Thank you, Mr. Pudluk. Good afternoon. I would like to welcome all Members back to the continuation of the 3rd session of the 12th Legislative Assembly. Before proceeding to the orders of the day I would like to inform the House I have received the following message from his honour the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, "Please be advised that I wish to recommend to the 3rd session of the 12th Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories the passage of the following bill: Bill 17, Appropriation Act No. 2, 1993-94." Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Todd.

---Applause

Mr. Speaker, for the past year, Members of this House have given clear direction to Cabinet that changes must occur at the Workers' Compensation Board of the Northwest Territories.

---Applause

I would like to share with all Members the steps that have been taken during the past several months to act on specific concerns raised by Members. Later in my statement, I will be announcing the appointment of a new chairperson and three new directors of the board.

First, Mr. Speaker, a significant change has been made in the senior management of this organization. Mr. Gerry Meier came on stream as the new general manager of the board on December 29, 1992. Mr. Meier has a wealth of experience in both the public and private sector, including four years as the deputy minister of labour with the Government of Saskatchewan.

Second, a legislative review of the Workers' Compensation Board was initiated by the former Minister responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board, Mr. Dennis Patterson. This review is based primarily on the reports and recommendations of the Standing Committee on Agencies, Boards and Commissions.

I am pleased to announce that the report has now been completed by the chief commissioner, Mr. Garnet Garven, and I will be presenting the findings of this review to the House early next week.

Third, Mr. Speaker, the honourable Member for Deh Cho has spoken quite eloquently in this House for some time with respect to problems in obtaining coverage for hunters, trappers and fishermen under the Workers' Compensation Act. There are two difficulties with respect to this issue: providing a clear definition of "principally-engaged" and establishing a satisfactory level of benefits for hunters and trappers. The Department of Renewable Resources is currently negotiating a memorandum of understanding with the board that will deal with these difficult questions.

Fourth, Mr. Speaker, in keeping with the direction of the Members of this House, the staff and directors of the Workers' Compensation Board are travelling to the regions to speak with employers and employees regarding Workers' Compensation issues.

Fifth, Mr. Speaker, there has been a great deal of debate surrounding the increases in assessment rates for 1993. As Members are aware, assessment rates increased on average approximately 12 per cent over 1992 rates.

To ease some of the financial strain on businesses, the Workers' Compensation Board recently announced significant improvements to the instalment payment policy. Under this policy, employers can pay four equal instalments over the course of the year. This schedule more closely matches the actual operation of employers.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, the board is researching and developing proposals for the introduction of a merit rebate/surcharge penalty program. If such a program is introduced, employers with a superior accident record would receive a rebate on their assessment. Conversely, employers with poor accident records would be forced to pay a premium assessment.

---Applause

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to announce the new board appointments. These appointments fill vacancies created by the resignations of Mr. Grant Horseman and Mr. Ron Williams and the expiration of the term of Mr. James Evoy. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank these individuals for the contribution they have made as directors of the Workers' Compensation Board.

Mr. Speaker, the new directors of the board are Mr. Jim Bourque.

---Applause

Certainly, Mr. Bourque needs no introduction to Members of this House having served the government and the people of the Northwest Territories in a variety of roles for over 30 years. Mr. Bourque has been appointed for a two year term. He was nominated for this position by the Metis Nation of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Fred Coman has over 30 years of northern business experience and is a highly respected member of the community of Iqaluit and the Baffin region. Mr. Coman was nominated by the honourable Member for Iqaluit. He has been appointed for a one year term.

Mr. Speaker, Ms. Vivian Stevely is a registered nursing assistant employed by the H.H. Williams Hospital in Hay River and is the national director of the Public Service Alliance of Canada for the Northwest Territories and Yukon. Ms. Stevely was nominated by the Union of Northern Workers. She has been appointed to a one year term.

These appointments are effective immediately. Mr. Speaker, the interim chairperson of the board, Mr. John Hill has resigned so that he can concentrate fully on his full-time role as the chairperson of the Public Utilities Board. I would like to express

this government's gratitude to Mr. Hill for serving as the chairperson of the board under difficult circumstances.

---Applause

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that the new chairperson of the board is Mr. Jeff Gilmour.

---Applause

Mr. Gilmour is currently the assistant deputy minister of the Department of Justice. Mr. Gilmour's strong legal, administrative and managerial background provide him with the skills necessary to guide the board during these difficult times. Mr. Gilmour's appointment is effective March 1, 1993.

Mr. Speaker, I would note that there were many outstanding nominees for both the board of directors and chairperson of the Workers' Compensation Board. The appointments made today recognize the importance of the two largest stakeholder groups of the Workers' Compensation Board, labour and employers.

At the same time, I have taken into consideration the broader community interests of the Northwest Territories, in particular, aboriginal, gender and regional interests.

It is my opinion that the new appointments will reflect the view of the Members of this House that the Workers' Compensation Board should be more sensitive and open to the needs of all its clients. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Thank you, Mr. Todd. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Pollard.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Friday, February 19, 1993 I will deliver the budget address. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Item 2, Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On behalf of the Ordinary Members' Caucus I wish to make a statement concerning the long-term staff housing strategy announced by the Minister of Personnel on December 3, 1992. Mr. Speaker, Members are generally agreed that the government is heading in the right direction with its initiative on rent increases. We support the intent of the strategy which encourages home ownership among government employees in our constituencies, moves rents toward real costs and has the GNWT eventually withdrawing from the provision of staff housing.

However, Mr. Speaker, we take issue with the manner of implementation of this new strategy. Government has taken an insensitive approach and given employees no proper advance warning. It appears that changes to the strategy are now coming weekly. Not only are employees confused, but there appears to be mass confusion among those directing the implementation of the strategy. Mr. Speaker, the whole program has been poorly thought out and applied inconsistently: the lack of notice; the lack of consultation with employees, the utility suppliers and the private sector; the poor communication; the failure of the government to take into account unique circumstances in communities and regions; the failure to provide timely information to answer employees' many questions and concerns; and, the lack of coordination among departments has caused alarm, anxiety and poor morale among employees.

Coupled with this is the government's callous and detached attitude. Mr. Speaker, the Ordinary Members' Caucus agrees that there are many important issues which require clarification and modification. In particular, Members are determined to demand clarification from the government on the following issues:

-the relevance and currency of using Yellowknife market rents as a basis for calculating new rents;

-how to achieve the government's stated goal of rent equity between communities when the only criteria for rent calculation is square footage without regard to age, condition or varying costs of living;

-the charge of different rents for identical units;

-the fairness of the formula for calculating the hardship allowance;

-the definition of "income" and whether the definition of...

Mrs. Marie-Jewell, your allotted time has expired. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

I have six seconds left, but I will not have enough time so I seek unanimous consent to conclude my Member's statement.

The six seconds is on the other end of the zero, it is not before the zero, it is after. The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to continue. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Please proceed, Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and my honourable colleagues.

- the definition of "income" and whether dependents and extended families can be considered;

- whether rent can be adjusted to consider over-accommodation resulting from limited choice of units in small communities;

- the cost and benefits of improving staff housing to make it energy efficient, the interior and the plumbing to a minimum acceptable standard;

- the method for calculating purchase prices;

- the impact of the proposed removal of the private accommodation allowance and the provision of incentives to private home ownership;

- the numbers of houses to be offered for sale to employees;

- the effect of sales of staff units on operational needs in a community;

- the impact of the sale of staff housing units in level II and III communities on operational requirements if any employee retires or sells the unit to the private sector;

- whether multiple units will be available for sale;

- the future status of lease staff housing especially where these units are the majority of available staff housing;

- the availability of units in the NWT Housing Corporation access program in all regions and communities;

- incentive for energy conservation;

- the cost and benefits of individually metering all the utilities;

- the status of employees' current rental agreements;

- the latest proposed dates of implementation;

- the imposing of new rents on new employees and those who move even in advance of the implementation date;

- the administrative cost and cash flow impact on the municipality and on the NWT Power Corporation;

- the projected impacts and cost of staff turnovers; and,

- whether this would have projected impact on affirmative action.

Although recognizing that not all tenants will see rent increases, those that do will be burdened with paying more than their disposable incomes on rent while, at the same time, having to keep up with the higher cost of living. This seems unfair.

The Ordinary Members' Caucus believes that there must be a process developed soon to ensure a fair method of consultation and review of the timing for implementation of the strategy. We want this government to listen to those people most affected by the policy, before proceeding any further. Members of our caucus will ask the government for detailed answers in the days ahead and invite the government to cooperate with a review process which will deal thoroughly and fairly with the outstanding issues.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Minister of Personnel for taking the opportunity to advise me that he will make a Member's statement in an attempt to address our concerns. We look forward to his statement tomorrow. Thank you.

Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Koe.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to speak about a historic event which happened on December 23, 1992. On that day the Gwich'in Land Claims Settlement Act was formally proclaimed and given royal assent by the Governor General.

Legislation provides the Gwich'in with a land base and resources to more fully manage their own affairs and a guaranteed role in public government institutions. Legislation not only confirms rights and benefits to the Gwich'in, but sets a stage for similar agreements and restructuring of public government institutions governing land, water, renewable resources and the environment for the Mackenzie Valley. The enabling legislation refers to the agreement and contains the first constitutional process for self-government negotiations. This shall have a major impact on the future of government in the north. The current government has taken a pro-active approach by discussing with the Gwich'in communities, community transfer initiatives.

Community transfers will allow the Gwich'in to develop greater control and understanding of the administration of government, an essential step towards self-governance. Self-government negotiations must be a partnership between government and the Gwich'in. This Legislative Assembly must support this initiative because it will set the stage of the development of a new order of government and bring our northern society together.

As a government, we must be aware the Gwich'in self-government negotiations may override many of our policies, programs, financial arrangements and legislation. I hope that this government, and this Assembly, will work in an open and cooperative fashion to ensure the successful implementation of the land claim. I understand that it is our responsibility to look after the interest of all residents of the north, however, we must also respect the different cultures and authority of our communities to determine their own futures.

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent. Are there any nays? There are no nays, please proceed.

Mahsi. Mr. Speaker, I feel that the Gwich'in have a vision for the future that is reflected in their agreement and this must be respected.

Currently discussions are proceeding to develop legislative drafting guidelines that shall create a land and water regulatory system for the Gwich'in settlement area and an environmental assessment and review process that shall recommend terms and conditions for development in the Mackenzie Valley. Clarity of the regulatory process shall provide the degree of certainty that developers need in order to invest in the north and ensure that development is sustainable for our future generations.

The Gwich'in tribal council's goal is to continue to build on their aboriginal and treaty rights. This requires the Gwich'in to work hard during land claim implementation as well as develop and deliver programs and services to their people who are culturally relevant and community based. I hope that government will support the Gwich'in's initiatives. It is this independence and control that our community members requested and demanded for many years.

Strength and determination of the Gwich'in leadership and personnel are a testimony to the community's unity. A conviction of their vision for the future created a focus that was never distracted by difficult negotiations, and now they have the tool to implement their vision. The vision of the future is outlined in the Gwich'in tribal council's mission statement, "Gwich'in land, culture and economy for a better future." All of this effort, in 15 years of negotiations, is for the purpose of improving the quality of life of the Gwich'in.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Gwich'in, thank the Government Leader, and other government officials, for their efforts in completing this historic legislation. I would also like to thank Minister Siddon, and his officials, for having the foresight and determination to settle this land claim. Mahsi Cho.

---Applause

Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Antoine.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to say something on the trapping industry today. People in Nahendeh are very concerned because this year has been a very bad year for harvesting. In my region, there are many experienced trappers who have kept trap lines for many years. They are finding that this year's yield has been barely enough to pay for the costs of gas, equipment and provisions. For example, in Nahanni Butte, Francis Betsaka usually brings in about 120 to 130 pelts before Christmas. This year, he caught only 17 before Christmas. In Fort Simpson, the Gabe Cazon family typically harvest about 200 furs before Christmas. This year, however, they caught only 27 or so during that time period. (Translation ends)...be confined to the Northwest Territories.

Preliminary statistics suggest that Canada's total fur harvest may be down by as much as 50 per cent. There are projections that the Alaska harvest could be down as much as 75 per cent. There are probably several reasons for this. For example, renewed activity by animal rights activists may keep fur prices low. There are suspicions that the new traps are just not effective enough and difficult for some trappers to use. Late freeze-up and unusual snowfall have made it difficult to be out on the land this winter. On top of that, there is no game out there, there are no rabbits or chickens on this land, likely due to natural population cycles. These are the animals that feed many of the fur bearing animals.

Regardless of the cost, we all know what the effect will be. Many of the most committed professional trappers have already pulled their traps this year.

Mr. Antoine, your allotted time has elapsed.

Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Mahsi.

The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Please proceed, Mr. Antoine.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Many of the trappers, as I was saying, have already pulled their traps over a month ago. It is very uneconomical to trap because of the lack of furs. Trapping does not pay for the fuel it costs to go out to their lines.

With the continuing pressure of the recession, there will be a need for many of the proud and independent harvesters in our communities to rely on social assistance, which seems to be their only alternatives at this point. I understand that social assistance payments in Fort Liard may have already increased by over 200 per cent. For Dene and Metis, Mr. Speaker, trapping has been the traditional backbone of our northern economy. It is one of the ways our culture continues to survive in this modern world. This government cannot stand by and allow people who have always relied on their own bush skills and natural wisdom to face the prospect of welfare dependency.

In this session, I will be calling on the government to do the following: stabilize annual trappers' income, perhaps through the development of an effective harvesters' assistance program; emphasize student funding for adult education programs in the communities, which will allow trappers to benefit from upgrading and career access programs so they will have occupational alternatives during lean years such as this one; embark on immediate studies of alternate economic development potentials including eco-tourism, which will employ harvesters during years when the fur yield is low; conduct an immediate and objective evaluation of the impact, which the trap exchange program has had on the yield for this year's fur harvest; and renew its efforts to campaign against the vicious and harmful lies being spread by animal rights organizations across North America and Europe.

This government must hold itself accountable for the continuing survival of the traditional fur industry in the Northwest Territories. We cannot afford to stand by and do nothing. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Item 3, Members' Statements. Mr. Todd.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to inform Members of the steps I have taken to conform to the conflict of interest guidelines as contained in the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act. Mr. Speaker, as of February 5, 1993, I have severed all business ties with my former company, Evaz Group of Companies. The severance agreement has been negotiated with Evaz Group to effect my resignation from the board of directors. I have tabled a letter with the Government Leader outlining the details of this agreement. A copy of this letter has been included with my confidential disclosure statement. The shares that I hold in this company have been placed in trust with a northerner who is familiar with my former company and the Keewatin region.

The departments and board, for which I am responsible, have been informed by letter that matters concerning my former company should not be brought to my attention, but should be brought to the Government Leader for disposition. Mr. Speaker, I have also tendered my resignation as a director or officer of all other private companies and development corporations for which I have served. A detailed disclosure statement listing my personal assets was filed with the clerk of the Legislative Assembly on January 11, 1993. In closing, I note for the record, that I have made every possible effort to arrange my personal and business affairs in a manner that conforms to the intent of this legislation. Thank you.

---Applause

Item 3, Members' Statements. Mr. Patterson.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On Tuesday, February 16, 1993, the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi gave an interview on CBC Radio about the territorial government's new staff housing policy. In that interview, the transcript of which I will table later today, in discussing political aspects of the new policy, Mr. Kakfwi said, referring to me, "He was a Member of Cabinet. You know, he was saying, 'Go out and get them, Steve.'" Mr. Speaker, there is a well established parliamentary tradition of Cabinet secrecy. This statement from Mr. Kakfwi certainly suggests that he was referring to Cabinet discussions on the housing policy.

Point of order, Mr. Kakfwi.

Mr. Kakfwi, what was your point of order?

Point of order, Mr. Patterson.

Point Of Order

Mr. Speaker, my point of order is the Member has no point of order. If he wishes to respond to my statement, he can do so through a Member's statement or otherwise. I would request that I be allowed to continue my statement. Thank you.

Mr. Patterson had not concluded his statement. It was impossible, at the point in time when Mr. Kakfwi made his point of order, to see whether or not there will be one. At this point, there is no point of order. Continue, Mr. Patterson and at the appropriate time at the end of the statement, Mr. Kakfwi will have full opportunity to make another point of order. Proceed please, Mr. Patterson.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I was saying, there is a well-established parliamentary tradition of Cabinet secrecy. The statement from Mr. Kakfwi certainly suggests that he was referring to Cabinet discussions on the housing policy which took place while I was a Member of Cabinet. There were certainly no public discussions at the time because the matter was then secret. Mr. Speaker, I believe that if Mr. Kakfwi or other Ministers are going to publicly discuss their recollections of what was said in Cabinet, or between Cabinet colleagues for that matter, then they should be prepared to reveal Cabinet minutes of discussions on those issues so that the full and accurate discussion is revealed.

I am concerned about the apparent breach of Cabinet secrecy, but I am also concerned because the remarks he made are a distortion of my views at that time on that issue. Mr. Speaker, I welcome a reason to open debate on the many issues surrounding this new policy. However, I do not think it reflects at all well on the honourable Minister...

Mr. Patterson, your allotted time has elapsed. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Ningark.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Gjoa Haven, I would like to express my appreciation publicly that Premier Nellie Cournoyea was able to take time out to visit Gjoa Haven to attend the opening of a new hockey arena. Thank you.

---Applause

Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Zoe.

Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Pudlat.

(No translation provided)

I am not getting the translation. Mr. Pudlat, would you start over again, please, and we will try it again.

(Translation) Mr. Speaker, can you hear me now? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I apologize, we had technical difficulties. We just received our new power plant and had officials visit the community for the official opening of the plant. It was unfortunate Honourable Nellie Cournoyea could not make it to the community, but Mr. Lewis, Mr. Whitford, Mr. Koe and our staff were able to make it to the community. We really appreciate getting a new power plant, but it was very cold outside when the ribbon was being cut.

I also would like to say thank you for the new power plant. We have been trying to get that plant for a long time because the old plant was too close to the community, and it was noisy. We appreciate receiving what we requested. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Gargan.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to speak today on the community transfer initiatives and the implementation plan that was tabled by the Minister of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs in November of 1992. I must say I was relieved, as I am sure other Members were, to see that the Minister had finally taken some action on the initiative nearly one year after his announcement in the House that community self-government was to be a major priority of Cabinet. The delay faced by the committees waiting for the government to come up with the plan was inexcusable. Internal bureaucratic conflict must no longer be allowed to compromise the people which the government is supposed to serve.

Hear, hear.

Mr. Speaker, I also want to express today my strong support for the transfer of authority, responsibility and resources to communities that wish to take on more control. However, I want to be sure we do not lose more than we gain. It is critical that the territorial government send a strong and pure message to the Government of Canada from the beginning. This initiative can be construed as releasing the federal government from the fiduciary responsibility to the aboriginal people of the Northwest Territories. The aboriginal people must know that this government is behind them.

Mr. Speaker, these community transfers will not take place in a vacuum. On December 10, 1991, the Government Leader responded to my comments in a debate on this issue by saying that this government cannot deliver broad constitutional answers. This may be true, but this government has a responsibility to ensure the transfer of control to communities is coordinated for the long-term constitutional aboriginal self-government question being pursued at the federal level.

The Government of the Northwest Territories must take the lead towards developing a process for coordinating its plans for community transfer with the federal government. This does not appear to be happening. There can be no more delays. If we want to accomplish successful transfer of control to communities without backsliding and risking...

Mr. Gargan, your allotted time has expired.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to seek unanimous consent to complete my statement.

The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Please proceed, Mr. Gargan.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and honourable Members. Mr. Speaker, there can be no more delays. If we want to accomplish successful transfer of control to communities without back-sliding and risking the rights of aboriginal people, this government must begin now. Thank you.

---Applause

Item 3, members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Ms. Cournoyea.

Mr. Speaker, I have a return to oral question asked by Mr. Zoe on December 3 in regard to the benefits of an EDA agreement in the North Slave region.

Mr. Speaker, four mineral initiative projects were run in the North Slave region. The four programs are the prospectors' assistance program, information program, technology program and geoscience program. A prospectors' course was taught in Rae-Edzo last year with the support of the Dogrib Tribal Council. Twelve residents from that region graduated from the course and, as a result, at least three have found employment with the mining industry. The information program develops and provides teaching materials for NWT schools and these materials help students learn about geology and mining, including employment opportunities.

The Department of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources and mineral initiatives staff assisted with teaching geology at the Science Institute summer school near Rae-Edzo. Projects of the technology program are provided to investigate new technologies that will improve the environmental performance of mines in the Northwest Territories. One of these projects, for example, will help the Nerco Con Mine reduce arsenic waste. Another project helps industry and government make more informed decisions about establishing operations and regulating tailing ponds. Projects of the geoscience program help define the mineral potential of an area. The companies use the information to focus exploration. The government uses the maps in land use planning for road locations. Claims negotiators will be able to use the information to assist the Dogrib select mineral lands. The mapping project also provides direct employment to northern residents. The Dogrib Tribal Council plans to build hydro projects. The demand for power from these projects will depend on the mining industry. The mineral initiatives of the economic development agreement will help ensure that the industry remains a customer for Dogrib power into the next century. Thank you.

Item 4, returns to oral question. Item 5, oral questions. Mr. Antoine.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question will be for the Minister of Social Services. Earlier today I commented in my Member's statement about the unexpected decline in the yield of this year's fur harvest. I am concerned that this will leave many of our traditional harvesters in difficult financial conditions. They should not have to turn to the social assistance system to make ends meet. Many of these people are independent and come from self-reliant families and it is difficult for them to seek welfare. I know the Minister of Social Services understands this. What is she doing to ensure there are options to social assistance that can be made available to traditional harvesters whose financial situation has suffered as a result of this year's low fur yield? Mahsi.

Ms. Mike.

(translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will take that question as notice.

The question has been taken as notice. Item 5, oral questions. Mr. Gargan.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Renewable Resources. Mr. Speaker, I have a request for proposal to review the forest fighting management policy and programs. This is done by the Department of Renewable Resources. I also understand there was an advertisement in the papers for tender to provide suppression services to Fort Simpson, I believe. My concern is Evergreen Forestry which is a joint initiative by the Fort Providence band and the Hay River Reserve band whose term is running out this summer. I would like to ask the Minister whether the intent is to dispose of all those past initiatives of those communities and replace them with a whole new management regime that requires anyone from anywhere in the north to tender a bid to supply suppression in the territories.

Mr. Allooloo.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When the companies started regionally, we had a contract with the company that the Member stated thinking that at the end of the long-term contract that it would be put out to tender. The department, at the time, felt there would be sufficient northern companies able to compete for the contract at the end of this year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary, Mr. Gargan.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Minister whether his whole intention is to undermine the initiatives that have been established by band councils in the communities?

Mr. Allooloo.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. No, Mr. Speaker. When we first started contracting local companies, we felt it was important to have sole source contracts with local business, bands and other organizations, such as development corporations. At the present time the department feels there is sufficient experience out there, in terms of local contractors to compete on these contracts. I would like to get back to the Member, particularly regarding that contractor, to see how we could accommodate the company. Mr. Speaker, the original

thought was that at the end of five years, we would put this tender out for the companies to compete. Thank you.

Item 5, oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Gargan.

Thank you. I do not know whether the Minister has taken the question as notice. I would like to ask the Minister whether the original intent, when the transfers occurred, was for a term of five years? I was never aware of any agreements between this government and the sole source contractors, which are the Dene of Fort Providence and the Hay River Reserve, to agree that after five years service, it would go out to tender. I was always under the impression that this sole source contract would continue. I do not know whether the government has changed its mind on this policy. I would like to get that clarified.

The question was not taken as notice. Mr. Allooloo.

Mr. Speaker, I will look into the matter for the Member.

Item 5, oral questions. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a question for the Minister of Social Services. Mr. Speaker, when the health transfer took place in 1988 it was decided the management of alcohol and drug services required extensive policy input. At the time, I believe a good group of people were appointed to form a board of management for alcohol and drug services. For several years the board provided excellent advice on funding allocations and made sound policy decisions about needed programs to address alcohol and drugs. However, Mr. Speaker, for the past year the board has been treated badly by the department. Meetings have not been scheduled and appointments have not been kept current. There have even been some discussion that certain departmental officials in Yellowknife may be seeking to dissolve this important board. I would like to ask the Minister, can she advise this House as to the current status of the board of management for the alcohol and drug services board? Thank you.

Ms. Mike.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The NWT alcohol and drug board's funding was cut due to restraint measures. To date, it stands as is and there has been no decision to dissolve the board. However, as decisions are made, I will keep the Member informed. Thank you.

Supplementary, Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Mr. Speaker, if the funding has been cut so the board cannot meet, will the Minister assure this House that she will make every attempt to ensure the board meets to review the 1993-94 applications for contribution funding from alcohol and drug projects across the NWT? Thank you.

Ms. Mike.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I will.

Item 5, oral questions. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Thank you. Mr. Speaker, in respect to that particular board, I believe it had developed a fairly respective and cohesive membership. I know the membership even included our Deputy Commissioner, the Honourable Helen Maksagak. However, I understand that several appointments have been allowed to lapse by the previous Minister. Will the Minister assure the House she will be making appointments to bring the board up to its full strength before the end of the current fiscal year? Thank you.

Ms. Mike.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will do that.

Item 5, oral questions. Mr. Antoine.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question will be for the Minister of Renewable Resources. The Minister heard me express my concerns about the fur harvest this year. He also notes this is the first year of the change over to quick kill traps which have never been proven to be effective in the northern bush. I think we all realize the necessity of changing to this new type of trap. If we want industry to survive we must be responsive to what we are hearing from the market-place. However, several experienced elders and trappers, who have talked to me lately, have pointed out these may not be totally effective with certain species. Can the Minister indicate whether he will be conducting an evaluation of the effectiveness of these new traps, included in the trap exchange program, to determine whether they contribute to the lower fur yield during the first part of the trapping season? Mahsi.

Mr. Allooloo.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes.

Item 5, oral questions. Mr. Pudlat.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Renewable Resources and part of it will be in statement form. Although the traps are acceptable to many people, I have heard that a person got caught in a trap. The man was lucky he did not freeze, he was not by himself. If he had been on his own he would have frozen to death. The people from our communities have requested the Minister of Renewable Resources visit and examine certain traps. The people of Cape Dorset have requested the Minister to visit the community. Would the Minister tell the Legislature if he will be able to visit, and if not he is able to visit now when in 1993? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Allooloo.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The traps that were being used in the eastern Arctic are not being used at present. There were complications stated from various communities regarding the traps. At the present time we have informed the hunters' and trappers' association not to use new traps until we find a way to use them safety. If my schedule allows me, I will visit the eastern communities, although I cannot give you a date today. Thank you.

Item 5, Oral questions. Mr. Koe.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I have a question for the Minister of Transportation. I assume the Minister has undertaken some initiatives since taking on this portfolio. Specifically, I understand the Minister has authorized the construction of some new winter roads in the Keewatin region. Can the Minister advise this House as to what new roads are being constructed in the Keewatin this winter?

Mr. Todd.

Mr. Speaker, we are currently looking at the feasibility of a possible ice road between Rankin Inlet and Whale Cove. The current cost of freight and food into Whale Cove is the most expensive in the Keewatin. We are looking at the potential of trying to alleviate some of these costs for the people of Whale Cove.

Item 5, oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Koe.

Is the Minister saying that there is no construction at the moment and only the design and feasibility of the project?

Mr. Todd.

Mr. Speaker, there is no construction under way. Right now we are conducting the feasibility. We are discussing it with two northern native contractors, Mr. Voisey from Whale Cove and Mr. Airut from Rankin Inlet.

Item 5, oral questions. Mr. Pudluk.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a supplementary question to my honourable colleague's question to the Minister of Renewable Resources. I have previously asked the Minister questions with regard to traps. He has indicated he has not looked into this matter. However, it is known today that polar bear cubs have been trapped in these particular traps. I am sure many hunters are not too happy about this, particularly within the smaller communities. I am talking about polar bear cubs. Has he thought about this situation? If polar bear cubs are trapped in this manner in the future, will these be counted as tags and effect the polar bear tags in the communities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Allooloo.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In Grise Fiord, Resolute Bay, Arctic Bay and Pond Inlet there is a polar bear management plan in place. Earlier this winter polar bears were trapped accidentally. I know of three which were trapped in the larger traps. The polar management agreement indicates if the polar bears are caught in any way they are to be taken off the quota. However, for the polar bears that were caught accidentally by traps, the department is reviewing the situations case by case. At the present time, we have met with the hunters' and trappers' association in Arctic Bay and Pond Inlet to set up an agreement to see how this will effect their quota. We are talking with the hunters and trappers in the individual communities. Although all of the communities might not agree, we will be handling things through each hunters' and trappers' association. Thank you.

Supplementary, Mr. Pudluk.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I understand his response. However, the agreement which he is talking about in the individual communities indicates that the polar bear can be written-off from the quota in the case of danger, or if the communities are in danger. Polar bears that are three or four feet in size being caught in the traps has never been experienced in the community. There have never been any cases of the smaller bears causing danger. I would like to ask the Minister if this is included in the agreement which he is talking about in the High Arctic, is it part of the agreement? I know polar bears ranging in size from three to four feet are of no danger to anyone in the community. We all know any size larger than this is a danger. If a larger sized polar bear is killed, it is taken off of the quota. However, if a smaller polar bear is killed, is it taken off of the quota? Is this part of the agreement? Thank you.

Mr. Allooloo.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have indicated earlier in accordance with the agreement no one shall kill a polar bear cub. For that reason, we have asked HTAs not to use traps in the eastern Arctic. They were used because they were experimental. Thank you.

Supplementary, Mr. Pudluk.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am confused as to what the Minister has told his workers in the communities. We have been visited by his department and as soon as it is daylight the traps are not to be on the ice. They are to be used inland and to be used for fox. I hear him saying that they are not allowed to be used now. Can he clarify that for me?

Mr. Allooloo.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Since November, we have examined the traps. In December, a polar bear was caught in the Baffin region. The superintendent of Renewable Resources had communicated with the people in order to get input. However, we told them not to use such traps and they will not be used today until the concerns or complications are resolved. Thank you.

Item 5, oral questions. Mr. Pudlat.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask a question to the Minister of Social Services. We all know there is a policy in the Department of Social Services for welfare recipients, although it is very different for each person. Can the Minister of Social Services provide information to the people? It is very confusing right now. Would the Minister indicate if the procedures of Social Services with respect to social assistance could be written down and explained to the people? Would the Minister of Social Services indicate to me if there will be such an information booklet in the Inuktitut language? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Ms. Mike.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is a policy for the Social Services recipients. However, there is also a booklet. I will make that available to the Member in Inuktitut. Thank you.

Item 5, oral questions. Mrs. Marie-Jewell.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Justice. On November 19, I had asked two questions to the Minister of Justice and have yet to receive the responses. Can the Minister of Justice indicate to me when he anticipates to respond to these written questions asked on November 19? Thank you.

Mr. Kakfwi.