This is page numbers 94 - 112 of the Hansard for the 12th Assembly, 1st Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library. The word of the day was age.

Topics

Members Present

Hon. Titus Allooloo, Mr. Antoine, Mr. Arngna'naaq, Mr. Arvaluk, Hon. Michael Ballantyne, Mr. Bernhardt, Hon. Nellie Cournoyea, Mr. Dent, Mr. Gargan, Hon. Stephen Kakfwi, Mr. Koe, Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Marie-Jewell, Ms. Mike, Hon. Don Morin, Hon. John Ningark, Hon. John Pollard, Mr. Pudlat, Mr. Pudluk, Hon. Tony Whitford, Mr. Zoe

---Prayer

Item 1: Prayer
Item 1: Prayer

Page 94

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Good Morning. Orders of the day for Friday, December 13, 1991. Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Member for Hay River.

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and good morning. Mr. Speaker, our government received a letter yesterday from Mayor Kevin Diebold of Norman Wells. Among other matters, the letter noted that he was aware of our current financial situation and that our government is short of cash, partly because some of it is tied up in loans to municipalities.

As a result, Mr. Speaker, and to help us with our current financial problems, he enclosed a cheque for some $69,214 as payment in full for a debenture loan the municipality had with the government. The payment is one year ahead of schedule, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Village Council of Norman Wells for its support during this period of financial difficulty. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Pollard. Ministers' statements. Ms. Cournoyea.

Ministers' Statement 17-12(1): Salary Reductions
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 94

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, on Monday I announced reductions to the base salaries paid to the Government Leader, to the Ministers and deputy ministers and, at his request, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. Yesterday, Mr. Speaker, regional directors of our government advised my office that they want to be part of this initiative. They asked to have their annual salaries reduced by the same amount as the deputy ministers.

On behalf of cabinet, I want to recognize their contribution and their demonstration of support for the concept of living within our means. Thank you.

---Applause

Ministers' Statement 17-12(1): Salary Reductions
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 94

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Ms. Cournoyea. Ministers' statements. Mr. Whitford.

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, alcohol, drug and substance abuse are among the most serious problems we face here in the Northwest Territories. All of us know, and many of us have witnessed, the devastating effects of these substances, the way in which their abuse affects individuals, families and entire communities. Indeed, I share the view of many people that alcohol, drug and substance abuse is one of the most serious social, economic and spiritual problems that we face.

The Board of Management for Alcohol and Drug Services, appointed in 1988 from individuals nominated by the Legislative Assembly and various regional and aboriginal organizations, understood that problem better than most of us. It also recognized the need for alcohol and drug service personnel and counsellors in the Northwest Territories to be examples for the people that they are treating. Because of this, the board recommended to the former Minister of Social Services that alcohol and drug service personnel and counsellors in the NWT, including board members, should totally abstain from the use of alcohol and drugs. It noted that leadership is critically important for resolving issues and that role modelling is one of the most effective agents for social change.

The former Minister took the advice seriously and last summer placed a clause in our contribution agreements with community alcohol and drug societies that requires their workers to follow total abstinence in order for the societies to receive financial assistance from the government.

I agree with the former Minister's actions. That is why our government will maintain its position that total abstinence must be practised by alcohol and drug counsellors in the Northwest Territories. It is absolutely essential for them to demonstrate leadership qualities and to act as role models for the clients which they are counselling.

However, I recognize that we do have problems, and those problems include the enforcement of the provision that deals with abstinence and the fact that societies in Iqaluit and Pangnirtung -- two of the 42 societies in the NWT -- refuse to accept the abstinence provision.

As a result, we will be developing a process, in consultation with community societies and the Board of Management for Alcohol and Drug Services that is clear, that is reasonable, and that is practical for them to use. We will ensure that enough money is provided to the societies in Iqaluit and Pangnirtung to continue their services until February 1, 1992, by which time we expect them to have adopted the abstinence provision.

If they do not adopt it, there will be no more funding until the communities involved establish new societies that will accept this important condition. It is my intention to ensure that abstinence is endorsed by all of our community agencies as unanimously as it was endorsed by the board of management. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

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

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My statement today deals with open government and an event that took place in the House yesterday. Many times over the last few days we have heard this concept of an open and accountable government and the need to respect and solicit the views of ordinary Members. Members on the other side of the House have used these words often.

However, yesterday when the honourable Member for Thebacha requested unanimous consent to return to oral questions, the Government Leader denied this consent. Surely this cannot be considered open and accountable government.

Most ordinary Members believe the actions of the Government Leader were uncalled for. When Members on this side of the House ask to extend question period it is because they have pressing business with the government; it is not because they are trying to tie up the business of this House. We are a new Legislature, and many Members have important issues that they wish to question cabinet about. Question period is perhaps the best opportunity for Members on this side of the House to ensure that government is open and accountable.

In his Member's statement on Wednesday, Mr. Antoine told us that the strict adherence to parliamentary rules is not the way of the Dene people and does not reflect a northern way of life. Nevertheless, I would remind the Government Leader if the rules of the House can be used to stifle the business of ordinary Members, they can also be used to do the same to government business.

I hope the Government Leader will be more receptive to the wishes of Members on this side of the House in future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Koe.

Suspicious Deaths Of Bernard And Gardebois
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 95

Fred Koe Inuvik

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I would like to make a statement regarding the deaths of Leonard Bernard and John Gardebois. Mr. Speaker, 15 years ago an inquest ruled that the death of John Gardebois was due to a massive cerebral hemorrhage caused by forceful contact of the head with a blunt object, and that Leonard Bernard came to his death by accidental drowning. A later inquest ruled the deaths accidental.

Controversy and unanswered questions have plagued this case from the beginning. At the time of their deaths there was much media coverage and public concern about whether the arguments and fighting leading up to the deaths of Bernard and Gardebois had any relation to their discussion regarding the Mackenzie pipeline. Then it was discovered that the doctor who had performed the initial autopsies of the bodies was, in fact, not a doctor at all. Also, the circumstances surrounding the men's deaths were never made very clear.

So, 15 years later the families of these men and the nearby communities are still left with many unanswered questions. This and the desire to clear her brother's name prompted Bernard's sister to request that the bodies of her brother and Mr. Gardebois be exhumed and a second round of autopsies performed. A bogus doctor had not properly performed the autopsies. It was discovered in Bernard's case that the bogus doctor had mistaken a skull's normal joint for a fracture. The new autopsies revealed that neither man had received injuries that could account for their deaths, and the pathologist was forced to list the cause of death for the two as undetermined. Clearly the exhumation of the bodies raised more questions than it answered.

Apparently when the doctor who performed the first autopsies was unmasked as a phoney, one year after he performed the initial autopsies, the chief coroner at the time held a meeting with the RCMP and a lawyer from the Indian Brotherhood. They determined amongst themselves that the bodies need not be exhumed for another autopsy.

Suspicious Deaths Of Bernard And Gardebois
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 95

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Koe, your time has expired. If you would like to ask for unanimous consent to proceed -- Members' consent is being requested. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Proceed, Mr. Koe.

Suspicious Deaths Of Bernard And Gardebois
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 95

Fred Koe Inuvik

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. The chief surgeon of St. Vincent's Hospital in Vancouver, who testified at the hearing this spring, expressed his dismay that the cases were not reopened and the bodies exhumed immediately after the doctor was determined to be a fraud. The decision of the then chief coroner and his meetings with the lawyer and the RCMP are not documented or explained anywhere. The chief coroner has also since died, so the reason for this unusual decision will remain a mystery.

At the time the two men died, there was an unsettled political climate and a great many racial tensions. Then, as well as today, rumours abound that the two native men had gotten into a fight with two white engineers and that this, the real cause of Gardebois' and Bernard's deaths, was hushed up due to the unsettled times.

Clearly much remains a mystery about the deaths of these two men, and their exhumation only served to deepen the mystery. Despite all these concerns, and a number of unanswered questions, the chief coroner opted not to have another inquest. This is despite the fact that much of the original transcripts from the first inquest have been destroyed and hence cannot be re-examined.

Mr. Speaker, I make this statement today on behalf of the Bernard family in the hope of getting some resolution on this issue. Mahsi cho.

---Applause

Suspicious Deaths Of Bernard And Gardebois
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 95

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Koe. Members' statements. Members' statements. Mr. Pudlat.

Autopsy In 1960s
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 95

Kenoayoak Pudlat Baffin South

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was not present yesterday. I was very ill yesterday, but I am feeling a little better today, and I am happy I could be present. I came here yesterday for a while but I could not do the work because I was so ill. That is my apology to you. I want to be present as much as I can when I am here. As you know, I am very new and I know there are going to be a lot of things that I will have to learn. I am not happy I was not able to come yesterday, but it could not be helped because I was ill.

RCMP did not give me any documentation. They just told me it was all right. That is all I wanted to say, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Autopsy In 1960s
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Members' statements. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Counsellors' Abstention From Alcohol And Drugs
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to take the time to commend the current Social Services Minister for taking such decisive action in respect to abstention by alcohol and drug counsellors in the NWT. I believe it is critically important that alcohol and drug counsellors, in order to effectively assist Members and individuals in the Territories that are having problems with the abuse of alcohol or drugs, be leading the way by showing an example. I believe that abstaining from any drug or alcohol is the perfect way of showing an example. I would like to commend him for this decision, and I am sure it will be to the benefit of many of the people who are facing this problem in the NWT.

Counsellors' Abstention From Alcohol And Drugs
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Mr. Antoine.

Destruction Of Liard Valley Forests
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Today I want to talk about a serious concern that has to do with a number of different issues rolled into one. This is regarding the forest in the Liard Valley. Recently the Liard Valley has been viewed as potentially developing renewable resources, hopefully for sustainable economic development. A couple of weeks ago, when I was touring in that area, I was in Nahanni Butte and the plane from Deh Cho Air picked me up and flew me over Fort Liard. Eight minutes over Fort Liard is the British Columbia border, and the Yukon border kind of veers into there too. So we have the BC border very close to Fort Liard. The pilot wanted to fly me in there to show me what the BC side looks like.

What I saw was very shocking because what they are doing on the BC side is, they are clear-cutting. They have a big sawmill in Fort Nelson, and they take the spruce for lumber. Then there is a chopstick factory there, as well, that takes the birch and the poplar. So they are going into an area and cutting everything down. There are big clear spots all over that valley.

It is really concerning the people in Fort Liard and Nahanni Butte. If any development of the forest happens, they do not want to see this development happen in their area. I raise this today because I feel it is very crucial and I do not know if the Government of the NWT has any prior arrangement with BC, especially on the environmental impacts of such -- I call it -- destruction of the natural environment. Mahsi.

Destruction Of Liard Valley Forests
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Mr. Arngna'naaq.

Relocation Of Inuit Cultural Institute
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

Silas Arngna'naaq Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the community of Arviat there is an organization called the Inuit Cultural Institute, a non-profit organization, which collects traditional interests of the people of Arviat and the region. Since its inception it has been in Arviat. The Inuit Cultural Institute was moved this summer to Rankin Inlet against the people of Arviat's wishes. Although this is not a GNWT matter, I would like to make the Members aware and to show on record that I, as the representative of Arviat, agree with the elders.

At the appropriate time, Mr. Speaker, I will table a letter written to me by Joe Manik, who is a resident of Arviat. He wrote this letter as a representative of the elders of Arviat. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Relocation Of Inuit Cultural Institute
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Arngna'naaq. Members' statements. Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mr. Pollard.

Return To Question O14-12(1): First Class Travel For Expo '92 Personnel
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 96

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Gargan on December 10, 1991, concerning first class travel for Expo '92 personnel, Mr. Speaker. No first class tickets have been purchased for travel by government officials or contractors to travel to Seville. Between February and September, officials travelled to Spain on different airlines, including Canadian Airlines International and Air Canada. Different fare bases were used for these trips, including economy and business class.

In September of this year, Canadian Airlines International became a corporate partner with the Government of the Northwest Territories in the Expo '92 project and, as such, is the carrier that our officials now use for travel to Seville. They offer business class service, Mr. Speaker, and, as part of the sponsorship arrangements, provide our officials with business class service for the price of economy seats. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Return To Question O14-12(1): First Class Travel For Expo '92 Personnel
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Pollard.

Return To Question O41-12(1): Moneys Spent To Date On Expo '92
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 96

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to a question asked by Mr. Antoine on December 11, 1991, concerning the Expo '92 budget and expenditures to date. Four million dollars have been budgeted for Expo '92, and to date $979,048.30 has been expended or committed. No revenues have been received to date, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question O41-12(1): Moneys Spent To Date On Expo '92
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question O26-12(1): Directive On Breach Of Confidentiality
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 96

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you. This is in response to a question asked by Mrs. Marie-Jewell on December 10, 1991, on a directive on breach of confidentiality. As the Minister of Personnel, I am responsible for the management and direction of the territorial public service in accordance with the Public Service Act, so breach of confidentiality concerns fall within that responsibility. When allegations of breach of confidentiality are made to the department, they are investigated by officials of Personnel.

At this time there are no directives in place, of which I am aware, that govern the conduct of employees in relation to the release of confidential material. However, every employee is required to swear an Oath of Office and Secrecy when they are hired. This oath states that an employee shall not release information gained in their employment without proper authority. Thank you.

Return To Question O26-12(1): Directive On Breach Of Confidentiality
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 96

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Allooloo.

Return To Question O11-12(1): Snare Lake Winter Road
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to a question asked by Mr. Zoe on December 10, 1991, with regard to a proposed winter road to Snare Lake. The Department of Transportation considers a public access winter road to Snare Lake to be a logical future extension of the present winter road system and is investigating the possibility of scheduling a road for every second year beginning in 1991-92. Unlike the previous winter truck routes which were only constructed when needed to meet specific shipping requirements and which remained open for about one week only, a public access road would be maintained throughout the winter season and would be available for use by local residents.

The Department of Transportation has never been funded to construct a winter road into Snare Lake. The road to the Colomac mine site and the extension to Snare Lake in previous years were constructed by private companies who charged the costs of construction to those agencies shipping goods to the community.

The costs for a public access winter road are estimated at between $300,000 and $400,000. While these costs are significant, especially in the current financial situation, they would be partially offset by the reduced costs of resupplying the community by road rather than by air. In addition, the various construction projects planned for the community over the next few years require the delivery of materials and equipment. Again, the savings achieved by shipping by winter road rather than by air would partially offset the cost of the winter road construction. A decision on the viability of the public access winter road is expected to be made by the end of December.

In the event that a public access winter road is not constructed, resupply and delivery of construction equipment and materials must once again be accomplished by a combination of air and private truck convoy. Initial meetings have taken place with Robinson Trucking Limited of Yellowknife, who have provided a truck haul service in the past. It is anticipated that such a convoy would be scheduled for late January or early February. I have instructed my department to co-ordinate the government's involvement in such a convoy, and it is attempting to firm up details of the shipping requirements of the various departments.

Thus far, it is understood that the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs requires shipment of a front-end loader, a three-quarter ton fire truck, an all-terrain vehicle and materials for construction of an equipment maintenance garage. The petroleum products division requires shipment of 51,000 litres of heating and vehicle fuel. The preliminary estimate of the cost to transport all of these materials by truck convoy or cat-train is $150,000. The NWT Housing Corporation does not have any materials scheduled for Snare Lake this winter.

Return To Question O11-12(1): Snare Lake Winter Road
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Allooloo. Returns to oral questions. Mr. Allooloo, you have another one.

Return To Question O54-12(1): Policy On Travel Arrangements For Students
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

I have a return to a question asked by Mrs. Marie-Jewell on December 11, regarding a policy on travel arrangements for students. A new procedure on student travel arrangements was initiated last year. Travel arrangements are now being made through travel agents in a student's home community, wherever possible. Letters were sent to all travel agencies in the NWT to see if they were interested in participating.

The travel agency in Fort Smith contacted the Department of Education a month ago to say that they had not received the letter but that they were interested in taking part. As all Christmas travel had already been arranged, the department made sure that the Fort Smith travel agency would be used by students from Fort Smith when they returned home at the end of this school year. The travel agency in Fort Smith was satisfied with this proposal. Hopefully, this will also result in less confusion in the future for students travelling home to Fort Smith.

Return To Question O54-12(1): Policy On Travel Arrangements For Students
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome to the gallery Mr. Pierre Simpson, the deputy mayor of Hay River.

---Applause

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Ningark.

Return To Question O66-12(1): Renewable Resources Funding Allocations
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to Question O66-12(1), asked by Mr. Gargan on December 11, 1991, regarding renewable resources funding allocations. The Department of Renewable Resources provides support to harvesters through its grant and contribution policy. The policy covers a variety of programs. The grant and contribution policy contains a policy directive for each program. The directive explains how to calculate the amount of funding an organization is eligible for. The total amount of funding received by an organization depends on the number of programs it applies for and the departmental budget for a program.

I have provided Mr. Gargan with a copy of the Renewable Resources grant and contribution policy. The policy contains more detail on the types of grants an organization may apply for and the funding formula for each grant. Thank you.

Return To Question O66-12(1): Renewable Resources Funding Allocations
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Pollard.

Return To Question O47-12(1): Nwt Participation At Expo '92
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to a question asked by Mr. Dent on December 11, 1991, concerning NWT participation at Expo '92, Mr. Speaker. I have reviewed the information provided to me by departmental officials, Mr. Speaker, and the Government of the Northwest Territories is not considering withdrawing from participation in Expo '92.

As I informed the House previously in my answer to Mr. Antoine's question, to date $979,048.30 has been expended or committed for Expo '92. In addition, we have other commitments, both financial and otherwise. We have made job offers to 48 Northerners, the majority of whom are native people from all regions of the Northwest Territories. We have ordered 20 tons of musk-ox meat from the Inuvialuit, and we are in the process of making commitments for 12 tons of fish from northern fishermen. These commitments are worth some $600,000, Mr. Speaker. We have purchased $420,000 worth of arts and crafts from northern producers for sale at Expo '92, and we have a further $270,000 in arts and crafts provided to us on consignment. We expect to purchase a further $450,000 worth by the end of Expo '92 for a total of almost $1.2 million. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question O47-12(1): Nwt Participation At Expo '92
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 97

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Allooloo.

Further Return To Question O43-12(1): Status Of School For Lake Harbour
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 98

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to a question asked by Mr. Pudlat on December 11, 1991, concerning deferral of the school for Lake Harbour. I recognize how important building the new school is to the people of Lake Harbour. The design for the new school was completed in 1991-92. The new school is planned to be attached to the community gym. However, all capital plans are now being reviewed. Final decisions on capital projects will be proposed in the capital main estimates, to be considered at the next Legislative Assembly in the new year. Thank you.

Further Return To Question O43-12(1): Status Of School For Lake Harbour
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 98

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Pollard.

Return To Question O60-12(1): Difficulties In Joining Yellowknife Co-operative
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 98

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to a question asked by Mr. Pudluk on December 12, 1991, regarding the difficulties in joining Yellowknife's co-operative. The co-op in Yellowknife is a direct charge co-op, while all other co-ops in the Northwest Territories, with the exception of the co-op in Hay River, are consumer co-ops. Consumer co-ops operate like any other store or business with many shareholders. Goods are purchased and resold. Operating costs are covered by store revenue. The prices on goods sold in any consumer co-op are competitive with similar stores. Anyone can shop in the store, but profits from operations are distributed only to the members through dividends.

A direct charge co-op sells only to members. The reason for this is that goods are sold at prices much lower than those set by competitors. The store operates on a break-even basis. Members pay the operating costs of the store through a weekly fee. The owners get their return on investment by paying less for goods. No dividends are paid to members. Any year-end surplus funds are used to reduce the cost of goods to members.

The Yellowknife Co-op has had to restrict membership because the physical plant could not handle the number of people wishing to join. By extending hours and upgrading equipment, the waiting period to get into the co-op has been reduced. I have been informed that people joining the co-op no longer have to wait 18 months. If application was made today, the new member would likely be shopping in the store by February. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question O60-12(1): Difficulties In Joining Yellowknife Co-operative
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 98

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Pollard. Returns to oral questions. Ms. Cournoyea.

Return To Question O16-21(1): GNWT Approval Of Gwich'in Final Agreement
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 98

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, I have a return to a question asked by Mr. Fred Koe on December 10 regarding the Gwich'in final agreement. The Member, being recently involved in these negotiations as the member of the Gwich'in negotiating team, is fully aware that the Government of the NWT is committed to approving the Gwich'in final agreement and the implementation plan, and related financial agreements as soon as they are completed.

The importance of implementation planning cannot be underestimated. The Auditor General, among others, has stressed that, based on the experience of the James Bay and the Inuvialuit land claims, a final agreement is not enough. An implementation plan must be developed which identifies in detail what must be done, who does it, the funding required and who pays. These requirements are now captured by federal government policy.

The implementation plan must be sufficiently precise and clear so that every party knows where it stands. The achievement of implementation obligations and the expenditure of implementation dollars must be measurable and accountable.

The Member also knows the position of the Government of the NWT in the development of implementation plans is based on the principle that the negotiation and implementation of land claims is a federal responsibility. This means that the incremental costs to the Government of the NWT of a land claims agreement will and should be borne by the federal government and the implementation plan designed accordingly.

The Government of the NWT is not prepared, in the current restraint environment, to run the risk that funds committed to programs and services already pressed for resources will need to be diverted to land claims obligations because the federal government is refusing to live up to its obligations.

A lot of work has been done in recent months to ensure that an implementation plan and related financial agreements are completed to the satisfaction of all parties. The Minister for Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs has written to Minister Siddon reaffirming our support for an early ratification, but outlining the outstanding issues and our concerns. The Government of the NWT is doing everything that it can to ensure that the Gwich'in final agreement is ratified in a reasonable time frame.

Return To Question O16-21(1): GNWT Approval Of Gwich'in Final Agreement
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 98

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. Item 5, oral questions. Ms. Mike.

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Social Services. Will the abstention policy be extended to the social workers?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Return To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 98

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This only involves the alcohol and drug counselling service at a community level.

Return To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 98

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Supplementary, Ms. Mike.

Supplementary To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 98

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The social workers do similar work to that of the alcohol and drug counsellors in the communities. Will that abstention clause be imposed on social workers as well?

Supplementary To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 98

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Further Return To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 98

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think I said no.

Further Return To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 98

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Ms. Mike. Second supplementary.

Supplementary To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Is the Minister aware that most of the communities in the Baffin Region did not agree with the abstention clause but felt they had to sign in order to obtain the funds for the purpose of dealing with people who have drug and substance abuse problems?

Supplementary To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Further Return To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are only two groups that are disagreeing with the present policy, and I think the problem warrants the position that this government is taking.

Further Return To Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Question O87-12(1): Extension Of Abstinence Policy To Social Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Lewis.

Brian Lewis Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to Mr. Whitford. We are all aware that many health centres that we visit give gifts; for instance, I go to my dentist and he gives me a toothbrush sometimes. I would like to ask the Minister of Health, in his new portfolio, whether he intends to continue the practice of giving visitors to his department free condoms of various shapes, sizes and colours and so on.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Minister of Health.

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Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Not at the present time, Mr. Speaker. The supply is low.

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Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Lewis.

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Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
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Page 99

Brian Lewis Yellowknife Centre

I am very impressed that the supply is low because that means it has been a very successful service, Mr. Speaker.

---Laughter

My supplementary question is to the same Minister, in his new role as the Minister of Health. Will he continue to play the same role as he has played for many of the years that I have known him, in distributing candy to young children, which we all know can do damage to young children's teeth?

Supplementary To Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Further Return To Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, this must be Friday. If I recall, when I was across the way, we had to try to keep things light on Friday, but I think that I will continue the practice of having a candy dish in my office. Any Member of the public that visits my office, or any Member of the cabinet that visits my office, is quite welcome to continue to help themselves, if they so choose. I am not forcing this on anybody. It is available. They are adults and they can make that decision. The answer to that is yes.

Further Return To Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Supplementary, Mr. Lewis.

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Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Brian Lewis Yellowknife Centre

In view of this new climate of restraint that we find ourselves in, has the Minister any plans to extend various free services that that department has provided to the public in the past?

Supplementary To Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Health.

Further Return To Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

I am not certain. I think that a lot of the services that this government provides to the public are free. Health-- if it necessary, it is given to those that need it. I am not certain exactly which area he is referring to. But if he is getting back to the candy dish again, I buy that out of my own pocket; it is not being provided by this government. It is being provided out of my own pocket.

As far as the condoms are concerned, I have no idea who paid for those. Maybe the former Minister provided those. I think there are a lot of services that this government provides to the public that are free; if that is a necessity, we will continue that until further notice.

Further Return To Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Question O88-12(1): Free Condoms From Department Of Health
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just a concern I have with regard to legal aid. In the report, "Strength at Two Levels," on page 55 it refers to legal aid being provided in block fees rather than on the basis of what the lawyer's time is spent on a particular case. In other words, block fees refers to maybe a $2000 fee that is made available for a certain case. Regardless of whether or not the lawyer spends up to that time, if he spends anything beyond that he is not going to be paid for it. So I have a concern that justice will not be done if that recommendation is followed. It does restrict the lawyer from working on cases that require more time. Has the Minister thought about that?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Madam Government Leader, will you take this question?

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Question O89-12(1): Legal Aid In Block Fees
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, no, we have not got that far into detail on the report at this time. Thank you.

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Question O89-12(1): Legal Aid In Block Fees
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 99

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Koe.

Fred Koe Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Social Services. The issue of violence in the NWT is a serious concern and there is movement to assist victims of violence and abuse. There are many local groups and societies that have been formed in the NWT to assist in this service. Is this issue one of the priorities of the Minister's department?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In response to the Member's question, I take violence and programs that try to assist in resolving that, or assisting

people to deal with that, as very serious. I have not set priorities on the numbers of issues that come before me in both the portfolios that I have, but I take the issue of violence very seriously, and I want to assure the Member that if there is a concern that I am not doing so, then you must bring it to my attention. But, yes, I do take that seriously. I have not prioritized it in relation to the other programs that we are dealing with at this point, but it is high on my list.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Koe, supplementary.

Supplementary To Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
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Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

Fred Koe Inuvik

Supplementary, Mr. Speaker. There is a society in Inuvik called "The Society for Friends Against Family Violence" which has requested from the department assistance in trying to get a building to use as a regional shelter. What is the status of the request for this society to get a building in Inuvik?

Supplementary To Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
Return Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Supplementary To Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
Return Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The request from the society in Inuvik is, as I understand it, before the department. I have not had an opportunity to get an answer on it. I was informed only recently of the request. I assured the Member earlier when I discussed it with him that I would endeavour to get an answer. I would like to take this question as notice so that I can get a proper answer to the Member just as soon as possible.

Supplementary To Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
Return Question O90-12(1): Assistance To Victims Of Violence And Abuse
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Mr. Antoine.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The question I am going to raise is regarding my Member's statement with regard to the forest in Liard Valley. The community of Fort Liard has set up a forest resource committee to try to develop a forest resource plan. I have already talked with Dwight Noseworthy about this. Hopefully we are going to go into Liard in January.

I know that Renewable Resources and Economic Development both have interest in the forest. But will the Ministers work with the community to help them develop a forest resource plan, since the government has stated that the direction of the government is for more community control? The community has strongly indicated to me that they would like to be very much involved in the development of that resource. Mahsi.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Economic Development and Tourism.

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Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

John Pollard Hay River

Mr. Speaker, I think I can say on behalf of my department, and I think my colleague's department, that yes, we will work with communities in that regard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Supplementary, Mr. Antoine.

Supplementary To Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

I do not know if it is a supplementary, but it has to do with forests, and it is directed to the Government Leader. As I mentioned earlier, there was a lot of clear-cutting right on the BC border which is only eight minutes' flying time from Fort Liard. Had there been any prior arrangements with the BC government when they gave the permits to clear-cut just up the river from Liard, in the traditional areas of the Dene people of Liard? Mahsi.

Supplementary To Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Madam Government Leader.

Supplementary To Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, not to my knowledge, but we will attempt to find out about it. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Question O91-12(1): Forest Resource Plan For Liard Valley
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

That was on the edge of being a supplementary, but for the record we will consider it a supplementary, Mr. Antoine. Mr. Antoine, another supplementary.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

There is a new government in BC, an NDP government. Will the Government of the Northwest Territories approach the new government in BC to see if some sort of arrangement could be made with them with regard to the destruction of the natural environment just up the river from Liard? I say this because there has been a lot more debris coming down the Liard, and the water in the springtime runs off rather than going into the ground, so there is the possibility of a lot of environmental dangers there. I do not know if there was any sort of agreement made with the Government of BC. Mahsi cho.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

I will consider that a new question. Madam Government Leader.

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Question O92-12(1): Arrangements With Bc Government On Clear-cutting Near Fort Liard
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, hopefully with a new government we will have more luck than we have in the past. I know in our water arrangements they have been the most difficult to draw in, even though they are part of the drainage system. Yes, we will contact them and yes, we will try to make an arrangement to have a meeting and raise the issue. Hopefully, being a new government, they will be more receptive than in the past.

Return To Question O92-12(1): Arrangements With Bc Government On Clear-cutting Near Fort Liard
Question O92-12(1): Arrangements With Bc Government On Clear-cutting Near Fort Liard
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 100

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I asked a question about the old church in Fort Providence of the Minister of Culture and Communications on Tuesday, and the response he gave on turning down the $25,000 request was because the Financial Management Board did not approve it. In the second response he did say that it was because of the 90-day freeze. Mr. Speaker, I have here a copy of a letter that was written to the community of Fort Providence from Charles Arnold, with regard to the request for that money, in which they did indicate that they were going to be able to get something like $25,000 but that the community was to understand that the contribution is from the moneys that were lapsed within the department this year. I understand that the freeze is on new moneys, and this is not new money, Mr. Speaker; these are moneys that are identified within the department. I would like to ask the Minister whether or not it also means that even though there are surplus moneys in departments, those moneys are also on freeze.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Culture and Communications.

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Question O93-12(1): Freeze On Funds For Fort Providence Church
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Mr. Speaker, the Member is correct in that all moneys that might be in departments are frozen at this time with regard to capital projects. They have to go to cabinet prior to being spent, even though the money might be in the department. I would like to inform the Member that I intend to seek cabinet approval to go after the money he is talking about, but I cannot assure the Member that the money will be there until I get that approval. Thank you.

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Question O93-12(1): Freeze On Funds For Fort Providence Church
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Antoine.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. This question is directed to the Minister of Education, and it is a concern of the Deh Cho Divisional Board of Education regarding quarterly contributions. As you know, last year the board of education made a decision to increase the grade level from grade 10 to grade 11 in Fort Simpson, and the funding for that was not approved by the previous government. The divisional board used the interest revenue from the quarterly contribution funding to fund this grade 11 position in Fort Simpson. I understand that there is a problem here in that there might possibly be a change in the quarterly contribution. Can the Minister tell me if the quarterly funding will continue? Mahsi.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Education.

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Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The quarterly funding will continue as long as we are allowed to do so by the federal government. Thank you.

Return To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Supplementary, Mr. Antoine.

Supplementary To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Can the Minister explain more clearly about the situation here. What has the federal government to do with this? Mahsi.

Supplementary To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Education.

Supplementary To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps the Minister of Finance could explain the problem that we are in. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

I am sure the Minister of Finance could. Minister of Finance.

Further Return To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

John Pollard Hay River

You can see the excitement on my face, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think there is an agreement in place right now, and maybe the boards are not in agreement, but certainly we have tried to reach an accommodation whereby at the end of this fiscal year we do not pay that block funding in three-month chunks. However, Mr. Speaker, we are aware that if we do something of that nature it may cause some harm to programs that boards have been delivering in schools. I think the approach we would like to take is to say, "We cannot be giving you these kinds of moneys in those kinds of amounts. It has to be on a shorter-term basis, but if that is going to leave you short, then please make arguments to us and we will duly look at those arguments." We are going to try to work it out with the boards, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Further Return To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Supplementary, Mr. Antoine.

Supplementary To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In that case, would Education fund the existing programs provided by the Deh Cho Divisional Board of Education if they decide to change the quarterly contribution to a shorter contribution? Mahsi.

Supplementary To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Education.

Further Return To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The funding question is throughout the Northwest Territories. We are looking at it at the present time and will review it further as time is coming nearer to the end of the fiscal year. Thank you.

Further Return To Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Question O94-12(1): Education Quarterly Funding, Fort Simpson
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Bernhardt.

Ernie Bernhardt Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Personnel. Mr. Minister, would this new government look into the policy of hiring non-Canadians for management positions?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question O95-12(1): Hiring Non-canadians For Management Positions
Question O95-12(1): Hiring Non-canadians For Management Positions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

Return To Question O95-12(1): Hiring Non-canadians For Management Positions
Question O95-12(1): Hiring Non-canadians For Management Positions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Pudlat.

Question O96-12(1): Funding For Educational Boards
Item 5: Oral Questions

December 12th, 1991

Page 101

James Arvaluk Aivilik

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a question, but I think it has already been answered. We just heard that the funding will not be changed in the fiscal year. There has been a concern with regard to education committees in the communities, particularly in the Baffin Region. They would like to have some funding for Inuktitut programs. They have been utilizing the money handed to them. They have all kinds of things in the offices that the money has to be put into. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is more like a comment.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

I think that would have been more appropriate under Members' statements. I think the question is in the same category as the previous question, and perhaps if the Minister of Finance or Education would like to reiterate the commitment they made earlier, it might help Mr. Pudlat. Mr. Pollard.

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Question O96-12(1): Funding For Educational Boards
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 101

John Pollard Hay River

Mr. Speaker, we are aware as a government that boards have been putting the block funding that we have been giving them, the lump sum funding, into the bank and drawing interest. I think some of them have been investing it back with us. They have been using the interest on those sums of money to enhance the programs for

the children in the schools. We are aware of that.

Mr. Speaker, as you know, the Auditor General is not pleased with the fact that we deal with public funds in that manner, by giving it out in block, and has recommended that we cease to do that and we do it on a more monthly basis, which, of course, is going to reduce the interest earned on that money by the boards, and consequently they will not have as much money to fund the extra programs that they have been putting on. We are aware of it. We are prepared to sit down with the boards and work it out with them. You have the commitment from myself and the Minister of Education in that regard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question O96-12(1): Funding For Educational Boards
Question O96-12(1): Funding For Educational Boards
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Koe.

Fred Koe Inuvik

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs. I appreciate the government's response and their commitment relating to my previous question about the Gwich'in final agreement. I would like the Ministers and Government Leader to know that I have not been personally involved in negotiations since September, and since there is a new cabinet I wanted to know what your feelings were on the claim. When will the government proceed with the ratification of the Gwich'in final agreement?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Kakfwi.

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Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, it is the view of an optimist -- being an optimist -- that the federal government will live up to its constitutional obligations, the obligations it has as the principal party sitting opposite the Gwich'in -- it is the federal government that has that constitutional obligation to not only negotiate claims agreements but to come up with the money to implement these agreements -- and that they will do that in the spirit in which it was negotiated. If we have that, which we hope we will, the claims will be completed, ratified, with the implementation costs very clear, up front, to the satisfaction of the federal government, territorial government and the Gwich'in. Thank you.

Return To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Koe, supplementary.

Supplementary To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

Fred Koe Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Do you have any idea of the time frame you are looking at? When do you feel there will be a ratification by this government?

Supplementary To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Kakfwi.

Further Return To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, the federal government approaches claims negotiations using the federal claims policy to govern how it approaches it. The claims policy has been changed in recent years to include a requirement that there be an implementation plan developed before claims are ratified by the federal government. We hope that the federal government does not become overly anxious, for political reasons, whatever, and will go on to try to ratify these deals without a clear cut, very precise implementation plan attached to it. As soon as this is done, the claims will be ratified. It could take a week, two weeks, a month, three months. It depends how hard the federal government tries to offload costs on other parties. Thank you.

Further Return To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Koe, second supplementary.

Supplementary To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

Fred Koe Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can I get the Minister's commitment that he will support and proceed with the ratification of a claim as soon as possible?

Supplementary To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Kakfwi.

Further Return To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Yes. I think all of us on this side have been consistent in saying that we want to conclude the Gwich'in claim as soon as possible and to ratify it. Thank you.

Further Return To Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Question O97-12(1): Ratification Of Gwich'in Claim
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Arvaluk.

James Arvaluk Aivilik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Transportation. The new government stated that they will be working hard to have the communities become more self-sufficient. That means giving better assistance to the first-time private entrepreneurs. Mr. Speaker, would that also include building a breakwater? The boats are one of the biggest single private investments in the community, especially in Coral Harbour I would ask if the Minister would look into that before break-up this summer.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Allooloo.

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Question O98-12(1): Building Of Breakwaters In Communities
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My department has been working with the communities to develop some sort of protection for boats: wharfs, that sort of thing. It is a new program that my department has taken on, and we will continue to work with the communities to see where we could help. I believe this is one of the more important projects that my department has taken on in the Nunavut region. Thank you.

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Question O98-12(1): Building Of Breakwaters In Communities
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 102

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a question for the Minister of Transportation. Along the Highway No. 5 going into Fort Smith, we go through a fair amount of Wood Buffalo National Park. There has been a concern expressed to me by different trappers and senior citizens who may have been trapping along the park for some time, that the Department of Highways has not been clearing the road into their trappers' cabins. It is a policy of Wood Buffalo National Park that they place their cabin at least a quarter of a mile off the main highway. There has been some resistance from the highway transportation office in the community of Fort Smith to clear that right-of-way to the trappers' cabins.

I got the matter cleared up with the department, but since then it has snowed again and again and again. I do not want to have to be in the position of having to keep calling the department every time it snows. Will the Minister consider requesting his department to ensure that the roadways to these trappers' cabins are cleared, just as the highway is cleared on Highway No. 5?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Transportation.

Return To Question O99-12(1): Clearing Roads To Trappers' Cabins
Question O99-12(1): Clearing Roads To Trappers' Cabins
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Yes. I will talk to my department to see what can be done.

Return To Question O99-12(1): Clearing Roads To Trappers' Cabins
Question O99-12(1): Clearing Roads To Trappers' Cabins
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The question is taken as notice. Mr. Koe.

Fred Koe Inuvik

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources. The Minister indicated for the past two days that she would have a status report on Northern Accord negotiations tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, today is the second tomorrow. When will we get a status report on the Northern Accord negotiations?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Ms. Cournoyea.

Return To Question O100-12(1): Northern Accord Negotiations
Question O100-12(1): Northern Accord Negotiations
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, I can give a status report here. What I wanted the department to do is to check to see what is happening in Ottawa at this point in time, so I held off giving it. The status report on the Northern Accord: We have concluded a package of legislation which we have asked the federal government to take a look at, and we have also concluded all the basic principles of the Northern Accord. The Yukon and the NWT have agreed on the plan of action. There are three outstanding issues today, particularly on a development fund and on the shoreline and what constitutes offshore. This is the reason I have not come forward, because we are trying to get from the federal government and the bureaucracy that handles these negotiations, a narrowing down of those two or three issues.

So we are close to the final agreement between the territorial government and the federal government. It is like anything else in land claims negotiations. We have difficulty in resolving what we are going to consider as offshore and onshore. That is where we are now and what is going to constitute the development fund and the financial arrangements we are going to have in taking over that responsibility.

Return To Question O100-12(1): Northern Accord Negotiations
Question O100-12(1): Northern Accord Negotiations
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Ms. Mike.

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is supplementary to Mr. Pudlat's question on monthly or block funding to educational divisional boards. Did the Auditor General give any reasons why he would recommend quarterly funding as opposed to block funding?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Pollard.

Return To Question O101-12(1): Funding To Divisional Boards Of Education
Question O101-12(1): Funding To Divisional Boards Of Education
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

John Pollard Hay River

I will get the report and table it again in the House.

Return To Question O101-12(1): Funding To Divisional Boards Of Education
Question O101-12(1): Funding To Divisional Boards Of Education
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Mr. Speaker, I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Renewable Resources. It is with regard to walk-in freezers. There was a policy being developed last year. I understood the policy was going to the Executive for approval. The election was called, and I guess things got lost along the way. Is this policy now in place, or when will it be approved?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Renewable Resources.

Return To Question O102-12(1): Policy For Walk-in Freezers
Question O102-12(1): Policy For Walk-in Freezers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I intend to take the policy, which is not in place yet, to the cabinet. I will be doing that in the next while.

Return To Question O102-12(1): Policy For Walk-in Freezers
Question O102-12(1): Policy For Walk-in Freezers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Transportation. I believe it was about six years ago that the GNWT paved from the junction into Sandy Lake, which is on Highway No. 5, I believe it is the Pine Point/Resolution highway. From the junction into Fort Smith the distance is about 120 miles, and out of that, 30 of it is pavement, from the junction to Sandy Lake, and from Fort Smith to Bell Rock, which is about eight miles. There has not been any paving done since then.

I believe probably Mr. McLaughlin got it done, and I think of him every time I drive on that highway. It is unfortunate that he did not continue getting the whole highway paved. I would like to know if the Minister has any plans to continue with the completion of that pavement from Sandy Lake to Bell Rock.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Transportation, in memory of Mr. McLaughlin.

Return To Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The department has no immediate plans to pave the highway from Sandy Lake to Fort Smith. However, a pavement overlay on the section of Highway No. 5 from kilometre 0 to 60 is scheduled for 1993, with the supporting gravel haul and crushing commencing in the winter of 1992.

Return To Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Supplementary To Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Recognizing that I am not totally familiar with the kilometre type of expression that the department uses, I would like the Minister to clarify to me what point is kilometre 0 to 60.

Supplementary To Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Transportation.

Further Return To Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

I will be very happy to provide the Member with a map with detailed information.

Further Return To Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Question O103-12(1): Paving Of Highway From Sandy Lake To Fort Smith
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 103

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Pudlat.

Kenoayoak Pudlat Baffin South

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Transportation about the airstrip in Lake Harbour. I would like to add further to my question regarding the lighting addition to our airstrip. They have a lot of problems when they try and land during the night when there is no light. I just wanted to make that supplementary to the Minister of Transportation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Allooloo.

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

I think what the Member referred to was adding a question to his question that was directed to me earlier in this session. Once I get all the information put together I will respond to the two questions. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Ms. Mike.

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It was brought to my attention by one of the post-secondary students from my region that the NWT program for living allowance for a single student is $522.86 and the DIAND program for a single student is $675 a month; and that DIAND program figure is from 1989 -- it is not even up to date. I would like to know, since this government usually likes to keep up with the Indian and Northern Affairs' figures, why the NWT program is a lot lower than DIAND's.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Education.

Return To Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Member is correct that our living allowance given to a student is a little bit lower than that of the Indian and Northern Affairs program; but I would like to point out that even though the living allowance we provide to students is lower, we have other programs that the federal government does not provide, such as a housing allowance, and emergency child care. If the students have children, we provide them with assistance for child care and a living allowance which the federal government does not provide. Our program, in total, is quite a bit richer than that of the federal government. Thank you.

Return To Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Supplementary, Ms. Mike.

Supplementary To Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Mr. Speaker, would the Minister of Education provide the figures for the other programs that DIAND does not offer?

Supplementary To Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Education.

Further Return To Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you. Yes, I could provide detailed information, including tuition fees, books, travel, start-up allowance, living allowance, whether they have one, two or three dependants, child care and other additional costs that our government provides for that are not available through federal government programs. I will provide that detailed information to the Member as soon as we can put it together. Thank you.

Further Return To Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Question O105-12(1): Differing Rates For Post-secondary Students
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Personnel. My colleague, the honourable Member for Kitikmeot, earlier asked the Minister if he would be willing to develop a policy on hiring non-Canadians for management positions. The Minister of Personnel indicated that he would consider doing this. I would like to know why he would want to consider developing a policy for hiring non-Canadians for management positions when we have an affirmative action policy in place. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Personnel, Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I do not think the Member's information is correct. That is not what the question was from the other Member, and that was not what my response was either. Thank you.

Return To Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mrs. Marie-Jewell, supplementary.

Return To Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

It is unfortunate that the honourable Member for Kitikmeot is not in the House at this moment, but I know that is what the question was, and as a result the Member for Kitikmeot was somewhat, not confused, but he could not understand why the Minister would develop such a thing. However, recognizing his response, I will review Hansard, and I will pursue the question at hand in the days to come. Thank you.

Return To Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Question O106-12(1): Policy Re Hiring Non-canadians In Management Positions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Koe.

Fred Koe Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Social Services. Since the Minister publicly stated, before becoming a Minister, that he wished a total review of the Department of Social Services, and subsequently in this House, as a Minister, he categorically stated that he did not support a review of the department, would the Minister support the establishment of a special committee on social services?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Return To Question O107-12(1): Establishment Of A Special Committee On Social Services
Question O107-12(1): Establishment Of A Special Committee On Social Services
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Categorically no.

Return To Question O107-12(1): Establishment Of A Special Committee On Social Services
Question O107-12(1): Establishment Of A Special Committee On Social Services
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 104

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Mr. Arngna'naaq.

Silas Arngna'naaq Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Transportation. Just recently I was in the community of Arviat. The airport there is under the auspices of the hamlet council, and they were having some difficulty ordering lights for their tower. They indicated to me that they were having this difficulty because of a problem they were having with the agreement that was made between the territorial government and the federal government. I would

like to find out if this agreement has been finalized. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Transportation.

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do not know the answer to the question. I will take the question as notice and get back to the Member as soon as I can. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Oral questions. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is again to the Minister of Personnel. There have been concerns expressed by many residents of the Territories that at times there are competitions held, and once the competition is held there appears to be some change of thinking on the person that was initially offered the position. There have been cases where the competition has been basically put on hold or cancelled, and then the job descriptions are rewritten, basically, in accordance with the type of person that at times probably the department has identified. I would like to know if the Minister of Personnel would review and advise this House as to how many competitions have been cancelled and readvertised, and for what purpose. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Personnel.

Return To Question O109-12(1): Readvertising Of Job Competitions
Question O109-12(1): Readvertising Of Job Competitions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Yes, Mr. Speaker, I will do that.

Return To Question O109-12(1): Readvertising Of Job Competitions
Question O109-12(1): Readvertising Of Job Competitions
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Oral questions. Ms. Mike.

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Government Leader. I was somewhat happy to see the Beatty report, but having heard the Minister of Social Services' Ministers' statement on the abstention clause, I was hoping that this new government would take initiatives from the community level to the cabinet and to the Legislative Assembly in that approach. Will your new government operate in such a way that it is dictating?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Madam Government Leader.

Return To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, we have made a major initiative that people at the community level are the best people who can organize themselves, know their issues, and take over programs and services. I do not really understand the question that has been posed. At certain points in time, decisions have to be made to reach the objective of trying to accomplish certain goals, including cost savings, including trying to reach the objective of moving the responsibility, the accountability, and the resources at the community level. If that is dictating, I am not sure if that is the question.

Return To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Supplementary, Ms. Mike.

Supplementary To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My earlier question was addressed to the Minister of Social Services. In the Baffin Region there was only one community in agreement with the abstention clause for counsellors. The majority of the communities hesitantly signed, thinking that their funding would be cut. This continues to be the issue, and from the Ministers' statement I see that "if they do not adopt it, there will be no more funding until the communities involved establish new societies that will accept this important condition."

Supplementary To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Ms. Cournoyea, perhaps you may wish to respond to the more specific aspects of the original question.

Further Return To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Yes, Mr. Speaker, I did not understand the question at the time. Mr. Speaker, sometimes there are serious complications, serious issues out there that we have to grapple with. The issue of abstinence is one that was told to us as being a very serious problem in terms of the people who are conducting the counselling, doing the immediate work with people. If we talk about affirmative action, it is the same thing. We are told that people are not hired who can do the job, who are resident in the NWT, aboriginal people. Sometimes we have to take a high road and say something has to be done about this issue. These are cases where it is determined that there is a serious problem and issues have to be addressed. I do not think that is dictatorship. That is trying to meet the needs of people, trying to address a problem.

I think the Minister of Social Services, in this case, is prepared to go and meet with the Baffin communities to give them a little more time. To meet with them and get them co-operatively coming across and taking that initiative on their own.

The majority of people in this case did recognize that in that particular job -- it is not a dictatorship. I know when we were in Baffin the issue was brought up. I was asked a question, and someone said, "It is my right." It is not a right. There are a lot of privileges out there, and it has been clearly identified over the years, and there is a great abuse of this privilege that people have. It is not a right. Sometimes we have to take action on behalf of the residents of the NWT, even though it is somewhat arbitrary.

Further Return To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Ms. Mike.

Supplementary To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

Rebecca Mike Baffin Central

My understanding is that what works over here does not always work in other regions. In that way, will your government take steps to try and resolve this problem?

Supplementary To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Ms. Cournoyea.

Further Return To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, yes we will. I believe it is the intention of the Minister of Health and Social Services, at the nearest opportunity, to meet with those residents in Baffin who feel it is an imposition for them to be hired on the basis of having the clause in the contract.

Further Return To Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Question O110-12(1): Abstinence Clause For Alcohol And Drug Workers In Baffin Region
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 105

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Bernhardt.

Ernie Bernhardt Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister responsible for Social Services. Would your department be willing to review the pay scales for alcohol treatment workers in small, isolated communities?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Minister of Social Services.

Return To Question O111-12(1): Review Of Pay For Alcohol Treatment Workers
Question O111-12(1): Review Of Pay For Alcohol Treatment Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 106

Tony Whitford

Tony Whitford Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, I am not personally aware of the funding structure for the workers in the field. I do know that funding is given to a board to manage, and I think that they take all things into consideration. However, I can keep the question in mind when I do meet with the various groups to see what the concerns are, related to their pay levels. I will endeavour to do that. As the Government Leader said, I will be visiting, as time allows, the area people to discuss the matter of the delivery of alcohol and substance abuse programs, as such abuse is a big problem in the Territories.

I was looking at some figures, and they indicate that we spend $100 per capita for all the people in the NWT in just that one area. It is a substantial amount, and the question is well put. I will endeavour to ensure that the people that are delivering the service are looked at properly.

Return To Question O111-12(1): Review Of Pay For Alcohol Treatment Workers
Question O111-12(1): Review Of Pay For Alcohol Treatment Workers
Item 5: Oral Questions

Page 106

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The time for question period has elapsed. Item 6, written questions. Mr. Dent.

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a written question for the Minister of Government Services regarding copies of two letters which I received, which have been sent to other Members, including the Ministers, regarding tendering policies in the Department of Government Services.

The two letters from northern businesses, attached, raised significant questions about tendering policies of the Department of Government Services. 1) Would the Minister of Government Services please advise whether the concerns outlined above have been addressed, and if so, how?

2) Could I be provided with copies of letters of reply to these letters, if such replies have been sent?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister responsible for Workers' Compensation Board. Would the Minister please provide the House with: a) a copy of the distribution list and dates of circulation used by the Workers' Compensation Board to distribute Policy Directive 20-02-28 and/or the definition of "principal engagement" in traditional hunting, fishing or trapping, to individuals and target groups throughout the NWT; and b) a summary of any comments or written feedback received from the respondent organizations and individuals contacted through the distribution of the policy directive?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Written questions. Before we go to the next item, we will recess for a short break.

---SHORT RECESS

I will call the Assembly back to order. We are on Item 7 on the order paper, returns to written questions. Returns to written questions.

Item 8 on the order paper, replies to Opening Address. Replies to Open Address.

Item 9 on the order paper, petitions. Petitions.

Item 10, reports of standing and special committees. Reports of standing and special committees. Item 11, tabling of documents. Mr. Arngna'naaq.

Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 106

Silas Arngna'naaq Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to table Tabled Document 22-12(1), a letter written to me from Joe Manik regarding the Inuit Cultural Institute move from Arviat to Rankin Inlet.

Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 106

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Tabling of documents. Mr. Arvaluk.

Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 106

James Arvaluk Aivilik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to table Tabled Document 23-12(1), "Caring for Ourselves in the Home", An Integrated Home Services Proposal, submitted by the Arviat health committee.

Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 106

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Tabling of documents. Mr. Gargan.

Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 106

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Mr. Speaker, I would like to table Tabled Document 24-12(1), a press release regarding a report entitled "Aboriginal Peoples and Criminal Justice - Equality, Respect and the Search for Justice" done by Dr. Gilles Letourneau. Thank you.

Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 106

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Tabling of documents. Tabling of documents. Item 12, notices of motions. Mr. Arngna'naaq.

Silas Arngna'naaq Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Monday, December 16, 1991, I will move the following motion: I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre, that the following terms of reference for the standing committee on legislation be approved: The standing committee on legislation shall: a) examine such matters as may be referred to it by the Legislative Assembly; b) review all bills and legislative action papers referred to the committee; c) examine all orders, regulations or statutory instruments issued by the regulation-making authority; d) examine any other matter of a legislative nature as determined necessary by the standing committee; and e) establish its quorum to be five Members including the Chair.

Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time I will be seeking unanimous consent to proceed with this motion today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Arngna'naaq. Notices of motions. Notices of motions.

Item 13, notices of motions for first reading of bills. Notices of motions for first reading of bills. Item 14, motions. Mr.

Arngna'naaq.

Item 14: Motions
Item 14: Motions

Page 107

Silas Arngna'naaq Kivallivik

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to proceed with my motion today concerning the terms of reference for the standing committee on legislation.

Item 14: Motions
Item 14: Motions

Page 107

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Unanimous consent has been requested. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Proceed, Mr. Arngna'naaq.

Silas Arngna'naaq Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker:

WHEREAS it is required by Rule 95(2) that the terms of reference for all standing committees shall be approved by the Legislative Assembly;

AND WHEREAS the standing committee on legislation has considered the matter of their terms of reference;

AND WHEREAS the standing committee is now prepared to present their terms of reference to the Legislative Assembly;

NOW THEREFORE, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre, that the following terms of reference for the standing committee on legislation be approved: The standing committee on legislation shall: a) examine such matters as may be referred to it by the Legislative Assembly; b) review all bills and legislative action papers referred to the committee; c) examine all orders, regulations or statutory instruments issued by the regulation-making authority; d) examine any other matter of a legislative nature as determined necessary by the standing committee; and e) establish its quorum to be five Members including the Chair.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Your motion is in order. To the motion.

An Hon. Member

Question.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried.

---Carried

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Motion 25-12(1), Establishment of a Tax Reform Commission, Mr. Gargan. Mr. Gargan is not in the House. That motion is stood down and taken from the order paper. Motion 26-12(1), Contribution to the NWT Council for Disabled Persons. Mr. Lewis.

Brian Lewis Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The seconder of this motion, Mr. Gargan, is not in the House. Can I still proceed?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The motion will stay on the order paper until Monday. Motion 27-12(1), Strategy Committee for Implementation of Recommendations of "Strength At Two Levels." Mr. Dent.

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Mr. Speaker, the seconder of this motion, Mr. Todd, is not in the House today. I would like to bring it up on Monday.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

That motion is stood down for today. Motion 28-12(1), Custom Adoption. Mr. Gargan.

Motion 28-12(1): Custom Adoption
Item 14: Motions

Page 107

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

WHEREAS custom adoption has been a fact of life for aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories for hundreds of years;

AND WHEREAS the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms recognizes existing aboriginal rights;

AND WHEREAS case law in the Northwest Territories has recognized the validity of custom adoption;

AND WHEREAS the laws that govern the Northwest Territories should provide the same rights and protection afforded parents and children of legal adoption to parents and children adopted by custom;

NOW THEREFORE, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for High Arctic, that this Legislative Assembly requests the Minister of Justice to undertake a review of all territorial statutes to ensure that, where appropriate, the definition of "parents" and "children" will include custom adoptive parents and custom adopted children, so as to ensure that the parents and children of custom adoption will be afforded the same legal rights as currently exist between biological parents, parents by legal adoption and their children.

Thank you.

Motion 28-12(1): Custom Adoption
Item 14: Motions

Page 107

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Gargan. Your motion is in order. Mr. Gargan.

Motion 28-12(1): Custom Adoption
Item 14: Motions

Page 107

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Most Members received a newspaper called the "Lawyer's Weekly," and in September there was a case in British Columbia where the adoptive parents were claiming compensation for a child who was in an accident. The adoptive parents were in their 90s, but the court in British Columbia made a ruling that because, under the Insurance Act, it identifies only the legally adoptive parents or the biological parents for benefits under the Insurance Act, this old couple were denied any kind of compensation.

I do have the copy of the case itself, but the case involves an application by the biological grandparents, who were also the custom adoptive parents, for compensation due to the death of their grandson by custom adoption. Under the regulations made pursuant to the Insurance Motor Vehicles Act, dependent parents could claim for compensation from the insurance corporation. The issue was whether the words "dependent parents" included those parents who were parents by custom adoption. The Supreme Court of British Columbia held that adoption by custom only provides moral rights or obligation. There are no legal rights or obligation. In other words, Mr. Speaker, under the present Insurance Act in BC, the custom adoptive parents could not claim compensation unless it was their natural child.

The elders themselves, under section 5 of the Charter of Rights, would have challenged that act on the basis that it was unconstitutional because custom adoption is like a customary practice and aboriginal right. However, Mr. Speaker, the elders have no money to challenge the act itself. The Insurance Act in BC is still a legal document, but in the NWT, where we do practise custom adoption, it is recognized. But in all the acts themselves there are a lot of places where it refers to parents and a child, and a "child" means a person who "in the absence of evidence to the contrary, appears to be under 18 years of age." Parents include a guardian except in part four. This is under the Child Welfare Act.

But in a lot of acts right now, the NWT Act, Education Act, Social Assistance Act, you have the definition of "parents" and you also have the definition of "child." But when those definitions are there, they do not necessarily refer to a custom adopted child. What I am asking the government to do is basically review all their statutory laws to ensure that where the definition of "parents" or "child" is written, then they include in there "custom adopted child" or "custom adoptive parents".

In the event that a ruling like this happened here in the NWT, I am sure it would be challenged. Basically that is the only reason I made the motion, just to ensure something like this does not happen, or in the event that there is an accident or a death of custom adoptive parents or child, that perhaps even the insurance companies do not use that excuse of denying the custom adoptive parents compensation, or the child compensation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Motion 28-12(1): Custom Adoption
Item 14: Motions

Page 108

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Seconder of the motion. Mr. Pudluk.

Motion 28-12(1): Custom Adoption
Item 14: Motions

Page 108

Ludy Pudluk High Arctic

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was glad to second this motion. Mr. Gargan spoke very well on the motion. Aboriginal people believe in this. Our elders really believe in this; it is our culture. They would like to be able to adopt children when they want to. The aboriginal people in the NWT adopt children without going through the court system. This is our custom, and we believe in our custom. We would like to see this dealt with. If a baby were to be taken away from adoptive parents -- we do not believe this should happen. If parents are not treating their adopted children properly, they are able to talk to the people who adopted the child. This is the way it is in the NWT.

Motion 28-12(1), Carried

Motion 28-12(1): Custom Adoption
Item 14: Motions

Page 108

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed, if any? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Motion 29-12(1), Adoption of Statute Roll, Third Volume. Ms. Cournoyea.

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker:

WHEREAS the statute roll of the third volume of the supplement to the Revised Statutes of the NWT, 1988, in the English and French languages, was deposited with the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly on December 2, 1991, pursuant to subsection 8(3) of The Adoption of the French Version of Statutes and Statutory Instruments Act;

AND WHEREAS the statute roll has been laid before the Legislative Assembly as required by subsection 12(2) of the Statute Revision Act and subsection 3(1) of The Adoption of the French Version of Statutes and Statutory Instruments Act;

NOW THEREFORE, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Sahtu, that the Legislative Assembly hereby approves the statute roll, third volume.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Your motion is in order. To the motion. Ms. Cournoyea.

An Hon. Member

Question.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed, if any? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Mr. Speaker, my seconder is not in the House.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

We will leave this motion until Monday. Next is Motion 32-12(1), Adult Education Centre, Hay River Reserve. Mr. Antoine.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can we stand this motion down too, please?

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

We will stand down this motion until Monday. Motions.

Item 15, first reading of bills. Item 16, second reading of bills. Mr. Pollard.

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Amittuq, that Bill 1, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 2, 1991-92, be read for the second time. The purpose of this bill is to make supplementary appropriations for the Government of the Northwest Territories for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1992. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you. Your motion is in order. To the principle of the bill.

An Hon. Member

Question.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question is being called. All those in favour? Opposed if any? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Bill 1 has had second reading and will be put into committee of the whole. Mr. Pollard.

Second Reading Of Bill 2: Borrowing Authorization Act
Item 16: Second Reading Of Bills

Page 109

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Nunakput, that Bill 2, Borrowing Authorization Act, be read for the second time. The purpose of the bill is to provide authority to the Commissioner or the Minister or the Comptroller General acting for the Commissioner to borrow money up to a limit of $65 million to ensure that the Consolidated Revenue Fund can meet lawfully authorized disbursements; and to repeal the Temporary Borrowing Authorization Act, S.N.W.T. 1990, c.15 and the Borrowing Authorization Act, S.N.W.T. 1991, c.36.

Second Reading Of Bill 2: Borrowing Authorization Act
Item 16: Second Reading Of Bills

Page 109

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Your motion is in order. To the principle of the bill.

Second Reading Of Bill 2: Borrowing Authorization Act
Item 16: Second Reading Of Bills

Page 109

An Hon. Member

Question.

Second Reading Of Bill 2: Borrowing Authorization Act
Item 16: Second Reading Of Bills

Page 109

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed, if any? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Bill 2 has had second reading and will be put into committee of the whole. Mr. Pollard.

John Pollard Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Natilikmiot, that Bill 3, An Act to Amend the Adoption of the French Version of Statutes and Statutory Instruments Act, be read for the second time. The purpose of the bill is to permit regulations in force on December 31, 1990, that have been repealed or repealed and replaced since that date, to be excluded from the revised regulations, 1990. It would also exclude the Supreme Court rules which are already in bilingual form. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Your motion is in order. To the principle of the bill.

An Hon. Member

Question.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed, if any? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Bill 3 has had second reading and will be placed on the agenda of the committee of the whole. Second reading of bills. Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Mr. Speaker, I would like to get unanimous consent to go back to Item 14 to deal with Motion 31-12.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Unanimous consent has been requested by Mr. Gargan. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Proceed, Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the Members too. Mr. Speaker:

WHEREAS the voting age requirement in the NWT is 19 years of age;

AND WHEREAS the government initiatives for the future will impact on all the young people of the NWT;

AND WHEREAS at 18 years of age you can vote in federal and most provincial elections, leave school without the permission of your parents, and are considered an adult in our justice system;

AND WHEREAS the right to vote is guaranteed in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms;

AND WHEREAS the population of the NWT is comprised of a larger number of young people;

AND WHEREAS the youth are well educated and should be in a position to exercise their democratic right;

NOW THEREFORE, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Thebacha, that the Legislative Assembly adopts that the voting age at an election in the NWT be changed from 19 to 18 years of age;

AND FURTHER, that the Legislative Assembly requests that the Executive Council introduce the necessary amendments to the Elections Act, Local Authorities Election Act and Plebiscite Act to give effect to any change in the voting age.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

The motion is in order. To the motion. Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am bringing this motion forward after much discussion with young people in my constituency and in the Western Arctic. The intent of the motion is to give more young people a voice in the important political decisions that will be made over the next few years; decisions that will define the very nature of the Territories we live in.

I must stress to Members that lowering the voting age is not a radical suggestion. It would merely bring our legislation into line with most other jurisdictions in Canada that have already recognized the important contribution that young people can make in a political process.

Changes in legislation proposed in the motion will allow persons 18 years of age to vote in municipal and territorial elections and to run for office in these elections. It would also allow them the opportunity to cast their vote on the issue of division should a plebiscite ever occur.

We have heard often in this House about the important contributions that our youth can make. I have heard the Government Leader and many Members of the Executive Council tell this House how they consulted with young people on important issues. The current constitutional commission has recognized the contribution young people can make by going to high schools across the Territories to get their views on the constitutional development process in the Western Arctic. Young people have more to contribute than ever before.

As Mr. Lewis has stated in the House, young people have an understanding of the complexities of the modern world. They want satisfying jobs; some of them want to be businessmen; some of them want to build things; they are not happy with just getting a job; they want to make accomplishments; they want to make a contribution; they want another level of satisfaction that is far beyond what the elders were looking for many years ago.

Political Awareness Increases With Educational Level

The motion would go further than consultation. It would allow more young people to have a direct voice on these important issues by exercising their right to vote. Mr. Speaker, our youth are attending and graduating from high school at an ever increasing rate. As the Minister of Education has stated, our schools can hardly keep up with the demand. Increasing numbers of Dene, Metis and Inuit youth are graduating from high school and going on to post-secondary education programs at Arctic College, universities, college and trade schools. As the level of education increases for our youth, the level of political awareness increases proportionately. Young people are increasingly becoming involved in the political process through presentations to and meeting with constitutional commissions, participating in youth forums and serving on youth justice committees, and they are actively participating in aboriginal organizations.

I know that many of the people that have served in this House became politically active at a very young age. For example, Mr. Morin has told us that he was the president of the first Metis local at Pine Point at the age of 17.

The decisions we make over the next several years are decisions that will shape the lives of many of our youth. One way to ensure that more of our youth have a greater say in these decisions is by lowering the voting age to 18, as most other jurisdictions have done. I should note that I was concerned when I was considering this motion about the effect of changing the voting age on other age requirements in territorial legislation. I was particularly concerned with the effect it may have on the legal drinking age. The research I have done shows that amendments to the election legislation would not affect this requirement. In fact, in most other jurisdictions the voting age is lower than the drinking age, and that is how it would be here.

The fact is that the youth of our Territories are better educated, more politically aware and active and have a larger stake in the political decisions that shape our future than ever before. It is for these reasons that I am proposing this motion to give them a larger voice in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to mention that before the conclusion of the 11th Assembly, I did discuss the matter of changing the voting age at that time, before the election, but I did not think it would have been supported. The reason I would like to bring it up at this time is that there are people that are 15, 16 or 17 years of age that are listening to us probably right now with regard to this. They will be 18 years of age when the election comes in 1994, so perhaps if the Members care for their political years, they might consider supporting it. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Gargan. Seconder of the motion, Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With respect to the motion proposed by my colleague, I fully support his endeavours to lower the age of the youth concerning territorial elections. I certainly believe that many of the youth in today's society are becoming more aware of the political development of the North and want to participate more with regard to political development. I think I can give you some examples. As we recognize, the commission that is touring the Territories, is getting a lot of participation and more comments from the youth than they had initially anticipated. You can certainly tell that the interest is out there.

I know and have observed through the campaign period that there are many youth that do want to know, that do want to be involved and want to find a way to get involved, even though they are not eligible to vote. They were very interested in the process. I want to indicate that through my campaign period there were a lot more requests from the schools to explain the process and why we were running, starting at a very young age. People are becoming more aware; the youth are becoming more interested and aware; and I believe that if we can give them opportunities to vote, if they show an interest -- and they are showing an interest --I think it is only fair.

Various Responsibilities Youth Can Undertake Before Present Voting age

If we look in the Territories at what youth can do at the age of 18, we all know that many, even young individuals, can receive a social insurance number. At 16 years of age, they can get married even without the permission of their parents, and yet we are depriving them of the right to vote. You can vote in other jurisdictions. There are other jurisdictions that allow youth to vote, but when you look at youth in the Territories, even at 16 years of age, they are allowed to partake in different responsibilities in our society. They are able to take, hold and participate with certain privileges in our society.

Take, for example, obtaining a driver's licence. They are eligible to obtain a driver's licence at the age of 16. They do take on certain responsibilities at a young age.

Once students reach the age of 16, they can, if they so wish -- and it is very difficult to stop them -- drop out of school. I believe that students are now recognizing the consequences of dropping out of school. Certainly, as an MLA, I would encourage every student to get as much education as they can.

These are the types of decisions that youth can make when they are at the early age of even 16. There are many other responsibilities, as I have stated. I will not go into detail with many of them, but I know that youth are willing to take on certain responsibilities and they are willing to participate now more readily and want full participation within our society, and I think it is only fair to give them that opportunity. Therefore, I would request the Members to give serious consideration to lowering the territorial voting age to 18 from 19. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

An Hon. Member

Question.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question is being called. Mr. Allooloo.

Titus Allooloo Amittuq

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would support the motion because when I was at that age I could hardly wait until I was 19, eligible to vote and eligible to run for organizations that tried to improve my community. As soon as I was able to vote, at the age of 19, I got into the community council and I started from there. I think there are community young people at the age of 17 or 18 who are very willing and capable and have a lot of energy to help their community. I just want to tell you that I am in full support of this motion. Thank you.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Allooloo. How times have

changed! Now we can hardly wait until we get the old age pension.

---Laughter

An Hon. Member

Question.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Question has been called. Mr. Gargan.

Samuel Gargan Deh Cho

Mr. Speaker, just to mention to the Members that during our last territorial election -- I realize that students can vote by proxy when they are away from home, but a lot of students did not exercise that opportunity. In the event that this motion does pass, I would like to ask that provisions be made to the NWT Election Act so that we allow students, for example in Iqaluit or in Akaitcho Hall, to have booths so that they could vote for their respective constituencies. I would like to ask the Members to support my motion, and I request a recorded vote.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

That concludes debate. A recorded vote has been requested. All those in favour of the motion, please rise.

Motion 31-12(1), Carried

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Gargan, Mr. Zoe, Mr. Koe, Mr. Antoine, Mr. Bernhardt, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Allooloo, Mr. Ningark, Mr. Pollard, Ms. Cournoyea, Mr. Kakfwi, Mr. Whitford, Mr. Pudluk, Mr. Arvaluk, Mr. Dent, Ms. Mike, Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

---Applause

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

All those opposed to the motion, please rise. All those abstaining, please rise. The motion is carried unanimously, with 17 votes in the affirmative.

---Carried

Ms. Cournoyea.

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, I wish consent to go back to Item 11, tabled documents.

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Unanimous consent is being requested to return to Item 11 on the orders of the day. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Proceed, Madam Government Leader.

Revert To Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Revert To Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 111

Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Mr. Speaker, I wish to table Tabled Document 25-12(1), Northwest Territories Power Corporation Act Rate Structure Regulations, proposed amendment.

Revert To Item 11: Tabling Of Documents
Revert To Item 11: Tabling Of Documents

Page 111

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Tabling of documents. Item 16, second reading of bills. Item 17, consideration in committee of the whole of bills and other matters: Ministers' Statement 2-12(1), Living Within Our Means; Ministers' Statement 5-12(1), Community Transfer Initiative; Tabled Document 3-12(1), Strength At Two Levels; Bill 4, Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act; Bill 1, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 2, 1991-92; Bill 2, Borrowing Authorization Act; and Bill 3, Adoption of the French Versions of the Statutes and Statutory Instruments Act, with Mr. Pudluk in the chair.

Item 17: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 17: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 111

The Chair Ludy Pudluk

The committee will now come to order. Member for Thebacha.

Item 17: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 17: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 111

Jeannie Marie-Jewell Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I believe the caucus chairman had some important items to deal with today in caucus and I would like to report progress. I move that we report progress.

Item 17: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 17: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 111

The Chair Ludy Pudluk

Thank you, Member for Thebacha. The motion is in order and is not debatable. All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried.

---Carried

I will report progress.

Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Page 111

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Item 18, report of committee of the whole, Mr. Chairman.

Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Page 111

Ludy Pudluk High Arctic

Mr. Speaker, your committee wishes to report progress. Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of the chairman of the committee of the whole be concurred with. Thank you.

Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Page 111

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Is there a seconder to that motion? Mr. Koe. The motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Item 19, third reading of bills. Item 20, Mr. Clerk, orders of the day.

Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 18: Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Page 111

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Speaker, there will be a meeting of the full caucus after adjournment today, which will be followed by a meeting of the ordinary Members' caucus this afternoon. Meetings for Monday, December 16, 1991: at 8.30 a.m., of the ordinary Members' caucus; at 10:30 a.m., of the standing committee on finance; and at 12:00 noon, of the special committee on constitutional reform.

Item 20: Orders Of The Day
Item 20: Orders Of The Day

Page 111

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Orders of the day for Monday, December 16, 1991.

1. Prayer

2. Ministers' Statements

3. Members' Statements

4. Returns to Oral Questions

5. Oral Questions

6. Written Questions

7. Returns to Written Questions

8. Replies to Opening Address

9. Petitions

10. Reports of Standing and Special Committees

11. Tabling of Documents

12. Notices of Motions

13. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills

14. Motions: Motions 26-12(1), 27-12(1), 30-12(1), 32-12(1), 34-12(1) and 36-12(1)

15. First Reading of Bills

16. Second Reading of Bills

17. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters: Ministers' Statement 2-12(1); and Ministers' Statement 5-12(1); Tabled Document 3-12(1); Bills 4, 1, 2 and 3

18. Report of Committee of the Whole

19. Third Reading of Bills

20. Orders of the Day

Item 20: Orders Of The Day
Item 20: Orders Of The Day

Page 112

The Speaker Michael Ballantyne

Thank you, Mr. Clerk. This House stands adjourned until 1:30 p.m., Monday, December 16, 1991.

---ADJOURNMENT