Mr. Bilodeau, could you lead us in prayer?

Oh God our Father, we thank Thee that we can serve the people of the north. We thank Thee that we can gather to enact laws for peace and justice in this land. We thank Thee for the rich blessings that we enjoy, for the many things that we partake of that so many do not. We pray that Thou would bless us at this time with Thy inspiration and Thy guidance and spirit, to help us to remember who we serve and to remember to uphold those principles that we feel are right and serve best the people of the north. We thank Thee for These things and we pray for these things in the thy holy name. Amen.

Amen.

Thank you, Mr. Bilodeau. Members welcome to the new session of this Assembly. Mr. Clerk, would you ascertain if Her Honour, the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories is prepared to address this Assembly?

-- O Canada

Mr. Speaker, Members of the Legislative Assembly. I am pleased to welcome you to the fourth session of the 13th Legislative Assembly.

When I look back at the past 365 days I am impressed with the work you have accomplished to date, despite the many difficult challenges and circumstances you faced when you took office at this time last year.

Today we mark the beginning of a session that will continue to see many important issues and decisions brought before the members of this House.

In the months to come, you will be reviewing and adopting the 1997-98 territorial budget, addressing a host of constitutional issues and considering a variety of other items in preparation for Division of the Northwest Territories in 1999.

As part of this, the legislative agenda for the fourth session will include the Appropriation Act 1997-98, and the Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 2, 1996-97.

In addition, the government will be bringing forward four new family law bills, including the Child and Family Services Act, the Adoption Act, the Children's Law Act and the Family Law Act.

These bills represent the culmination of nearly ten years of work on family law reform and will provide the Northwest Territories with modern legislation that reflects the unique circumstances of the north and respects the cultural traditions of its people.

Mr. Speaker, your government considers these bills essential to the good conduct of government and, as such, I recommend their passage.

Mr. Speaker, before this House begins discussion and debate on all of these important issues, I would like to make a personal comment on the spirit and nature of consensus government.

We are in a unique situation in Canada. The 24 members of the Assembly are elected to this House based on what people believe they can offer to government as individuals, rather than as members of some organization or party.

Because of this, each member of this House is free to vote as they wish, and for what they feel is in the best interests of their constituents and the people of the North.

Mr. Speaker, as members know, any decision of this House requires agreement by a majority of members. This means that all members must work together to build consensus by finding common ground and moving forward.

The eyes of the world are upon us as we prepare for April 1, 1999.

We have an opportunity to show the world what can be accomplished when we value our different viewpoints and experiences, when we listen to what others have to say, and when we work together to find solutions that will work for all.

Consensus government is a good form of government. It is a government system you can be proud to be a part of.

Critics may say it does not work well in difficult times. But I believe it is during the difficult times when consensus government is more effective.

As we have learned living in the north, it is when we face difficulty or need help that, as a community, we must draw together and cooperate in order to survive.

Mr. Speaker, as members enter the second year of this term, I encourage you to work together to fulfil the spirit and intent of consensus government.

As Commissioner, and on behalf of all citizens of the Northwest Territories, I would like to thank and commend all members for your hard work and positive efforts over the past year, and encourage your continuing earnest consideration and good judgment in the weeks and months ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I now declare open the fourth session of the 13th Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories. Thank you.

The House will come back to order. Item 3, Ministers' Statements. Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and fellow members.

As we mark the opening of the fourth session of the 13th Assembly of the Legislative Assembly, I would like to take this opportunity to not only reflect upon our achievements over the past year but, more importantly, to talk about how we must work to continue moving ahead towards April 1, 1999.

Mr. Speaker, it is almost exactly one year to the day when the members of this Legislative Assembly took their seats in this House.

At that time, we noted that no other government in the history of the Northwest Territories took office faced with the number and degree of financial, administrative, economic, social and constitutional challenges as those faced by members of the 13th Legislative Assembly.

However, early on, as a group, we decided we must confront all of these issues together.

As a Legislative Assembly, we developed a vision for a financially secure Northwest Territories where people are able to enjoy a good quality of life and have access to the jobs they want and need.

In working to fulfil that vision, over the past 365 days, an extraordinary amount of activity has taken place to address the priorities of this government.

Probably the most notable accomplishment to date has been in our efforts to secure our financial future. Mr. Speaker, as the Honourable Mr. Todd reported during the last session, we are on track in our deficit reduction plan, and are projecting that the deficit for the current year will be about $43 million.

On of the key contributing factors in achieving this target is our effort to develop a more effective and efficient government structure.

Over the past year, we have begun implementing a strategy for reducing the size and cost of government. As part of this, we have amalgamated departments, reduced duplication of services, to implement change.

In other parts of Canada, where similar action was necessary, governments were only able to bring about change through unilateral legislative action.

By comparison, in the Northwest Territories we were able to negotiate equal or greater reductions without work stoppage and without significant interruptions in levels of service to the public.

I believe that not only speaks well for the people who serve in government, but for the people who work in this government as well.

As we continue to review and improve government structure and operations, we must acknowledge the hard work and cooperation of all of these individuals, and thank them for their efforts in managing in these difficult times.

Mr. Speaker, we have also made great progress in our efforts to help improve economic conditions, and create more job opportunities in the North.

Over the past few weeks, we have celebrated the signing of several agreements to clear the way for the development of the BHP Diamonds Project near Lac de Gras.

As part of that, we have successfully negotiated a socio-economic agreement that guarantees over half the jobs associated with the mining operation will be for people living in the north, and, in turn, over half of those jobs are guaranteed for people of aboriginal descent.

To the credit of BHP Diamonds, and all parties involved in the project, we were all able to rise to the challenge, and work out a deal that is truly beneficial to all, and that is guaranteed to bring economic benefits to the north.

As well, we remain vigilant on our attempt to secure a diamond valuation facility to be based in the north that will reap additional economic benefits associated with the establishment of the first diamond mine in North American.

Mr. Speaker, this past year has also been filled with planning and preparation for the division of the Northwest Territories in 1999.

In the west, the Constitutional Working Group of Western Caucus and the Aboriginal Summit released a Draft Constitution Package to begin the public consultation process and debate on how the west will be governed.

With that launch, we are now in the most important phase of constitutional development for the west. We are determining our future, and have an opportunity unlike any other in our history. Working together, we can create a system that works for everyone, and that allows us to blend our cultures, traditions and rights in an effective and productive manner.

A similar opportunity exists in the east. A substantial amount of work has progressed on the creation of Nunavut. Most recently the Nunavut Implementation Committee has released Footprints 2, a report outlining recommendations on moving ahead with the creation of a new government for Nunavut.

As members know, as an active participant in the implementation process, the Government of the Northwest Territories is currently drafting an official response to that report. In preparing our response, we will be seeking your input and comments in the days ahead.

As with the western constitutional debate, this issue deserves open and effective debate to ensure a positive and successful outcome. Our challenge over the weeks and months ahead is to work with all of the parties involved - in both the east and the west - to balance the efforts to ensure all activities are conducted in a fair, equitable and timely manner.

Our goal, as I have stated in the past, is to do all we can as a government to make April 1, 1999 a day for celebration. Mr. Speaker, I believe it is worth noting that all discussions on division and the formation of the two new governments have included recognition of the inherent right to self-government.

Our aboriginal culture and population are among the things that make us unique in the Canadian landscape. It also provides us with an opportunity to create unique, progressive and positive governments for the north.

The Commissioner stated in her opening remarks that the eyes of the world are upon us. More importantly, the eyes of all northerners are upon us as we work through the maze of uncertainty, and do what we can to make both new territories financially and politically viable.

Mr. Speaker, in addition to the things I have highlighted here today, there is also a long list of initiatives on which we have begun work, and that we will see completed in the months to come. By any standard, our achievements to date have been remarkable and significant, and serve as a testament for the efforts of every member of this Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I have spoken for the past few minutes about where we have been.

Now I believe we must ask ourselves where do we go from here? How do we focus our energies so that we can make best use of the time that remains?

In accomplishing all of the things I have just outlined, it is important to note we have taken positive action on each of the ten priorities we set out for this Assembly as part of our Building a Foundation for the Future: Agenda for Change.

But as we take our next steps forward, it is now important to narrow our scope, and start drawing our priorities together towards a common goal...toward our common vision.

Mr. Speaker, while the ten priorities we established will remain vital to our decision-making process, I believe we must now focus on three core priorities for the future:

One, to establish two new viable territories by April 1, 1999; two, to improve economic conditions; and three, to address social conditions.

The methods, or processes by which we will accomplish these things will include our priorities of community empowerment, community wellness, taking action on aboriginal issues, improving the structure of government, being heard at the national level and doing all we can to control our own future.

But at the same time, focusing on these three critical issues will allow us to advance on the road to completing what we have set out to do.

These three priorities must be central to the decision-making process associated with the 1997-98 budget, and must guide what we debate in this House as we continue to establish a firm foundation for the future.

Mr. Speaker, we have embarked upon a path of change. It is also a path that we collectively must believe is for the best for the people of the Northwest Territories, as well as for the future of the two new territories.

At this time last year, we all acknowledged these would not be easy times, and now, if anything, our jobs will become more challenging in the weeks and months to come.

Mr. Speaker, every member of this House chose to run and to serve the people of the north, and now, more than ever, we must stand behind our choice to serve our people and to govern effectively. But I would like to remind members that government is not designed to be all things to all people. Government means balancing and allocating resources in the best interest of all - not just a few.

In some cases there will be people who feel the effects of change and of our decisions more than others, and while affecting or changing some aspects of peoples' lives is not something we like to do, in many cases it is a result of something we need to do.

It has always been a challenge to balance the needs of the individual with the needs of the whole. But in times when money is tight, the change is vital, that is particularly difficult.

In general, Mr. Speaker, we must not let the short-term impacts of our long-term plans direct our actions. We simply cannot afford to debate every short-term issue, complaint, or concern.

As MLAs, we must continue to deal with individuals and specific circumstances as they arise, but as a Legislative Assembly we must continue to focus on the long-term goals.

As elected officials, our job is to set direction. It is not our job to manage the day-to-day operation of the government. If we do not focus on our jobs of moving the government and the north forward at a broader level, we will not have done all we can do to lay the groundwork for the creation of two new and prosperous Canadian territories.

Mr. Speaker, we have set a course towards what we believe is right, and now we must continue to work together to stay on that course. If we do not maintain that course, more people will suffer in the long run that could ever be affected in the processes of implementing change and fulfilling our vision.

As a government and as a Legislative Assembly, we only have about 850 days left to accomplish an ambitious, and extremely important agenda. We cannot afford to waste even half a day if we want to make a difference for the people in the north, and leave a positive legacy for future generations of northerners.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to summarize what I believe outlines what we must do if we are going to fulfil our vision.

First, we must focus our priorities on division, improving economic conditions, and addressing social conditions.

To make this government and this Assembly effective, these three core priorities must be at the heart of what every MLA must focus on from here on in.

Second, we must continue to work together, as cooperatively as possible, and as the Commissioner said, in the true spirit of consensus government.

Third, we must take the broad view of all the large issues facing the north, and on the three priorities on which we must now direct our energies. This is particularly important on division, where it would be easy for all of us to think in terms of our specific ridings, or in east and west.

We must remember as a whole, and in this House, we are the Government of the Northwest Territories, and we must think in terms of the whole, not any specific part.

As it says in our own caucus chamber, Change can come from the power of many, but only when it comes together to form that which is invincible...the power of one.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, we must stay the course we have set for ourselves. As we have already seen, that may mean we have to weather a few storms, and fight some big waves, but if we can ride it out, I believe when we reach our destination, we will say it was worth the journey.

Mahsi cho. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Morin. Ministers' Statements. Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to advise members that the Honourable Goo Arlooktoo will be absent from the House today, Thursday, and Friday to accompany Ronald Irwin, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, in the Canadian delegation to Nuuk, Greenland. Mr. Arlooktoo will be representing the Government of the Northwest Territories.

As well, Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Kelvin Ng will be absent from the House today, to attend a meeting of the Ministerial Council of Social Policy Renewal and Reform in Toronto.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you. Minister's statements. Mr. Todd.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to announce the appointment of Mr. Fred Koe of Yellowknife as the new chairperson the Workers' Compensation Board. Mr. Koe replaces the former chair, Mr. Jeffrey Gilmour, who recently became Secretary to the Cabinet and Deputy Minister of the Department of the Executive for the Government of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Koe, a certified management accountant, is a long time northerner and businessman who is familiar with the working conditions in the north. He has a first hand understanding of the operation of the Workers' Compensation Board as he chaired the 1992 Standing Committee on Agencies, Boards and Commissions review of the Workers' Compensation Board during his time as a member of the Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Koe assumes this position on a part-time basis. The responsibilities of chief executive officer, formerly handled by the chairperson, have been delegated to the President, Mr. Gerry Meier. The move to a part-time chairperson is consistent with the recommendation contained in the Report of the 1989 Review Panel, the 1992 Standing Committee on Agencies, Board and Commissions and the WCB Garven Report.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you. Ministers' statements. Mr. Kakfwi.

Thank you, Mr. Kakfwi. Ministers' statements. Are there any further ministers' statements? Members' statements. Mr. Henry.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like many northerners, I have been watching the recent trials of Canadian Airlines with a great deal of interest. I recognize how crucial air travel is to the north, and I appreciate the crucial role Canadian Airlines and its predecessor, Pacific Western Airlines, has played in providing northerners with this vital service.

Mr. Speaker, the future of this airline is now at stake. Canadian North is, and has been, an important part of the northern economy. Not only do they provide approximately 100 jobs to the north, they also contribute between $7 million and $8 million annually to the northern economy. Some of these contributions are contract employees in communities supplying ground services and monies for sale, marketing, advertising and joint promotion, airport operations, a form of fuel purchases, hotel expenses in various communities, terminal fees, management expenses, and supply of service by local catering companies. Community support through various discount travels for events and charities and for sporting groups.

The importance and significance of Canadian North is centred around all these services, and the loss of Canadian Airline, would have a direct effect on many additional people.

The competition that Canadian Airlines provides in the marketplace ensures that airfares in the north are reasonable and that northern communities have the greatest opportunities to be served by competitive commercial airlines.

If Canadian Airlines were to go under, it would be a serious and financial inconvenience to many Canadians. But the effects in the north would be devastating. We would suffer a great proportionate impact with the loss of jobs to our small, fragile economy. As well, we would feel the effects of reducing competition through higher airfare and reduced services.

Mr. Speaker, the northern economy cannot afford to lose Canadian Airlines, that is why I am glad to see progress as being made in negotiations between the airline and the government such as Alberta and B.C. where they have taken the initiative to rebate a fuel tax levy of approximately 1 million dollars, in Alberta's case, to assist the company.

Later today, I will be asking the Minister of Transportation questions regarding the role the Government of the Northwest Territories can play to ensure the survival of this important corporate citizen. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Henry. Members' statements. Mr. Ootes.

Thank you, Mr. Ootes. Members' statements. Mr. O'Brien.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have recently had the opportunity to review the Nunavut Implementations Commission's Report entitled, Footprints in the Snow 2. This is a 300 page document that lays out the framework for the proposed new decentralized government for Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, this extensive and thorough document speaks very highly of the Commission's work and dedication, ensuring that Nunavut gets off to an organized and healthy beginning.

The report covers such areas as telecommunications in Nunavut, recruitment and employment for the workforce in Nunavut, required infrastructure, the decentralized model of government, financial matters, the administration of justice in Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, the 20 year trek to arrive at this point has been a long and hard road for the Inuit leaders and pioneers. A large part of the dream was the potential for Inuit people to secure gainful employment and be authors of their own destiny.

In all of these small off-road communities in Nunavut, there is great anticipation and hope that the new proposed, decentralized government will deliver these much needed and wanted jobs.

Mr. Speaker, this brings me to my main point of concern. In order for the residents of Nunavut to secure the jobs there must be a decentralized government, and in order for these jobs to occur, there must be sufficient funding negotiated in the gross expenditure base to ensure that decentralization will, indeed, occur.

It is also critical that the federal government provide an adequate level of funding to the gross Expenditure Base to ensure that this is realized. After speaking to my fellow MLA, Mr. Picco, who represents the largest constituency in Nunavut and also to, Mr. Barnabas, who represents one of the smaller ridings, there is a consensus that this is not just an issue with the Kivallivik.

Mr. Speaker, the new territory of Nunavut is suffering in a number of areas, which I believe are all in some way inter-related, such as the lack of proper housing, health care concerns, high unemployment (in some areas up to 80 percent).

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

The member for Kivallivik is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Do we have any nays? There are no nays, Mr. O'Brien. You have unanimous consent.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The last issue, Mr. Speaker, unfortunately is, Nunavut has the highest suicide rate in the country.

Mr. Speaker, I realize that the decentralized Nunavut government will not solve all of these problems, but it will certainly go a long way to help alleviate these socio-economic concerns. Therefore, we must all work together, both east and west to this end. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. O'Brien. Members' statements. Mr. Krutko.

Thank you, Mr. Krutko. Members' statements. Mr. Picco.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this past week, the town of Iqaluit, held a community wellness and strategy workshop.

It was a great success. Part of the workshop was a visiting process, to see where we wanted our community to be over the next decade. In conjunction with the workshop was a fashion show and other activities. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the organizers, Madeline Darg, Rosemary Cooper, Mary Willman, and the rest of the committee for a job well done.

Some people would like us to think that Iqaluit is the fat cat with jobs and businesses taking off. Some people think that Iqaluit is a community of largesse. Mr. Speaker, Iqaluit is one of the fastest growing communities in the territories. However, the facts are, our homeless shelter is full every night, Salvik is operating a soup kitchen with a demand continuing to increase, we are short over 70 social housing units, the only work available is either directly or indirectly related to government. The retail store sales are down. Are these indicators of a rich community? I think not.

Mr. Speaker, there have been 37 suicides in our community over the past 10 years. Some bergerites in this Assembly would like us to believe that Iqaluit is a dark hole, sucking in all the jobs and opportunities. The bergerites would like us to think that Iqaluit is not doing its fair share with the deficit reduction plans. Mr. Speaker, losing over 50 positions, having our capital budget slashed based in a community that is completely dominated by government, is doing its fair share.

I was elected to represent the constituency. I cannot, will not, roll over and play dead when statements are being made in and out of public which are not true and are exaggerated. I would invite any and all members of this Assembly to come to our community and see first hand our situation. Innuendo is cheap, Mr. Speaker, and should not be the basis on which decisions are being made. When I return home I will convey to the people using the soup kitchen and the people staying in the homeless shelter how well off we are supposed to be -- that is according to the uninformed statements made by the bergerites and others. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Picco. Members' statements. Mr. Barnabas.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to bring an item that was a concern in our region, in our community, Grise Fiord. You are probably aware that on October 4th I raised the issue of failure of a sea lift vessel to reach Grise Fiord with annual resupply of food. (End of translation)

We were assured that the government would make sure and I quote, the community is adequately supplied for the year to come. We also received assurance from this government that it will do everything possible to make sure our communities have adequate food levels and supplies in the communities to survive through the winter months. Many of us come from small, isolated communities and many of us can remember very clearly the reality and single store, perhaps Hudson's Bay store, perhaps a Co-op store, as the only source of food and other supplies for our people.

Grise Fiord is still the most northern community. It is still one of the smallest and has only one store. The people of Grise Fiord have a long tradition of working hard to take care of themselves and they are not in the habit of turning to the government for help. This year ice conditions have prevented the ship carrying the year's supply for the Co-op store from reaching Grise Fiord. This is no one's fault. This is the reality of the high arctic. By the middle of October the issue was in the hands of several government departments, and the standard bureaucratic exchange of phone calls, faxes, issue papers and discussions had started. This is no longer an emergency. Mr. Speaker, this is now an exercise to minimize any cost to this government. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

Thank you. The member for the High Arctic is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Do we have any nays? There are no nays. You have unanimous consent, Mr. Barnabas.

Without financial assistance from this government, Mr. Speaker, the people of Grise Fiord will have to pay an additional $11 for 5 kilos of flour or sugar and an additional $5.06 for 4 litres of laundry soap and an additional $27 for a package of Jumbo Pampers.

Shame. Shame.

The amount of assistance needed to avoid this emergency surcharge is about $80,000. In October, Mr. Speaker, another emergency was declared in High Arctic. This was also a problem which was no one's fault. It, too, was a reality of life in the high arctic. A third bad fall season was threatening the existence of caribou, unique to our part of the world. This government worked efficiently and quickly with the federal government and Canadian Armed Forces to put into effect a rescue mission to capture and transport 20 to 25 pairs of caribou to a facility in southern Alberta.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to explain, not to criticize it. Rather I see this as an excellent example of the government working well and cooperatively to create speed and accomplish something important. There was a sense of urgency. My concern is that the one emergency resulted in well organized and urgently implemented effort to correct a problem. It was also very well publicized.

The other emergency also in my constituency has become just another bureaucratic exercise. With issue papers and efforts by the government departments to force the Co-op to provide needed assistance - rather than taking the lead making suggestions and actively assisting in solving the problem, we are constantly talking of making cuts, saving money, living within our means. We can budget $100 thousand to preserve a caribou species from possible extinction. We can spend, perhaps, one third of that to do this. Yet this government cannot quickly solve the question of getting annual food and supply needs of the community of Grise Fiord to the location.

It will take three departments, considerable staff and weeks of discussion to decide how to minimize the government assistance. This should have taken two people two weeks to work a helpful and constructive solution. Mr. Speaker, I will be asking the appropriate minister for a clear explanation of this situation for the quick, efficient and fair solution to the other emergency in the high arctic. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Thank you, Mr. Barnabas. Members' statements. Mr. Rabesca.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today, Mr. Speaker, to welcome my colleagues to this fourth session. As you remember, during the last session, I made a member's statement and questioned the minister of MACA about a capital project in Rae Lakes and how the community was hoping to proceed with that.

Today, I would like to thank the Hon. Minister, Manitok Thompson for sparing some of her valuable time to meet with the community members of Rae Lakes yesterday. This meeting was the first time the community was able to address the minister personally. Although no decisions were made, I believe headway was made, if nothing less than the fact that the two finally got to meet. There are, of course, hurdles that must be crossed but at least we have started the first step.

Again, I would like to thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Thank you, Mr. Rabesca. Members' statements. Mr. Enuaraq.

(Translator) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Before I begin, I would like to thank the minister of MACA, Hon. Manitok Thompson and also Mr. Goo Arlooktoo for coming to Broughton Island. Thank you.

My member's statement has to do with an airstrip that needs to be taken care of, the Pangnirtung airstrip needs to be dealt with urgently. The airstrip is right in the middle of the community and it is important that this is moved. There are three different airlines flying into the community and sometimes there are other flights that come in. The hamlet in Pangnirtung in November asked that this be dealt with quickly. Later today I will be asking some questions of the Minister of Transportation in regards to this item. Thank you.

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Miltenberger.

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Erasmus.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal People recently released its final report. Commission members, their staff and all the people and organizations who contributed to the process have all done so out of a sincere desire to improve the lives of the Aboriginal people of Canada. Here in the Northwest Territories where the majority of residents are Aboriginal, we see the existing problems close up and in great detail. The numbers tell a horror story. We have the highest illiteracy rate in the country, the highest drop-out rate, the highest unemployment rate, the highest crime rate and the highest suicide rate.

The Commission's recommendations are designed to alleviate these kind of problems. Unfortunately the report is being greeted with a definite lack of enthusiasm because it proposes spending an additional $2 billion a year on programs to improve the lives of Aboriginal people. What people do not realize is that there is a cost to doing nothing. Doing nothing is costing the federal government almost $5 billion a year now in spending on financial assistance, on programs that demonstrate limited success and in lost revenue due to Aboriginal people not contributing to the economy. Doing nothing is also costing Aboriginal people almost $3 billion a year, mostly in income that they are not earning because they are not adequately educated. These costs will continue to rise over the coming years.

It is estimated that it will cost $11 billion a year in 20 years. These financial costs are in addition to the high social costs. Look at the lack of hope many Aboriginal youth face everyday. Look at the poor educational facilities, a lack of social support, a lack of adequate housing. Look at the results of that, rampant alcohol and drug abuse and a horrible suicide rate. Mr. Speaker, we have all heard other members speak about these today as well as in the past. I am sure we will hear them speak about it in the future. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

The member for Yellowknife North is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Do we have any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Erasmus you have unanimous consent.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This country has to realize that the cost of doing nothing is unacceptable. All governments, including the Government of the Northwest Territories, have to devote resources to improving the lives of our people.

I have a special concern with the need for adult education and, later this week, I will be raising this issue here in the House. We have to strengthen our education programs so our people can have hope in themselves, in their ability to contribute and in their ability to benefit from the economy. This is a single example of an area where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Mr. Speaker, the Royal Commission said it would be a travesty of justice if action to rectify the results of a history of dispossession were abandoned on grounds of fiscal restraint. I agree. We cannot let the spectre of a deficit keep us from making decisions which will, in the long run, benefit both our economy and our fellow citizens.

Mr. Speaker, in the Premier's opening address he indicated that we now need to focus on three core priorities. Two of those priorities are to improve economic conditions and to address social conditions. Mr. Speaker, I hope this is an indication he is willing to put his money where his mouth is - to put money into educating the thousands of people in the NWT who cannot get a job because their education level is too low. Thank you.

-- Applause

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Roland.

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. October 19, 1996 was a sad day for the north. We lost one of our best friends. Jim Bourque was one of the greatest people I have ever known. He taught me a lot personally and he set an example for me and for all people of the north by just being himself, an honest, fair and caring man who was respected by everyone who knew him. In over 30 years of service to the Government of the Northwest Territories, Jim worked hard on behalf of many people - from trappers to business people, at the local, national and international level. There was his work with the Constitutional Development Committee, his term as the president of the Metis Association, his four years as chairman of the Fur Institute of Canada, as a director of the Workers' Compensation Board and the thousands hours he gave to many community group meetings and organizations -- all aimed at one thing, helping people. There are not many people who will ever accomplish even half of what he did. While his work will live on, it will not be quite the same without his sense of humour, his booming big voice, and his stories.

Jim's wife, Sharleen, asked me to pass along a sincere thank you on behalf of Jim's family to all of the people who have helped them out over the past few weeks. In particular, she wanted me to thank everyone in the territorial government and the people who helped organize the memorial service that was held for Jim in October. She also asked me to thank the hundreds of people who have sent their thoughts and prayers for the family. It was a hard time for the family and they appreciate all of the heartfelt support they did receive. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Thank you. Members' statements, Mr. Ootes.

Thank you. Your motion is in order, Mr. Ootes. To the motion. Question is being called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Ningark.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. I would like to recognize His Worship, the Mayor of Taloyoak, Mr. Dennis Lyall up in the gallery.

-- Applause

Further, Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Wilfred Wilcox, the mayor of Cambridge Bay. Thank you.

-- Applause

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Dent.

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors to the gallery. Mr. O'Brien.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize my constituents from Arviat and Baker Lake. From Arviat, Mr. Simeonie Mamgark of the Prospectors' Association and from Baker Lake, a good friend of mine, Mr. Andy also with the Prospectors' Association, and with the Keewatin Inuit Association, Mr. Kono Tattweene and, also, Joe Karetak representing Eskimo Point Lumber and Expediting. Thank you.

-- Applause

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery, Mr. Todd.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize in the gallery, Mr. Richard Connelly, Mr. Graham Dargo and, of course, the president of the Sakku Development Corporation Mr. Joe Kaloojak. Thank you.

Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery, Mr. Miltenberger.

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery, Mr. Henry.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize two missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and our pastor Raymond Bilodeau from Yellowknife. Elder Peterson is from Tennessee and Elder Brown is from Utah. These missionaries are stationed in Yellowknife for the next six months, with the mission of bringing happiness to family lives. They are doing community service in areas such as the hospital and schools in Dettah and are involved with sports and recreational programs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery, Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Sharleen Bourque, Edwin Bourque and Arthur Bourque, all of Yellowknife. Thank you.

-- Applause

Thank you. Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery, Mr. Krutko.

Thank you. Are there any further recognitions of visitors in the gallery? Item 6: Oral questions. Mr. Picco.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Finance. Mr. Speaker, the recently announced Footsteps in the New Snow 2 goes a long way in the development process for division before and after. There is some concern being raised about the financing of both territories, east and west. Can the minister explain the process for incremental, transitional and gross expenditure based funding and financing for both the western and Nunavut territories?

Thank you. The Minister of Finance, Mr. Todd.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, discussions are currently under way with the Minister of Finance for Canada, the Hon. Paul Martin and we are optimistic that in the coming weeks that we will be able to work with the Department of Finance to determine, firstly, the terms of reference as to how we would proceed with two new forms of financing arrangements.

Secondly, to get some degree of comfort as to the extent of the incremental costs that will be necessary to fund both the east and the west and, thirdly, to get some time lines as to when we can conclude a new fiscal arrangement to the satisfaction of both east and the west. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Enuaraq.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I stated earlier on, we have a concern about the airstrip in Pangnirtung. We feel that it should be relocated and the people of Pangnirtung have a major concern about this. I would like to ask the Minister of Transportation, the Hon. Mr. Antoine. Concerning this, have there been any discussions about relocating the airstrip in Pangnirtung and have you done anything about this? Thank you.

The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Antoine.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we are aware of the Pangnirtung airport, there are two major concerns that we have with this airport, and one of the first faults is the location, as the honourable member has stated, and the second is the length of this airport, as well, it is a problem.

For the information of the honourable member, in 1993, the Department of Transportation studied this issue looking at the relocation and upgrading of the airport. A study was done that identified alternative sites and we did a cost comparison.

The end result was that the cost was very, very high. I think the lengthening of the present airstrip is going to cost the same as relocating the airport to another location. The cost was something like $11 million. In this time of budget restraint, it was difficult. In 1993 the department concluded that the cost to relocate and upgrade the airport could not be justified at that time, and the financial situation has become even drearier this time around, so it is difficult to accommodate the requests of the citizens of Pangnirtung. Thank you.

Thank you. Oral questions supplementary, Mr. Enuaraq.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Minister of Transportation, the Hamlet of Pangnirtung has stated, in a letter, that they would not like to see the airport be moved to the valley area, the Pangnirtung hamlet would like to see it closer to the shore.

I would like to ask the Department of Transportation, if this will be done, to relocate the airstrip to the shore?

Mr. Antoine.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The department just recently received this letter and are still looking into that request. However, the position of the Department of Transportation at this point in time is that the present airport will continue to be used. In fact, the request to move the airport, or to lengthen it, we have been looking into it, it would be very costly to lengthen or relocate it at this present time.

However, the department has gone ahead and made some improvements and have recently completed construction of a new airport terminal building in 1996. The department has also begun to replace the lighting at the airport, with the majority of this work to be undertaken in 1997. As for the requests of the hamlet, the department is still looking into it, and will be responding to the hamlet at the appropriate time. Thank you.

Oral questions. Mr. Evaloarjuk.

(Translator) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question will be directed to the Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. Mr. Speaker, back in 1974-75 when I was elected as a member of this House, the community of Hall Beach, was given a quota of polar bear and, to this date, they have never been given an extension of that quota number. Can the minister indicate to me, if they plan to amend the amount of quota for polar bears in that community? Thank you.

The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. Mr. Kakfwi.

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Evaloarjuk.

(Translator) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think that the people of Hall Beach have indicated numerous times that they wish to see a higher number of polar bears quota. They have a big problem with nuisance bears in that community. As a matter of fact, last summer a polar bear approached one of the camps and marauded the tents of one of the communities.

But as far as the laws go they are still not able to catch these polar bears legally. So, we wish to see a higher number of polar bear quotas for that community, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Kakfwi.

Thank you, Oral questions, Mr. Henry.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, my question today is to the Premier. Earlier today I spoke regarding the importance to the northern economy of Canadian Airlines. I would like to ask the Premier, if he agrees with my assessment of the importance of Canadian North, and Canadian Airlines, to the north.

Mr. Premier.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I did not pay enough attention when the member was making his statement, so I will not say whether I agree with his statement or not. But what I will say is that we, as a government, believe that Canadian Airlines is very important to the Northwest Territories. It is one of our few major air carriers. We would be very supportive of Canadian Airlines. I know they are going through some difficult times right now, and as a government, we are also very supportive of Canadian's approach to working together with their employees, unions and other partners to try to find a solution to their current circumstances.

I think we in the north can relate to their consensus style of negotiation problem-solving better than anyone else in Canada. Like I said earlier, Canadian Airlines is very, very important to the north. We have to fly everywhere. So Canadian is needed. Thank you.

Oral questions, supplementary, Mr. Henry.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I would just like to let the Premier know that I listened to every word he said, when he made his presentation today, so I am sure in the future, he will probably listen to mine.

Just this week, Mr. Speaker, the Premier of Alberta announced that he had planned to cut the cost to Canadian Airlines of the fuel tax that would be charged by that province.

This is reportedly to save Canadian Airlines approximately 1 million dollars. Has the Premier, in conjunction with the Minister of Finance, considered introducing a similar tax cut here as a means to further encourage the survival of Canadian Airlines? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my understanding that we collect approximately 8 hundred thousand dollars a year and the percentage of tax on that is a cent per litre for us as a government, that is it, so it would not make a big difference. But we will be keeping track of this issue. I have talked to Mr. Remple, President of Canadian Airlines Regional, and he keeps us well informed. We are hoping that they come to a successful agreement with their union and we encourage all parties to continue to negotiate and we look forward to assisting which ever way we can, but it is very limited from the Government of the Northwest Territories. Thank you.

Thank you, oral questions supplementary, Mr. Henry.

Thank you. Mr. Speaker. Will the Premier be willing to consider the fuel tax incentive and other initiatives that would assist Canadian Airlines out of their present predicament? Thank you, very much.

Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I apologize to the members if I misled them in my previous answer because it was $800,000 for all airline tax, for all the airlines, not just Canadian. So it is a fairly small portion and as I said earlier, we are going to be as supportive as we can. Financially, I do not know what we can do, we have our own problems that we have to address. We have to take a look at it and make sure of the support as much as possible, but financially, as my good colleague always says when I talk to him, there is no money. Thank you.

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Barnabas.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Earlier today I explained how the people of Grise Fiord, the northern-most community of Canada have received real support and assistance from this government, in solving the problem with the failed sea-lift. I first raised this emergency issue with the government in the House on October 4, today is November 27, and it is my understanding that the government has still not committed any financial assistance to offset the increased costs of all the goods that have been flown into Grise Fiord.

Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier, can he please inform the House why this government has still not offered any concrete assistance to the people of Grise Fiord almost 8 weeks after this issue was raised in this House? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Premier.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to start off by supplying some background to this issue to the members of the Legislative Assembly. The government, the Canadian Coastguard and Sealift, went into Grise Fiord on August 30, 1996 and delivered all 88.15 tons of freight. Organizations served, include GNWT, Grise Fiord Inuit Cooperation, building materials, Hamlet Housing Association, NWT Power Corporation, RCMP and the school. There were also a number of private individuals who received freight on the Canadian Coastguard. The Grise Fiord Inuit Coop, the Housing Association, and the Hamlet decided not to ship all their goods through the government sealift this summer. Instead they chose to arrange the shipment through a private shipper who was unable to reach the community due to ice conditions.

Myself, as well as the Minister of Public Works and Services, committed that GNWT staff would be made available to provide administrative support, if affected organizations required assistance in making alternative arrangements for delivery. The GNWT would consider on a case by case basis, funding support, where there is evidence that residents would suffer unduly, the GNWT will not provide support to shipment of goods that are not considered essential for the community. Funding support will be considered only after alternative delivery of goods have been arranged and contract insurance claims have been investigated.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT is prepared to consider, on a case by case basis, submissions for assistance where there was financial hardship incurred in the delivery of goods, essential to the community. This part is very important, all submissions for assistance should include an itemized cargo list, cost of alternate delivery, the results of efforts to recover money through shippers, or insurance policies and evidence of hardship. To date, Mr. Speaker, we have received one submission for financial assistance from Grise Fiord. The submission that was directed to MACA by the senior administrative officer in Grise Fiord and concerns assistance with air freight costs and that is being reviewed as we speak. Thank you.

Oral questions, supplementary. Mr. Barnabas.

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now I wonder if this level of assistance would be provided if other circumstances had arisen. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just have the information that I have with me. If they would have used the

government services then this would not have been an issue because the coast guard did get into Grise Fiord to re-supply that community. That is the only information I have. Thank you.

Oral questions, supplementary, Mr. Barnabas.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I feel that this government has determined to work more like a business than a government. Mr. Speaker, business exists to make a profit, as many of you are aware. Government exists to serve their people, as I am sure you all agree. I am sure that my constituents want the government to behave like a government that takes quick, efficient action, like any good business to assist its citizens when they are faced with an emergency.

Most of us come from small communities and have personal knowledge of emergencies and accidents. Anyone helps quickly and without thought of getting the money up front. Can the Premier please explain what concrete financial assistance this government is prepared to offered the people of Grise Fiord to offset the increases in prices caused by this emergency? I know that the insurance is already covered, but the offset is over $80,000. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Morin.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Government of the Northwest Territories is prepared to consider on a case-by-case basis submissions for assistance wherever there was financial hardship incurred in the delivery of goods essential to this community. We are fully prepared to do that, but as I said earlier, Mr. Speaker, as every member of this Assembly knows, we are responsible to the public and to the public purse. We need certain things to justify paying out dollars or the Auditor General will let us know that we did not do business properly.

What we are asking the organizations in the Grise Fiord community to do, and the residents, is to itemize their cargo list, cost out alternate delivery, and make sure that the insurance policies and money issued to their shippers is taken care of, give us some evidence of hardship which should be no problem and submit that to the government and the government will assist whatever way they can. So, how much more clear can we make it, Mr. Speaker, but it takes two to solve this problem, the community and the government. Thank you.

Oral questions. Mr. Ootes.

The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi.