Debates of Nov. 4th, 1998

This is page numbers 249 - 272 of the Hansard for the 13th Assembly, 6th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.

The word of the day was yellowknife .

Topics

Members Present

Item 1: Prayer

Ministers Absent From The House

Formula Financing Agreement

Maintenance Enforcement

Partnership In Training For Diamond Secondary Industry

Emphasis On Community Fire Protection

New Service Offered By The Department Of Justice - Family/civil Law Information Centre

Kitikmeot Leaders' Forum Resolutions

Passing Of Tookilkee Elijah Kigutaq

Broughton Island Breakwater

Nursing Shortage

Board Versus Ministerial Accountability

On The Job Training Initiatives

Unresolved Collective Bargaining Negotiations

Recent Visits Of Mlas To Tuktoyaktuk

Report Of The NWT Electoral Boundaries Commission

Arviat Health Centre Project

Roads To Resources Initiative

Students Job Shadow Program

Return To Oral Question 79-13(6): Employee Confidentiality Agreement

Return To Oral Question 68-13(6): Economic Strategy Initiatives

Return To Oral Question 84-13(6): Renovation Contract To Southern Firm

Return To Oral Question 89-13(6): Compensation For Unsuccessful Contract Bidders

Return To Oral Question 130-13(6): Baker Lake Bridge Installation

Return To Oral Question 113-13(6): Clyde River Report To Maca

Return To Oral Question 127-13(6): Water Quality In Mackenzie Delta

Return To Oral Question 83-13(6): Direct Deposit To Northern Businesses

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Dental Services In Kivallivik

Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Collective Bargaining Process

Broughton Island Breakwater

Education Concerns In Mackenzie Delta

Recruitment And Retention Plan Implementation

Trades Training Program

Agency Nurses Employment Status

Transpolar Flights

Return To Written Question 146-13(6): Transpolar Flights

Benefits For Teachers And Nurses

Adequate Educational Resources

Support For Nunavut Nursing Program

Protection Of Public Buildings

Return To Written Question 4-13(6): Ministerial Travel Reporting Requirements

Tabled Document 24-13(6): Petition Calling For A Ratification Vote On The Final Unw Contract Proposal

Tabled Document 25-13(6): Territorial Formula Financing Agreement With The Government Of The Northwest Territories, 1999-2000 To 2003-2004

Tabled Document 26-13(6): Report Of The NWT Electoral Boundaries Commission, 1998

Tabled Document 27-13(6): Legislative Assembly Pension Administration Report, Year Ended March 31, 1998

Northwest Territories Electoral Boundaries Commission Report To Committee Of The Whole

Bill 10:

An Act To Amend The Student Financial Assistance Act

Bill 11:

An Act To Amend The Workers' Compensation Act, No. 2

Bill 13: Supplementary Appropriation Act No. 3, 1998-1999

Bill 12: Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1998, No. 2

Item 22: Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Honourable Jim Antoine , Honourable Goo Arlooktoo , Mr. Barnabas , Honourable Charles Dent , Mr. Enuaraq , Mr. Erasmus , Honourable Sam Gargan, Mrs. Groenewegen, Mr. Henry , Mr. Krutko , Mr. Miltenberger , Honourable Kelvin Ng , Mr. Ningark , Mr. O'Brien , Mr. Ootes , Mr. Picco , Mr. Rabesca , Mr. Roland , Mr. Steen , Honourable Manitok Thompson , Honourable John Todd .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Oh, God, may your spirit and guidance be in us as we work for the benefit of all our people, for peace and justice in our land and for the constant recognition of the dignity and aspirations of those whom we serve. Amen.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 1: Prayer

Item 1: Prayer

Page 249

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Roland . Good afternoon. Welcome back to the continuation of the Sixth Session of the 13th Legislative Assembly. If you are like me, you have no doubt been busy since we last met in the House. I hope you had enough time with your family, friends and constituents during the short break. I also expect you are ready for the busy time ahead of us as we work to wrap up the business of the 13th and last Assembly of the Northwest Territories.

I feel I must remind Members that there is much to do in a very short time frame and we have a number of legislative initiatives that must be dealt with in that time. This may mean standing down some of the normal processes for review. I hope Members will remember my opening comments of the September sitting. When it comes to the operation of the House, I intend to be strict with the rules. When we were elected, we accepted the challenge to create a legacy for future generations of both territories that will be created on April 1, 1999. It is a challenge I know we will meet with mutual respect and cooperation.

Before we begin, I ask all Members and the public to join me in sending our prayers to the Member for Amittuq , Mark Evaloarjuk and his family. Mr. Evaloarjuk is in the hospital in Ottawa and I know you will join me in wishing him a speedy recovery. I hope he will be able to join us in the near future. Once again, welcome to the continuation of the Sixth Session of the 13th Assembly.

I also wish to advise the House that I have received the following messages from the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories.

Dear Mr. Speaker:

I wish to advise that I recommend to the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories, the passage of Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 3, 1998/99 during the Sixth Session of the 13th Legislative Assembly.

Yours truly, Helen Maksagak, Commissioner.

Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Arlooktoo .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 44-13(6): Ministers Absent From The House

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 249

Goo Arlooktoo

Baffin South

Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that the Honourable Don Morin will be absent from the House as required for the duration of this sitting to attend Conflict of Interest Inquiry.

Mr. Speaker, I also wish to advise Members that the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi will be absent from the House for the remainder of this week to attend a meeting of the National Round Table on the Environment and Economy, on behalf of the Premier , in Ottawa. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 44-13(6): Ministers Absent From The House

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 249

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Ministers statements. Mr. Todd .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 45-13(6): Formula Financing Agreement

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 249

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As Members are aware, the Formula Financing Agreement for the Northwest Territories was signed on October 23, 1998 in a colourful ceremony in the Great Hall of this Legislative Assembly. The agreement covers the period April 1, 1999 to March 31, 2004. On the same day, the Nunavut Formula Financing Agreement was signed in a similar ceremony in Iqaluit.

As Members know, the Honourable Paul Martin, federal Minister of Finance was on hand in both Iqaluit and Yellowknife to sign the Agreements on behalf of the federal government. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Martin for his support in concluding these agreements. Mr. Martin has shown a great willingness to listen to northern concerns and for this, Mr. Speaker, our government is very grateful.

Mr. Speaker, the signing of this agreement marks an important milestone in the evolution of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, the new arrangements will provide the Northwest Territories and Nunavut with the means to operate their governments in a climate of fiscal stability for the next five years.

Mr. Speaker, the signing of these agreements represent the conclusion of a great deal of effort and cooperation on behalf of all the parties involved: the GNWT, Finance Canada, DIAND, the Western Coalition, the Nunavut Interim Commissioner's Office, Nunavut Tunngavik. I would like to

thank all of the parties involved for all the hard work put forward into this process. Mr. Speaker, later today at the appropriate time, I will be tabling the NWT Formula Financing Agreement in this House. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 45-13(6): Formula Financing Agreement

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 250

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Ministers' statements. Mr. Arlooktoo .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 46-13(6): Maintenance Enforcement

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 250

Goo Arlooktoo

Baffin South

Thank you. Mr. Speaker, no child should go hungry or be without proper clothes or other needs simply because he or she is caught in the middle of a family break-up. Every child deserves to receive proper parental support, including financial support. As the saying goes, Mr. Speaker, "it should not hurt to be a child." I rise today to speak on the topic of child support, and the enforcement of agreements and court ordered maintenance payments.

Once a parent has a court order or a written agreement requiring a payment of either child or spousal support, they can ask Maintenance Enforcement to collect and monitor the payments by completing a registration package and sending it to the Maintenance Enforcement Office. Last year, Mr. Speaker, the Department of Justice collected over $2.7 million dollars for people registered with the program.

While many people voluntarily make their payments through Maintenance Enforcement, some go to great lengths to avoid making payments. This saddens me because the only ones who suffer are the children when this happens.

If a person is not making voluntary payments, the Maintenance Enforcement Administrator has the discretion to take whatever steps she feels are reasonable to enforce the order. This includes seizing wages, assets, Employment Insurance payments and income tax refunds. In extreme cases, the administrator can go to court and ask that the individual be imprisoned for up to 90 days.

The workload in the Maintenance Enforcement Office continues to grow. We are in the process of installing systems that will make the office more efficient and easier to use. The Department of Justice is also using federal funds to increase awareness of maintenance obligations and enforcement across the territories. Part of this awareness campaign will be aimed at young people. It will inform them not only of their rights, but also of their obligations to support their children.

I will provide my colleagues with some promotional material that has been produced for general distribution, and some registration packages for the Maintenance Enforcement Program. Please feel free to distribute these to your constituents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 46-13(6): Maintenance Enforcement

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 250

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Ministers' statements. Mr. Dent

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 47-13(6): Partnership In Training For Diamond Secondary Industry

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 250

Charles Dent

Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. I have recently returned from the Financial Times Diamond Conference in Antwerp, Belgium. While there, I signed an agreement with the Diamond High Council to continue to work together to train northerners for jobs as diamond polishers and cutters. Mr. Speaker, this first-of-its-kind training partnership includes the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, Aurora College, The Diamond High Council of Antwerp and the Flemish Government's Department of Education.

We are working together on two initiatives. The first is the development of standards and certification for occupations in the secondary diamond industry. These standards describe in detail the knowledge, skills and attitudes a person needs to be certified as a brillianteer, blocker or bruter. The second initiative is pre-employment training for the secondary diamond industry.

By using the expertise of instructors from the Diamond High Council of Antwerp as well as other diamond experts from around the world, we will train our workers to meet world standards of excellence in the secondary diamond industry.

A key part of the partnership will be the delivery of the Pre-employment Program for the Diamond Industry by Aurora College. The Diamond High Council of Canada, together with the college, will deliver this 16-week program in Yellowknife starting in January 1999. Instructors from the Diamond High Council, who are experts in the world of diamonds, will deliver this program in conjunction with Aurora College instructors. Students will have the opportunity to learn internationally recognized and accredited skills needed to cut and polish diamonds.

There is a great deal of excitement these days about new jobs and opportunities related to diamond mining. We have to continue to ensure that these jobs and opportunities help build a bright future for northerners.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 47-13(6): Partnership In Training For Diamond Secondary Industry

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 250

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Ministers' statements. Ms. Thompson.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 48-13(6): Emphasis On Community Fire Protection

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 250

Manitok Thompson

Aivilik

Mr. Speaker, last spring, I advised this House that there was a real need for change in the area of community fire protection. Unfortunately, this has been confirmed once again by major losses of the school in Cambridge Bay and the swimming pool building in Fort Good Hope.

Mr. Speaker, our fire loss statistics continue to be three times the national average. These high rates jeopardize the availability of reasonable insurance coverage, not to mention the risk to human life.

In only two years, eight major fires have led to losses in excess of $23 million dollars. Since May of this year, three more fires have resulted in a further loss of approximately $10 million dollars in damages.

Mr. Speaker, it is more critical than ever that significant changes to the current fire protection system be introduced. In its 1999/2000 Business Plan, the Department of Municipal and the Community Affairs is planning a number of strategic changes to improve conditions. We are well aware that communities play a critical role. Community fire departments must have the resources to effectively respond to fires.

Mr. Speaker, to respond to this need, MACA is reviewing its municipal funding criteria to make sure communities can properly finance their fire departments. MACA is also reviewing its fire equipment standards. MACA's officials are working with the NWT Fire Chiefs Association to develop fire fighter training programs for community volunteers and professional fire fighters.

A workshop for Regional Assistant Fire Marshals and Community Fire Chiefs was held in Yellowknife on September 11-17, 1998. I am pleased to report that approximately 50 people from communities across the territories were able to participate in this training. Community fire protection has been strengthened through their participation. Mr. Speaker, since most fires can be prevented, we will continue to work with the Fire Chiefs' Association to develop public education strategies to reduce the number of fires.

I am pleased to report that in addition to our "Learn Not to Burn" Program, the Juvenile Fire Setters Intervention Program has also launched to work with youth who may start fires.

Mr. Speaker, effective programs to deal with troubled youth must be more than just a priority of this government. It must also be a priority for communities, parents and families.

When lives and property are at risk, it is everyone's responsibility to help find solutions. MACA will continue to work with community governments, the Department of Health and Social Services, the RCMP and the NWT Fire Chiefs Association to address this growing concern. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 48-13(6): Emphasis On Community Fire Protection

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 251

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Ministers' statements. Mr. Arlooktoo .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 49-13(6): New Service Offered By The Department Of Justice - Family/civil Law Information Centre

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 251

Goo Arlooktoo

Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. One of the many important issues facing northerners is the lack of knowledge about the justice system. This is an issue across Canada, and especially here, where many people do not have immediate access to the courts or a lawyer. This is particularly worrying when it affects the well being of children who are denied adequate support from one of their parents. Therefore, I am very pleased to announce that the Department of Justice is launching a new initiative aimed at making it easier for people to understand and access the legal system. This new initiative is being supported financially by the federal government.

Earlier this month, we opened a Family Law Information Office on the first floor of the Yellowknife Courthouse. This office will serve as the first point of contact for people coming into the courthouse looking for help; whether they are witnesses in a trial, a potential juror, want to file documents in court or just find out information on the justice system. In addition to helping people who come into the building, the department will produce material to explain legal procedures. This material will focus on child support.

It will include television and newspaper ads, videos, pamphlets and material aimed at youth and children. The information office will also distribute material and information on the new Children's Law Act which came into force on November 1, 1998.

I should make it clear that the Information Office will not be providing legal advice. Its staff will give people general information to help them understand the legal process and what their rights are and what processes are used to enforce them. There is a toll free line to request material or information. This number is 1-888-298-7880. I will provide some material on child support for each of the Members to review or pass on to their constituents. This is an example of the information the office will provide. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Minister's Statement 49-13(6): New Service Offered By The Department Of Justice - Family/civil Law Information Centre

Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 251

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Ningark .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 110-13(6): Kitikmeot Leaders' Forum Resolutions

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 251

John Ningark

Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I had the pleasure and opportunity of attending the Kitikmeot Leaders Forum from October 13 to October 15, in Cambridge Bay. I thank the Kitikmeot Leader's Forum for allowing me to participate fully in this forum. Mr. Speaker, many issues and concerns were discussed adopted and passed. I should say, Mr. Speaker, that there were about 20 resolutions passed in that meeting. One resolution that stands out in my mind is in regard to health, human resources recruitment and the retention plan in the NWT. Mr.

Speaker, here are some of the more serious issues facing the NWT that were brought up at Kitikmeot Leader's Forum. One, inadequate staffing levels in some communities include Pelly Bay. The second, highest staff turnover rates. Number three, compensation and benefits that are no longer competitive. Number four, lack of training and development opportunities for staff. Number five, health board often having to rely on inexperienced staff et cetera. Mr. Speaker, there are many more concerns that were brought up at the Kitikmeot Leader's Forum, but this what I mentioned are few and Mr.

Speaker, at the appropriate time, I will be asking

the Minister, will this government as a priority develop a training and retention plan designed for northerners in all health and social services professions. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 110-13(6): Kitikmeot Leaders' Forum Resolutions

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Ningark . Members' statements. Mr. Barnabas .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 111-13(6): Passing Of Tookilkee Elijah Kigutaq

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

Levi Barnabas

High Arctic

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. Welcome back Members of the Legislative Assembly. One of the few remaining respected elder from Grise Fiord passed away on October 29, 1998 from cancer. Mr. Tookilkee Elijah Kigutaq was born in Cape Dorset on January 15, 1930. When Mr. Kigutaq got older he moved to Arctic Bay and was married to Martha Late Kigutaq and started a family. In 1996, when Gamalie Akeeagok's family was moving to Grise Fiord, Mr. Akeeagok asked Mr. Kigutaq's family to come with them to support their family in Grise Fiord. Mr. Kigutaq resided in Grise Fiord since then. Mr.

Kigutaq worked for the Hamlet of Grise Fiord until he retired in 1997 after 26 years of service. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Kigutaq was also involved with various organizations such as (translation ends) chairperson for the Housing Association and other organizations.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Kigutaq taught me about my family tree and supported me to do my job during my visits to my constituency in Grise Fiord. Mr. Speaker, I share my thoughts and prayers to Mr. Kigutaq's family and people of Grise Fiord at this critical time of their loss of their respected elder in the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 111-13(6): Passing Of Tookilkee Elijah Kigutaq

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Enuaraq .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 112-13(6): Broughton Island Breakwater

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

Tommy Enuaraq

Baffin Central

(Translation) Good afternoon Mr. Speaker. (Translation ends) Community of Broughton Island, is a coastal community protected by a break-water on one side. However, the existing break-water does not protect all the homes on Broughton Island. The beach near the unprotected homes is eroding at an ever-increasing rate. One day, these same homes may be washed into the ocean. In the fall, their windows and outside walls are facing the ocean and are covered in thick sheets of ice from the ocean spray. Mr. Speaker, that is how close the ocean is to these threatened homes.

There should be another break-water added to protect that side of the community or the homes should be removed back to safer ground. A break-water would be an ideal solution. Sooner or later, we may have to move these homes again. Mr. Speaker, I propose that the government do an immediate evaluation of the area. The sooner the government deals with this issue, the better. Thank you.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 112-13(6): Broughton Island Breakwater

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Picco .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 113-13(6): Nursing Shortage

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to speak with and visit many of our health care professionals in Iqaluit. I also had a family member stay over night at the Baffin Regional Hospital. First-hand, Mr. Speaker, I have seen the effects of the severe shortage of nurses is having on our medical facilities. This is not unique to Iqaluit or the Baffin. Indeed, at the end of September, as Chairman of the Infrastructure Committee, when we met in Tuktoyaktuk, it was also a major issue there.

In Iqaluit, the elective children's dental surgery had to be cancelled last week, and I understand that surgeries the Baffin hospital has that were set up to be performed will have to be carried out at a more expensive monetary and human cost in Ottawa because of the nursing shortage. Mr. Speaker, the chair of the Baffin Health Board stated that as a result of the nursing shortage, short-term actions had to be put in place which will result in reductions in current services offered.

Mr. Speaker, why is there a nursing shortage? Did we anticipate this coming? Could we have done something about this before it happened? The answer to all these questions, Mr. Speaker, is a resounding yes. The government saw this coming. We could have done something and yes, the problem is occurring in other jurisdictions. Simply put, Mr. Speaker, it is not cost-effective or conducive for a nurse to work in the Northwest Territories. There is no financial incentive to move north. Remember, Mr. Speaker, the last increase in pay for any of our public employees was during the 1992 round of negotiations.

I remember that because I was a part of that team. At that time, the increase was roughly two percent per year. In 1995-1996, this government as part of the deficit reductions reduced all salaries by a little more than six percent and eliminated VTAs. Thus, a nurse or other medical professional, or for that matter civil servant, in realistic terms have suffered six years of reductions, roll backs and not keeping up with the CPI, the rate of inflation or rates of pay for other jurisdictions.

Simply put, Mr. Speaker, we are not competitive in the current marketplace. The current offer on the table for medical professionals, including nurses and CNAs, lab technicians, et cetera, does not address those inequities. Mr. Speaker, in the long-term, the key to keep, retain and attract medical and other professionals will be competitive salaries, housing and travel benefits. Mr. Speaker, we also have to develop and support and expand northern nursing programs. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to continue my statement.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 113-13(6): Nursing Shortage

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you, the Member for Iqaluit is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Mr. Picco , you have unanimous consent.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 113-13(6): Nursing Shortage

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 252

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and thank you colleagues. Mr. Speaker, we also have to develop, support and expand northern nursing programs and other professional training for northerners. The collapse of the Nunavut nursing

program was an embarrassment and the government's Department of Health and the new Nunavut government, should make it a priority to get that program up and running. Mr. Speaker, I make this statement because of personal knowledge of the health care situation in the Baffin, Iqaluit and the Northwest Territories. I do not make it lightly. I think that the work of our health care professionals, doctors, nurses, the CNAs, et cetera, is excellent.

To try and say that the problem is a result of external pressures in marginalizing a serious issue that has taken several years of inactivity in salaries, benefits and decisions made by this government to get to where we are today. That is a fact. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 113-13(6): Nursing Shortage

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 253

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Members' statements. Mr. Krutko .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 114-13(6): Board Versus Ministerial Accountability

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 253

David Krutko

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take the time to thank the social workers, nurses, teachers, people in the RCMP, and caregivers in our communities who serve the people that we are elected to serve. Mr. Speaker, there are a lot of times that you hear problems regarding education, youth, problems with alcohol and drugs, but we usually inherit that complaint, but are not really at the front line to serve those people we represent. Mr.

Speaker, this time I would like to state that the problems in my riding which are dealing with education, the increases in enrolments, the shortages of teachers and also problems we see within the health care system where some of my colleagues have stated the shortage of teachers and nurses in our communities are having an effect on them. Over the years this has always been a problem in smaller communities where a person can go to a bootlegger and get a bottle. However, what we are seeing now are teenagers going into local Yellowknife bars and being served.

These students are underage and legally not allowed to enter these premises.

Recently one bar manager in Yellowknife decided to try and keep these young adults out by having their parents give the bars pictures of their youth. The idea of these pictures would help identify youths and the bar could keep them out. This is a good idea and I believe it is working. My home community of Rae-Edzo is experiencing the same problem. However, our teenagers come to Yellowknife to go to the bars. This has the potential of being an even more serious concern because they must travel back to Rae on Highway 3 and everyone knows the condition of the highway.

Recently the hamlet council discussed this matter and later today a number of students will be in the gallery to show their support in finding a solution to this problem. I am not sure what the solution is or who do we lay blame on. We have laws that are to be enforced, it is however, obvious that these bars in general across the north are not enforcing. Do we need to raise the legal drinking age or do we need to focus more on enforcement and prevention? I do not know the answers. This is, however, a serious territorial-wide concern and something must be done about it as soon as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 114-13(6): Board Versus Ministerial Accountability

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 253

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Roland .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 116-13(6): On The Job Training Initiatives

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 253

Floyd Roland

Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like start with what has become a tradition, sending greetings back to my wife and children.

--Applause

Mr. Speaker, we have heard a lot of the concerns that our employees face. Mr. Speaker, a concern that has been raised to me has been in the area of support on the job. We all know that to receive a job with this government for example as a mechanic or an electrician, you need to have the qualifications. You go through your apprenticeship program, receive the necessary training and you are ticketed. Once you have that, you are able to work and receive jobs anywhere in the country and in the Northwest Territories. Mr.

Speaker, the concern comes from once you are employed and have a ticket in your specific trade, there is no further need, or it seems that there is no further need to move forward and continue with training even though technology changes within those trades.

Mr. Speaker, my past is in the trades as a mechanic. Things changed on a yearly basis between different manufactures of vehicles and so forth, and I had to learn a lot of it on my own, buying my own special tools that were required. It is not cheap and it is not effective or efficient to have to do these things hands-on without knowing a little bit of information about what is put before you. It seems, Mr.

Speaker, that we continue to do this and when it comes to a job that needs specific types of training in any area, then we go out and hire from the south, contract people to come up and do the work for the GNWT in whatever department that is needed. We need to refocus and change the way we approach these things.

We have talked about effective and efficient government, well, this is a way we can make use of our own employees by providing the necessary training or upkeep in their trade to keep them on top of the trade that they may do the work on behalf of the government and we would not have to go back and hire south for contractors that have the specific training that is required to repair equipment. An example is airports or anything like that, Mr. Speaker. I would urge this government to refocus and re-look at its initiatives. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 116-13(6): On The Job Training Initiatives

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 253

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Miltenberger .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 117-13(6): Unresolved Collective Bargaining Negotiations

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 253

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to briefly speak to the issue of the unresolved collective bargaining talks that are still underway. A couple of

weeks ago, I met with the combined union locals in Fort Smith that represent GNWT employees in that community. There were about 30 people that came to the meeting. They made it very clear to me that they are not happy. The main reason they are not happy is that they want a chance to vote on a package. They want to be able to provide direction to the executive, who they seem to think are out of touch in this case, with their members and seems to be more tuned into what is happening to the PSAC in Ottawa. Later today, Mr.

Speaker, I will be tabling a petition from people in Fort Smith, Hay River, Yellowknife and Norman Wells making this request to the union that they be allowed to vote on a package.

--Applause

Mr. Speaker, this issue has gone on far too long. I believe that some of the concerns raised by my colleague from Iqaluit, for instance, would be addressed if, in fact, the money that is on the table was taken off the table and put into the pockets of employees. I am convinced, Mr. Speaker, that if that option was given to the people, the employees, they would accept the package. Mr. Speaker, I will table this today and encourage the union to put into practice some of the democratic principles they so loudly espouse and let their members vote on this package so we can get on with business. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 117-13(6): Unresolved Collective Bargaining Negotiations

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 118-13(6): Recent Visits Of Mlas To Tuktoyaktuk

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, welcome back. Welcome back to my honourable colleagues. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the residents of Tuktoyaktuk, I wish to thank Members of the Standing Committee on Infrastructure for taking the time to visit the community of Tuktoyaktuk on September 25 to September 27 of this year.

--Applause

Mr. Speaker, the purpose of this community visit was to assist Members of the committee to comprehend and familiarize themselves with capital project funding requests related to infrastructure development in this particular community. The committee Members, Mr. Picco , Mr. Barnabas , Mr. Henry , Mr. Ootes and myself, met with the Hamlet Council and had the opportunity to tour the development sites related to the shoreline erosion protection project which is considered very important to this community's future existence.

Mr. Speaker, at a community gathering, committee Members had an opportunity to meet many of the residents of Tuktoyaktuk on a more informal basis. I also wish to thank the Minister of MACA , Ms. Thompson for taking the time during the week of October 7, 1998 to meet with the Hamlet Council of Tuktoyaktuk and discuss future funding for municipal capital projects.

--Applause

I hope she found her visit very beneficial to her and her department and will again have the opportunity in the near future to tour other communities in my riding of Nunakput such as Paulatuk and Sachs Harbour. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 118-13(6): Recent Visits Of Mlas To Tuktoyaktuk

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Erasmus .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 119-13(6): Report Of The NWT Electoral Boundaries Commission

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

Roy Erasmus

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Several months ago this Legislature went through a difficult process of selecting three people for a job to prepare for the creation of two new territories. Finally, we arrived at the three best people suited for the Electoral Boundaries Commission for the western NWT. We gave these people the task of consulting with the people and using their accumulated knowledge and wisdom to tell us how many seats there should be in the west and where they should be. Mr. Speaker, the commission did their job, they travelled all over the western NWT, and heard submissions.

In fact, I made a submission to this commission. I indicated that I thought there should be three more seats in the western NWT and that two of them should be in Yellowknife and that the Yellowknife North constituency should be the smallest constituency in the Yellowknife area. Unfortunately, the commission did not agree with me. They did not recommend three seats. They did, however, recommend two seats for Yellowknife. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the commission for doing a good job.

I would also like to thank my colleagues in advance for seriously considering the commission's intriguing report and for finally putting into place the democratic principles of equitable representation. Thank you.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 119-13(6): Report Of The NWT Electoral Boundaries Commission

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. O'Brien .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 120-13(6): Arviat Health Centre Project

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would just briefly like to acknowledge and thank Minister Todd 's staff for moving forward on the commitment to construct a $4.5 million health centre in my home community of Arviat. Mr. Speaker, the call for proposals was advertised in the last few weeks and the closing date is in December. Mr. Speaker, I should also add Mr. Ng 's name in his efforts in this project. Thank you.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 120-13(6): Arviat Health Centre Project

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 254

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Henry .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 121-13(6): Roads To Resources Initiative

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 255

Seamus Henry

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Roads to Resources Initiative has captured the imagination and enthusiasm of people throughout the Northwest Territories. Of course, I share that enthusiasm. In particular, the construction of a road north through the mineral resource region is absolutely crucial to building a healthy and stable economic future for the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, I can only imagine that some people are getting carried away in their enthusiasm. They are jumping ahead of the process.

This government has announced that it has budgeted $2 million to conduct engineering, economic and environmental studies on the roads to resources. Certainly, the concept of a road through the Slave province has been studied and re-studied over the years by many experts. Over the years the facts and I state, Mr. Speaker, the facts, have become clear that the most economical and feasible place to begin the road, if the road is going to serve its intended purpose, is to continue it on from the already constructed Ingraham Trail which runs east from Yellowknife.

I am sure some of the $2 million allocated to further study will again carefully examine exactly where the starting point should be, which are no different than the road studies showing the road location between Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk.

My question, is, Mr. Speaker, if the government has committed taxpayer dollars to studying this issue, why are not others willing to wait until the studies are completed and consider the facts? The Mayor of Hay River has called for the road to leave from Rae rather than Yellowknife. He is willing to spend taxpayers' money to lobby for the interests of one community in the territory over another when it is clear that there is no advantage to his community either way. I wonder what other motivation there could be for his position?

Why is the Mayor of Hay River not also calling for the $2 million study to be cancelled? If the issue can be settled on the basis of politics, why are we carrying out engineering and economic studies. Surely, if you listen to the mayor then we may as well cancel the work. Apparently, there is no need to consider the facts. Mr. Speaker, I cannot support that approach, nor do I believe the people of the Northwest Territories will either.

My research to date that I have conducted at least six studies have all indicated that the feasibility and logistical point of view Yellowknife should be the starting point of that highway. I am willing to wait for the current studies to bear that out. The late John Lennon said, Mr. Speaker, give peace a chance. I say, let us give the facts a chance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 121-13(6): Roads To Resources Initiative

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 255

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Members' statements. Mr. Ootes .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 122-13(6): Students Job Shadow Program

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 255

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am making a statement today with somewhat of a difference. It is a statement that has not been prepared by me. It is prepared by one of my constituents, a young lady by the name of Shannon Graf. She is a grade nine student at St. Patrick's High School and she is here with us today in the Legislative Assembly as part of a national program called Bring Your Kids to Work Today. She is also here along with Stephanie Johnson who is also doing a similar project here at the Legislative Assembly. Shannon is job shadowing her mother Laurell Graf who works here as a researcher.

Over the past several weeks she has been researching and writing a statement that I could present in the House. It is entitled: "Why Live in Yellowknife?" She researched the Territorial Government Archives and Library, the city websites, reviewed newspapers, visited City Hall and collected information and statistics. As a researcher, her mother showed her how to organize and write information for a Member's statement. While this statement I am about to make is much longer than the two and a half minute statement we are allowed, Mr.

Speaker, I hope you will understand when I ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement. I am sure you and the other Members will appreciate how well prepared and interesting this statement is. As I said, Mr. Speaker, it is entitled: "Why Live in Yellowknife?"

In recent years, the Northwest Territories has faced difficult economic times. Residents have had to deal with government cutbacks in spending and jobs. Some of our northern communities have experienced the downsizing and closure of local industries, the economics of which were fundamental to the community.

However, with a balanced budget, the signing of the new funding agreement for the new western Northwest Territories, and the realization of the diamond industry, the economic future in the north appears to be anything but dark.

Mr. Speaker, the City of Yellowknife faced the economic storm alongside other communities in the Northwest Territories.

I am proud of how the residents and the city weathered these adverse times and do believe the future for our community to be improving.

In 1996, the census indicated that the City of Yellowknife had a population of 17,275. All indications are that the city is on the verge of another period of growth.

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

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 122-13(6): Students Job Shadow Program

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 255

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

The Member for Yellowknife Centre seeks unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? Mr. Ootes , you have unanimous consent and I will allow you to continue, but I also caution you that you do not go beyond the equivalent of two Member's statements.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 122-13(6): Students Job Shadow Program

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 255

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for your indulgence. In the last year, a total of 2,500 business licenses were issued; basically one license for every seven people in the city. This shows that Yellowknife has a diverse economy which gives the city something to fall back on if one part should fail.

The discovery of diamonds and the industries associated with them has added another "facet" to Yellowknife's economy.

The first Canadian diamond mine, Ekati, officially opened October 14th and work has started on the construction of a diamond cutting and polishing plant and a valuation facility. Mr. Speaker, it has to be said that the residents of Yellowknife are involved in the community, its events, and the development of facilities. The community relies heavily on its volunteer organizations to supply services and raise money for different projects and events within the city. Through the efforts of private businesses, community fund raising projects, city revenues and other grants, many first class facilities have been developed. Volunteers are an important part of our city.

A few of these facilities include: the Ruth Inch Memorial Pool, the Stanton Regional Hospital, fitness clubs, the Yellowknife Community Arena, a curling club, a movie theatre and the Northwest Territories' only indoor equestrian facility, Northland Stables. Local festivities and other events are the result of the efforts of many volunteers. Some of these events are known territorially, nationally and internationally.

Within the last year alone, a few of the events that were the result of Yellowknife volunteers included: Caribou Carnival, Raven Mad Daze, Folk on the Rocks, and, of course, the Arctic Winter Games. Recently, the Yellowknife Air Show counted approximately 6,000 people in attendance, making it the largest single event ever in Yellowknife. When it comes to conferences and conventions, Yellowknife has become one of the places to come to. Over the past year, the City hosted 13 different conferences and conventions.

Across the north, Yellowknife is known for the quality of its education. Within the city, our children have a choice of two school districts to attend. Our schools receive money through funding from both the territorial government and city taxes. To finance a quality educational system, a school tax is paid by ratepayers. This tax is the highest in the NWT and accounts for 25-30 percent of the budget of both school districts. Further to this, School District No. 2 has borrowed money to build a new school with financial guarantees from the territorial government through the P3 process.

Earlier this fall, there was a "sod turning ceremony" at Sir John Franklin High School to celebrate the beginning of retrofitting and upgrading that facility of $1.25 million towards the cost of improving Sir John which is expected to be raised through fundraising activities within the district. Within our city, there are ten different schools.

To conclude, Mr. Speaker, Yellowknife is a great city. We have lived through good times and bad. We have much to be thankful for and much to look forward to.

Mr. Speaker, it has been a great pleasure for me to be able to present this paper that was prepared for me to read in Session today, and certainly I must compliment Shannon Graf for the excellent work she has done in the tremendous fashion in which she has researched and put this together. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Member's Statement 122-13(6): Students Job Shadow Program

Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 256

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

I would also like to remind the Member that you have gone beyond two Member's statements. Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mr. Arlooktoo .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 79-13(6): Employee Confidentiality Agreement

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 256

Goo Arlooktoo

Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Ootes of September 22 and 25, on behalf of the Honourable Don Morin , on employee confidentiality agreements.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 79-13(6): Employee Confidentiality Agreement

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 256

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. Mr. Todd .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 68-13(6): Economic Strategy Initiatives

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 256

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return an oral question asked by Mrs. Groenewegen in September 22, 1998, with respect to the Economic Strategy Initiatives.

The Economic Strategy Initiative which might more accurately be defined as an Investment North Initiative, the GNWT is taking the coordinated approach to addressing economic challenges and pursuing economic opportunities with the purpose of improving economic conditions in the NWT and achieving a better lifestyle for northerners.

The issue is not how many of the initiatives are tied to the strategy, pardon me, the issue is not how many of the initiatives that are tied to the strategy are directly dependant upon the strategy for funding. This, I believe, is what my colleague, the Member for Hay River is asking, with the implication that the cost of the strategy can only be justified if each of its components is dependant upon the strategy for funding.

The comprehensive strategy will demonstrate to the federal government why it is in their interest to support our desire for a new fiscal relationship. If, for example, we are successful through this strategy in increasing our access to the resource tax window, it is conservatively estimated that this has the capacity to increase revenues to the NWT by $20 to $30 million dollars on an annual basis. This single initiative alone has the capacity to provide an excellent return on the small, one-time investment of $390,000 for the strategy. It cannot be achieved without demonstrating how it is tied into the other efforts underway to improve our economic picture.

The issue is that we are taking an integrated approach combining existing and new initiatives in an attempt to demonstrate to the federal government that we have the ability to overcome sectoral thinking, to think and act holistically, and that we have the capacity to make programs more responsive to the needs of northerners. Many GNWT departments already have a variety of economic programs and new initiatives underway. An overall long-term economic development strategy will provide a way to improve coordination and identify gaps or needed shifts.

The strategy, when approved by the Cabinet, will aid us in discussions related to a number of issues including Formula Financing, taxation, regulation, infrastructure development, as well as other initiatives to stimulate the northern economy. It will give us the information we need to improve our services to residents of the NWT and information required to identify priorities and commitments needed to improve confidence in the NWT economy and encourage increased levels of investment.

If we are successful in this endeavour, the reward will be a redefined fiscal relationship with the federal government. This will place more responsibilities for our destiny in the hands of northerners and give us at this point, at least the best opportunity we have, to achieve the fiscal capacity required to continue to meet the demands of constituents in the coming years. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 68-13(6): Economic Strategy Initiatives

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 257

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. Mr. Antoine .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 68-13(6): Economic Strategy Initiatives

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 257

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have three returns to oral questions. Is it okay if I give all three of them?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 68-13(6): Economic Strategy Initiatives

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 257

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Yes.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 84-13(6): Renovation Contract To Southern Firm

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 257

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have first a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Barnabas on September 22nd, with regard to a renovation contract to a southern firm.

An invitational tender was used for the flooring and base replacement project on the RWED building in Arctic Bay. Seven northern contractors were asked to submit bids. One other northern contractor heard about the project and picked up tender documents. Three contractors submitted bids. They included a firm from Arctic Bay, one from Resolute Bay, one from Iqaluit. The two lowest bids were within a few thousand dollars of each other and the difference remained after this Business Incentive Policy was applied.

The contract was awarded to a northern contractor from Iqaluit at the tender price of $34,400.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 89-13(6): Compensation For Unsuccessful Contract Bidders

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 257

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, my second return to an oral question asked by Mr. Krutko on September 22, 1998, compensation for unsuccessful contract bidders.

There is no standard time period after a tender closing during which contractors have the opportunity to negotiate on a reduced scope in price before the tender is cancelled.

This question is answered in the document Construction Tendered Contract, Instructions to Tenderers, Item 19. It says, Mr. Speaker,

19.2 The submission of the lowest or any tender will not necessarily result in the award of a contract. The owner reserves the right to cancel this tender in whole or in part at any time and to retender the same for any reasons whatsoever without incurring any liability and no bidder will have any claim against owner as a consequence.

In situations where bid prices exceed the available budget, Public Works and Services will try to negotiate with the lower bidder in order to reduce the scope and the price. This is done within the time limits of the project at hand.

If negotiations with the low bidder are not successful within a reasonable time and if time is critical to the delivery of materials or completing the work, the original tender will be cancelled and a reduced scope of work re-tendered.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 130-13(6): Baker Lake Bridge Installation

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 257

Jim Antoine

Nahendeh

Finally, Mr. Speaker, return to oral question asked by Mr. O'Brien on September 25, 1998, in regard to Baker Lake bridge installations.

On Friday, September 25, 1998, the Member for Kivallivik directed a question to the Premier inquiring when the Department of Transportation would complete the installation of a Prince River Bridge north of Baker Lake.

I am pleased to report that since the Member asked his question, the Hamlet of Baker Lake completed work on the 13 kilometre access road to the Prince River and the Department of Transportation was able to install a 48-metre bridge over the Prince River.

The new Prince River Bridge was officially opened to traffic on October 25, 1998.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 130-13(6): Baker Lake Bridge Installation

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 258

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. Ms. Thompson.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 113-13(6): Clyde River Report To Maca

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 258

Manitok Thompson

Aivilik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have two returns to oral questions. One asked by Mr. Enuaraq on September 24, 1998, accumulated deficit Clyde River.

Officials from the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs have reviewed the situation that led to the current accumulated deficit in Clyde River. In order to assist the community to address this situation, the department will hire a contractor to prepare a formal Deficit Recovery Plan. The recovery plan will help the hamlet eliminate its deficit.

The contractor will also investigate the hamlet's concerns about the impact that funding and expenditure levels are having on the hamlet's financial position.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 127-13(6): Water Quality In Mackenzie Delta

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 258

Manitok Thompson

Aivilik

I have another return asked by Mr. Krutko on September 25, 1998, water quality in Mackenzie Delta.

Up to, and including 1996, in Aklavik, water quality during spring runoff was a concern due to the cloudy condition of the treated water. However, changes made since then, have increased plant efficiency and the plant now provides drinking water that meets water quality guidelines. Despite the upgrade to the water treatment plant and the regular monitoring of the water, concern still exists with the age, condition, and capacity of the plant. In response to these concerns, the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs is hiring an engineering consultant to assess the existing treatment plant and outline the need for replacement or further upgrading.

In Fort McPherson, the department has been working with the community's water planning committee to identify a new water source. Over the last twelve months, we have been monitoring water quality in the community with the specific goal of identifying a suitable and acceptable water source. On October 20, 1998, MACA and the Department of Public Works and Services attended a joint meeting of the hamlet and band councils in Fort McPherson to discuss a new water source.

As a result of information and monitoring data that they have received, the council agreed to accept the Peel River as the community's year-round water source. A meeting is being planned for the middle of November with the hamlet and the band to discuss the P3 process and how it might be applied to this water supply project. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 127-13(6): Water Quality In Mackenzie Delta

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 258

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. Mr. Todd .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 83-13(6): Direct Deposit To Northern Businesses

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 258

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have an return to oral question from Mr. Henry on September 22, 1998.

Certain types of GNWT payments are currently paid through an electronic system for direct deposit to northern business bank accounts. These types of payments are generally linked to schedules within agreements such as commercial leases or contribution agreements. Unfortunately, this payment system requires a considerable amount of manual intervention and could not be used for large volumes as would be the case for GNWT trade payables.

Currently, trade payables are processed through the Financial Information System and cheques are produced in six regions. The current software applies a payment term of 20 days for northern businesses approved under the Business Incentive Policy and 30 days for all other vendors.

The software development necessary to go to electronic deposits would require additional money and additional trained staff to undertake the required planning, programming, software testing and user training in the current year. As significant programming and system file structure changes will be needed, it is unlikely that reprogramming would be completed by March 31, 1999.

I agree, a direct deposit method would be beneficial to northern businesses and to the government. Therefore, I have directed my officials to do a cost study next fiscal year of what programming and file structure changes would be required to our current system and what banking arrangement fees would be involved in order to go to direct electronic deposit of trades payable accounts. Additional funding may then be sought at that time if necessary. It would be most appropriate were this system of electronic direct deposits available to greet the new millennium in the year 2000. Thank you.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Oral Question 83-13(6): Direct Deposit To Northern Businesses

Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 258

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. I would like to remind the Ministers that if they wish to do more than one return that they request it, so that it is in Hansard as two separate items as opposed to Ms. Thompson doing it without the request, as it will come out as one long return as opposed to separate items. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 258

Michael Miltenberger

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize an eminent northern businessman and articulate spokesman for our northern road through Rae that will benefit not only business, but the people of the Dogrib territory, His Worship Jack Rowe.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 258

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Henry .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 258

Seamus Henry

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would

like to recognize a newcomer to Yellowknife, Peter Skinner is a program manager for CBC working out of Yellowknife. I would also like to recognize Ian Hanna, and his son, Eric. Ian works for CBC and if you recall, his son was also a page in the Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Ootes .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 259

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I am not sure if they are still in the gallery, but I would like to recognize them, Shannon Graf and Stephanie Johnson, both students of St. Patrick's High School in Yellowknife. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. O'Brien .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the Minister of Health and Social Services . Mr. Speaker, the people of Arviat and Baker Lake have suffered long enough without the services of a professional dentist. Mr. Speaker, my question to the Minister is, can he abate this House as to the present status of dental services in Arviat and Baker Lake? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding, Mr. Speaker, that there are dentists now in Rankin, Baker Lake and Arviat and in addition to that, as of November 2, Monday of this week, there were also dental therapists located in Baker Lake and Arviat as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister tell me what was the date of the arrival of these dentists in the community of Arviat and Baker Lake?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do not have the actual date of when they arrived there. My briefing note advises me that they are there now. If he wants that specific information, certainly, I would be willing to find it and advise him. Thank you.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister tell me what criteria is used when selecting the various dentists who will be employed throughout the Keewatin?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Mr. Speaker, I did not catch the end of the question. I caught the selection, but I am not sure if he is referring to the dentists or the dental therapists. Thank you. Could he clarify that?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Third supplementary. Clarification.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am referring to the dentists and to elaborate on my question, as far as the qualifications, what criteria is used, number of years of experience, and so on, when hiring these dentists for the Keewatin communities?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The services for the dentists are provided by a contractor, Nunavut Dental Services out of Iqaluit, and in order for a dentist to be accredited to have the qualifications to operate, they have to pass the national examination and be registered as a licensed dentist in order to provide services. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. O'Brien .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 259

Kevin O'Brien

Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in reference to the dentist for Arviat and Baker Lake, can the Minister tell me where this dentist will be headquartered at? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The intent is that they will be in Baker Lake and in Arviat and provide services based from those communities to other communities within the Keewatin region in addition to the dentist that is based in Rankin Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Question 136-13(6): Dental Services In Kivallivik

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Picco .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Health and they refer back to my earlier Member's statement. Mr. Speaker, the current offer on the table by this government for our medical professionals, I wonder, has the Department of Health reviewed the package, the rates on the table for our medical professionals to actually see if they are, in fact, equal to or better than southern industry norms? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the honourable Member knows, the Department of Health and Social Services is not responsible for the collective agreement process which falls under the Financial Management Board Secretariat. In respect to the pay equity issue, and how the rates of pay came about, there was input from all departments with respect to the roles and responsibilities of staff as they developed the pay equity scheme with Hay and Associates. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not asking about pay equity. The Minister knows I am not asking about pay equity. The Minister said the FMB, and he is on the FMB, which consists of all Cabinet Ministers. My question to the Minister was, the rates of pay that are there for nurses and other medical professionals. The Minister was on the radio last week talking about the problems we have retaining nurses and so on, and so forth, and other medical professionals.

I am asking him, if indeed, his Department of Health and the FMB, of which he is a Member of, actually had input on the wages that are being offered to our nurses to hopefully retain them? That is my question. It has nothing to do with pay equity. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Mr. Speaker. First of all, I said it was the Financial Management Board Secretariat, the staff within the government that looks after the collective agreement, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Minister of Finance .

With respect to the collective agreements and the bargaining process, we do not have input into that directly. That is under the Financial Management Board Secretariat. That is the point I was trying to get across to the honourable Member, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I understand the process for collective bargaining. I am asking, and maybe I will make it more clear, Mr. Speaker, maybe if the Department of Health says, look, we have a problem here with doctors and nurses in retaining these people. We have a problem retaining because our wages are not equal to southern norms. Would Mr. Ng then say to the FMBS, to Minister Todd and say, can you put something in a package so we can retain these people, instead of going back and saying it is the health board's problem? The health board cannot do anything with the collective agreement.

That is the government. I am asking him, did he or his department have any input into the package that was presented to our employees? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 134-13(6): Resource Development Tax Base

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we do have some input into that whole process. My honourable colleagues on the Financial Management Board are certainly aware of some of the difficulties, particularly in the area of recruitment and retention of health care professionals, which has become more and more apparent. In fact, there is some effort being made right now in trying to resolve part of that issue outside of the pay and benefits aspect of supporting our professionals, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 134-13(6): Resource Development Tax Base

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Picco .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

Edward Picco

Iqaluit

Mr. Speaker, could the Minister elaborate on what he is doing or what the government is doing outside of this pay and benefit thing we are trying to do for people, instead of leaving us out in the dark? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 260

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 134-13(6): Resource Development Tax Base

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 261

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the honourable Member may recall, there was a Recruitment and Retention Plan tabled in this House in February that outlined specific supports for our health care professionals. What we are doing now, Mr. Speaker, is attaching, going forward with the submission for some financial support to implement some of those aspects of that Recruitment and Retention Plan to support our health care professionals, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

--Applause

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 134-13(6): Resource Development Tax Base

Question 137-13(6): Review And Comparison Of Pay Rates Offered

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 261

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Again, I must remind the Members that you have a

preamble, then your question and three supplementaries. I keep hearing Members repeating their

preambles. I will cut off the persons that continue to do that and request they ask their supplementary questions. Mr. Ootes .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 261

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Health , Mr. Ng . It is regarding the report on the Youth Addiction Treatment Program and the fact it is not working. The Territorial Government has decided to terminate that particular program and to close the Youth Addiction Treatment Centre in Yellowknife. Could the Minister tell us when he is looking at closing the Yellowknife Youth Addiction Treatment Centre? What is the potential date for that?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Health and Social Services , Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, I would like to clarify it is not a Yellowknife Youth Treatment Centre. It is a Territorial Youth Treatment Centre that happens to be based here with Northern Addiction Services.

--Applause

Mr. Speaker, the plan is a mutual agreement with the Northern Addiction Services Board to have them shut down on December 31 of this year, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Could the Minister enlighten us as to what the plan is to deal with youth addictions after December 31, Mr. Speaker?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the plan would be to, on a case-by-case basis, depending upon the needs of an individual, to facilitate having them go out for treatment as required. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Supplementary, Mr. Ootes .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It seems to me this presents a tremendous number of individuals who have to be sent south, if that is the case. I am wondering if the Minister could tell us if he is looking at the establishment of another treatment centre somewhere in the territories? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the plan is to do an overall review of all treatment services for youth between now and December 31, and to go out for a proposal call based on that review of what the needs would be. This would go out for proposal call in January, sometime early in 1999, in order that a contractor could be available to provide the services by April 1, 1999, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Ootes .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Jake Ootes

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In that event, I wonder if the Minister and the government could consider keeping the treatment centre open until April 1st? Otherwise, we have a period in which, for three months, we do not have a facility to treat our youth.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Kelvin Ng

Kitikmeot

Mr. Speaker, no, not at this time. As I indicated, the agreement is to shut down on December 31st, and to continue to provide services for youth that require it on a case-by-case basis with the intent of having a fully integrated and holistic program, hopefully available by April 1, 1999. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Question 138-13(6): Youth Addiction Treatment Program

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the Minister of Finance , the honourable Mr. Todd . Mr. Speaker, one of the questions that keeps coming up in my riding, in which I will now pass on to Mr. Todd . I have been continuously asked why this government cut the salaries and benefits of the nurses and teachers?

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Finance , Mr. Todd .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In an ideal world, we would not have liked to cut anything, but we do not live in an ideal world. I think it is important to explain to my colleague once again of the situation we were in several years ago, that is, we could have ended up as we move forward to Nunavut on April 1, 1999, with an enormous deficit. Somewhere projected, dependant upon who you talk to, between $200 and $300 million. In the Deficit Elimination Strategy we developed, the approach was everybody would take a hit. I mean everybody.

Part of restraint and part of trying to reach a zero target as we have now reached, and provided a solid, fiscal foundation for two new governments by not spending as some would have us do indiscriminately. We had to take some of the money out of the wages and benefits package. It is just an unfortunate aspect of deficit elimination cutting. It is not one that anybody relishes, but unfortunately, it was one we had to do. In the meantime, I think it is recognized that we are having some problems, particularly in the professional field. We are trying to address it at the present time.

Nurses, teachers had to take the same cuts as butchers, bakers and candlestick makers. Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Return To Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 262

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Steen .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 263

Vince Steen

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that part of the reason for the reductions in salaries and benefits was to have a balanced budget. Mr. Speaker, as well as the other reasons, the Minister has put forward, we are no longer in a deficit situation. As a matter of fact, we do not have balanced budget. We are in a surplus situation, according to the financial statement made tabled by Mr. Todd on September 24th. Mr. Speaker, that particular document identifies a surplus applicable to salaries and benefit reductions of $33 million.

My question to the Minister is, is he prepared to put some of that money back towards salaries and benefits for the teachers and nurses? Thank you.

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Supplementary To Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 263

The Speaker

Samuel Gargan

Mr. Todd .

Please select the issue you noticed * :

Misattribution

Formatting

Missing Words

Other

If Other, please indicate the problem: (Optional)

Submit

Thanks!

We'll take a look into it.

Sorry!

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

Copy Copied

Further Return To Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Question 139-13(6): Reductions To Nurses' Past Salaries

Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 263

John Todd

Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let me tell you something. The money is there now. That money is there right now, if we can get a settlement on pay equity. My honourable colleague is speaking about teachers and my colleague over there is talking about health professionals. It is there right now. A community nurse, if we can get a deal on pay equity, gets an $11,000 increase in their salary. Never mind any additional increases that are going to occur from the collectiv