Good morning. I have been advised that Her Honour, the Deputy Commissioner of the Northwest Territories is prepared to assent to certain bills this morning. Mr. Clerk, would you ascertain if the Deputy Commissioner is prepared to enter the Chamber and assent to bills?

Please be seated. Mr. Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly, as Deputy Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, I hereby assent to Bill 2, An Act to Amend the Engineering Geological and Geophysical Professions Act; Bill 3, An Act to Amend the Medical Care Act; Bill 6, Purchasing Management Association Act; Bill 18, An Act to Amend the Young Offenders Act; Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Real Estate Agents' Licensing Act; Bill 20, An Act to Amend the Nursing Profession Act; Bill 28, An Act Respecting Interim Appropriations for the Government of the Northwest Territories for the Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 1993, No. 2; Bill 29, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 1, 1992-93; Bill 30, An Act to Amend the Workers' Compensation Act. Thank you.

--- Applause

Please be seated. Item 2 on the order paper, Ministers' statements. Mr. Morin.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Public Works uses several special approaches to make sure the local people are able to benefit from the construction of GNWT facilities. I would like to mention a few.

This year, a construction worker training program will be included in the construction of the Pangnirtung community learning centre, the Coppermine health centre renovations, the Coppermine community learning centre, the Baker Lake group home and the Fort Simpson student hostels. For each project, at least two workers will participate in construction trades training. The program has been developed by the NWT Construction Association with funding from Public Works, MACA, the Housing Corporation and Education. The construction worker training program will increase the number of Northerners with the recognized skills required for most NWT construction projects.

For two other projects, the construction of fire halls in Fort Resolution and Aklavik, construction management services will be contracted. The use of construction management services is a first step in community economic development and is appropriate when community businesses are very interested in construction activities but do not have the experience to manage a complete project. Construction managers assist with training and development of local businesses and ensure maximum use of local labour.

For some communities, where business activity is more established, DPW, with the approval of cabinet, will negotiate a construction contract. Negotiated contracts require the use of local labour and give developing contractors valuable business experience.

Construction activities benefit many Northerners. DPW will continue to find ways to ensure the capital projects managed by the department result in local benefits of training, employment and business development. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Ministers' statements. Mr. Patterson.

Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time today, I will be tabling the report of the special advisor on gender equality. In December 1990, Katherine Peterson was given a 16-month mandate to examine criminal justice and family law In the NWT and to recommend changes that would make the justice system more responsive to women.

In the preparation of this report, the special advisor travelled to all regions of the NWT to conduct public workshops and public meetings. A broad variety of women and men of all ages participated in this process. The special advisor also met with representatives of agencies involved in the administration of justice including the RCMP, Crown prosecutors, members of the judiciary and officials from the Departments of Justice and Social Services.

This report is the result of these extensive consultations. It contains 90 recommendations covering many areas and directed at various departments and institutions. I would like at this time to thank the special advisor for her excellent work.

The report is entitled 'The Justice House." The title refers to a metaphor used by the special advisor in her public meetings. If the justice system is conceived of as a house, it can be seen that, like any house, it is a product of its architects. In this case, the architects over the centuries were primarily white males. Women and aboriginal peoples were not consulted in the design of this house.

This report is all about treating women with respect. It is about acknowledging their needs, listening to their voices and acting on their concerns. It is about making certain that issues that are important to women do not continue to got ignored. As the report points out, women and issues that are important to them have often been ignored in the past; ignored in policies, in legislation, in structures and in the allotment of resources.

Implementation of recommendations will require a long-term commitment on the part of the government and of other agencies involved in the administration of justice. Many recommendations involve a number of different agencies and will require a large degree of co-operation and co-ordination. Many recommendations are directed at agencies outside this government. These will be passed on to those agencies with every encouragement to receive the recommendations favourably. As my department addresses the issues, we will encourage dialogue with interested individuals and organizations. It will not, of course, be forgotten that now resources are difficult to come by in this time of restraint, both for this government and for most other agencies.

The question of how women are treated in the justice system must be seen in the context of widespread violence in our society that is directed toward women. This unacceptable situation is finally getting the attention it deserves, not just in this report, but in other forums as well. The report recommends a large-scale public awareness campaign aimed at changing attitudes about violence against women.

Some of the most important recommendations of the report concern the provision of services to victims of crime. Appropriately, it is recommended that the mandate of such services be established by the communities themselves. This approach is consistent with the direction my department is taking in the area of community justice initiatives. The department will explore means of providing assistance to communities in meeting their goals and aspirations, and will not impose solutions on the communities. In particular, we recognize the importance of hearing from a broad spectrum of women when we are pursuing avenues of change in the administration of justice.

Alternatives to the current justice system must develop as the result of co-operation between the communities and the government and as the result of the expressed desire of a community to assume responsibilities in this area. We must proceed with due caution and with a large measure of creativity as we look for ways to satisfy needs and remain fiscally responsible.

Another area in which the report contains substantial recommendations is that of training and education for those directly involved in the justice system. Again, this is an area that will require extensive consultation and co-operation with other departments and agencies involved. My department is currently initiating discussions on these matters with other departments.

The report identifies a great need across the Territories for public legal education so that people may better understand the justice system and how it affects them. The report also contains specific suggestions on how to make the justice system fairer by making it more easily available to more people. A number of these suggestions can be implemented in relatively short order, and my officials are working on them now. An example of this is ensuring that common-law spouses can obtain support from their former partners.

Mr. Speaker, this report contains many recommendations. Some of them may be acted upon quickly. Others will require extensive consultation and co-operation. A third group does not fall within the jurisdiction of this government but will be passed on to the appropriate agencies.

This government is committed to addressing shortcomings in the justice system where it fails to meet the aspirations of Northerners, both men and women from all cultures. With this report we have an important tool to help us achieve the goal of ensuring that the administration of justice in the Northwest Territories responds to the needs of women. Thank you.

-Applause

Ministers' statements. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Koe.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to announce the Northwest Territories Canada Day youth awards. Canada Day, July 1, is approaching and events have been planned and will be held in most communities in the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, today, as a committee member for the Northwest Territories Canada Day, I would like to announce that 10 young people from across the Territories were nominated for the 1992 Canada Day youth award, which was open to youth 18 years of age and under. The award is designed to recognize and reinforce the outstanding achievements and contributions of young people to their communities and, by extension, to the betterment of Canada. Nominations by sponsors of the youth, ranging in age from 15 to 17 years, were based on a criteria of community participation, promotion of Canadian values and environmental initiatives.

The 10 young people receiving the 1992 Canada Day youth award certifications are as follows: Naomi Antoine, Fort Simpson; Renanne Lafferty, Fort Simpson; Monique Reason, Fort Simpson; Kim Duong, Fort Simpson; Jacqueline Shouldice, Rankin Inlet; Terra Ward, Yellowknife; Stephen Mathison, Yellowknife; Chris O'Sullivan, Yellowknife; Trish Lange, Yellowknife; and Cygni Sumcad, Yellowknife. Presentations to these youth will be made at Canada Day ceremonies in Fort Simpson, Rankin Inlet and Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate these people on receiving these awards, and I encourage all of you and everyone listening to participate in Canada Day celebrations. Qujannamiik and mahsi.

--- Applause

Members' statements. Mr. Lewis.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We have heard over the last couple of weeks about the real concern of the commitment of this government to our social network. There is a concern that maybe the commitment this government has made to social services is on the decline. I would like to point out, Mr. Speaker, that when that happens there is a greater burden placed upon the public to raise the necessary funds for these non-government organizations to carry on their work. I am convinced that many of our non-government organizations can provide a service which, if the government were providing it, would cost twice or three times as much.

In that vein, Mr. Speaker, I would like to make a suggestion to the government. Because we know we can get a better bang for our buck in many instances when local organizations run programs, and since there is a real disaffection throughout the country about what the government does with the money that is given to it through taxes, would the Minister of Finance consider an option whereby individuals can get 100 per cent tax deduction for a contribution to a registered social institution in the Northwest Territories? Instead of giving that $100 or $200 to this government, they give it directly to the organization that they know can give them three or four times the value for that dollar than this government can.

I am not suggesting our government is bad. All I am suggesting is that if you really want to encourage social agencies to do the work that they are increasingly asked to take on, our government should assist that I know it will result in a loss of revenue to our government, but we do it for political contributions. Every now and again an election comes up and you can get 100 per cent deduction for that contribution made to that campaign. I am suggesting the government look at that to empower people to put their money where they know they will get good value for it. Thank you.

--- Applause

Members' statements. Mr. Todd.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to speak about the new Legislative Assembly building, a beautiful model which is displayed in the foyer outside. Mr. Speaker, as you know, and all of you know, I have been a staunch supporter of this project since its inception, although not quite for the purpose it was designed for. My original idea for this building was a sort of a "Club Leg" for the people of Whale Cove and other small communities. When the building is not being used, we could fly all the people in from the communities and they could have a nice three-week vacation in the building. They would have running water, hot showers and a nice little lake in the back to go hunting and fishing. I hosted the Mayor of Whale Cove in the capital this week, and he seemed quite receptive to the idea. However, the Minister of Finance convinced me that we just could not afford to fly all these people in, given the current travel restrictions. I must say, Mr. Speaker, I concur with the Minister's wise counsel on this issue.

Mr. Speaker, I then got to thinking about a way we could turn this sucker into a sure-fired money-maker, and I think I have come up with the answer. I would note that this suggestion fits right in with the work of the standing committee on finance, of which I am chairman. In the fall and winter, we could continue to use the building for sessions, committee meetings and the like, but in the spring and in the summer we could convert the building into a four star resort and gambling casino. If the Members take a close look at the model and plans for this building, they would see that conversion could be done for a minimum of expense. There are already enough rooms to accommodate 200, and the chairmen and committee rooms can serve nicely as games rooms. If you look closely at the Clerk's table, it is already shaped like a blackjack table.

--- Laughter

In the model, there is already a Porche parked outside. Instead of Bally's Resort and Casino I propose we call it "Ballantyne's Resort and Casino". In my plan, Mr. Speaker, we could have the best of two worlds; the seat of government for the NWT and a sure-fired money-maker. You know, after 10 or 15 years, we might even pay for it. Mr. Speaker, thank God it is Friday!

--- Laughter

--- Applause

Thank you, Mr. Todd. I am not sure if the word "sucker" is a proper parliamentary expression, but I assume you are referring to a species of fish. Members' statements. Mr. Ningark.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to provide a little comfort to the other side, not too much comfort to the other side. Yesterday my honourable colleague, Henry Zoe, repeated over and over the accountability of Ministers for every dollar they spend. I believe that, Mr. Speaker, but I would also like to inform the House where I stand today. I feel, Mr. Speaker, that our colleagues on the other side should be given a chance to put things together. We have not given them enough time to really know where they stand or where they are going to be in the next six months. Therefore, I will not be supporting any motion - this is my stand, mine alone - that is put to the floor to recommend that the Government Leader discipline a Minister or Ministers. I will leave that up to the capacity of the Government Leader herself. Unless the cabinet Members knowingly and intentionally - what was that four letter word - foul up, Mr. Speaker, I will not be supporting any motion to discipline the Ministers. Thank you.

--- Applause

Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Lewis on June 25 regarding an update of review on fuel purchasing. 100/130 aviation fuel is sold to operators of piston driven aircraft. This fuel product is the only leaded product sold by the revolving fund and, from an environmental perspective, leaded products are not recommended. Consumption of this fuel has decreased dramatically in the last two years.

On May 22, 1992, the director of petroleum products wrote to all aviation companies that operate in the North, indicating the significant decline in sales of this fuel. He asked if it would be possible to phase out stocking this product over the next two years. He also indicated that because sales are down, some of the current inventory will "go off* specifications and may have to be written off. Two companies responded to the letter. Because of their concerns, this initiative has been deferred for the time being.

Sales will continue to be monitored over the next few years and other options to supplying and storing 100/130 will be explored over the coming fiscal year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Allooloo.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Antoine on June 25, 1992, with respect to the assessment of students by Health, Social Services and Education. The Departments of Health, Social Services and Education have provided a tri-ministry

committee on services to children with information which they have received from parents, advocacy groups and school boards on the need for specialized services, including assessment. The committee is now meeting directly with some of the health and social services professionals who provide specialized services. It has also met with one advocacy group.

Information from boards and divisional boards of education on the levels of support services to their students will be available to the committee in a report currently being prepared for the Department of Education by a consultant. The Department of Education has also developed a data base to collect information on the needs of students. This will be used to more accurately identify the needs for services.

Mr. Speaker, I have a further return to a question asked by Mrs. Marie-Jewell on June 25. All 26 new applicants for the education leave program for 1992-93 were refused. All 14 applicants enroled in 1991-92 in post-secondary programs and receiving education leave were approved to continue to receive education leave. This represents 100 per cent approval of continuing students for 1992-93.

I have a further response to an oral question asked by Mr. Gargan on June 25, further to my return to Question O634-12(2) on June 25, 1992. It is not the policy or the practice of schools in the Deh Cho Divisional Board to hold students back for their size or age. I would advise parents in Fort Providence, who are concerned that this practice might be occurring, to discuss their concerns with their children's teacher and principal, and the director of the Deh Cho Divisional Board of Education if they wish. I encourage these parents to meet with their children's teachers when schools open again in August. Parents must be involved in their children's education for children to succeed.

The Member for Deh Cho also asked for a list of all students who have not progressed in school since 1986. The names of students are considered confidential, but I can provide the Member with promotion rates by grade since 1986. In 1985-86, 79 per cent of students were promoted. In 1987-88, 80 per cent of students were promoted; and in 1988-89, 84.5 per cent of students were promoted. By 1989-90, 86 per cent of students in NWT schools were promoted. Figures for 1986-87 are not available.

A table with more detailed information on promotion rates has been provided directly to the Member asking the question, the MLA for Deh Cho, Mr. Gargan. Thank you.

Returns to oral questions. Mr. Pollard.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have two returns, Mr. Speaker, one asked by Mr. Gargan on June 23, 1992. It concerned a spill on the pipeline. Late on May 4, a spill was detected on the IPL pipeline 25 kilometres north of Fort Simpson. The oil escaped from the underground pipeline through a pin-sized hole. The spill was estimated to be two cubic meters and covered an area measuring approximately six meters by six meters. The spill was contained on the IPL right-of-way by sandbags and absorbent material, restricting contamination to the immediate area of the leak.

The National Energy Board is the lead agency responsible for investigation of the spill. Follow-up by board officials is continuing.

Mr. Speaker, in response to a question asked by Mrs. Marie Jewell on June 22, 1992, concerning policy for tender and proposal calls: Mr. Speaker, contracts are entered into pursuant to the requirements of the Financial Administration Act and the government contract regulations that have been established in accordance with that act.

The two primary processes for entering into contracts are tenders and requests for proposals. With tenders, the exact requirements of the contract are known and are specified to interested parties in advance of the bids being made. The contract is awarded to the party that has tendered the lowest bid. As the lowest bid is the single deciding factor, the value of each bid is announced at the time of the public bid opening.

With requests for proposals, certain requirements cannot be pro-determined and outlined to the interested parties. Instead, a number of published criteria are used to evaluate the bids. Points are awarded in relation to those criteria, and the firm with the most points is awarded the contract. The dollar value of the bid is always one of the criteria. However, as it is only one of a number of criteria, the dollar value is not announced at the time the bids are publicly opened.

Variances from standard government contracting procedures do arise on an occasional basis, and are dealt with in accordance with the directions of the contracting officers from the Departments of Finance, Government Services and Justice. However, both the tender and request for proposal process cannot be used in the same contracting exercise. Once the decision has been made to use one of the two processes, the entire exercise is to be completed using the chosen process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.