Several suggestions were made to the committee with respect to the cultural relevance of proceedings of the Legislative Assembly. The committee recognizes that the membership of the Legislative Assembly reflects the cultural diversity of the people that we represent. That is one of our strengths. Within this diversity there are also many areas of common ground.
The committee holds the view that it would be appropriate to amend the rules to better reflect this cultural diversity. While many of the traditions of Parliament are valuable and respected, aboriginal values might be better reflected within our rules.
The standing committee considered this issue in detail, but recognizes that further discussion is required among all Members of the Assembly before amendments are incorporated within the rules. Therefore, the committee is not prepared to make any specific recommendations on this issue at present. However, the committee is willing to give further consideration to these issues, and would welcome any further suggestions by Members. At this time, Mr. Chairman, we propose some specific subjects for further discussion.
Some Members of the Legislative Assembly expressed a view to the standing committee that the requirement to bow to the mace should no longer be included within our rules. The committee recognizes that the symbol of the mace reflects the right of people to govern themselves freely. As well, the mace used by our Assembly uniquely incorporates many symbols of the history and culture of the people of the Northwest Territories, including copper from the central Arctic, whalebone carvings of northern wildlife and people, musk-ox horns, narwhal tusk, gold and porcupine quill work.