Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Members of the Ordinary Members' Caucus, I want to advise this House that Members are very concerned about the process which took place leading to the dissolution of the town of Iqaluit. The chronology of events tabled in this House yesterday, the various answers given to this House on this issue, and news reports call into question the accuracy of information we have received to date.
Our perception of the chronology of events is as follows. The previous Minister of MACA brought forth an option paper on Iqaluit to FMB on September 22. Departmental officials, who had worked on the issues and situation in Iqaluit, did not recommend the dissolution of the town council. However, Cabinet advice regarding the indication of clause 192 of the Chartered Communities Act was given. As a result of the Cabinet's advice, the town council was dissolved by the Minister.
Mr. Speaker, the decision to dissolve the town council was made on November 5 and the MLA for the Iqaluit riding was not informed until November 12, one week later. To date, Mr. Speaker, no clear explanation has yet to be given as to the reason the MLA was not informed. Press reports suggest that the Minister was told by Cabinet not to inform the MLA about the dissolution of the town council and the appointment of the public administrator.
Mr. Speaker, Members of the Ordinary Members' Caucus are very concerned and disappointed with the chronology of events tabled in this House. The Premier stated in this House that a detailed chronology would be made available. This document is vague at best.
Ordinary Members will pursue this issue in the House until the truth and the facts are obtained. This is a very serious matter, Mr. Speaker, and we hope to get to the heart of it. Thank you.