Debates of Oct. 22nd, 2024

This is page numbers 1189 - 1244 of the Hansard for the 20th Assembly, 1st 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 services .

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

Mental Wellness Supports

Cost of Energey in the Northwest Territories

Capital Delivery Status Update

Paramedics

Premier and Minister of Housing Constituency Tour

Congratulations to Mayor and Council of Inuvik

Regional Energy Resource Tables

Social Promoting in Schools

All-Season Road to Gameti

Need for Improved Respite Services

Primary Care System Frustrations

Deh Cho Bridge

Child and Youth Safety Concerns

Celebration of Life - Stephanie Squirrel

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Committee Report 10-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested

Committee Report 11-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, received and adopted. Response from Government Requested

Committee Report 12-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested

Committee Report 13-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, received and adopted. Response from Government Requested

Committee Report 14-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Office of the Ombud, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested

Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Legislation

Child and Youth Safety Concerns

Paramedicine in Rural and Remote Communities

Inuvik Long-Term Care Project

Regional Energy Resource Tables

Supported Living Review and Recommendations

Social Passing in Schools

Primary Care Reform

Impacts of Climate Change on Winter and Ice Roads

Deh Cho Bridge

Child and Youth Safety Concerns

Restoring Balance Financial Sustainability Plan

Physician Workforce Plan

Tabled Document 200-20(1): Supplementary Estimates (Infrastructure Expenditures), No. 2, 2024-2025

Tabled Document 201-20(1): Supplementary Estimates (Operations Expenditures), No. 1, 2024-2025

Tabled Document 202-20(1): A Ladder of Citizen Participation, Sherry R. Arnstein, 1969

Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Concurrence Motion - Tabled Document 200-20(1): Supplementary Estimates (Infrastructure Expenditures), No. 2, 2024-2025

Concurrence Motion - Tabled Document 201-20(1): Supplementary Estimates (Operations Expenditures), No. 1, 2024-2025

Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Bill 7: Miscellaneous Statute Law Amendment Act, 2024

Recorded Vote

Bill 8:

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act

Recorded Vote

Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Hon. Caitlin Cleveland , Mr. Edjericon , Mr. Hawkins , Hon. Lucy Kuptana , Hon. Jay Macdonald , Hon. Vince McKay , Mr. McNeely , Ms. Morgan , Mr. Morse , Mr. Nerysoo , Ms. Reid , Mr. Rodgers , Hon. Lesa Semmler , Hon R.J. Simpson , Mr. Testart , Hon. Shane Thompson , Hon. Caroline Wawzonek , Mrs. Weyallon Armstrong , Mrs. Yakeleya

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 1189

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Please be seated. I'd like to thank elder Sarah Cleary for our opening blessing. Ministers' statements. Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Minister's Statement 65-20(1): Mental Wellness Supports

Ministers' Statements

Page 1189

Lesa Semmler

Inuvik Twin Lakes

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight our ongoing work to strengthen the recovery supports available across the Northwest Territories for those struggling with mental wellness, substance use, and addictions. In recent years, that work has evolved to offer more relevant and flexible support to residents. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, more than five million Canadians have faced serious mental health issues. Many people say their mental health has gotten worse, with national data showing increased anxiety and feelings of depression.

Suicide remains the second-leading cause of death among youth and young adults across the country. In small, close-knit northern communities, we are directly and profoundly impacted by these experiences as family, friends, and community members.

Mr. Speaker, we know that no single solution or pathway can fully address the unique and evolving needs of the Northwest Territories residents. To provide relevant and sustainable supports that truly respond to these needs, we continue to work with our partners to offer a wide range of formal, informal, and community-led supports while working to reduce barriers to access.

Mr. Speaker, we are also excited to share that two transitional housing programs for addictions recovery are expected to open in Yellowknife and Inuvik within the next year. These programs provide another layer of recovery support and access to sober social networks that are not always available in home communities of those needing these services. While not everyone will need transitional housing as a part of their recovery or aftercare plan, these programs further expand supports for people who do need it.

Two community-based funding sources are also available and provide support for mental wellness and addiction recovery through local programs. The Community Suicide Prevention Fund has been fully subscribed for this fiscal year, with over $760,000 committed to multiple NWT communities; and, the Community Wellness and Addictions Recovery Fund has committed over $2.5 million to multiple communities. There has been significant interest in accessing these funds to date, and communities are encouraged to continue to apply while funds remain available.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, the range of mental wellness, substance use, and addictions recovery supports available to residents demonstrates our commitment to ensuring their needs are being met in a meaningful and sustainable way. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 65-20(1): Mental Wellness Supports

Ministers' Statements

Page 1189

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services . Ministers' statements. Minister of Infrastructure .

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Minister's Statement 66-20(1): Cost of Energey in the Northwest Territories

Ministers' Statements

Page 1189

Caroline Wawzonek

Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, the high cost of energy remains one of the greatest challenges for residents and businesses across the Northwest Territories. The realities of our northern environment only amplify these burdens. However, the GNWT is committed to alleviating these pressures through immediate relief and sustainable long-term solutions, paving the way for a more stable and affordable future for all Northerners. As we approach winter many communities, especially in our northernmost regions, face significant financial difficulties in heating their homes and paying their electricity bills.

Most residents have little choice but to rely on fossil fuels, which are expensive and have security issues such as price volatility and supply chain disruptions, adding to their financial burden during the coldest months of the year.

The NWT's energy systems are uniquely challenging. Our remoteness, low population density, harsh winters, and limited interconnectivity contribute to high energy costs. In recent years, these costs have been exacerbated by inflation, energy price volatility, and the impacts of climate change. Northwest Territories residents pay the highest electricity rates in Canada, ranging from 25 to 34 cents per kilowatt-hour, which is two to three times more than the national average of 12.9 cents per kilowatt-hour.

The cost of gasoline and diesel has also sharply increased, particularly in remote communities, where it is often higher than what the rest of Canada experiences. Many Northerners have shared with me that with this rising cost, living is becoming unsustainable.

Mr. Speaker, I want to explain the steps the GNWT is taking to stabilize energy costs for Northerners and help address this alarming trend. In the past year, the GNWT and its partners spent $31.7 million to advance the Energy Strategy's vision of providing secure, affordable, and sustainable energy for Northerners. Affordability is a key driver of the initiatives under the Energy Strategy.

Energy efficiency plays a major role in affordability. The GNWT funds the Arctic Energy Alliance, helping residents improve their energy efficiency, adopt more cost-effective technologies, and combat energy poverty. In 2023-2024, the GNWT provided $6.5 million for these programs, resulting in over 3,000 rebates that helped Northerners reduce heating oil consumption by 365,000 liters annually. This equates to more than $500,000 in savings for residents across the NWT each year.

The majority of these rebates are distributed outside of Yellowknife, particularly in the Beaufort Delta and Sahtu regions, areas that have been impacted the most in recent years due to climate related resupply challenges.

Our aging energy infrastructure is increasingly inadequate to meet the needs of residents and businesses. To address this, the GNWT is advancing several projects to ensure a reliable and affordable energy supply for years to come. For example, transmission line projects continue to be advanced to connect Fort Providence, Kakisa, and Whati to existing hydropower resources, moving these communities away from fossil fuel-based generation and the cost volatility that comes with it.

In Inuvik, the recently commissioned wind turbine will displace up to three million liters of diesel each year, helping to stabilize electricity rates. Additionally, the $4 million fast-charging station corridor being developed around Great Slave Lake will allow Northerners to travel between hydro electric-powered communities using electric vehicles, which are significantly cheaper to operate than traditional cars.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT is actively supporting residents facing high energy costs or at risk of energy poverty through programs like the territorial power support program, the GNWT rate equalization program, and the senior home heating subsidy. These three programs collectively provided $10.4 million in direct subsidies to residents in 2023-2024.

The government also supports electricity rates by paying up to 20 percent more for its electricity bill than residents do, a contribution that amounted to $6.9 million last year. Additionally, these one-time subsidies have been provided, such as the $30 million in the 2024 budget, to help the Northwest Territories Power Corporation purchase fuel during a time of low water levels, costs that would otherwise have been recovered from ratepayers. Despite these efforts, energy affordability remains an ongoing issue in the Northwest Territories.

The $47 million spent in 2023-2024 helped to alleviate the pressure of rising energy prices, but it is clear that further action is needed. Even with substantial financial support, rate adjustments will be required to maintain system sustainability. Our energy supply and infrastructure are under pressure from factors such as inflation, energy price volatility, and climate change. That is why I have asked the Department of Infrastructure to develop a renewed approach to energy in the NWT, to be released by the end of 2025-2026.

This approach will focus on addressing our energy infrastructure deficit, improving energy affordability, reducing exposure to volatile markets, increasing local energy production, and positioning the NWT as a prime location for resource extraction investment. The new strategy will aim for a net-zero emissions energy system by 2050, delivering long-term benefits for all Northerners.

One of the most promising projects on the horizon is the Taltson Hydro Expansion project, which will increase energy security by interconnecting grids and extending hydroelectric power to industry. The combined grids will provide drought resilience using multiple watersheds with greater hydro capacity and reduce the need to rely on diesel generation during periods of low water on the Snare River system. It will also help meet the growing demand for electrified loads such as electric vehicles.

It is expected to reduce emissions, stabilize electricity rates, and provide a more reliable and sustainable energy future for the Northwest Territories. Significant progress has been made on the Taltson expansion, including the selection of a preferred transmission alignment, examination of construction access routes, the completion of a business case, and work on defining commercial aspects of the project.

We will continue to collaborate with Indigenous partners to define and support a resolution of legacy issues arising from the construction of the original Taltson facility, finalize the transmission alignment, conduct environmental assessments, and secure federal funding for construction. Indigenous engagement remains a priority throughout this process, ensuring that their knowledge and perspectives are incorporated to minimize the impacts of this project.

In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, the high cost of energy in the Northwest Territories is a significant burden on residents and businesses, especially in our most remote communities. The GNWT is taking steps to mitigate this burden through a variety of short and long-term initiatives, from energy efficiency programs and direct subsidies, to major infrastructure projects like the Taltson Hydro Expansion. By addressing energy infrastructure deficits, reducing reliance on volatile markets, and increasing the use of locally-produced energy, the GNWT is working to secure a sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy future for Northerners. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 66-20(1): Cost of Energey in the Northwest Territories

Ministers' Statements

Page 1190

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Infrastructure . Ministers' statements. Minister for Housing NWT .

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Minister's Statement 67-20(1): Capital Delivery Status Update

Ministers' Statements

Page 1190

Lucy Kuptana

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, providing suitable, accessible, and affordable housing is a top priority for this government. Housing NWT is dedicated to delivering quality solutions that address the evolving housing needs of the Northwest Territories' communities and residents. Housing NWT continues to deliver a significant capital plan, including 512 housing units. This will result in 148 new and replacement public housing units, as well as the modernization and improvement of 364 housing assets currently operating throughout the territory.

Housing NWT's large multi-year capital program is currently valued at over $100 million. These capital projects are primarily funded by significant upfront contributions from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and the Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. By planning strategically, establishing important partnerships, and focusing on operational and environmental sustainability, Housing NWT is implementing these projects to address housing challenges while also creating opportunities for economic growth, capacity development, and local employment.

Mr. Speaker I want to highlight four projects underway:

The modernization of Aspen Apartments;

The construction of a mixed-use 50-plex in Yellowknife;

As well as a biomass heat plant in Fort Simpson; and,

The completion of five duplexes in multiple communities to support seniors aging in place.

The modernization project for Aspen Apartments, a 36-unit building in Yellowknife, was recently awarded to a local contractor and is expected to be completed by Fall 2025. Housing NWT acquired these apartments in partnership with the city of Yellowknife and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation under their federal lands and Rapid Housing Initiatives. This project focuses on modernization, key building components such as ventilation and life safety systems and increasing operational efficiency.

The project also includes a new biomass heat plant, which is expected to offset approximately 80 percent of the fuel oil historically used to heat the building and produce hot water. This will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs, aligning with the objectives of the Housing NWT's energy management strategy. These 36 units will replace units currently leased for the public housing program through a third party, making those units available for others in the private market.

Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to announce that progress is being made on Housing NWT's new 50-unit multiplex project. Site remediation is scheduled to begin shortly followed by construction scheduled to be completed by Fall 2026. This project, funded through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Rapid Housing Initiative, contributes to the significant expansion of Housing NWT-owned public housing assets within Yellowknife. This project includes 25 barrier-free studio units for seniors, people with mobility challenges, and singles as well as 25 two-bedroom units for small families.

This building will have an innovative and efficient mechanical system using a combination of biomass and heat pumps for space heating and cooling with no fossil fuels being used in the heating system. Additionally, the ground floor will include Housing NWT's North Slave district office and the Yellowknife Housing Authority, providing improved client-centered services at a public-facing accessible location.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, with the funding provided from Canada's Low Carbon Economy Fund, Housing NWT is completing a 20-unit biomass project at the Stanley Isaiah Centre in Fort Simpson. This will provide renewable space heat for 20 senior home units and a health facility offsetting 80 percent of the heating requirements currently being provided by fuel oil and reducing fuel oil consumption by nearly 50,000 litres annually.

Mr. Speaker, as a part of housing innovation, five new seniors' duplexes are under construction in Fort McPherson, Tulita, Fort Simpson, Fort Resolution, and Behchoko. Funded with support from Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, these energy-efficient housing units are nearing completion and have been designed with input from a seniors' advisory committee. These units include features that support aging in place such as accessible kitchens, washrooms, entryways, and spaces to support traditional food preparation. Units will enable seniors to age in place in their communities, helping to sustain important community and family networks.

Collaboration with Indigenous governments remains a top priority for Housing NWT. We continue to meet regularly with community leadership to plan and deliver projects, ensuring alignment with their housing plans. This includes opportunities to coordinate delivery schedules, supporting apprenticeship development, and designing energy efficient resilient units. Housing NWT continues to utilize a range of construction methods including building modular units with northern manufacturers.

Finally, Housing NWT is developing a territorial housing needs assessment to clearly define the housing needs of communities. This assessment will combine data and community input to provide a clear picture of housing challenges, helping to secure much-needed funding support.

As we adapt to changes in the housing landscape, Housing NWT remains committed to collaborating with our various housing partners to address the housing needs of all residents across the territory. Quyananni, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 67-20(1): Capital Delivery Status Update

Ministers' Statements

Page 1190

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Housing NWT . Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member from Range Lake .

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Member's Statement 354-20(1): Paramedics

Members' Statements

Page 1190

Kieron Testart

Range Lake

Mr. Speaker, when paramedics are on the job, every second counts because in emergency situations their work can be the deciding factor between a patient's life or death. They stand vigilantly on call to provide vital care and immediate transportation to medical facilities when the need arises, often in complex and traumatic circumstances both in the heart of our communities or on far away remote highways.

Unfortunately, here in the North their job is only made more difficult due to the vast geography of our territory and the limited resources available in the small communities that are spread out across it. Yet regardless of these factors, all Northerners deserve access to these vital emergency services that they need when they need them. Likewise, our indispensable paramedics are always eager to offer their best efforts to support Northerners because they are passionate about keeping our communities healthy and safe.

That is why we need to listen to paramedics when they call on us to create more efficient, dedicated, advanced care paramedic services for highways separate from community care paramedic services. A paramedic working on our highways needs more advanced skills and resources than community paramedics because responding to emergency calls in remote regions means a patient could be hours away from medical care or from hospital staff.

When highways taken care of by advanced care paramedics, communities with highways taken care of by advanced care paramedics, community care paramedics could focus only specializing on lower acuity illnesses and injuries and working closer with continuing care staff and physicians to provide additional support for patients in their homes. The benefits of more available specialized care from community care paramedics would result in less pressure on 9-1-1 and emergency room services because illnesses or injuries would be cared for appropriately before they increase in severity and become emergencies.

Northerners know establishing dedicated paramedic services in communities and on our highways should be a priority for this government. It would greatly increase public safety in our remote regions and support health care in all of our communities. It's up to us to make the NWT a safer place no matter where our constituents happen to live, work, or travel. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 354-20(1): Paramedics

Members' Statements

Page 1191

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Range Lake . Members' statements. Member from Great Slave .

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Member's Statement 355-20(1): Premier and Minister of Housing Constituency Tour

Members' Statements

Page 1191

Kate Reid

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, a week ago I was pleased to host the Premier in his role as the Minister of Justice and the Minister of housing on a tour of my constituency, specifically paying a visit to the encampment and two rental accommodations where single mothers spoke to their concerns around the drug trade and guns in their buildings. I am grateful that the Ministers took the time to see the reality of trying to provide a safe home for families to grow and thrive is very difficult in our capital. Both of these mothers are trying their best to protect their children and seek alternative living arrangements where they hope that they will feel safer.

I know issues like this are top of mind both for us in this House but especially for the Premier who spoke at length at the beginning of our term on his desire to bring forward safer communities and neighbourhoods or SCAN legislation, as well as civil forfeiture and other tools that can provide more avenues to reduce crime in our communities. I appreciate that he considers this more than just a public safety issue but also one of public health and well-being.

A news

article I read shared an excellent definition. SCAN legislation aims to improve community safety by allowing neighbours to make complaints to territorial authorities that can then target and shut down properties where illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, habitually occur. It's separate from criminal law and police enforcement which require a higher standard of proof. Earlier this fall, however, the Yukon Supreme Court chief justice struck down a

section of that territory's SCAN legislation as unconstitutional. It has to provide five day's notice for landlord assisted evictions of tenants who are suspected to be engaged in illegal activities. The chief justice noted that the

section could cause, quote, "extraordinary psychological suffering and risk to a person's health", unquote, as well as lead to housing instability or homelessness. It could also impact residents in a unit such as children or roommates.

We have heard our colleagues speak many times of drug dealers that are praying on our elders and living in their residencies. It's clear that careful consideration of this sort of legislation is required. I am hoping that the Minister of Justice will be able to provide much more detail at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 355-20(1): Premier and Minister of Housing Constituency Tour

Members' Statements

Page 1191

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Great Slave . Members' statements. Member from Inuvik Boot Lake .

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Member's Statement 356-20(1): Congratulations to Mayor and Council of Inuvik

Members' Statements

Page 1191

Denny Rodgers

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the town of Inuvik had their annual -- had their annual -- had their municipal election. We don't do it every year, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to offer my congratulations to the new mayor and council. Certainly mayor-elect Peter Clarkson is no stranger to our community, to our region, and likely to many Members of this House. Peter has long been an advocate for the town of Inuvik. He is a former councillor, a former mayor, and former regional superintendent for the Department of the Executive and Indigenous Affairs, Mr. Speaker.

I'd also like to congratulate our new slate of town councillors:

Mr. Steve Baryluk,

Mr. Kendall McDonald,

Mr. Kurt Wainman,

Mr. Mario Lemieux,

Ms. Melinda Gillis,

Ms. Alana Mero,

Mr. Ned Day, and

Ms. Jen Parrott.

Mr. Speaker, we know municipal politics is one of the purist forms of politics, and every issue is an issue that certainly hits close to home. I congratulate both the mayor and council. I wish them the best in their upcoming term. I look forward to working closely with them on the issues that affect our community and certainly my riding and, again, I want to offer my congratulations to them, Mr. Speaker.

I'd also like to thank outgoing member Clarence Wood. Clarence was a long serving member. As you know, he's received awards for his length of service, municipal service, as a long-time town councillor and mayor. Certainly appreciate the work he's done.

I'd like to thank, Mr. Speaker, the councillors who ran for the first time and weren't successful this time around but I'm sure will be back. And thank the incumbent councillors, Mr. Speaker, that weren't as successful this term. Thank you to everyone who puts their name forward for service in their community. It's a difficult job, but we really appreciate them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 356-20(1): Congratulations to Mayor and Council of Inuvik

Members' Statements

Page 1191

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Inuvik Boot Lake . Members' statements. Member from the Sahtu .

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Member's Statement 357-20(1): Regional Energy Resource Tables

Members' Statements

Page 1191

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to firstly take this opportunity to thank the colleagues in this House here for the support, and the staff, during the recent accomplishment on an immediate reduction to the fuel prices in Norman Wells. So mahsi cho.

Mr. Speaker, we all agree that, what's been said numerous times, the mining sector is the NWT economic backbone, an industry that is in question with statements of closures and reclamation in the planning phases.

Mr. Speaker, I note that the regional energy and resource tables mentioned, and the federal release helped advance the Yukon and BC exciting developments. Despite being created in October 2022, there has been little to in public news or engagement with stakeholders under the NWT's RERT. Later, Mr. Speaker, I'll have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure . Mahsi.

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Member's Statement 357-20(1): Regional Energy Resource Tables

Members' Statements

Page 1191

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from the Sahtu . Members' statements. Member from Mackenzie Delta .

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Member's Statement 358-20(1): Social Promoting in Schools

Members' Statements

Page 1191

George Nerysoo

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In 1921, Chief Julian Yendo, a great chief of the Teetl'it Gwich'in, signed Treaty 11 in hopes of securing a bright future for his people of Teetl'it Zheh. Chief Yendo had a great admiration for his people, especially the children. When he signed Treaty 11, one of the clauses that he wanted entrenched in to the document was for the government to build a school within his community and to ensure that the children of the community received the best education that is available to them for many years to come. Today, the vision of this great Chief and the treaties are not being obligated to meet the needs of the students of the community.

Mr. Speaker, we have junior high school students who are incapable of reading or writing at the grade level they are in. The students do not want to learn because they know they will be promoted no matter if they attend only 50 percent of their class time. I believe this trend is happening throughout the Northwest Territories within our smaller communities. I personally know a few parents who are sending their children to different jurisdictions just to get a higher quality of education and a brighter future. This should not be an option. We should be giving our children the best education that they deserve and to look forward to a prosperous future within their communities.

Mr. Speaker, there are a small percentage of students who have the ability to pursue a post-secondary education but, again, they are placed in the same age group as their peers, and they are distracted because the majority of the students do not meet the requirements of their grade. Maybe we should be targeting these select few and giving them the opportunity to pursue a higher level of education and a successful future. These gifted students should be separated and given an instructor who is passionate about seeing positive results. They should at least be given the chance at life.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to say that I sympathize with the students of our smaller communities because their immediate future does not look too bright. I also feel for the teachers who have taken on the task of trying to secure -- Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, colleagues. I also feel for the teachers who have taken on the task of trying to secure a future for these students but the damage is done, and now they have to work with students who do not want to learn because the education is literally failing them in life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will have questions for the Minister of education at the appropriate time.

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Member's Statement 358-20(1): Social Promoting in Schools

Members' Statements

Page 1192

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Mackenzie Delta . Members' statements. Member from Monfwi .

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Member's Statement 359-20(1): All-Season Road to Gameti

Members' Statements

Page 1192

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about how climate change is impacting our ability to get fuel and other resources to our small communities. We have heard from the Member for the Sahtu about the emergency situation air freighting fuel has caused Norman Wells. In Gameti, the winter road system we currently use is vulnerable as well. Typically, Mr. Speaker, people can go back and forth to Gameti from January to March by driving the 213 kilometers winter road from Highway No. 3 near Behchoko. But last year with the short ice road season, optimal conditions on winter roads lasted less than two weeks. Residents need a solution.

Mr. Speaker, the short season makes it difficult to move heavy equipment and discouraging industry. Looking at the five-year average, the opening has been occurring later and later, usually by February 16th. In 2019, the opening date was March 4th. Mr. Speaker, we need to invest in all-weather access roads because small communities are at risk of being further isolated. This problem will drive up the cost of living beyond what is already unaffordable.

Yesterday, the Premier spoke about climate adaptations and isolation in the North. He said that during his recent trip to Ottawa with the Council of Leaders, the development of critical infrastructure, strengthening climate resilience, and creating economic opportunity through resource development were identified as key issues. An all-season road into Gameti will not only help address the impact of climate change but will also lower the cost of living for the community. It will make economic growth possible.

Mr. Speaker, Gameti lacks transportation infrastructure. With an increasing shorter winter road season and without marine resupply ability, the airport will be the only option left for residents.

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Member's Statement 359-20(1): All-Season Road to Gameti

Members' Statements

Page 1192

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Member from Monfwi --

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Member's Statement 359-20(1): All-Season Road to Gameti

Members' Statements

Page 1192

Jane Weyallon Armstrong

Monfwi

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

---Unanimous consent granted

Mr. Speaker, we need to be forward-looking. The effects of climate change will continue, and planning for all-weather access roads now will benefit residents and industry in the long-term. I will have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 359-20(1): All-Season Road to Gameti

Members' Statements

Page 1192

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Monfwi . Members' statements. Member from Frame Lake .

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Member's Statement 360-20(1): Need for Improved Respite Services

Members' Statements

Page 1192

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in September 2022, the Department of Health and Social Services released a supported living review report which highlighted the range of supported living needs of persons with disabilities and the gaps and challenges with how our system is meeting those needs. The report found that the system is complex to access, under-resourced to meet the full range of needs inside the territory, necessitating some residents to be moved south to receive care. The report detailed 33 recommendations, only 12 of which the department fully committed to responding to, citing a lack of resources as the reasons for not committing to the other 21 recommendations.

An area I'd like to focus on today in particular is the need for improved respite services for the residents who are providing in-home support for persons with disabilities who are able to live at home.

In the report, residents providing home support described stress and burnout and emphasized the need for supportive services that would allow them to keep family members at home but be able to lean on extra support when needed. The importance of respite care is it keeps people at home. Over time, it's a much more cost effective and preferred solution to having people end up in full-time care or even be sent south.

The report found that respite services in Yellowknife and the communities is currently limited and recommended increasing overnight options and expanding something respite services in the communities as well. I would like to see a stronger emphasis towards respite services in the territory, Mr. Speaker, and changes to supported living generally which will help us strengthen our supported living services. This is one of the many things we can do to help incentivize people to stay here in the territory, to invest in this place, and make it their home.

I'll have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 360-20(1): Need for Improved Respite Services

Members' Statements

Page 1192

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife North .

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Member's Statement 361-20(1): Primary Care System Frustrations

Members' Statements

Page 1192

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you. Mr. Speaker, one of this Assembly's key mandate commitments is equitable access to sustainable primary care in the NWT. I do believe that this is a sincere commitment. So we should all be alarmed that the primary care system here in Yellowknife, which also serves as an anchor point to many other communities, is on the verge of collapse. I'm hearing from constituents that there is such extreme frustration amongst frontline health care practitioners that a significant number have left their jobs over the past six months and we are in danger of losing the rest. So that's physicians, nurses, NPs, LPNs, and even program assistants.

Over the past year, a major overhaul of primary care was carried out at the same time as a major physical relocation was happening to the Liwego'ati building and not enough care was taken to understand how these changes would impact the day-to-day functioning of primary care practitioners and their patients. As a result, we have taken some major steps backwards in terms of continuity of care and patients' access to doctors. This doesn't seem to have been a temporary blip. It has resulted in lasting chaos, inefficiency, and burnout, not to mention moral distress when physicians are prevented from adequately caring for their patients.

Primary care physicians are telling me that since the overhaul, they've had 50 percent less time in their schedules to see patients. This time must now be spent on paperwork directly caused by the overhaul. The primary care teams were rearranged without meaningful involvement from the practitioners on those teams, resulting in all of the previous physician partner teams being unnecessarily split up. That means that the long-term relationships physicians developed with their partners' patients due to regular coverage was lost. Larger teams also mean that the program assistants and LPNs must take on bigger burdens which can lead to burnout, and it makes the teams less efficient overall.

This is not just a Yellowknife issue as many primary care practitioners regularly serve communities outside Yellowknife, and it goes far beyond a few grumpy staff who simply don't like change or don't want to be team players. Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent for my last sentence in the statement. Thank you.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you to my colleagues. So we have nurses and doctors with decades of experience who have passionately devoted their entire careers and lives to this territory who now feel so defeated that they're ready to quit. So that means we're in trouble until we start listening to them carefully. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 361-20(1): Primary Care System Frustrations

Members' Statements

Page 1192

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

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

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Member's Statement 362-20(1): Deh Cho Bridge

Members' Statements

Page 1192

Sheryl Yakeleya

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about the very important piece of infrastructure in our territory which is in my riding, the Deh Cho Bridge. The Deh Cho Bridge is probably one of the territory's largest pieces of infrastructure and the only bridge crossing the Mackenzie River.

Mr. Speaker, in the summer of 2023, the Government of the Northwest Territories discovered that the bridge was damaged. The damage included a broken cable. As a result, traffic is reduced to one lane and there are often line-ups.

Mr. Speaker, constituents in my riding frequently use the Deh Cho Bridge, and they are concerned about the traffic delays and worried about potential safety issues. My constituents aren't the only ones impacted. The bridge is important for many residents of the NWT and for tourism and other industries as this is a year-round highway linking Yellowknife to the south.

Initially, the repair work was supposed to take place this summer; however, this work has not been completed. I made inquiries on the status of the repairs and each time I am told that it will be done soon; however, the work keeps getting pushed back, Mr. Speaker. The government has been aware of this issue for over a year. I will have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure later. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 362-20(1): Deh Cho Bridge

Members' Statements

Page 1193

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from the Deh Cho . Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre .

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Member's Statement 363-20(1): Child and Youth Safety Concerns

Members' Statements

Page 1193

Robert Hawkins

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This July an email was sent to the Department of Health and Social Services. Seven GNWT employees were included on that email. One of them in particular, Mr. Speaker, was the CEO of NT Health and Social Services so I know the department has it at the toppest -- sorry, at the top of the highest officials we have.

Mr. Speaker, I won't name the particular facility, but it was highlighting something very serious. The subject matter in part reads: Urgent, child and youth safety concerns at... I won't fill in the rest. And the email then begins, Mr. Speaker -- and I take a small excerpt out of it. It says, I am writing to you today with a serious concern, safety risk to children and youth that are occurring.

Mr. Speaker, now when it comes to our most vulnerable, whether it's our youth, whether it's our elderly, or those who require special supports, I think it's fair to say all hands-on deck is the right approach. It's not only warranted; it's demanded, Mr. Speaker. So I know this email was received by the CEO, Mr. Speaker, and it highlights in the email that there may be human rights issues, abuse, and neglect. Mr. Speaker, I repeat myself. There may be human rights issues, abuse, and neglect. In that email, it had several items attached that the concerned citizen brought forward and citing as this is information you may need.

Mr. Speaker, this is quite distressing for someone like myself because thinking about our most vulnerable may be trapped in a particular situation and, more so, it bothers me that the department may be taking a lackadaisical approach on how to investigate this and furthermore demonstrates some level of transparency to these concerns. I don't know if they're facts, but they're concerned enough to put them in writing to the department, Mr. Speaker. That should be a minimum standard, a standard of saying maybe we should look into this. At the same time, this also provides those in the system to clarify any concerns. They may be a misunderstanding but I'm not the person to judge.

Now this narrative, Mr. Speaker, I highlight does cause further concerns. I go back, human rights, abuse, and neglect.

There is disclosure rules under the Child and Family Services Act, Mr. Speaker, but it does seem to read pretty silent when it comes to reporting these to the RCMP. So, Mr. Speaker, to help us avoid lifelong -- the lifelong journey of despair and trauma of individuals, I'll be asking the Minister about when the RCMP should be playing a role on this particular concern highlighted. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Member's Statement 363-20(1): Child and Youth Safety Concerns

Members' Statements

Page 1193

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre . Members' statements.

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Member's Statement 364-20(1): Celebration of Life - Stephanie Squirrel

Members' Statements

Page 1193

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Good afternoon, colleagues. Today, I would like to celebrate the life of Stephanie "Sweet Pea" Squirrel. She was born on September 15th, 1988, to Loretta and Steve Squirrel. She was the youngest of five children.

Stephanie attended school in Fort Simpson. I can remember the first time I met her. It was in Grade 1, and she attended school with my daughter. It is interesting what you remember of youth when they are young. What struck me about Stephanie was her smile, energy, and willingness to always want to help her classmates. As she grew up, this was what people saw. She was always there looking after others, especially young children.

I can tell you, three of my grandchildren were always excited to see her, whether it was on the street or at daycare. They spoke about how nice she was, and I witnessed her pure kindness and care she would give to them. Unfortunately, she passed away on August 3rd, 2024, at the young age of 35.

On Monday, August 19th, the family had a Celebration of Life. Two of her best friends, Jocelyn Kierstead and Brittany Hardisty-Isaiah did her eulogy. I have attached them at the end of this speech and would like them deemed as read and printed in Hansard.

What I can tell you, they both spoke about how full of life she was. Always thinking of others, especially the young children, whether they were her nieces, nephews, friends' children, or ones from the daycare. She wanted them to enjoy life and make the most of things. The other that that jumped out at me from their eulogy, the first being, live in the moment. Sometimes you don't do what you plan on doing, like going out but end up in bed watching movies, chatting and dancing with your best friend into all hours of the night, and it being the best time.

The second thing was family time and the willingness to go on adventures with them and loved ones. Whether it was done with trips to Edmonton, Vegas, Mexico, or at the snye or visiting friends or family at home. You can always have fun and enjoy the company you are with regardless of where you are. This was who Stephanie was.

Her family and her boyfriend would like to thank all the people who were able to come to her Celebration of Life and all the condolences from people who were not able to attend. My condolences go out to the family. She will be sadly missed by us all.

Eulogy for Stephanie M. Squirrel (Jocelyn Kierstead and Brittany Hardisty Isaiah):

Stephanie (sweet pea) was a kind, loving, funny, selfless, beautiful soul. This isn't even a fraction of what I can say of who she was as a person, if anyone knew her, she was so much more than words can describe. She was an amazing at everything and an amazing friend, always there to have a shoulder to cry on, made you feel so comfortable and warm. She could always brighten up any room with her contagious smile and incredibly wicked humour but can also smack the Band-Aid off someone if you needed her to. I'll always remember the days we would make plans and end up staying in bed watching movies and singing and laughing all night.

Stephanie had a place in her heart for all children in her care as if they were her own. She was passionate about providing a safe, nurturing space for them. From the kids at the daycare to her many nieces, nephews, and little cousins. Steph had an abundance of love and patience for children.

As the youngest of 5 siblings, she earned her nickname of sweet pea and baby and was adored by those who knew her. Stephanie looked up to her big sisters, was protected by her older brothers, adored her father, and was devoted to loving and caring for her mother. Like most of us in a small community, Steph had a lot of cousins she grew up with that were like siblings. Family time and values are things Stephanie treasured. From trips to Edmonton, to birthdays, holidays, and weddings, she could always be found at the family gatherings.

Steph was never one to miss out on an opportunity to have fun and adventure whether it was a Las Vega trip with her sisters and Aunt, to a wedding vacation in Mexico, or a trip down to the snye floating bridge with her pops.

Steph's interest in astrology and her own zodiac sign reflected in her personality; humble, grounded, self-sufficient. She even has a tattoo of the Virgo constellation. I'd like to thank you for joining us to celebrate her life here on Earth, now she is our own STAR in the sky full of constellations.

Members' statements. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from the Sahtu .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1193

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to welcome two pages from the community of Deline, Ehtseo Ayha School. Their names are Matthew Bond and Evelyn Gaudet. Welcome to the Assembly. Mahsi.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1193

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. If we missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to your chamber. I hope you're enjoying the proceedings. It is always nice to see people in the gallery. Oh, Member from Yellowknife North .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1193

Shauna Morgan

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to recognize Yellowknife North constituent Yuma McEachern who is helping us out as a page this week. So thanks so much, Yuma, for all your help.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 1193

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Recognition of visitors in had the gallery. Reports of committees on the review of bills. Reports of standing and special committees. Member from Frame Lake .

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Committee Report 10-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1193

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's going to be another marathon for Standing Committee on Government Operations. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 10-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner be deemed read and printed in Hansard in its entirety. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Committee Report 10-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1194

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake . Reports on standing and special committees -- oh, sorry. Motion is in order. To the motion.

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Committee Report 10-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1194

Some Hon. Members

Question.

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Committee Report 10-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1194

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion is passed.

---Carried

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Committee Report 10-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1194

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Standing committee on government operations report on the review of the 2023-2024 annual report of the northwest territories information and privacy commissioner

Introduction

The Standing Committee on Government Operations (Committee) has reviewed the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner (Commissioner). The Committee thanks Mr. Andrew Fox, Information and Privacy Commissioner, for his appearance before Committee on September 12, 2024.

The Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIPP) and the Health Information Act (HIA) require the Commissioner to prepare an annual report. The Speaker tables the report in the Legislative Assembly; once tabled, Committee reviews it.

The Commissioner's 2023-2024 report includes an assessment of the effectiveness of the Act, a report on the Office's activities, and recommendations for consideration by the Legislative Assembly. The Commissioner's work and recommendations are reflected in Committee's observations.

About The Information And Privacy Commissioner

The Information and Privacy Commissioner is a Statutory Officer of the Legislative Assembly. The Commissioner's primary functions involve:

Receiving and reviewing complaints about breaches of privacy

Receiving and reviewing complaints about the adequacy of public bodies' responses to access to information requests

Reviewing Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs), and

Reviewing and commenting on proposed legislation regarding possible implications for privacy protection or access to government information

Observations

Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act

The Commissioner made two recommendations in the annual report concerning the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIPPA). Additional details about each recommendation can be found in the 2023-2024 annual report:

1. That the government should consider amending ATIPPA to allow a public body to extend the time once for the period required to complete third-party consultation without authorization by the Commissioner. For subsequent extensions, public bodies should continue to seek authorization from the Commissioner.

2. That public bodies should review their legal obligations to respond to access to information requests and assess their capacity to provide timely responses within the legislated time periods. They should collectively or individually ensure that the Access and Privacy Office (APO) is adequately resourced to assist public bodies in consistently meeting legal time frames and complying with the associated procedural requirements.

Committee acknowledges and supports the Commissioner's recommendations concerning the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Therefore, Committee recommends that:

Recommendation 1: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a timeframe for implementing the Information and Privacy Commissioner's two recommendations related to the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Delay in Responding to Access Requests

During the September 12, 2024, public briefing, the Commissioner expressed concerns about the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT)'s struggles to meet the legislated timeframes in responding to information requests. The APO is responsible for accepting requests from individuals applying for access to information and correction of personal information. Once the APO receives a request, they work with the relevant public body to retrieve the required records.

The Commissioner brought forward to Committee that they believe delays are resulting from the time needed to clarify requests from public bodies and the ongoing issue that the APO lacks resources needed for the timely response to access to information requests within the legislated periods. It was noted by the Commissioner that wording within legislation remains clear and that no specific legislative changes are needed at this time that would help reduce the APO's workload.

Open Government

In 2019, Bill 29: Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Act) updated

Section 72 to obligate public bodies to identify the types of records without personal information and can, therefore, be made available to the public without the need for a formal access request under the Act.

In addition, the GNWT committed to increasing openness, transparency, and accountability by embracing the “Open Government” movement and publicly releasing the Open Government Policy.

The Open Government Policy outlines actions to advance the GNWT's commitment to the principles of Open Government in three key areas:

Open Information

Open Information is the proactive release of government-held information in accessible and user-friendly formats. The Proactive Disclosure Directive (Directive), signed in July 2023, outlines information categories and guides public bodies on maximizing information disclosure.

Committee believes that information and documents outlined in the Directive are not being released proactively by the GNWT (for example, Committee is unaware of internal audit and evaluation reports being disclosed). For these reasons, Committee is recommending that:

Recommendation 2: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide the date by which all information and documents identified in the Proactive Disclosure Directive will be released and updated.

Recommendation 3: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories review and update the Proactive Disclosure Directive to maximize the release of information. Furthermore, Committee requests a date by which this review will be completed.

Open Data

The Open Data Portal (opendata.gov.nt.ca) is designed to make government-held data, including datasets, facts, figures, and statistics, available to the public in accessible and user-friendly formats. As of October 16, 2024, the Portal includes 340 datasets. However, it remains unclear which information resources are to be open and released, what decision processes govern the release of open data, and what efforts departments have made to maximize data release.

Organization Total

Bureau of Statistics 290

Education, Culture and Employment 4

Environment and Climate Change 12

Executive and Indigenous Affairs 7

Finance 2

Health and Social Services 2

Industry, Tourism and Investment 2

Infrastructure 9

Justice 10

Municipal and Community Affairs 2

Total 340

Recommendation 4: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide:

1. A Directive on Open Government to maximize the release of government information and data of business value to support transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement.

2. Departmental Open Government Implementation Plans that outline departmental direction, strategies, and initiatives undertaken to meet the requirements of the Open Government Policy.

3. Inventories of all data and information resources of business value held by each department with determinations of eligibility and priority and the plan for effective release.

4. Periodic progress reports.

If these directives and guidelines do not yet exist, Committee requests a date by which they will be created and implemented.

Open Dialogue

Open Dialogue refers to the availability of a diverse range of engagement activities designed to facilitate meaningful participation of residents, communities, and organizations in government decision-making processes.

Committee recognizes the 2022 Public Engagement Employee Guide as a significant step toward establishing a unified approach in providing resources to support public engagement. Committee is eager in seeing the success of Open Dialogue and therefore recommends:

Recommendation 5: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide to Committee and publish all evaluation worksheets/reports from public engagement evaluation since the Public Engagement Employee Guide was released in July 2022.

Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority Privacy Breach Policy:

The current practice for health information custodians, such as the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA), is to delay notification of privacy breaches until a full investigation is completed, which often takes several months. This is inconsistent with the Health Information Act (HIA), which requires notice to be provided as soon as reasonably possible after a breach is confirmed. The delay in giving notice prevents individuals from taking timely action to protect their privacy.

The Commissioner argues that notice should be given as soon as a privacy breach is confirmed rather than waiting for the full investigation to conclude, as this better aligns with the Health Information Act's intent. The Commissioner recommends in their 2023-2024 report:

• That the Health and Social Services Privacy Breach Policy should be amended to require notice to be given to the affected individual(

s) and the Information and Privacy Commissioner as soon as reasonably possible once a privacy breach has been confirmed.

Committee recognizes the gap highlighted by the Commissioner between the NTHSSA policy and the HIA. Therefore, Committee is recommending the following:

Recommendation 6: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories work with the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority to amend their Privacy Breach Policy to better align with the Health Information Act's intent.

Health Information Act

The Commissioner made seven recommendations in the annual report concerning the Health Information Act. Additional details about each recommendation can be found in the 2023-2024 annual report:

1. That the Department of Health and Social Services should consider implementing a policy, or the government should consider amending the Health Information Act, to require health information custodians to report to the Commissioner regarding the implementation of accepted recommendations.

2. That Health Information Custodians should continue to reduce or eliminate the use of fax machines to transmit personal health information.

3. That Health Information Custodians should use secure electronic transmission measures when transmitting personal health information. Privacy training for employees should include detailed instructions on using secure electronic measures.

4. That Health Information Custodians should prioritize implementation of, and compliance with, the Mandatory Training Policy and ensure that appropriate privacy training is provided for new employees, returning employees, and for all employees annually.

5. That the Legislative Assembly should consider amending the

section amending

section 87 of the Health Information Act to require a Health Information Custodian to give notice of a privacy breach within a specific time period. (Pg 19)

6. That Privacy Impact Assessments addressing any new information system or communication technology that involves the collection, use, or disclosure of personal health information should be completed and submitted so that there is a reasonable period for review by the Information and Privacy Commissioner and for any comments to be considered by the Health Information Custodian in the planning stages before implementation.

7. That the Legislative Assembly should consider amending

Section 89 of the Health Information Act to include similar provisions regarding Privacy Impact Assessments as mandated in

section 42.1 of ATIPP.

Committee acknowledges and supports the Commissioner's recommendations concerning the Health Information Act. Therefore, Committee is recommending the following:

Recommendation 7: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a timeframe for implementing the Information and Privacy Commissioner's seven recommendations related to the Health Information Act.

Conclusion

This concludes the Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Information and Privacy Commissioner.

Recommendation 8: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories respond to the recommendations contained in this report within 120 days.

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Julian Morse

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Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 10-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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---Carried

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Julian Morse

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Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Great Slave , that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days. Thank you.

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Julian Morse

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Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations would like to Report on its Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Equal Pay Commissioner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Page 1195

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, and commends it to the House.

Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, which will be referred to from now as the "annual report."

The committee thanks Ms. Renée Caron, recently appointed Equal Pay Commissioner, for her appearance before committee on August 29th, 2024. In the Northwest Territories, the right to equal pay for work of equal value is established by

Section 40 of the Public Service Act and applies to public service employees. The Act requires the Equal Pay Commissioner to prepare an annual report. The 2023-2024 Annual Report highlights the context for the Commissioner's work and her activities over the year. Committee wishes to express our heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Bronwyn Watters, the former Equal Pay Commissioner, who passed away unexpectedly in the summer of 2023.

About the NWT Equal Pay Commissioner:

Section 40 of the Public Service Act requires that there be no difference in the rate of pay between male and female employees who perform work of equal value in the same establishment. Under the Act, three separate establishments exist:

The government,

The NWT power corporation, and

Teachers.

The Equal Pay Commissioner is responsible for:

Investigating complaints from employees who believe that their right to equal pay for work of equal value has been violated.

Promoting awareness and understanding of equal pay for work of equal value.

Observations

The Northwest Territories stands as a leader in minimizing pay inequity. According to the most recent Statistics Canada census (2021), in the Northwest Territories:

The median wage for tax filers identifying as male was $65,300.

The median wage for tax filers identifying as female was $59,610.

These wages represent one of the smallest gender pay gaps in Canada, which the average of which is 74 percent behind only Nunavut. However, committee urges the government to avoid complacency.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion discussions often focus on traditionally marginalized groups in isolation. For example, the GNWT has policies that promote mentorship opportunities for Indigenous peoples and training to improve 2SLGBTQQIA+ workplace awareness. These efforts are important; however, committee argues they are overly simplistic.

An Intersectional Approach To Pay Equity

Intersectionality is critical to understanding pay equity because it allows us to delve deeper into the multiple factors or demographics that impact compensation rather than focusing on individual factors in isolation. By design, focusing on the average wages across all women may mask disparities that exist when individual experiences or demographics are not incorporated.

The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission noted that "pay inequity is not solely an issue of sex discrimination, but an intersectional issue that cuts across race, colour, national origin, and other protected classes." An intersectional approach to pay equity necessarily goes beyond comparing the average earnings of men and women.

A Statistics Canada study, Intersectional Perspective on the Canadian Gender Wage Gap, found that in 2022, compared to the average hourly wage for Canadian-born men:

Women who immigrated to Canada as children earn 10.5 percent less;

Women who immigrated to Canada as adults earned 20.9 percent less;

The comparison of average earnings at the intersection of gender and Indigenous status shows that Indigenous women and men earn less than non- Indigenous men and women;

Women who identify with a racialized group earn significantly less than the average male;

Persons with disabilities have lower wages and are more likely to work part-time leading to lower average weekly earnings;

Neurodivergent individuals are more likely to be underemployed, with lower potential earnings versus their neurotypical peers.

Committee believes that the GNWT's current one-dimension approach, based on just gender, misses the full picture. Intersectionality is key to achieving pay equity because it recognizes that individuals experience discrimination and inequality based on the intersection of multiple identities and demographic markers such as race, gender, and age.

During the life of this Assembly, the Government of the Northwest Territories plans to bring forward amendments to the Public Service Act making now an ideal time for the government to consider intersectionality issues surrounding pay equity and propose changes to the legislation. Therefore:

Recommendation 1: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories, in collaboration with the Pay Equity Commissioner, review the pay equity provisions of the Public Service Act and bring forward amendments to address how intersectionality impacts pay equity.

Proactive Pay Equity

Collective bargaining and job evaluation systems support pay equity. The GNWT uses the Hay Method of job evaluation as a gender-neutral evaluation system that assesses jobs based on skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions. However, committee learned that collective bargaining and job evaluation cannot be the sole mechanisms to ensure pay equity.

The 2023-2024 Annual Report points out that "equal pay for work of equal value must be demonstrably established and maintained over time... Maintenance requires a systemic review every few years."

In August 2021, the federal government brought the federal Pay Equity Act into force. The federal Act establishes a proactive pay equity regime for federally regulated workplaces with ten or more employees. Under this regime, employers must proactively examine their compensation practices. The central feature of proactive pay equity is that it requires employers to establish and periodically update a pay equity plan rather than relying on reactive complaints to address and resolve issues.

Recommendation 2: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories, in collaboration with the Pay Equity Commissioner, review the pay equity provisions of the Public Service Act and bring forward amendments to require regular maintenance reviews or proactive pay equity plans.

Conclusion

This concludes the Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner.

Recommendation 3: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a response to the recommendations contained in this report within 120 days.

So, Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 11-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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---Carried

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Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 12-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, be deemed read and printed in Hansard in its entirety. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Julian Morse

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Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of The 2023-2024 Annual Report of The Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission

Introduction

The Standing Committee on Government Operations (Committee) has reviewed the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission (Annual Report).1 The Committee thanks Mr. Charles Dent, Ms. Nicole MacNeil, and Mr. Sheldon Toner for their appearance before the Committee on August 26, 2024.2

About the Human Rights Commission

The NWT Human Rights Commission works to promote equality human rights and protect individuals and groups from discrimination under the NWT Human Rights Act. The Act creates a human rights system that is independent from the territorial government.

The human rights system in the Northwest Territories is committed to using a restorative approach and is guided by the principles of flexibility, inclusion, remediation and participatory solutions to issues. It is against the law to discriminate against anyone in the following areas:

The NWT Human Rights Act protects 22 grounds: age, disability, race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, ethnic origin, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family status, family affiliation, marital status, social condition, religion, creed, political belief, political association, pardoned criminal conviction, or record suspension.

Observations

Public Hearing

Committee is excited to see the results of the Commission's work to understand how their processes are working for the people of the Northwest Territories (NWT), particularly the Commission's Reconciliation Strategy and work plan to improve services to Indigenous Peoples.

Committee is eager to learn more about the Commission's research into non- disclosure agreement (NDA) legislation that has been a topic of concern across Canada. In addition, Committee appreciated the conversation about protected grounds and looks forward to the Commission's review of protected grounds.

As of 2022, there are more than 8,000 NWT residents over the age of 15 with some form of disability, representing 25.7% of the population.4 As the population ages, the number of people with disabilities and the severity of their disabilities are likely to increase.

CSA B651:23 - Accessible design for the built environment7 is recognized as the most comprehensive description of accessible building practices in Canada. The standard describes the technical requirements for designing and constructing new facilities or exterior environments or modifying existing facilities or exterior environments.

Integrating CSA B651:23 into legislation to make buildings and the exterior built environment safe for those with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities could help ensure that builders, private owners, and municipal governments are protected from discrimination claims.

Conclusion

This concludes the Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission. Committee eagerly awaits the government's response to Committee's recommendations in CR 5-20(1) Report on the Review of the 2022-2023 Annual Report of the Human Rights Commission,8 and respectively recommends that:

Recommendation 3: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a response to the recommendations contained in this report within 120 days.

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Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 12-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Committee Report 12-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1197

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days.

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Committee Report 12-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

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The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member for Frame Lake . The motion is in order. To the motion.

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Committee Report 12-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, deemed read, received, and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1197

The Speaker

Shane Thompson

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake .

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Committee Report 13-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, received and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1198

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Committee Report 13-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, received and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

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Shane Thompson

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake .

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Committee Report 13-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, received and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

Reports Of Standing And Special Committees

Page 1198

Julian Morse

Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner and commends it to the House.

The Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner. The committee thanks Ms. Brenda Gauthier, NWT Languages Commissioner, for her appearance before the committee on August 29, 2024.

The Official Languages Act requires the Languages Commissioner to prepare an annual report.

The 2023-2024 report highlights the Commissioner's focus on community outreach, investigating complaints and inquiries, and continued advocacy for the Government of the Northwest Territories Indigenous Languages and Education Secretariat to mirror the services provided by the Francophone Affairs Secretariat.

About the Office of the Languages Commissioner

The Commissioner has a narrow scope to investigate complaints that violate the Act and to promote the Office of the Languages Commissioner. The Northwest Territories has eleven official languages:

French,

Chipewyan,

South Slavey,

North Slavey,

Gwich'in,

Inuinnaqtun,

Inuktitut,

Inuvialuktun,

Cree, and

Tlicho.

Observations

Review Indigenous Languages Service Offerings

The Commissioner put forward two recommendations in the 2023-2024 Annual Report. The first recommendation is repeated from last year and called on the Government of the Northwest Territories to mirror the Indigenous Languages and Education Secretariat to the Francophone Affairs Secretariat. Committee agreed with this recommendation and submitted it for the GNWT's consideration in Committee Report 4-20(1), Report on the Review of the 2022-2023 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner. Committee anticipates the government's response to this recommendation in the Fall 2024 session of the Legislative Assembly.

Providing Services in All Official Languages

The second recommendation of the Commissioner is that the GNWT do more to provide services in all official languages in government institutions in all communities. One way to accomplish this is to collaborate with Indigenous regional governments.

There is a significant demand for communications and services from the office in that language; or

It is reasonable, given the nature of the office, that communications with and services from it be available in that language.

However, committee notes that there is no definition of "significant demand," nor are any communities identified as having "significant demand" for Indigenous languages in the Official Languages Act Government Institutions Regulations. Therefore:

Recommendation 1: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories define the term "significant demand." Appendix A of the Official Languages Guidelines Manual, published in 1997, outlines designated geographic areas for the use of official languages by the GNWT. While updating these guidelines is an action identified in the current NWT Indigenous Languages Action Plan, committee is not aware of the GNWT delivering services to the public in any official Indigenous languages in designated areas at this time.

Recommendation 3: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories update the Government Institution Regulations to accurately reflect the requirements of

Section 11 of the Official Languages Act by specifying:

Which regional area or community offices in which communities are required to communicate with and provide services in which Indigenous languages.

Committee recognizes the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 14.4 which states that the preservation, revitalization, and strengthening of Aboriginal languages and cultures are best managed by Indigenous people and communities. However, committee also strongly believes that active reconciliation requires ongoing support and engagement. As such, simply passing along funding to Indigenous governments does not allow the GNWT to abdicate its responsibility to actively provide services and programming to our residents in the official languages of the NWT.

Committee recognizes that offering frontline services in Indigenous languages comes with significant challenges such as training staff, developing resources, and the availability of language speakers. Committee is concerned that:

There is insufficient funding and capacity for the GNWT to successfully champion improving the public's access to government programs and services in all official languages; and,

The Premier did not identify a Minister responsible for Official Languages, and yet the Official Languages Act requires a Minister be held responsible. By default, the responsibility for official languages seems to have fallen on the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment . However, the ECE Minister does not have the authority to direct other departments on the use of official languages in their program delivery, nor do they possess the authority to hold other departments accountable for poor performance.

Therefore:

Recommendation 4: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories implement the funding and resources necessary to ensure speakers of the NWT's official Indigenous languages have access to government services in their language.

Recommendation 5: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Premier of the Northwest Territories clarify the roles and responsibilities held by the various departments and Ministers regarding official languages to ensure that all eleven of the Northwest Territories languages are treated equitably.

Languages Commissioner

Ms. Brenda Gauthier, the 8th Languages Commissioner, stated that she will leave the office at the end of her four-year term in January 2025. She is concerned that the scope of the Languages Commissioner, as laid out in the Act, is too narrow compared to other statutory officers of the Legislative Assembly.

In addition to investigating complaints received and promoting public education, most statutory officers provide an assessment of the effectiveness of their respective legislation. Within the Official Languages Act, that responsibility falls on the official language boards with recommendations made to the Minister, not the Legislative Assembly. As such:

Recommendation 6: The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Legislative Assembly review the duties and mandate of the Languages Commissioner before the recruitment and appointment of a new Commissioner to ensure that the next Commissioner has the resources to successfully act as the guardian of languages rights in the NWT.

Conclusion

This concludes the Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Languages Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. Committee eagerly awaits the government's response to committee's recommendations in Committee Report 4-20(1), Report on the Review of the 2022-2023 Annual Report of the Languages Commissioner, and respectfully recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a response to the recommendations contained within this report within 120 days.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave , that Committee Report 13-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, be received and adopted by this Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Committee Report 13-20(1): Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, received and adopted. Response from Government Requested, Carried

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