Thank you, Madam Chair. As was indicated yesterday, the Ordinary Members' Caucus wishes to provide to this House the report of the results of the mid-term review of ministerial performance. When the review was discussed by the Members of the Ordinary Members' Caucus, there was unanimous agreement of the results of the two days of questioning.
Members looked to the Minister to have a sound understanding of their role and their departments. Members also looked for evidence that decisions and actions are thought out and have basis in overall government policy, rather than being ad hoc. Ministers were also expected to have a general understanding of the major issues that Cabinet is addressing, and have a common understanding of the goals and objectives of the government.
Four Ministers gave solid performances, resulting in an overall grade of A. Ministers Kakfwi, Todd, Pollard, and Morin displayed a good understanding of the tasks at hand, and of their role as Ministers. Members made particular note of the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi's performance, rating him the Minister who has made the most improvement in how he deals with MLAs and in demonstrating his knowledge of his department.
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Mr. Kakfwi also displayed a sound philosophical base, which is reflected in how he approaches his work as a Minister.
The Honourable Richard Nerysoo received an overall grade of C minus. Members have concern with his handling of funding for the Dene Cultural Institute in Hay River. More importantly, Members were disturbed by the cavalier manner in which the Minister made statements regarding the official languages agreement during both the review and the Fourth Session. Members wish to advise Mr. Nerysoo that he must make more of an effort to be factual in his statements, and to treat other Members with courtesy and respect.
There was unanimous agreement that the Honourable Rebecca Mike's performance, both leading up to the review and during the review, was unacceptable, resulting in a grade of F.