need these people trained today, given the opportunity of acquiring their tickets so that when that opportunity is before us we don't hear industry saying sorry, you can't get those jobs, you don't have your people trained, they aren't qualified and we're going to bring in people from the South. We have a real opportunity to take advantage of a pipeline that's going to be built down the Mackenzie Valley by having our people build it, our own people taking advantage of the opportunities and having the people with the skills come from our communities so we don't have to depend on southern labour to do that.
So with that, Mr. Speaker, I will be asking the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment questions on what he's doing to ensure that we have the resources and the dollars in our communities to give these people the training opportunities they need now for these projects coming down the road. Thank you.
---Applause
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Education And Training For Northern Resource Development
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Krutko . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for North Slave , Mr. Lafferty .
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NWT Housing Corporation Policy On Rental Arrears
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
Leon Lafferty
North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation listed the achievements made by this department over the past year. It is true that there have been many worthwhile housing projects that have been worked on and that are still in the works.
In terms of my region, housing concerns continue to be the number one issue. With the development of the mines, employment opportunities are opening up. With these jobs, people are earning good money. However, it is not unusual for people to have outstanding arrears.
If a person is in government housing and is working, 25 percent of their gross paycheque goes to their rent. Mr. Speaker, I'm sure all Members are aware that there is a big difference between gross wages and take-home pay. With 25 percent of the gross wage gone and with the arrears on top of this, the situation is bleak. A class of people known as the working poor is being created. People can't catch up with their debts. As a government, we need to figure out how to help people who are working and who are able to maintain a home, but do not qualify for housing programs because of their arrears.
One suggestion I would like to put forward is that if a person who is working has earned enough money to maintain a home, we should include their present arrears in their mortgage. By doing this, we don't ignore the debt, but it is a chance for people to unload the burden of bad credit into payments they can manage.
Mr. Speaker, it was only last week that the Premier stated that the economy of the Northwest Territories is the envy of the rest of Canada. Let's make sure that the people in the North benefit from this prosperity. Mr. Speaker, this government can help by making sure that its housing policies support the reality of our new North. Thank you very much.
---Applause
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NWT Housing Corporation Policy On Rental Arrears
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Lafferty . Item 3, Members' statement. The honourable Member for Inuvik Boot Lake , Mr. Roland .
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Support For Special Needs In NWT Schools
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1358
Floyd Roland
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to follow on a theme that I started yesterday in the area of Education, Culture and Employment. In the Education Act:
7(1) Every student is entitled to have access to the education program in a regular institutional setting, in a public school or public denominational school in the community in which the student resides.
7(2) An education body shall provide a student with the support services necessary to give effect to subsection (1) in accordance with the direction of the Minister.
Mr. Speaker, I raised the concern about special needs and I will continue to do that today. The Minister stated about this government's work in the area of early childhood development to try to help those young children that will be entering our schools. Mr. Speaker, right now we have in our classrooms many problems existing that need to be addressed and we can't wait for more work to be done or for the new crew of children to come in and take over and replace those as they go through the system. For as much effort that we're putting into the early childhood development, we need to do something with those children in the system today.
Mr. Speaker, I've been made aware by a constituent that her child has difficulty in school and needs a special needs assistant. Right now, through the existing funding and resources at the DEC and DEA level, that's just not available because you don't have more than probably three or four per school and that would be on a good day, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, this family, to get assistance for their son, would have to send him to another jurisdiction to get the speech therapy that he needs. Then he comes back to the North and what is there? Well, right now, unfortunately, in the community of Inuvik there is no backup or support when somebody does come back home. It's needless to say when we send someone out to a southern jurisdiction for help, it shows how much we're lacking in the Northwest Territories.
I'm glad the Minister, in his Minister's statement, talked about effective behaviour support because this sounds like it might be an area we can investigate further. Based on his statement and my concerns, I will have questions for the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment later. Thank you.
---Applause
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Support For Special Needs In NWT Schools
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Roland . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Frame Lake , Mr. Dent .
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Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in Yellowknife our emergency shelters for homeless people are full to overflowing. Single men, women and families have nowhere to go. They end up in the streets or in overcrowded shelters.
For example, Mr. Speaker, the Salvation Army receives funding to operate 20 beds for single men, but on any given night there are more than 40 individuals staying in the shelter. These numbers continue to increase.
The Yellowknife Northern Family Resource Centre, which was formerly the Women's Centre, generally accommodates more than twice the number of single women they are funded for. Mr. Speaker, these women are sleeping on couches and mattresses on the floor.
The YWCA operates emergency housing for families and they have a waiting list as long as my arm.
Mr. Speaker, the situation is getting worse and worse. The community agencies involved in helping homeless people are doing their very best. In fact, they are doing way more than should be expected.
In an attempt to keep families together and, quite frankly, to keep people from dying on the streets, they are spending way more than they are given by this government. Last month, the Salvation Army paid to put two homeless families up in a hotel. The government workers had suggested that the mother go to the Women's Centre, the man stay at the Salvation Army shelter and that the kids be put in foster care.
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Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
An Hon. Member
Shame.
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Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
That's shameful. Rather than see the family split up and the kids put in care, the Salvation Army paid for the hotel out of their own pockets. There's no reimbursement coming from the government for that expense.
Mr. Speaker, it may not cost as much to put kids in care as to put a family in a hotel, but is it the right thing to do? I've heard more than one Minister in this government say that we need to make supporting families a priority, but with actions like this do they really mean it?
Mr. Speaker, we need more flexibility to deal with this crisis situation. The homelessness coalition has tried to get Education, Culture and Employment to change its policy to allow for families to stay in hotels at a discounted rate when there is no alternative. But the policy has not changed and instead of keeping families together and preventing even more trauma, another department of this government is spending money to put children from homeless families in care. We then pay for the cost of putting these families or trying to put these families back together. That's ludicrous.
Mr. Speaker, if the departments would work together, we could probably serve more people without a huge increase in cost.
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
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Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you. The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays, Mr. Dent . You may conclude your statement.
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Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, honourable Members. Mr. Speaker, in June of this year I asked the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment to meet with the emergency shelter operators to discuss the critical situation they were facing. He said he would be most pleased to meet and thought it would be very worthwhile. Mr. Speaker, it's now the middle of October and no meeting has yet taken place.
Mr. Speaker, shelters are overflowing, children are being put into an already overburdened foster care system, charitable agencies are spending their own money to provide government services and winter is coming. What is it going to take to get some action to make sure someone doesn't die on the streets this year? Thank you.
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Need For Emergency Shelters In Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Dent . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Deh Cho , Mr. McLeod .
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Need For A Health Care Facility On The Hay River Reserve
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1359
Michael McLeod
Deh Cho
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health and Social Services has defined their purpose as follows: "To promote, protect and provide for the health and well-being of the people of the Northwest Territories." From this purpose we can assume that all the residents of the Northwest Territories can expect a certain level of health care and access to the various services and that all communities can expect a certain level of infrastructure to deliver such services.
Mr. Speaker, in reviewing the 20-year needs assessment I found that the health centre once identified for the Hay River Reserve has been eliminated. I understand and recognize the need for fiscal restraints, however, residents of the Hay River Reserve who require health services are now forced to travel to Hay River to obtain health services. This can be very difficult for many of the residents, especially for the very young children and the elderly, in the case of emergencies.
The addition of a health care facility on the Hay River Reserve will not only provide the residents with timely access to health services, it will provide the community with health care professionals that will be closer to the community, thus creating a greater understanding of community health issues. It will allow for easier distribution of health information and will allow for effective communication with the hospital staff in Hay River. It will also improve community infrastructure and build community capacity.
Mr. Speaker, the need for the health centre is an issue that has been ongoing and one that requires an innovative approach if it is to be realized. An option that has been proposed by the chief of the K'atlodeeche First Nation would result in the band council constructing a building that could be leased back to the Government of the Northwest Territories for use as a health centre. This option would not require a major capital outlay by this government for construction of the building, but only require a lease and operating payment.
Mr. Speaker, the K'atlodeeche First Nation has proved it is willing to look outside the box to seek workable solutions for the benefit of its residents. I urge this government to do the same by making this very important need a reality. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services during question period. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause
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Need For A Health Care Facility On The Hay River Reserve
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1360
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. McLeod . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Nitah .
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Pursuit Of The Traditional Trapping Lifestyle
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1360
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this being our second-last day of this session, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize our oldest industry in the Northwest Territories, the trapping industry. As you know, Mr. Speaker, the trapping industry is the main reason why the North was built. On November 1st, trappers will go back to their traplines. Throughout the winter, my constituents will be trapping in their traplines. People in Lutselk'e will be travelling into the Barren Lands hunting for caribou, hunting for wolves and wolverines, setting a few traps here and there.
I know, Mr. Speaker, our government, through the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, has done lots to help trappers over the years, and I appreciate and recognize that, Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my trappers and the trappers of the Northwest Territories. We have one of the most progressive and best programs in Canada to ensure that our trappers continue to trap.
It's another way for people to gain meaningful employment and something for them to do, work their lands, their trap lands so they know what is going on on the lands, to call their decision to give us an inherent right to land title. Over the years, Mr. Speaker, aboriginal people know their land through this industry. They trap all over the place, and that's the basis of their lands.
So trapping, in my mind, has a lot more to do than just a monetary exercise, but it's an exercise of asserting their political and sovereign rights in their lands which translates into land claims and new relationships with Canada and co-existence within regions such as the Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to express the importance of trapping and give it the recognition that it's one of our oldest industries in the Northwest Territories. I encourage the government to continue supporting that industry as it is a very important industry, especially to culture, language and identification of individuals.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to wish all the trappers good luck and ask them to be careful. It's dangerous work, but have fun with it. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause
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Pursuit Of The Traditional Trapping Lifestyle
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1360
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Mahsi, Mr. Nitah . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Yellowknife South , Mr. Bell .
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Recognition Of The NWT Seniors' Society
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1360
Brendan Bell
Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take this opportunity today to recognize the good work that a number of seniors are doing in the Northwest Territories on behalf of all seniors. They are being excellent advocates and they are the NWT Seniors' Society, Mr. Speaker.
I know this week in the House, Bea Campbell was in attendance. She's the president of the society. Lloyd Bruins is the past-president, and the other directors are Alvin Armstrong, Jim Villeneuve, Helen Gruben, Laura Lennie, the late Bill Lafferty, and Chris Williams. I think they're doing fine work, Mr. Speaker, on behalf of seniors. It's this kind of advocacy work that I think has lead to the fact that we now every year celebrate the significant contributions of seniors and elders with an official week proclaimed Senior Citizen's Week. Mr.
Speaker, the work and contributions of our seniors is continuing to grow in the North through local seniors' groups and societies, such as the one I've mentioned, and also the Yellowknife Association of Concerned Citizens for Seniors who are doing a lot of good work in this area, as well, Mr. Speaker.
I don't know if the House is aware, but between 1998 and 2018, it's estimated that there will be a 134 percent increase in the number of NWT seniors. Another note to mention, Mr. Speaker, in September 2004, coming up, our NWT Seniors' Society plans to have teams formed to compete at the Canada Senior Games being held in Whitehorse. Lots of fun events. I think they're hoping to have teams compete in bowling, golf, bridge, horseshoes and darts.
Mr. Speaker, Barb Hood, the executive director of the society, sent me an e-mail and she wished to make sure that we recognized the efforts of Mr. Miltenberger on behalf of seniors. She said that he and his office commissioned a review of seniors' programs and services in 2000-2001, held a number of community consultations and, following that, Mr. Speaker, there was a release of the seniors' action plan that had 28 recommendations. I understand 20 of them have now been completed and there are ongoing efforts to deal with the rest.
They would like to say that with the support they have received they've been linked to the Department of Health and Social Services and many other government departments so that their good work can continue.
So on behalf of the Seniors' Society, I'd like to recognize the work of Mr. Miltenberger . Thank you.
---Applause
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Recognition Of The NWT Seniors' Society
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1361
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Bell . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .
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Proposed NWT Sports And Recreation Partnership Council
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1361
Sandy Lee
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition of one aspect of the government's latest proposal to establish a new NWT sport and recreation partners council. Mr. Speaker, this sounds good in title, but in effect, this continues to be the wrong approach to balance small and large community participation in sporting activities. We need to continue to expand programs to small communities, certainly, Mr.
Speaker, but these should be done through extra government support and funding to small communities, not at the expense of what has been established in the larger centres, mostly through volunteerism and tax-based, Mr. Speaker. I believe, Mr. Speaker, creating a new layer of bureaucracy will only reduce the money available to those children who really need it.
Mr. Speaker, I'm also very concerned about the message that this proposal continues to send to the large volunteer community in Yellowknife and throughout the Territories. All these people, Mr. Speaker, have dedicated their personal time and resources to the NWT sports system for years, and the government's insistence in plying through this proposal is a complete affront to their years of dedication and commitment and hours of service.
Mr. Speaker, look at the tremendous history of volunteer coaches and organizations in Yellowknife and the Territories. From David Sutherland, John Argue, the Dunbars, Dave McCann, the Gilday-Dunbar team, Harry Vivian, the Grafs, Dave Walcer and Dennis Crane, to some of the relative newcomers like Mike Beauregard. The list is endless and they give their hours in the nights and weekends because they care about the kids and they believe in what they do.
All of them not only have contributed their time and energy to making Yellowknife a great place for our children, but have all participated in coaching clinics and organizational meetings in and for very small communities. Again, on their own time. Mr. Speaker, the same can be said about many people involved with Sport North.
I'd like to conclude by saying, Mr. Speaker, that MACA and the government would be better off with spending more time, energy and money trying to encourage the development of volunteers and facilities in small communities rather than building another layer of bureaucracy and another board. Mr. Speaker, I have proposed this from the beginning and still do and will continue to do so and I ask the Minister to reconsider. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause
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Proposed NWT Sports And Recreation Partnership Council
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1361
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Ms. Lee . Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Antoine .
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Changes In The Nahendeh Leadership
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1361
Jim Antoine
Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a Member's statement I'd like to do today as MLA for Nahendeh. I just wanted to say that in my riding I have six communities and I work with the different chiefs and councils that are there. I just wanted to mention that there have been some changes since June since we last met, in my riding, and I just wanted to mention the newly-elected people.
In Fort Simpson, the chief is Keyna Norwegian, and John Tsetso is the sub-chief, with Judy Sabourin, Kevin Menicoche, Maurice Tanche, Hazel Isiah-Tanche, Loyal Letcher, Dennis Nelner and Ethel Lamothe as the council in Liidlii Kue First Nation.
In Fort Liard, in the Acho Dene Koe, Floyd Bertrand is the chief there, elected with Guy Berreault, Charles Bertrand, Joe Bertrand, Stanley Bertrand, Gordon Timbre, and Janna Deneron as the youth delegate.
In the summertime, the Deh Cho leadership also had gone through some leadership elections and I just wanted to mention here for the House, that Herb Norwegian is the grand chief of the Deh Cho First Nation. Herb has been involved with the Deh Cho First Nation government for over 25 years, and has been instrumental in gathering traditional land use and occupancy information from the region. He has been chairing the Land Use Planning Committee in the Deh Cho territory so he has extensive experience in that whole area of land, hunting and being out on the land.
So I just wanted to mention here, Mr. Speaker, that in our work as MLAs we have to work with the First Nations in our respective ridings, and that they truly provide a lot of leadership in the communities and it has been a real pleasure working with them over the years. Thank you.
---Applause
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Changes In The Nahendeh Leadership
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1361
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Antoine . Item 3, Members' statements. Item 4, reports of standing and special committees. The honourable Member for Range Lake , Ms. Lee .
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Committee Report 20-14(6): Final Report On Planning Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1361
Sandy Lee
Range Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a report from the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight.
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introduction
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1361
Sandy Lee
Range Lake
Mr. Speaker, at the beginning of the 14th Legislative Assembly, Members set out plans and priorities for the newly formed Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight and shared those plans publicly in a tabled document. Midway through the Assembly, Members assessed the progress made against the initial plan and set out the broad direction for the remainder of the Assembly. That report was tabled in June 2001.
This final report sets out the progress we have made toward achieving our goals and reflects on our activities over the life of the 14th Legislative Assembly.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight is comprised of all 11 Regular Members. Its role is to:
Review issues which have government-wide implications including the executive offices of the Department of the Executive;
Conduct the overview of the budget and fiscal framework;
Consider the budgets and financial management of the Northwest Territories Workers' Compensation Board, the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, and any other boards and agencies that are outside the responsibility of any other standing committee; and,
Examine the reports on the annual financial statements and public accounts of the Government of the Northwest Territories and the report of the Auditor General.
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vision And Mission
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1361
Sandy Lee
Range Lake
One of our first activities was to set out our vision and develop a mission statement. We set these out as follows:
Our vision is to be responsive and accountable to the public by acting with integrity to contribute to the achievement of the 14th Legislative Assembly's vision.
Our mission will be to take purposeful action to support, question or oppose government initiatives and to hold government accountable; we will also propose that government take action where appropriate and in the public interest.
The committee then set out its priorities, identifying areas in which we planned to take action.
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1361
Sandy Lee
Range Lake
Our first priority was "to advocate for the rights of the public and those needing a voice in dealings with government."
The absence of human rights legislation and the potential for litigation were the driving forces behind the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight's actions to advocate for the advancement of human rights legislation, a children's advocate and improved access to information and protection of privacy legislation.
Very early in our mandate the Legislative Assembly adopted Committee Motion 15-14(2), Enactment of Human Rights Legislation, on March 31, 2000. The government responded by introducing human rights legislation that was given third reading by the Legislative Assembly. The legislation is in the process of being implemented now, and the Human Rights Commission should be fully operational by spring.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight has not undertaken any significant action to advance the establishment of a children's advocate office, although Members had hoped to see a government proposal to address this issue.
The committee advocated for the rights of the public to a more open and transparent government by reviewing the annual report and recommendations of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Commissioner, and presented the Report on the Review of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Commissioner's Report 1999-2000 in the Legislative Assembly.
This marked the first time that a standing committee reviewed this annual report and considered the Commissioner's recommendations, thus setting the stage to have future reports automatically referred to the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight. In subsequent years, the committee also reviewed the Commissioner's 2000-2001 and 2001-2002 reports. Over the life of this Assembly, the committee has recommended several amendments to the ATIPP legislation. The government has responded positively to many of the recommendations, most recently through Bill 27 .
However, Mr. Speaker, Members were disappointed the government did not move more aggressively to extend access to information and privacy protection legislation to NWT municipalities, either by including them in the existing act, or developing separate legislation. Members are also concerned the federal government now has jurisdiction over the collection, storage and use of personal information by the NWT private sector, under the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act.
The committee urged the government to bring forward substantially similar legislation in order to ensure that local privacy issues are addressed by made-in-the-NWT law. Unfortunately the government has declined to take action on this issue.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly consider legislation to address information and privacy issues the committee has identified with respect to municipal governments and the private sector
Mr. Speaker, at this time I would ask the Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden , to continue with the report. Thank you.
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1362
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Ms. Lee . The honourable Member for Great Slave , Mr. Braden .
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1362
Bill Braden
Great Slave
Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Our second priority was "to have a public service that is representative of the population served, that is treated fairly and managed effectively."
Committee Motion 5-14(3), Establishment of a Public Service Commission, was adopted by the Legislative Assembly early in the 14th Assembly as a first step toward fostering a climate of fairness, representativeness, competence, nonpartisanship, efficiency and effectiveness in support of the territorial public service. The Executive Council commissioned the human resources management study, or the Thornton Report, in response to the motion and transmitted the report to committee.
Although the government never formally responded to the recommendations in the Thornton Report, the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight reported to the Legislative Assembly on June 12, 2001, with a preliminary Committee Report 4-14(4), which included recommendations for a process to continue to work with the government to attract, develop and maintain a highly professional workforce.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight proposed the establishment of a smaller working group to work with the government to try and advance the key areas of an independent staffing appeals process. While initial discussions appeared promising, with a review of options for an appeals process, the government wrote to committee on April 14, 2003, to say that it was unlikely that any changes to the current appeals process will be introduced in the 14th Assembly.
Members have noted that we do not have a truly representative public service as a result of problems with the affirmative action policy and the lack of employment equity measures on many occasions in the House. The government has not made any significant changes to the existing policy.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight is disappointed that there has been so little progress made towards achieving a more representative public service during this Assembly.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly consider again whether a public service commission might be the best way to support managers with the tools needed to ensure effective human resource management, and in particular to address employment equity issues that appear to be barriers to a more representative public service.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly, at the very least, move quickly to establish an independent appeals process.
Mr. Speaker, our third priority was "to work toward effective government organization, structure and operations."
Initially the government was expected to complete a program and functional review concerning departments, boards and agencies to assess the effectiveness and efficiency related to service delivery. Of particular interest were the organization and structure of health and social services boards, education councils, and the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. The Cuff Report was commissioned by the Minister of Health and Social Services and reviewed by the Standing Committee on Social Programs.
Members questioned the establishment of regional offices and the relocation of public service positions. Despite being offered briefings on regional reorganization by the government, committee Members were eventually told that there was no government-wide undertaking to reorganize. The government did acknowledge, however, that some departments may have realigned their internal structures and resources to more effectively deliver services. While we were continually told this, we could not help but notice that many initiatives, such as creation of the Sahtu health board, appear to be a result of claims settlements and self-government negotiations.
Mr. Speaker, the government has established a Deputy Ministers Task Team to oversee a corporate review and transition plan. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight invited the government to begin discussions on options for departmental restructuring. The government told us that there would be no move for major restructuring during the life of this Assembly. The recommendations will be made to the 15th Legislative Assembly as part of the transition-planning document.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly consider the recommendation for a public service commission, when examining the corporate review of personnel functions as a means to bring together the people and resources involved in ensuring that the public service has an adaptable, diverse and nonpartisan workforce.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to turn this over to my colleague, Mr. Nitah , to continue with the report.
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1363
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Braden . The chair will now recognize the honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Nitah .
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1363
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, our fourth priority was "to see a cohesive and current workers' compensation system and governing authorities to meet the changing environment."
The division of the Territories and outdated legislation dictated the need to review the workers' compensation system over the life of the 14th Assembly. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight advocated for such a review, and the Minister responsible for the board responded by making a commitment to conduct public hearings and prepare appropriate legislation for introduction and passage during the life of this Assembly.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight supported the recommendations of the Review Panel as outlined in "Act Now" and urged the government to introduce appropriate legislation. Bill 15,
An Act to Amend the Workers' Compensation Act , and Bill 23,
An Act to Amend the Safety Act , were introduced by the government as phase I of their response to Act Now, and dealt with many of the recommendations contained in the report.
During its review of Bill 23 , the committee raised concerns that there may not be adequate protection in legislation for employees who make safety complaints to their employers. The committee would urge the WCB to undertake a review of this issue in order to determine whether further amendments are needed.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly quickly follow up on the remainder of the legislation proposed for phase II.
Our fifth priority was "to develop an energy strategy to address the changing NWT environment and outside influences."
The committee urged the Executive Council to develop a comprehensive energy strategy, by leading a campaign to call attention to high cost of energy, green house gas emissions and the need for alternative energy options. Committee was successful in having the Legislative Assembly adopt a motion calling for the development of a comprehensive energy strategy. The government responded with the establishment of an Energy Secretariat in June of 2001 and the announcement of a special advisor to the premier to head up the secretariat.
While committee supported the need for a strategy, the recently released energy strategy is disappointing and appears to contain nothing more than "motherhood and apple pie" recommendations. There are no practical options proposed to address the major issues originally identified by committee.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight remains generally supportive of the government's exploration of hydroelectric potential both as an alternative to fossil fuel consumption and as a revenue source.
Our sixth priority was "to see a strategy for sharing control of resources including non- renewable resource development, and environmental impacts and liabilities of development."
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight has been supportive of the government's work with the Aboriginal Summit through the Intergovernmental Forum and is on record as supporting the government in negotiations for a devolution agreement. Committee named two representatives to attend the Intergovernmental Forum political meetings as observers and to report progress to Members. In addition, the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs has provided regular briefings to committee.
While the cooperation of the Aboriginal Summit and the Government of the Northwest Territories is encouraging, Members are unsure of how much progress has actually been made toward negotiating an adequate resource revenue-sharing agreement. Given our fiscal outlook, this is a crucial area in which we need to see advances.
Our seventh priority was "to develop a diversified long-term fiscal outlook for the GNWT."
As the Minister of Finance has kept reminding us of the approach of the debt wall, the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight has played a watchdog role and has consistently advised the government to adopt a prudent approach to fiscal management. Unfortunately, Members of the committee have limited impact on the spending priorities of the government.
Our eighth priority was "to advocate for adequate housing for residents."
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight acknowledged the lead role of the Standing Committee on Social Programs, but continued to lend support to advocate for adequate and affordable housing for NWT residents. In 2001, committee strongly urged the government to re-examine proposed new initiatives and find a way to invest at least $2 million to $3 million in additional housing programs.
The committee followed up with a theme day in 2002 and presented a committee report on adequate, affordable and suitable housing for residents of the Northwest Territories.
The government responded by announcing in the 2003-2004 Budget Address $1.7 million in each of the next three years in additional grant and contribution funding for specific communities to provide for new housing and renovations to existing housing.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask that my colleague, Mr. Roland , continue with the report. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1364
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The chair will now recognize the honourable Member for Inuvik Boot Lake , Mr. Roland .
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progress On Committee Priorities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1364
Floyd Roland
Inuvik Boot Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our ninth priority was harmonization.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight supported the initial objective of the harmonization strategy to assess income in the same manner in all NWT departments and agencies. However, Members became concerned when issues were raised during implementation that the process was not perceived to be fair to all affected parties. Consequently, a motion to establish a working group of 14th Assembly Regular Members and Ministers to review the harmonization strategy was adopted by the Legislative Assembly with a deadline for implementation of April 2004.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight would like to remind the 15th Legislative Assembly that a deadline of April 2004 was set for the implementation of the harmonization strategy.
Our tenth priority was "to advocate for reduced cost of living for residents."
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight continued to advocate for reduced living costs for northern residents by discouraging increases to fees and taxes that would add a burden to northern residents, and by supporting amendments to the Income Tax Act to benefit both individuals and northern businesses by:
• Supporting amendments to the Income Tax Act to increase the deductions and credits and a minimum cost of living tax credit for individuals.
• Supported amendments to the Income Tax Act to reduce the general corporate income tax rate and the small business income tax rate.
Our eleventh priority was "to support the development of prevention measures and promote awareness of the detrimental effects of FAS/FAE."
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight took the lead to organize a theme day to raise awareness about what is now called Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. All committee Members spoke on the issue, as did many Cabinet Ministers.
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other Activities
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1364
Floyd Roland
Inuvik Boot Lake
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight tackled several other issues as they arose and urged the government to take appropriate action. Here are a few of the highlights of these activities:
• Committee supported the efforts of the northern Premiers in lobbying for a new funding arrangement for health care in the territories. Additional funding was promised the three northern territories. Canada also agreed to examine the issue of per capita program funding with an eye to accommodating our relatively small population, and the resulting tiny allocations for northern jurisdictions that usually leads to.
• The government attempted to implement major changes to the Business Incentive Policy. Committee argued that the proposed changes were being implemented without the benefit of knowing the costs and benefits of the existing program. The government nonetheless proceeded to announce it would implement the revised policy effective October 15, 2003. Following a motion in the House supported unanimously by committee Members, the government agreed to keep the existing policy and continue implementing a contract registry and reporting system which will eventually provide data for a cost-benefit analysis.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly review carefully the cost and benefits of the existing business incentive policy before considering any changes.
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oversight And Review Of Public Accounts
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1364
Floyd Roland
Inuvik Boot Lake
The public accounts are the audited consolidated financial statements of the government. The accounts summarize the financial figures of all departments and territorial corporations and give a full picture of the government's financial transactions and its financial position as at March 31st of any given year. The tabling of the public accounts prior to the business plan review is useful to standing committees as Members can compare expenditures with the original budget plans for the year.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight's Report on the Review of the Report of the Auditor General to the NWT Legislative Assembly for 1999 stated that:
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight and the Auditor General noted that the government's public accounts and most of our territorial corporations' annual reports are rarely tabled in a timely manner. The public and Members of the Legislative Assembly have a need for timely, accurate and relevant information on the financial condition of the government, so they can effectively hold the government accountable for the way in which it manages and spends public money.
In light of these significant reporting and tabling issues, the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight, in consultation with the Auditor General's office, recommended that the tabling of the public accounts occur earlier in a phased approach with 2002-2003 and all subsequent accounts being ready for tabling no later than August 31st of the same year.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight is pleased to note that both the 2001-2002 and 2002-2003 public accounts were tabled in accordance with the agreed upon timeframe.
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conduct The Overview Of The Budget And The Fiscal Framework
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1364
Floyd Roland
Inuvik Boot Lake
This role is intended to improve the business planning and expenditure management information provided to the Legislative Assembly.
During the review of the 2002-2003 business plans and main estimates, committee highlighted the following concerns:
• Recommended that the funding for the Living History Project be removed from the 2002-2003 main estimates and brought forward as a supplementary appropriation if the expenditure could be justified within the appropriate department.
• Expressed concern about the new capital planning process and asked the government to come forward with revisions.
• Recommended the removal of the Energy Secretariat from FMBS to RWED.
• Expressed concern about the placement of the social agenda in the Executive with the lead role being assigned to the Department of Health and Social Services.
Review of 2003-2004 business plans and main estimates
• Recommended a complete review and overhaul of the new capital planning process, taking all Members concerns into consideration.
• Recommended the removal of proposed capital spending pending full justification.
• Motion to amend clause 3(2) of Bill 3 by deleting $149,000 from the capital plan.
Mr. Speaker, I request now that the chairman of the accountability and oversight committee complete the report.
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conduct The Overview Of The Budget And The Fiscal Framework
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Roland . The chair will now recognize the honourable Member for Frame Lake , Mr. Dent .
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other Matters
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. From time to time matters of government-wide interest arise. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight dealt with the following items:
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fiscal Strategy Review
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight has consistently urged the government to adopt a fiscal strategy that is responsible and that keeps the government well within the $300 million debt limit. In addition, the committee urged the chairman of the Financial Management Board to adopt a more stringent approach to forced growth and to tighten up the use of special warrants. The government responded by amending the Financial Administration Manual guidelines dealing with special warrants.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight advised the government that Members might be prepared to consider changes to the payroll tax, as long as it coincided with an offsetting increase to the northern resident's deduction. Committee suggested the government prepare a discussion paper for consideration. The government has not responded with a discussion paper.
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income Assistance And Impact Benefit Agreement Income
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommended that the income support regulations be amended to allow compensation payments, including impact benefit agreement payments to be exempt from assessment as income under the income support program. Noting that the majority of jurisdictions allow some form of exemption for compensation payments for victims of crime, committee suggested that the government consider an upper limit on the amount of the payment that is exempt annually. The Minister argued that the issue was a complicated one and asked the working group on harmonization be asked to review the issues prior to recommending any changes to the income exemption policy.
Mr. Speaker, the committee could see no reason for the issue to be referred to the harmonization working group and again urged the Minister to revise his position and allow NWT residents to retain compensation from companies now using their lands.
Given the amount of time devoted to discussion and correspondence on this topic, the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly move quickly to resolve this issue.
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consultation On Major Initiatives
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
On several occasions the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight was frustrated when the government announced major initiatives without a process that included consultation with committee. When this happened, the committee generally wrote the Premier , pointing out the oversight. Invariably, the Premier would write back promising to work more closely with committees, and to try to avoid similar incidents again. However, it seemed that in a few months we would come up against a similar situation.
Of course the repetitive nature of this lack of consultation led to more and more frustration, and a growing sense the government was not sincere in its approach to consensus government. We finally set up a process whereby the Premier met with committee on a monthly basis. While this improved the level of communication between the government and committee, there were still occasions Members felt the government moved ahead on initiatives or legislation before adequate consultation had taken place.
Mr. Speaker, Members feel that one way the communication and consultation process could be improved would be to strengthen the protocol for policy proposals to be referred to standing committees similar to the process in place for legislative proposals. Members of the 15th Assembly may want to discuss the establishment of a protocol that would ensure committees have input into policy initiatives in their early stages before significant departmental resources are committed to their development.
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ministers' Travel And Absences During Session
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight wrote to obtain clarification on Cabinet's policy regarding Ministers being in the House during sitting hours. Members noted that it is important for Ministers to be present for Members' questions during question period. Committee also noted that it was the practice of previous governments that no more than one Minister will ever be absent on a day that the House is sitting, and then only for federal/provincial/territorial or provincial/territorial ministerial meetings.
The Premier confirmed that the Cabinet policy for the 14th Legislative Assembly carried on the practice of no more than one Minister being absent on a day that the House is sitting and advised all Ministers to be present during question period.
The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly continue the current practice of ensuring that no more than one Minister will ever be absent on a day that the House is sitting, and then only for federal/provincial/territorial or provincial/territorial ministerial meetings.
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theme Days
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
Committee Members continued the practice of "theme days" as a way of working together to publicize, heighten awareness, and bring focus to issues of public concern. During the time allotted for Member's statements and during question period, Members would focus on a particular issue. The rules of the Legislative Assembly allow a period of time for Members of the Legislative Assembly to make a two-and-one-half minute statement on any matter.
Mr. Speaker, Members prepared several theme days on important public issues, including: medical travel, affordable housing, the corporate capital planning process, and board governance.
In March 2002, Members raised concerns respecting the application of various aspects of the medical travel policy, including eligibility, provision and level of benefits on medical travel, intercommunity transportation, escorts, patient boarding and local transportation of indigent patients.
Mr. Speaker, Members are encouraged by the government's recent announcement in June 2003 of interim changes to the medical travel policy to assist residents who do not have third-party insurance coverage. The provisions for removal of the co-payment for families with incomes less than $80,000 and meals and accommodation assistance is a good first step to ensuring that all northern residents have access to appropriate medical treatment.
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conclusion
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
Mr. Speaker, as this Assembly approaches dissolution, Members believe the standing committee has lived up to its mandate by contributing to the achievement of the 14th Assembly vision in several key areas. We feel we have added value to legislative and policy initiatives, and by demanding more accountable and transparent government.
Sometimes committee lent support to government actions, sometimes we questioned or opposed government action, and sometimes we demanded action where we saw none or not enough. In all, Members believe the committee's role has been constructive; that our work has made a difference.
Mr. Speaker, it has been a pleasure and an honour for Members to serve the people of the Northwest Territories over the last four years. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight now wishes the 15th Assembly success in developing and achieving its own vision for better government and a better and more vibrant Northwest Territories.
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Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 20-14(6), Carried
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1365
Charles Dent
Frame Lake
Mr. Speaker, that concludes the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight final report on plans and priorities. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Inuvik Boot Lake , that Committee Report 20-14(6) be received by the Assembly and adopted. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 20-14(6), Carried
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1366
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Dent . We have a motion. There is a motion on the floor. The motion is in order. Is the House ready for the question?
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Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 20-14(6), Carried
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1366
An Hon. Member
Question.
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Motion To Receive And Adopt Committee Report 20-14(6), Carried
Item 4: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
Page 1367
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Question has been called. All those in favour? Thank you. All those opposed? Thank you. The motion is carried.
---Carried
Committee Report 20-14(6) is received by the Assembly and adopted. Item 4, reports of standing and special committees. Item 5, returns to oral questions. The honourable Member for Nunakput , Mr. Steen .
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Further Return To Question 395-14(6): Nwt Sport, Recreation And Physical Activity System
Item 5: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 5: Returns To Oral Questions
Page 1367
Vince Steen
Nunakput
Mr. Speaker, I have a return to oral question asked by Ms. Sandy Lee on October 7, 2003, regarding the Northwest Territories sport, recreation and physical activity system.
On June 10, 2003, I met with Mr. Abe Theil, the president of Sport North, and Mr. Doug Rentmeister, Sport North's executive director, to discuss the concerns that were raised by their membership during the Sport North annual general meeting held May 23 to 25, 2003.
Mr. Theil indicated that the primary concerns raised by Sport North members included the following:
• The cost of implementing the proposed Northwest Territories recreation and sport board, and the concern that it may take resources away from programs;
• The addition of an extra layer of governance to the system;
• The future role for Sport North in the system;
• The process for selecting the representation on the new board;
• The consultation process used to develop the recommendation on the establishment of the new board. Sport North members were specifically concerned about the lack of available information on the resources that are available for communities and sport and recreation partners;
• The important role of volunteers and volunteer burnout and frustration; and,
• The government's commitment to supporting sport and recreation.
At the meeting, I was able to respond directly to a number of Mr. Theil's concerns:
• I provided a breakdown of funds that are currently spent by all sport and recreation partners in the Northwest Territories on administration, and indicated that rather than taking money away from programs, combining resources should help free up funding to reallocate to programs.
• I clarified that the intent of the proposed changes was not to add a layer of governance, but rather to provide a forum for sport and recreation partners to share resources and programs.
• I clarified that there is no intent to replace Sport North or any other partner, but rather to create the opportunity to allow them to work more closely together to achieve common goals. I offered to consider a mechanism to ensure the protection of existing organizations within the new body.
• I reminded Mr. Theil that Sport North was an active participant in developing the recommendation for the creation of the new board, and was a signatory to the report that was submitted to me in March 2003.
• I assured Mr. Theil that the department appreciates the important role that volunteers play in the sport and recreation system, as evidenced by our lead on the development of a volunteer support initiative.
• I advised Mr. Theil that the department's plans to introduce changes to the Western Canada Lottery Act regulations were designed in part to generate more revenue to support the sport and recreation system.
As a result of this meeting, Sport North agreed to continue to participate in the interim coordinating team process that was set up by the sport and recreation partners to finalize the design for the new board, and to work towards solutions to the issues identified by its membership. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Further Return To Question 395-14(6): Nwt Sport, Recreation And Physical Activity System
Item 5: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 5: Returns To Oral Questions
Page 1367
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 5, returns to oral questions. Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery.
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1367
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to the visitors' gallery and the presence of a former member for the Mackenzie Delta, former Speaker Mr. Richard Nerysoo.
---Applause
As well, colleagues, I would like to direct your attention to the visitors' gallery of the former Member for North Slave , Mr. James Rabesca.
---Applause
Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes , Mr. Allen .
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1367
Roger Allen
Inuvik Twin Lakes
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to recognize Richard Nerysoo. He's the elected chief for the Inuvik Native Band. Minister Handley asked me, in his absence, to recognize Major Karen Hoeft on his behalf. Thank you.
---Applause
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1367
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Krutko .
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1367
David Krutko
Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I, too, would like to recognize Richard Nerysoo, the chief of the Nihtat Gwich'in Band in Inuvik, also the president of the NWT Power Corporation and former president of the Gwich'in Tribal Council. Welcome, Richard.
---Applause
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1367
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for North Slave , Mr. Lafferty .
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
Leon Lafferty
North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Too bad I only get 30 seconds. I can't name them all. I would like to recognize my family: my mother, Margaret Lafferty; my partner, Cecilia Desjardins; my daughter, Tara Lee Lafferty; and all my constituents, aboriginal leaders from the North Slave. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
They are most welcome indeed. Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Thebacha , Mr. Miltenberger .
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
Michael Miltenberger
Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to...
---Laughter
I would like to recognize...Jack...
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
Jim Antoine
Nahendeh
Jack Van Camp.
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
Michael Miltenberger
Thebacha
Thank you.
---Applause
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
It will show up in Hansard properly. Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Nitah .
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize the former chief of Dettah and former team mate with the Dettah Chiefs, Chief Richard Edjericon.
---Applause
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. The honourable Member for Nahendeh , Mr. Antoine .
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
Jim Antoine
Nahendeh
Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. It's not too often I have members of my family here. I would like to recognize my son Denezeh, who works for the Native Communications Society. He works on CKLB. Thank you.
---Applause
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Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 6: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Colleagues, I would also like to welcome my brother, Mark.
---Applause
Item 7, oral questions. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe , Mr. Nitah .
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Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs . Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, we got some great news in terms of funding that we weren't expecting from the federal government dealing with infrastructure in our communities. The Minister is involved with the Minister of the Department of Transportation on main street paving. Do you have a schedule? In light of the new funding that we see, are we going to see an accelerated pace of main street paving to control the dust in our non-tax-based communities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The honourable Minister of MACA , Mr. Steen .
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Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
Vince Steen
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Over the summer, I had meetings with the Secretary of State for Rural Development and infrastructure, Andy Mitchell, and one of the things we asked for consideration of was for main street paving in communities as a form of dust control. It was believed that it was one of the programs that would be funded under this program. So although we haven't decided yet and we haven't really met formally with Indian Affairs, who I understand are going to be administering the funding and we also haven't met formally with all the communities on this, we believe that this is one of the high priorities for this funding. Thank you.
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Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. Nitah .
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Supplementary To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am glad the government feels this is a high priority because it certainly is a high priority for people in the communities who have to breathe in the dust day after day during the summer months. They are having a hard time keeping their houses clean. I would like to ask the Minister when they will meet with the federal government to determine if this is a priority for them as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Supplementary To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you. The honourable Minister of MACA , Mr. Steen .
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Further Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
Vince Steen
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I don't have any scheduled meeting dates with the department and Indian Affairs at this point in time, so I can't respond to the Member, but I can assure him that it is one of the things the department has put on high priority, so that we have some kind of agreement on what can be funded this year and how much money is available this year, so we can start to see where this fits into the business plans.
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Further Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Supplementary, Mr. Nitah .
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Supplementary To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, recognizing that during the current Assembly we will not be going through another business plan session, I would like to ask the Minister if he would put it as part of his transition document for the next government to review to make sure the next government and the bureaucracy of the next government clearly understands the urgency of this matter for the people in the communities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Supplementary To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Nitah. The honourable Minister of MACA , Mr. Steen .
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Further Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1368
Vince Steen
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Member has a good suggestion and we will certainly take that forward.
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Further Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1369
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Your final supplementary, Mr. Nitah .
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Supplementary To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1369
Steven Nitah
Tu Nedhe
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the community of Fort Resolution is currently doing road upgrades so they can see chip sealing done next summer, but the community of Lutselk'e has not been contacted at all. One of the greatest concerns that was brought to my attention as their MLA is the dust levels of the community. Would the Minister ensure that Lutselk'e is mentioned in that transition document? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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Supplementary To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1369
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Nitah . The honourable Minister of MACA , Mr. Steen .
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Further Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1369
Vince Steen
Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, sometimes I look forward to the day when I won't have to be the one considering this anymore and the project is complete, but I will certainly take note of the Member's concerns. There is no doubt he's been speaking loudly and clearly to this particular issue and I will continue to pass it on to my department as a high priority.
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Further Return To Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Question 412-14(6): Main Street Paving For Dust Control
Item 7: Oral Questions
Page 1369
The Speaker
Tony Whitford
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 7, oral questions. The Member for Mackenzie Delta , Mr. Krutko .
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