Yes, Mr. Chairman, I have some opening remarks to the bill and, as well, the Minister of Justice also has some remarks, as we are in partnership on the Guardianship and Trusteeship Act.

Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to present Bill 3, the Guardianship and Trusteeship Act, for your consideration.

The Department of Health and Social Services is responsible for the guardianship provisions of this bill. These provisions allow the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories to appoint a guardian for adults who are unable to make decisions about their health and well-being. The bill clearly defines specific situations in which the appointment of a guardian may be made. Respect for human dignity is the key principle underlying this bill. The guardianship process proposed by the bill has been designed to be as efficient, simple and economical as possible.

The bill was developed in consultation with many interested community and professional groups. The Standing Committee on Legislation has completed its public review of the bill and has considered concerns expressed by the public. In its report, the Standing Committee on Legislation concluded that this bill is one of the most progressive pieces of legislation of its kind in Canada, as noted by the chairman of the standing committee. The committee recommended that the bill be amended to give preferential consideration to the appointment of family members as guardians.

I support this recommendation and will bring forward a motion to address this issue. Thank you.