Mr. Speaker, my view is that there are two Members of this Legislature who have taken a particular interest in this inmate. I understand there is a perception on their part that there is not enough punishment for the offence which was committed. I do not see it as a great public concern judging from the lack of interest in other quarters. We have an exchange agreement, Mr. Speaker, a month ago I indicated that if Members had a particular problem with the provisions of the exchange agreement then perhaps that is what we should focus on. The exchange agreement provides and makes certain provisions for people who are first time offenders, people who are from the Northwest Territories, not only the aboriginal peoples of the Northwest Territories but all long-term and life time residents of the north. The exchange agreement provides for the things which the particular inmate is now being accorded access to. She is attending courses, she is paying for the courses herself. It is seen as a good positive means of an individual rebuilding self-esteem, confidence, some belief that upon release the individual will have some capacity, mentally, physically, and academically to become a productive, accepted member of society. The exchange agreement is what the Members are focusing on and I would be prepared to table it and then the Members can focus on that rather than a particular individual. Thank you.
Stephen Kakfwi on Question 489-12(3): Public Perception Re Fort Smith Inmate
In the Legislative Assembly on March 15th, 1993. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 489-12(3): Public Perception Re Fort Smith Inmate
Question 489-12(3): Public Perception Re Fort Smith Inmate
Item 5: Oral Questions
March 14th, 1993
Page 906
See context to find out what was said next.