Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in December, I circulated a discussion paper on access to government to my colleagues in the Legislative Assembly. It contained suggestions for the development of a bill which would combine access to information legislation with a process for assisting the public. We are a small population, but a 'big' territory. We are looking to develop a model which will address the distinct needs of the people of the Northwest Territories.
In principle, access to information legislation takes people to the first step in the process of examining government actions; that is, it gives them a way to obtain the documents. Many, if not the majority of public concerns, however, go beyond getting copies of government papers. Getting the documents does not necessarily solve problems or answer questions.
As you will see from the discussion paper, it proposes that these next steps be within the powers of an 'access to government commissioner' or 'ombudsman,' appointed by and reporting directly to this Assembly. Broad powers of investigation and access to government would be included. A network for intake of complaints or requests would be established, using existing resources wherever possible.
At a time when we are seeking ways of improving the process for government accountability and access, and, at the same time, working in an atmosphere of fiscal restraint, it is doubly important to find creative solutions.
Later today, I will be tabling the discussion paper. As a next step, I will be consulting on it. This way, members of the public as well as the government, will have an opportunity to consider and comment on the philosophy and direction of the initiative. With that assistance, we will be better able to shape the proposal before a more formal process begins. We will aim to introduce a bill in the fall. Qujannamiik.
