Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to make a few comments about some statements made by a Minister of this Assembly.
The honourable Stephen Kakfwi, Minister responsible for Aboriginal Rights and Constitutional Development, made a presentation to the Gwich'in Assembly in Fort McPherson in late August. In his presentation, he talked about the role of civil servants in implementing community transfer initiatives.
The Minister also expressed opinions on the role of M.L.A.s in meeting this government's initiatives. For instance, the Minister claims that self-government talks have slowed considerably since the community transfer initiatives were announced last fall. I also understand that the Minister stated that part of the delay is caused by M.L.A.s, who passed a motion in this Assembly last fall, saying they want to be involved in the decision making.
I am very disappointed and cannot even envision why a Minister of this government would think that I, as an ordinary M.L.A., and those who sit on this side of the House, would even consider interfering or meddling in the operations and management of this government. How naive can one be?
My colleagues, and I, were elected to do exactly that, make recommendations and decisions on the running of this government on behalf of the citizens of the Northwest Territories. So, I for one, Mr. Speaker, intend to fulfill my responsibilities as a M.L.A. and hopefully, when given opportunities, become involved in the decision making.
Mahsi Cho.
---Applause