This is page numbers 17 - 42 of the Hansard for the 13th Assembly, 2nd Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library. The word of the day was communities.

Topics

Members Present

Hon. Jim Antoine, Hon. Goo Arlooktoo, Mr. Barnabas, Hon. Charles Dent, Mr. Enuaraq, Mr. Erasmus, Mr. Evaloarjuk, Hon. Samuel Gargan, Mrs. Groenewegen, Mr. Henry, Hon. Stephen Kakfwi, Mr. Krutko, Mr. Miltenberger, Hon. Don Morin, Hon. Kelvin Ng, Mr. Ningark, Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Ootes, Mr. Picco, Mr. Rabesca, Mr. Roland, Mr. Steen, Hon. Manitok Thompson, Hon. John Todd

---Prayer

Item 1: Prayer
Item 1: Prayer

Page 17

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Roland. Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, honourable Members.

Earlier this afternoon, Commissioner Helen Maksagak, the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew, MP, the Honourable Charles Dent, myself and many others participated in a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Canadian Flag.

The flag-raising ceremony was held as part of the Canada - Take it to Heart initiatives, where all Canadians are being asked to take time to honour those things that are important to us as individuals and members of the Canadian family.

Our Canadian Flag was raised for the first time in 1965, and for the past 31 years has been the most potent symbol of our identity and our sense of belonging to Canada.

There are so many reasons for joining together to celebrate this cherished symbol that identifies us as unique, proud and confident people. I hope that this event today on the anniversary of the Canadian Flag will strengthen our sense of belonging and our faith in this country as today and every day we realize how fortunate we are to live in a country like Canada, truly the envy of the world.

At this time, I would like to recognize in the gallery, our MP for the Western Arctic, Ms. Ethel Blondin-Andrew.

---Applause

Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Dent.

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. Mr. Speaker, we sometimes get so caught up in the day-to-day issues we face in Canada that we forget the many things that work right in our country and, for all the challenges we face, many things do work well. For the second year in a row, the United Nations has ranked Canada as the best country in the world in which to live. I believe we occasionally need to take time to reflect on the benefits of living in Canada and the contributions of the peoples who have helped build our country.

I am pleased to inform this Assembly that the Government of Canada has designated February 12th to 19th as National Citizenship Week. As part of the celebration, I was pleased to take part today in a ceremony you mentioned, Mr. Speaker, marking the anniversary of the Canadian Flag.

Heritage provides a foundation for each one of us. Our culture and heritage shapes how we see the world, how we learn and how we relate to others. Understanding our heritage helps us understand ourselves and gives each of us the self-confidence we need to meet the challenges in our everyday lives.

Heritage Day, February 19th, has special significance for the Northwest Territories. The NWT is made up of peoples of many different cultures, each of which has made important contributions to our society. Heritage Day presents us with an excellent opportunity to learn more about our own culture, and to learn more about our neighbours.

Heritage Day is a project of the Heritage Canada Foundation, which has chosen the contributions of Nordic Canadians as its theme for this year. To celebrate this theme, the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre will be holding special programs this Sunday and Monday. A significant event on Sunday will be the First Annual Knut Skibstad L'il Loppet ski race, which is being held to honour the late Knut Skibstad. Mr. Skibstad was a Canadian or Norwegian descent who worked as a cabinet maker and exhibit fabricator at the Northern Heritage Centre for 14 years.

The Heritage Centre will also host a series of children's activities on Heritage Day to promote awareness of Nordic Canadian cultures. Museums and heritage organizations in other NWT communities will also hold events and activities in celebration of Heritage Day.

Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories has a rich cultural heritage that stretches over thousands of years. There are many ways in which all northerners can learn more about their own culture and heritage. Some of these include visiting an elder and asking about his or her childhood; visiting a museum, heritage building or historic site; exchanging stories or traditions with someone of another culture; or, spending an evening looking at family photos.

I encourage all Members of this Assembly and all residents of the NWT to take some time on February 19th to reflect on the many advantages of living in Canada and the importance of culture and heritage. Thank you.

---Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Dent. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Ng.

Minister's Statement 3-13(2): Community Wellness
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 18

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. Mr. Speaker, this statement is a short progress report on the community wellness strategy. In the summer of 1995, an intensive round of consultation resulted in a directions document for community wellness. Following this, a series of regional and community meetings were held to develop plans for the implementation of the strategy across the Territories.

In conjunction with these meetings, a community action fund of $2.9 million was established. The fund allowed community groups to pilot a variety of initiatives. These initiatives were aimed at preparing communities to take on more responsibility for wellness programs and services.

I am pleased to say that interest in this initiative has been unprecedented. More and more communities are developing their own plans for implementing wellness initiatives for their residents. As you know, this government recognizes community wellness as a top priority.

As a result, I have been asked to finalize a framework that will allow communities to take on responsibility for the full range of wellness programs and services currently managed by our government. This framework will be complete by June 1996, and will empower communities to accept the transfer of resources by the beginning of the new fiscal year in 1997-98.

Mr. Speaker, this is more than simply a transfer of government programs and services. We all recognize that we cannot afford our current way of doing business. As well, communities have told us that the government's methods of delivering services are not always in keeping with the traditions and priorities of our residents. The most consistent feedback we have received is that the proliferation of government departments, boards and agencies in communities has been a source of frustration.

The framework will allow communities to accept responsibility for community wellness programs as part of a larger community empowerment initiative of this government. When it is complete, communities can be provided with block funding to deliver many of the programs and services that are currently delivered by government departments and agencies within the social envelope.

The funding arrangements will provide flexibility, allowing communities to develop their own priorities for service delivery. Ideally, the funding for government programs and services would be managed through a single organization at the community level, possibly the local governing body. This will promote consistency and ensure that services are linked and complementary to each other.

Standards for many of the wellness programs and services will need to be fairly general, Mr. Speaker, to give communities flexibility for their own unique solutions. However, some of the services are guided by legislation and communities will have to recognize these statutory limitations on their spending. The requirements of the Canada Health Act and the Education Act are two examples of areas where territory-wide standards will have to be met.

However, we are confident that, even in these areas, there is room for much more flexibility through block funding arrangements. More details will be made available as departmental business plans are finalized. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Minister's Statement 3-13(2): Community Wellness
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

Page 18

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Henry.

Potential Diamond Mine
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 18

Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Five years ago, the idea of North America's first diamond mine being located here in the NWT was a mere dream. Today it appears that such a mine is a definite possibility and one that I feel that this government, from the Premier's remarks yesterday, supports.

Before this mine can proceed, it must meet with the approval of the Environmental Assessment Review panel appointed by the federal government. This week the panel is here in Yellowknife, hearing views of many different people. Many of the presenters are northern residents sharing their ideas from technical, cultural, environmental and social points of view. Northerners are recognizing the potential of the possible diamond mine, but also reminding us of the importance of our land, the wildlife and the environment.

The panel has also heard from groups outside of the Territories; in particular, my attention was drawn to the comments by a member of an Australian environmental group advising northerners who to listen to and what to believe. As I listened to the remarks, Mr. Speaker, I kept thinking of others who have told northerners what is best for them; in particular, the North has struggled as a result of those in southern Canada and in Europe who know better than us about the fur industry, about what is humane and what is not humane. These groups or individuals have taken trapping as a way of life from many northerners and cannot be allowed to influence northerners regarding a potential economic means to survive in the event of a complete ban of fur products.

Mr. Speaker, while the experiences of others can be valid, we live in a unique part of the world and have unique ways of doing business. I believe the environmental panel, which includes northerners, will focus on the concerns and issues of northerners, rather than advice from those in other parts of the world who think they know what is good for us.

I hope the panel will make recommendations which will help northerners and BHP build a long and prosperous future together, one which will benefit the people of the Northwest Territories as well as the company. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Potential Diamond Mine
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Enuaraq.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to my colleagues. Mr. Speaker, on January 24, 1996, I was pleased to be asked to participate in a teleconference with the mayor, councillors and officials from the hamlet of Pangnirtung and the regional office of the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs in Baffin. We discussed capital priorities for Pangnirtung at that meeting. We discussed a number of capital projects, and some of those capital projects such as dump sites and sewage disposal sites, sealift staging. We were told that the projects are on schedule and are okay.

On another topic, the hamlet requested that a new dump truck should take priority over a new bulldozer. The hamlet asked that the dump truck be moved forward and the bulldozer moved back. They were told by the officials that it should not be a problem. However, when the hamlet requested moving the maintenance garage project ahead to the 1996-97 capital plan since it is a priority for the community, the regional superintendent said that the 1996-97 capital plan might be cut and he was not sure if it was going to be possible to move the maintenance garage forward.

I would like to inform the honourable Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs that the maintenance garage is a strong priority for the hamlet of Pangnirtung. It is necessary to prolong the life of hamlet vehicles. The new maintenance garage is an investment for our government since it will make the hamlet equipment last much longer.

I welcome the chance to participate with the officials in our government...

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Enuaraq, your time is up.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

Mr. Speaker, I am seeking unanimous consent.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for High Arctic is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Conclude your statement, Mr. Enuaraq.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

Mr. Speaker, just one correction: Member for Baffin Central, instead of High Arctic. Thank you.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

My apologies.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

When the officials say they cannot answer a question, I hope that the message is communicated to the Minister.

Later today, I will be asking the Minister whether she has any news about the important request from the hamlet of Pangnirtung. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Pangnirtung Capital Projects
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Ootes.

National Citizenship Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to say a few words about the celebration we had here at the Legislative Assembly at 1:00 today to mark National Citizenship Week. It was a very meaningful ceremony for me. I came to Canada as a young boy in the early 1950s with my parents when they emigrated from our native Holland after the Second World

War. Over the decades, my family has really learned to appreciate the wonderful country that Canada is.

In order for us -- my family, that is -- to become Canadian citizens, we had to be resident here for four years. On the very day of our fourth anniversary my father filed application forms for all members of our family to become Canadian citizens. People from around the world want to emigrate to our country to become citizens here.

To celebrate National Citizenship Week, the federal government has distributed an activity guide with ideas on how we can celebrate this special week. It's called "Canada - Take it to Heart." All of us here should encourage our citizens and organizations in our communities to participate in some of these activities suggested in the guide so that we continue to build on our unique heritage and identity. All northerners should be encouraged to participate in ways that are important to them and, in the process, continue to build this country that remains the envy of the world.

National Citizenship Week is a very special week for us all. This week is also the 31st anniversary of the unveiling of the Canadian red maple leaf flag; I believe it was today. I am very proud to say that I was on Parliament Hill when Prime Minister Pearson declared that the maple leaf be Canada's official flag and as it was raised on the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill. Our red maple leaf is recognized and respected around the world. I want to ask all of us here who represent many different cultural, aboriginal and ethnic backgrounds to think about the strength of Canada this week and to look up with appreciation at the Canadian flag on the standard flying outside this building. Thank you.

---Applause

National Citizenship Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Ootes. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Rabesca.

GNWT Staff Training Courses
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 19

James Rabesca North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have had the opportunity to review the GNWT staff training courses calendar for 1996. I discovered that 88 courses will be available over a period of five months. Mr. Speaker, after reviewing this list of courses, I strongly question priorities set by our government.

Mr. Speaker, courses that are offered in high schools and in the first year of college and university -- such as working with basic IBM, Wordperfect 6.1 for Windows and Lotus 1, 2 and 3 -- will be offered to the employees this year. There are courses listed for employees who are interested in entering the enforcement area. I wonder if this is being offered so the government can recruit its own employees into the enforcement areas. I understand that this course was offered by Sir John Franklin High School to a student in 1994. I became more baffled when I noticed that communication courses would be available to senior managers. This alone gives the impression that senior managers are hired without the necessary communication skills to perform their duties.

This government has never met its target of 50 per cent aboriginal hire. Based on that, anyone can assume that 50 per cent of public service employees taking any list of courses over the years could have been aboriginal employees. Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Finance stated in the last session that the deficit was due in large part to higher social program costs than budgeted for. According to the list of courses, social programs are also available to government employees. Courses are available to help employees break out of their comfort zones and unworthy habits as well as for those wishing to live with increasing fulfilment and those who wish to feel more productive and less pressured. Mr. Speaker, I trust those who have contributed largely to the deficit may be the poor on social programs who use those courses that have been available to them.

Mr. Speaker and colleagues, for courses to be delivered, the government has to pay costs for newspaper advertisements of tenders for instructors, travel from destination points for employees and instructors alike, pay for accommodation costs and expenses...

GNWT Staff Training Courses
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Rabesca...(Microphone turned off)

GNWT Staff Training Courses
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

James Rabesca North Slave

May I have the unanimous consent of my colleagues to continue speaking?

GNWT Staff Training Courses
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for North Slave is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Conclude your statement.

GNWT Staff Training Courses
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

James Rabesca North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, for courses to be delivered, the government has to pay the costs for newspaper advertisements of tenders for instructors, travel to and from destination for employees and instructors alike, pay for accommodation costs and expenses, printing of calendars, course fees, including salaries and benefits of the employees while they are on courses. Mr. Speaker, there is no way to measure whether the courses have been successful over the years because in order to do that one would have to find a way to determine if the employees acquired their skills in the workplace after completing the courses they have taken.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly feel that the government has not made strong enough efforts to provide adequate adult education or training programs, especially in the three outlying communities within the Dogrib region. We have to continue with the pilot projects but because they are so short term, there are no constructive ways for this government to determine the success of the short-term programs. Mr. Speaker, I would suggest to the Department of Education that they eliminate the training courses for government employees in order to invest heavily where it is most needed, such as education and training programs for constituencies like mine that don't have enough adult education programs and courses.

Mr. Speaker, I feel training courses being offered to the public service employees have been a waste of public funds and no doubt help contribute to the deficit issues. The government must hire the best qualified individual to work with the people of the North and only those who are interested in retiring with us in our North. Mr. Speaker, we have been seen as living off social welfare and not contributing to society as a taxpayer. Only through the government's financial investment an education and adequate training programs and employee initiatives can we alter the grey lines on social welfare and not be seen as making devastating impact on the government's deficit problem.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I feel that the only way our people on social programs can help this government is if this government puts financial investment in our people so they can be in a better position to assist the government to eliminate the deficit problem. Later today, I will be providing the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment with several written questions on this subject. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

GNWT Staff Training Courses
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Rabesca. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Ningark.

National Citizenship Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

John Ningark Natilikmiot

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, a while ago we raised the Canadian flag outside of this building. I participated in that and I was very pleased to do so. I am very proud to be a Canadian. The Canadian flag means a lot to me: that we are free citizens, that inside Canada we are free to move anywhere in Canada; that we have freedom of speech with regard to how we wish to be governed; we are free to express our ideas; and, we have the freedom of religion, of which there are many different ones in Canada.

I have travelled outside of Canada three times since I was born, Mr. Speaker, and every time I return to Canada, I am always very pleased to be back home. I'm always very thankful that I'm Canadian. Looking at the flag, I think of many cultures who live in Canada and how they can work together and cooperate with one another. I'm very pleased to live in Canada. Thank you.

---Applause

National Citizenship Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. O'Brien.

Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 20

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the issue I will speak on today is the proposed tank farm for

Rankin Inlet. Mr. Speaker, prior to Christmas in the first sitting of this House, I raised the concern and the fear that the residents and community leaders of my riding had regarding the Eastern Arctic resupply contract. I stated that I was requesting a detailed report to be presented to this House prior to any contracts being awarded. Mr. Speaker, included in my remarks, I asked for assurances from the Minister of Public Works that there would be no negative impact on the cost of living for the residents of my riding. Mr. Speaker, in my statement I also said that any other related contracts that may be issued should not have a negative impact on my riding. Mr. Speaker, the Rankin Inlet tank farm is a related contract and it will have a major impact on the Kivallivik region.

Mr. Speaker, a few months have passed since I made this request. To this date, no consultation has occurred. It is only fair that I qualify the lack of consultation by stating that there was willingness on behalf of the Minister of Public Works and the Minister of Transportation to come to my riding, but unfortunately, due to poor weather and the cancellation of the Nunavut Leaders' Summit, this consultation did not take place. Mr. Speaker, the bottom line here is that the consultation did not take place but still the government continues to move ahead and enter into negotiations against the wishes of the KRC, the Keewatin Regional Council, and the majority of the residents of the Kivallivik region. These negotiations involved the construction of a multi-million-dollar tank farm and also involved a 20 to 25-year lease on this project.

Mr. Speaker, I ask for support from my colleagues to continue.

Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 21

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The Member for Kivallivik is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? Conclude you statement, Mr. O'Brien.

Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 21

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I was recently asked if I personally thought that the Rankin Inlet project was feasible and if I thought it would save government dollars. Mr. Speaker, my answer to that question is I really can't say at this time. That project could be the best deal since the invention of the honey bucket, but without being provided the details and accurate facts and figures, I can't offer an informed opinion.

Mr. Speaker, before I conclude my statement, I would ask the honourable Minister of DPW to give some further review and thoughts to the following key points: Does the Minister have the mandate to enter into a multi-million dollar contract for 20 to 25 years, in view of the fact that division is only three years away? Can the Minister state unconditionally that there will be a cost savings in view of the fact that it appears we have no firm capital cost that has been concluded and finalized? Mr. Speaker, it appears to me that it would be difficult to make this sort of a statement. If you don't know what capital costs are associated with this project, how can you determine what the cost-savings are going to be? We don't know what the lease costs are for the project, at this time.

Can the Minister assure this House that when dry good costs rise, they will be subsidized for the long term and not just the short-term period of two years. What will be the amount of the subsidy? Mr. Speaker, can the Minister provide information to the fact that prices will not increase once the fuel is delivered or taken from the tank farm and delivered to the other eastern communities?

Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 21

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. O'Brien. Item 3, Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mr. Antoine.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the honourable Member for Natilikmiot, Mr. Ningark, asked about the recent failures of the runway lighting system at the Gjoa Haven airport.

The existing lighting system has become unreliable and the department will remedy the situation immediately. Our small communities depend on reliable air transportation services and anything less is unacceptable.

I would like to tell the Member that the Department of Transportation has acquired a temporary replacement lighting system for the runway. The replacement system is being tested this week in Yellowknife and will be sent to Gjoa Haven next week for installation. The department expects to have this temporary replacement system installed and operational by the 1st of March.

By way of explanation, Mr. Speaker, the existing system was installed by Transport Canada in 1984 when the technical standards of the day did not require protective conduit for buried electrical cables. This protective conduit may not have been necessary in southern Canada, but with the freeze-thaw cycle in our northern locations, the standard has proven inadequate and caused many maintenance problems.

The Department of Transportation made repairs to the lighting system this past summer and hoped they would keep the system working a few more years until it could install a new airfield lighting system scheduled for 1998. Unfortunately, the system has deteriorated much faster this winter than the department had expected.

In any case, the department will install the new runway lighting system over the next two weeks. I certainly regret any inconvenience or distress the Member or his constituents may have experienced as a result of the recent lighting failures. I can assure him that the department will restore safe and reliable service at the airport as soon as is humanly possible. Mahsi.

---Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Antoine. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mrs. Thompson.

Return To Question 6-13(2): Status Of Arena Construction In Clyde River
Return To 5-13(2): Problems With Gjoa Haven Airport Lighting System
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 22

Manitok Thompson Aivilik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Tommy Enuaraq on February 14, 1996.

Realizing that our budget has not been set yet and that our new budget targets may cause significant changes, it is our intention to do planning for the arena in the 1995-96 year with design in 1997-98 and construction starting the following year. This is regarding the arena and skating rink in Clyde River. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question 6-13(2): Status Of Arena Construction In Clyde River
Return To 5-13(2): Problems With Gjoa Haven Airport Lighting System
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 22

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 15-13(2): Subsidization Policy On Alcohol In Nwt
Return To 5-13(2): Problems With Gjoa Haven Airport Lighting System
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 22

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the honourable Member for Hay River, Mrs. Groenewegen, asked a question with regard to the subsidization policy on alcohol in the Northwest Territories on February 14, 1996.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories does not subsidize any of the costs associated with the transportation or distribution of liquor.

The retail price of liquor sold in communities varies, depending on what it actually costs to transport and distribute the liquor to that community.

For example, the same case of 12 bottles of a well-known brand of domestic beer would sell for $20.15 in Inuvik, for $18.05 in Hay River and for $21.55 in Iqaluit. These retail prices include the cost of the product itself, as well as transportation costs, distribution costs, bottle deposit fees, administrative costs and a flat mark-up for government revenue.

The government is very aware of the very legitimate concerns outlined in the preamble to the honourable Member's question, with respect to social cost associated with the abuse of liquor products. The NWT Liquor Commission is committed to ensuring that its procedures and policies for the distribution and sale of liquor do not encourage the irresponsible or illegal use of alcoholic beverages in any way. As always, we would be pleased to receive input from honourable Members and from the northern public on ways in which our liquor control system can be improved. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 15-13(2): Subsidization Policy On Alcohol In Nwt
Return To 5-13(2): Problems With Gjoa Haven Airport Lighting System
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions

Page 22

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Kakfwi.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 22

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to recognize today in the gallery the Deputy Commissioner of the RCMP, Frank Palmer, who is in charge of RCMP operations out of Ottawa. With him is Superintendent Bill Sweeney, who is in charge of criminal operations in "G" division and Chief Superintendent Mr. Grimmer, who is the commanding officer of "G" division. With them is Nora Sanders, the acting deputy minister of Justice.

---Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 22

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Welcome to the Assembly. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Rabesca.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 22

James Rabesca North Slave

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize some students of the Native Women's Association, some of whom are from my constituency. I guess they are somewhere in the gallery.

---Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 22

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Welcome to the Assembly. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Morin.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 22

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize a very famous person who appears in our living room every evening at 8:00 p.m.; Mr. George Tuccaro.

---Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 22

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Welcome to the Assembly. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Evaloarjuk.

Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs. We received a letter on January 24th and I'm sure the Minister received that letter. I got a copy from Igloolik. Back in February 1995, during the 12th Assembly, there was a petition that was sent to the Minister regarding a community centre in Igloolik. That particular Minister responded in April 1995 that that Minister would be able to provide a response. To date, the residents of Igloolik have not received a response. It was going to be included in the 1995 capital plans under the five-year plan, but apparently it is not included there.

I had a meeting with the Minister of MACA in February and she informed me that she was going to get her officials to check into it. To date, we still haven't heard a response. I wonder if the Minister can respond to my question. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, Mrs. Thompson.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 22

Manitok Thompson Aivilik

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the budget is not completed at this time, to date we're not sure how it's going to be. Once we find out about our budget, I'll be able to get back to Mr. Evaloarjuk's

question. I apologize for not responding sooner than we said we would. As soon as we find out about our budget, the request and the priorities set for his community will be worked on with him. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. O'Brien.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the Minister responsible for Public Works. Maybe I should wait until the honourable Member returns.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

I want to remind the Members that if a Member is missing in the House, you cannot make reference to that. You can direct the question to the Minister who is responsible for it, or maybe redirect it. Go ahead, Mr. O'Brien.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will direct the question to the now-returning Minister of Public Works.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Again, I have to say that you're out of order. It's unparliamentary to make reference to the absence of a Member in the House, whether it's the Ministers who are doing it or ordinary Members who are doing it. It is against the rules to make reference to a Member who is absent in the House.

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Pardon me, Mr. Speaker, I didn't realize that the honourable Minister was absent from the House.

---Laughter

Return To Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Question 17-13(2): Response To Igloolik's Petition For A Community Centre
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

I still am hearing from here the Member making reference to a Member being absent in the House. I just finished telling the Member that it is against the rules to make reference to any Member who is absent from this House. Mr. O'Brien, oral questions.

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

My apologies, Mr. Speaker, and also to the honourable Minister. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the Minister of Public Works; it involves the construction of the tank farm in Rankin Inlet. I'm asking the Minister if he can provide to this House information regarding the environmental impact study, the terms of reference for this study and also a breakdown of how these savings are going to be achieved once this tank farm is constructed. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Minister of Public Works and Services, Mr. Arlooktoo.

Return To Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Mr. Speaker, previously through Caucus I had told Members that we would be providing background information today. That will be provided. This will help Members to become familiar with all aspects of the project in preparation for the detailed briefing on February 22nd.

Return To Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. O'Brien, supplementary.

Supplementary To Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Is it possible that this information as background can be discussed here in this House? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 18-13(2): Proposed Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Again, Mr. O'Brien, it's a hypothetical question. The Minister and none of the Members have the material necessary to respond in the House, so I must rule the question out of order.

---Ruled Out of Order

Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Picco.

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I asked the Minister of Education about the transfer of programs from Nunatta Campus of Nunavut Arctic College. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister of Education provide to this House a breakdown on the cost to transfer these programs, including the cost of student married accommodations, impact of student travel costs, and the administration costs before the program transfer are implemented? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I responded to the Member yesterday, I have asked the college to demonstrate how it intends to meet the costs of program relocation and to provide that information in detail to my office by March 31st. After having that information, I will certainly be prepared to share it with the Member.

Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 5, oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

Edward Picco Iqaluit

That wasn't my question. My question was if the Minister was prepared to table that information in the House. The reason for my question, of course, is that public money spent by this government should be available to the public. I appreciate the information coming to me, personally, but I would like to have that information tabled in this House for the public to see these costs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 23

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I don't have that information right now. As I said, the information is to be available to my office by March 31st. Following that date, if the Member wishes to raise the issue in the House, I would be prepared to respond so that it becomes part of the public forum. It has to be remembered that the purpose of these public funds is to provide a regional fairness and balance in the programs that this government or college provides.

---Applause

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

An Hon. Member

Hear! Hear!

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

So the reason for the program relocation is to ensure that college programs are available across Nunavut.

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Mr. Speaker, having been an employee of Arctic College from 1987 to 1992, I am fully aware of the philosophy behind the college. Mr. Speaker, again I have to reiterate that I am not against the decentralization of college programs if it makes administrative, logistical and financial sense to do so. Mr. Speaker, this House keeps talking about financial cutbacks, reductions and lay-offs, yet we continue on to spend $1.30 to liberate $1. Mr. Speaker, this is not the issue. The issue is the cost of the decentralization of programs. Mr. Speaker, the cost has not been proven to me. Has the Minister looked at the transfer of programs that are currently being offered in the West and having those programs devolved to Nunavut instead of transferring programs within Nunavut to other campuses?

Supplementary To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. I would like to remind Members when you are directing questions to Ministers that you limit it to one question and not a multiple of questions. Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the distribution of programs is something that is always under consideration by the colleges and where they are being offered. The goal is to ensure that there is equity of access as much as can be offered across the Northwest Territories. We have a complicating issue, which is our fiscal climate at this point in time. There is no new money. The question of whether or not we are going to add programs in, changing the East/West balance, I can't commit to doing that. I can commit to say we will continue to examine where programs are offered, where they are most needed and where we have the most students who can take advantage of it. We will ensure that we do our best, given today's fiscal climate, to provide reasonable equity of access.

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Final supplementary, Mr. Picco.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am very pleased to hear the Minister say that. My final supplementary question is, is the Minister aware that transferring the management training and social services programs will leave the new capital of Nunavut without programs essential for the capital. Because the impact of social change due to forced growth of being the capital, Mr. Speaker, we all realize that Iqaluit has the biggest social changes as the new capital. With these transfers, we will not have the programs to train our people to deal with them. Has the Minister asked the board to look at this?

Supplementary To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Minister seems to be implying that people cannot be trained in different regions. In the West, we have courses that are offered in Inuvik that aren't offered in the other two campuses. We have courses that are offered in Fort Smith that are not offered in the other two campuses. The regional balance of programming doesn't necessarily mean that all programs are offered at one campus. We have to be willing to make sure that students can be allowed to attend courses at various places. That will take place.

Added to that, with division taking place, there is tremendous potential for Nunatta Arctic College to pick up on third-party training. The Iqaluit campus is strategically located to maximize the third party paying for extra training opportunities. The college has a good history across the Northwest Territories of seeking out third-party funding to offer courses. I am confident that the Iqaluit campus will not see a dramatic slow-down in the number of courses offered or a dramatic drop-off in students. I am confident that the college will be out there looking for partners to make sure there are still a lot of quality programs offered at that campus. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Question 19-13(2): Costs For Transfer Of Nunatta Campus Programs
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 24

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Enuaraq.

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During my Member's statement, I mentioned that I would raise a question to the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs. Can the maintenance garage project that the hamlet of Pangnirtung requested be moved a year earlier? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, Mrs. Thompson.

Manitok Thompson Aivilik

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will get more information and take that question as notice. I will respond to him later. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Ningark.

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. My question is directed to the honourable Minister for Public Works and Services. It is regarding the concern in Gjoa Haven. Every summer, Mr. Speaker, Gjoa Haven experiences a build-up of dust in the community. I met with the hamlet council of Gjoa Haven about three weeks ago. They have indicated to me that the dust build-up is a health hazard. Secondly, the dust is getting into equipment and vehicles, so subsequently there is wear and tear which can be very costly to the community and to the government. My question is, will the honourable Minister look into the matter before the summer of 1996 and communicate with Gjoa Haven on what can be done to resolve the problem?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Minister of Public Works and Services, Mr. Arlooktoo.

Return To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Mr. Speaker, the problem of dust control is something that occurs in many of the communities in Nunavut simply because most of the communities, or practically all of the communities, don't have paved roads.

Return To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

John Todd Keewatin Central

Except for Rankin.

---Laughter

Return To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

I will look into the matter. I'm not sure what can be done. As everyone knows, we don't have any new monies, as was said earlier. However, I would be pleased to look into it.

Return To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Ningark.

Supplementary To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Supplementary to the same Minister. The Minister has indicated to the House that the problem is not unique to Gjoa Haven but is a problem across the Territories. I believe that the problem is unique to Gjoa Haven. For one thing, the community is situated on sand and secondly, the minerals, the rocks around the community are soft white-coloured rocks and I believe there are, in fact, impurities in the stone. I ask the Minister to look at the situation seriously and get back to the community. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Arlooktoo.

Further Return To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I said before, I will be in contact with the community to see what can be done.

Further Return To Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Question 21-13(2): Dust Control Problem In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Miltenberger.

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Health and Social Services. I would like to ask the Minister, if he would be so kind, to give his department's position on the practice of chiropractic, which I'm aware is practised in the Northwest Territories but I don't think has any real legal standing. I think its an area of potential benefit to the North. I would like the Minister to give his department's position. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Ng.

Return To Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Member is correct that chiropractic isn't currently recognized under any legislation in the Northwest Territories. I am aware of certain chiropractors that are pursuing with the department, having their services covered to be eligible to be paid under our health care services. At this stage, Mr. Speaker, I'm aware of it as well as some possible legislated changes required to allow for midwifery, to allow for traditional aboriginal healing practices, and possibly things such as physio-therapy. I am willing to take a look at chiropractic services over the course of the coming year to see whether or not we can include them as insured services, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Return To Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to thank the Minister for his very positive reply. I have one supplementary question and that's with regard to a possible liability given the lack of legal standing. Are we also, in relation to that possible dilemma, in any of kind of dilemma due to the fact that I believe WCB makes use of services and I believe it's covered under GSMIP, which is part of the government's benefit package? So, we're making access to a service that for all intents and purposes, has no legal standing. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm not positive about the liability aspect of chiropractic services at this stage. I will check into the matter and get back to the Member. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Question 22-13(2): Departmental Position On Chiropractic Services
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 25

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Ootes.

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is addressed to the Premier. Considering that the government has been considering the amalgamation of a number of government departments for the past several months and considering that this would likely cause a redundancy of deputy ministers in our government who have to be compassionately treated, as all staff -- using the words of the government and the Premier -- why did the Executive Council publish a public competition for two deputy minister positions in the January 27th and 31st issues of southern issues and the News North?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The honourable Premier, Mr. Morin.

Return To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's very normal to advertise for positions in this government, especially senior management positions. We're looking to find out who's out there, who's interested, and who would like to come to work for this government. We do that by advertising in the paper and, hopefully, we'll get some good applications. Thank you.

Return To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Considering the sensitivity of our employees are under these days with lay-offs and so forth, I feel that this sends a message out to the employees that they're not qualified for these types of positions. Additionally, this is an extra expenditure to this government. I would like assurance from the Premier that this will not occur again for the morale of our staff. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Morin.

Further Return To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Existing deputy ministers, I would encourage them to apply for these positions; they can apply just like anyone else. I cannot assure the Member that advertisements to fill senior management jobs won't be in papers in the future. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm wondering what value the Premier places on our present employees? I certainly wouldn't look to the outside to hire employees when we have a very efficient staff within the GNWT to take any one of these positions; there are many, many people there. We're looking at lay-offs and with amalgamation of three departments, there must be redundancy there. I would like assurances -- and I would ask the question again -- I would like assurances that first priority be given to our existing staff considering the lay-offs. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Morin.

Further Return To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let me assure the Member that I do respect and I do value the services of the deputy ministers of this government. But let me also assure him that they will be given due consideration if they do apply. There will be times in the future of this government that we will have to advertise or we will look for people that are not within the existing ranks of government to do specific jobs, so I cannot assure the Member that he will not see any more advertisements, as such, in newspapers. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Question 23-13(2): Competitions Advertised For Deputy Ministers
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 6, oral questions. Mr. O'Brien.

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I direct my question to the Minister of Public Works. I will try to come at this question from a different angle this time. Can the Minister tell me whether or not an environmental study has been commissioned or started for the Rankin Inlet tank farm project?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Public Works and Services, Mr. Arlooktoo.

Return To Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Mr. Speaker, at this time there are several initiatives that are related to this project including terms of reference on how the project will be completed. Included in those are issues that he raised, including an environmental assessment. It has not been done to date. Thank you.

Return To Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.

Supplementary To Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm going to make an assumption that the Minister is stating that an environmental study, a review, has been initiated. I'm asking the Minister at this point in time, if he's willing to table at least the terms of reference for the environmental impact study regarding this particular project? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 26

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Arlooktoo.

Supplementary To Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I don't have the information on hand. I will take this question as notice.

Supplementary To Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Question 24-13(2): Environmental Study Re Rankin Inlet Tank Farm
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The question has been taken as notice. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Enuaraq.

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Further to the comments made to the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs regarding the skating rink in Clyde River, the response received was that the 1997-98 fiscal year plan included that project and that was the scheduled timetable. This was discussed by the residents in Clyde River, Mr. Speaker, and they said they want to see this project begin in the 1996-97 fiscal year. The response was that it is too slow for the people in Clyde River and they would like to see this project forwarded a year ahead of schedule. Can you revisit this concern within your department? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, Mrs. Thompson.

Return To Question 25-13(2): Timetable For Construction Of Clyde River Arena
Question 25-13(2): Timetable For Construction Of Clyde River Arena
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

Manitok Thompson Aivilik

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Currently, with the budget not defined at this time, it is difficult to predict what will be scheduled for the communities. We do want to include consideration of their priorities, including the budget that was planned for their community. I can sit down with the MLA and discuss their priorities, as well as with the residents of Clyde River so they can start receiving block funding that was being discussed yesterday by the Premier in his sessional statement. That is what I can say at this time. Without the budget being defined, it's difficult to go anywhere beyond that at this time. Thank you.

Return To Question 25-13(2): Timetable For Construction Of Clyde River Arena
Question 25-13(2): Timetable For Construction Of Clyde River Arena
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Henry.

Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Renewable Resources, Mr. Kakfwi. I would like assurances that no changes have been made to the current regulations regarding the annual Mackenzie bison hunt for this current year. Also, that no changes will be made to those regulations without all northerners having the opportunity to have input into the process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Minister of Renewable Resources, Mr. Kakfwi. That was two questions.

Return To Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Presently we have been having some discussion or are about to initiate discussions with the people in the Fort Providence area as well as the Dogrib communities to review the regulations that govern access to bison on those particular areas. We are contemplating possible changes to regulation. We would be in a position, probably, to suggest that they would not be immediate; that is, they would not take immediate effect. While I can't suggest that all people of the Northwest Territories are even interest in having input into regulations governing bison hunting and access to bison, I would be very interested in hearing suggestions from the Member should he have suggestions now or in the future about how we could allow for public input into changes to regulation or draft regulation, should we propose them. I would be prepared to consider how we can provide, for instance, the public of Yellowknife and perhaps the Deh Cho and other areas that would be interested in having input in these types of regulations. Thank you.

Return To Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Henry.

Supplementary To Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, my question is to Mr. Kakfwi. I'm not sure whether I heard you saying that we could anticipate no changes to this hunting season. I believe I heard you saying that. If you could clarify the accuracy of that. Also, as a suggestion for input, the communities of Ndilo, Rae and local communities in this particular area including Yellowknife, I would suggest running an advertisement in the newspaper, having a public meeting with your officials to have input to find out from your department officials what areas they are presently working on and what they would be proposing to make changes to. If I could have an answer to at least your comments earlier. I had understood you had said there would be no changes to the hunting regulations for this hunting season. Can you clarify that? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Kakfwi.

Further Return To Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When we speak of changes to regulation, very often the discussions also centre around when they should come into effect. So I give assurance to the Member that we will provide for some reasonable input by the general public in this vicinity, in his case, to changes to regulation. That would also include suggestions as to when and if there will be changes to regulation and when they will take effect. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Question 26-13(2): Annual Mackenzie Bison Hunt Regulations
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 27

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Miltenberger.

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Justice and it's with regard to a company: Skyline Personal Cable Systems; a company of dubious character that came skulking into the North a number of months ago selling illegal cable systems to the people, about 120 or so who have been out of pocket now for a number of months, often to the tune of $2,000 each. Of course, this company has since gone back south from whence they came, unfortunately taking a bunch of money from unsuspecting northerners who acted in good faith. I appreciate the information the Minister has provided to date, but I would appreciate if the Minister could indicate to the House what could be done, what sort of redress do these northerners have in terms of possibly getting their money back and seeing justice done. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Minister of Justice, Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, the suggestion is that there doesn't appear to be any wrongdoing on the part of this certain company; no criminal wrongdoing. However, there could be some suggestion that people who have come into contact with them and who have suffered as a result of any business they've done with them should get some advice from consumer and corporate affairs or else seek legal counsel. At this time, I would not be prepared as the Minister of Justice to provide any further direction other than that. Thank you.

Return To Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.

Supplementary To Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The constituents who I've talked to find it very hard to understand why something that is if not illegal, so borderline illegal, would not be addressed. Whereas, we have no problem if somebody steals a can of tuna, we will send him to jail for 30 days. This kind of white collar activity cannot get prosecuted and people can't see justice done. I would ask the Minister if he would possibly reconsider asking his officials to be a little more enthusiastic in their attempt to contact officials in Calgary, where this company came from. If they have done it up here, they have done it to others. It just seems too easy to say we can't do anything. They can rob and pillage us within the fine line of the law and can get away with it. I would ask the Minister if he would reconsider asking his officials to contact the authorities to see whether they could coordinate an attempt to bring these individuals to some sort of justice. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Kakfwi.

Further Return To Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I am not sure how much further we can go. The people of Smith are citizens of the Northwest Territories, the same as everyone else, and we do share a concern. Unscrupulous companies and business people are being perceived as going out to do some harm to the well-being of citizens. In this case, the business transactions are not of a criminal nature. It is more in the area of whether or not, as consumers, they have been sold a bag of goods that isn't worth the amount of money that has been transacted. Consumer affairs may be the best route to pursue because these are individual complaints about a business transaction. They should seek legal counsel. At this time, we do not perceive it as an interest of the Government of the Northwest Territories to engage the Department of Justice, besides the briefing note that we had shared with the Member for Thebacha.

Further Return To Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Question 27-13(2): Possible Remedies Re Skyline Cable Systems
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Krutko.

David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Education with regard to the problem of individuals receiving UI and then they want to better themselves by attending programs through Arctic College. There seems that there is a problem when you try to move ahead to get the skills to go into other areas and get off UI/social assistance. It seems like there is a real barrier there for individuals who want to move ahead. They either get cut off of UI or they are put in the situation where they have to go back to Social Services and go through that system. There is no clear direction that has been spelled out to simplify a lot of these problems that we have a lot of our clients running into. They make an attempt to better their lives by getting educated and moving into a sector in the workforce. Unemployment is high in the smaller communities and usually the UI process takes so long to get to begin with, by the time you are in the system, you are looking at a few months down the road.

I wonder if the department has made an attempt to look at streamlining with the federal government with regard to social assistance, UI and the Department of Education so it isn't so difficult. That way they wouldn't be penalized for making an attempt to proceed to move ahead in life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 28-13(2): Streamlining Ui And Social Assistance To Assist In Upgrading
Question 28-13(2): Streamlining Ui And Social Assistance To Assist In Upgrading
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 28

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the honourable Member has hit on an important aspect of my department's area of concern; that is, the total income support and development area. Employment insurance, as it is now called, is a federal program. We don't have a lot of input into that. In fact, the changes which were recently announced to that program were announced

unilaterally and without any consultation with any of the provinces or territories. UI hasn't had a great history in the Northwest Territories. It has been difficult for most of the people of the Territories to get into, as the Member mentioned, but it has gotten increasingly more difficult. The northerners accessed the program two years ago to the tune of about $40 million. This year it will be down to about $30 million. Given the changes that have been announced, I have no doubt that it will be further reduced significantly in the next year.

That means an increased amount of pressure is going to come on this government. I have written to the federal Minister about some of the changes and about the need for us to work together to address some of the unique problems we face in the North. I am planning to talk to the federal Minister by phone next week, again to try to address some of these issues. I took the opportunity when the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew was here today to talk to her about whether or not we could get together to discuss some joint approaches to try to come up with a more streamlined and better way of dealing with the needs of her constituents.

The Member brings up a good point. Yes, I think it is an extremely important area in which we need to work given the federal cutbacks and our fiscal situation. We need to find ways to work together better. We are looking for those ways. For instance, in some places now, we are already collocating with the federal human resources people and our income support delivery people. There is room for lots more. We will be working very actively to streamline and cooperate better as we can, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question 28-13(2): Streamlining Ui And Social Assistance To Assist In Upgrading
Question 28-13(2): Streamlining Ui And Social Assistance To Assist In Upgrading
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Ootes.

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Justice. I received a discussion paper from the Northwest Territories Architectural Society about the lack of territorial legislation for architectural practice. Unlike provincial jurisdictions which have regulated the architectural profession, the Northwest Territories has yet to enact legislation or set standards for training, skill qualifications and experience of building designers, except where the national building code requires fully-trained designers in engineering specialties.

Any person can provide building design services with no assurance to the public that he or she has the experience, training or skills in this highly technical area. I have been advised by the members of the Northwest Territories Architectural Society that the society has been seeking to have an act developed for several years. My question to the Minister is, could he please advise if the Department of Justice is working on drafting an architectural professional act.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Justice, Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question 29-13(2): Status Of Nwt Architectural Legislation
Question 29-13(2): Status Of NWT Architectural Legislation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, the answer is no.

Return To Question 29-13(2): Status Of Nwt Architectural Legislation
Question 29-13(2): Status Of NWT Architectural Legislation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 29-13(2): Status Of Nwt Architectural Legislation
Question 29-13(2): Status Of NWT Architectural Legislation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Could the Minister advise when this could be considered to be slotted in to be drafted and when work could start on drafting such legislation?

Supplementary To Question 29-13(2): Status Of Nwt Architectural Legislation
Question 29-13(2): Status Of NWT Architectural Legislation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Kakfwi.

Further Return To Question 29-13(2): Status Of Nwt Architectural Legislation
Question 29-13(2): Status Of NWT Architectural Legislation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, the Government House Leader will be dealing with the appropriate committees of the Legislature to draft a legislative agenda on the type of legislation that should be drafted, reviewed and proposed by this government over the course of the next three years. That would probably be the best recourse in which to get some action. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 29-13(2): Status Of Nwt Architectural Legislation
Question 29-13(2): Status Of NWT Architectural Legislation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 29

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mrs. Groenewegen.

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to address my question to the Minister of Health and Social Services. I would like the Minister to describe for me what his department's policy is with respect to the payment of rental arrears of social assistance clients who owe money to local housing authorities in the Northwest Territories. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. I am not clear whether that question should to be the Minister of Education or the Minister of Health and Social Services that should be answering that. The question was directed to Mr. Ng's department. Can I get some clarification from the Premier? Which Minister should the Member be addressing his question to?

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That would be Mr. Charles Dent, Minister of Education.

---Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with the transfer of social assistance to the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, the Department of Health and Social Services had taken the main estimates through the budget process before that. So when the transfer took place, there was a reduction in dollars. Part of that was to eliminate what are known as special benefits. These special benefits were eliminated because they were seen as not being available to the working corp.

So someone who was working at a minimum wage job, for instance, and might be earning no more money than someone on social assistance, didn't have the ability to get that benefit. That was the reason for its elimination.

Return To Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Supplementary, Mrs. Groenewegen.

Return To Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Actually, the supplementary is addressed to the Minister of the Housing Corporation, so I will leave it.

Return To Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Question 30-13(2): Social Assistance Policy On Rental Arrears Owed To Lhas
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Erasmus.

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to start out by thanking the honourable Member for Yellowknife South for distracting me at the end of the Members' statements. I didn't get a chance to make my statement.

---Applause

---Laughter

My question is to the Minister of Education. The previous Minister had indicated to the Yellowknives Dene First Nation that the Minister would direct his officials to help the Yellowknives Dene First Nation to acquire a school and a preschool. These officials were supposed to be working with them to do that. The reasoning behind this is when the children from Ndilo enter the Catholic school system, where most of the kids go, they are actually already about two years behind the kids who enter the school system there. As a consequence to this, they drop out early and we all know that when people drop out early, that increases your social assistance and increases the likelihood that people will become incarcerated. I understand that, to date, nothing has been done. I would like to know if the department intends to pursue this matter or if they have decided not to. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I believe I saw a copy of the letter that the previous Minister sent. In it, I think there were two promises or two undertakings: one for day care; and, one to examine the possibility of getting a kindergarten to grade 3 school in the capital planning process for Ndilo. My understanding is that there has been some assistance provided to have a day care started in Ndilo. It is operating right now.

The other part of the process, the planning for a kindergarten to grade 3 school, is still something that needs to take place. I have already talked to my department officials about this issue and we will be involving the residents of Ndilo in the consultative process as we work towards this.

Having said that, Mr. Speaker, I have to remind the Member that we do have a considerable fiscal problem and capital dollars are, as always, scarce.

Return To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Supplementary, Mr. Erasmus.

Supplementary To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the Minister may be mistaking a day care with a preschool. We were discussing starting a preschool, not a day care. A day care is something that was on the side, I suppose. I was not involved with that. I was involved in the discussions on the preschool and we were informed that we would be given some assistance in this matter. I don't know anything about the day care. I would like to know if the preschool is still being looked at.

Supplementary To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would be happy to discuss the issue in more detail with the Member. My recollection of the letter from the previous Minister did only mention a kindergarten to grade 3 and a day care. I should point out that at present, the department has no funds identified in any community or has no program available for preschool outside of day care. So I am not sure there was a commitment made. I will have to get a copy of the letter and sit down with the Member to review what the commitment was and where we can go to assist the band in this issue.

Further Return To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 6, oral questions. The time period for oral questions has lapsed. Item 7, written questions. Item 8, returns to written questions. Item 9, replies to opening address. Mr. Rabesca.

Further Return To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

James Rabesca North Slave

Mr. Speaker, I would like to go back to written questions.

Further Return To Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Question 31-13(2): Status Of New School For Ndilo In Capital Plan
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 30

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for North Slave is seeking unanimous consent to go back to written questions. Do we have any nays? There are no nays. Proceed, Mr. Rabesca.

Written Question 1-13(2): GNWT Staff Training
Revert To Item 7: Written Questions

Page 31

James Rabesca North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a written question for the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment.

1) What is the amount spent in the current fiscal year on training GNWT employees?

2) What was the amount spent on printing the calendar of courses for this fiscal year?

3) What is the cost for instructors to deliver the courses across the NWT to government employees for this fiscal year?

4) How many staff are dedicated to this function?

5) What is the amount that will be spent in the next fiscal year for training GNWT employees?

6) Are there any plans to transfer training dollars to the communities as part of block funding arrangements to be used to train the communities to administer and deliver government programs and services?

7) Are there any plans to eliminate the in-service training program for government employees?

8) How many government employees participated in training courses this fiscal year?

9) How many senior managers participated in training courses this fiscal year?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Written Question 1-13(2): GNWT Staff Training
Revert To Item 7: Written Questions

Page 31

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 7, written questions. Item 9, replies to opening address. Item 10, petitions. Mr. O'Brien.

Written Question 1-13(2): GNWT Staff Training
Revert To Item 7: Written Questions

Page 31

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Is it possible to go back to oral questions?

Written Question 1-13(2): GNWT Staff Training
Revert To Item 7: Written Questions

Page 31

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Are you asking for unanimous consent to return to item 6, oral questions? The Member is seeking unanimous consent to go back to item 6, oral questions. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Mr. O'Brien.

Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 31

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Once again, I bring this issue up. Actually, I can't ask the question at this time without being removed from the House.

---Laughter

I will have to wait, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 31

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Enuaraq.

Tommy Enuaraq Baffin Central

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question will be directed to the Minister of Transportation regarding the two boats that have been damaged and other boats that have been damaged in the summertime in Clyde River. Mr. Speaker, my question to the Minister of Transportation is will the docking facility be implemented this year. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Antoine.

Return To Question 32-13(2): Implementation Of Docking Facility In Clyde River
Question 32-13(2): Implementation Of Docking Facility In Clyde River
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 31

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With regard to the Clyde River harbour and marine facilities that the honourable Member for Baffin Central is asking about, the department is completing the design of this breakwater in the Clyde River harbour. We are looking at the possibilities of putting this structure in place. However, it is in the budgeting process. All Members know we are going through a budgeting process and we won't be completing the budget until May. We have a lot of work still to do in completing the budgeting process. Normally, we don't really want to go ahead and see whether this is going to go ahead this year or not. I have to say we are looking at it and that we know the concerns in Clyde River. We know what happened with the two boats that were damaged from the storm last summer. We are aware of the concerns of these people in this community. However, with the budget process in place, we have to say that we are looking at it and we will take the considerations of the Member. Thank you.

Return To Question 32-13(2): Implementation Of Docking Facility In Clyde River
Question 32-13(2): Implementation Of Docking Facility In Clyde River
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 31

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mrs. Groenewegen.

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to address my question to the Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation. I think that Mr. Dent told me that rental arrears owed to local housing authorities are not an eligible benefit any longer under social assistance. I think that is the answer I got. How much money is owed by public housing tenants to this government at this point in time?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation, Mr. Ng.

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, that is a very detailed question. I will take the question as notice and report back. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The question was taken as notice. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Evaloarjuk.

Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps I will ask the Minister of Justice or the Premier this question. As we are aware, ITC plans to go through the court system regarding the gun control act. I am wondering how much funding will be used to support ITC. I am wondering if the Government of the NWT has indicated whether they would help with funds that will be used for the court proceedings or have there been any request for funds from the GNWT. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Justice, Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question 34-13(2): Financial Assistance For Itc Re Gun Control Legislation Court Costs
Question 34-13(2): Financial Assistance For Itc Re Gun Control Legislation Court Costs
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 32

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. About two or three weeks ago, there was a public statement by Rosemarie Kuptana of the Inuit Tapirisat of Canada, suggesting that they will be following up a resolution passed at the Inuit Tapirisat annual assembly suggesting that legal action be looked at as a way to minimize the impact of the gun legislation, to minimize the impact that it has on the traditional lifestyle of aboriginal people; the Inuit in particular.

I made a public statement following that suggesting that as a government, we do have a program called the aboriginal court challenges program which has a small amount of money available and symbolizes our own commitment to assisting aboriginal people, whenever we can, to protect and to further define their rights; to protect and define these rights through the courts if necessary. I had indicated that I would be prepared to consider supporting the Inuit in a possible court challenge. I'm aware that the Inuit are only looking at legal options and may be strategizing with other aboriginal groups across this country to decide whether they will proceed at this time or wait for implementation of this bill; where they would use an actual case that is brought before the courts to challenge the validity of the bill or provisions of the bill with regard to its application to Inuit people or perhaps to aboriginal people in other parts of the country.

There has been no request, as yet, for additional money, but there have been some discussions between officials to date. I should remind Members that the gun bill that is now law has yet to be implemented. We have details, at this time, from the federal government as to when or how they proposed to implement this bill. Thank you.

Return To Question 34-13(2): Financial Assistance For Itc Re Gun Control Legislation Court Costs
Question 34-13(2): Financial Assistance For Itc Re Gun Control Legislation Court Costs
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 32

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 6, oral questions. Are there further oral questions? Mr. Roland.

Floyd Roland

Floyd Roland Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Public Works. I requested some information through our research department here but they're having problems getting the information from the Department of Public Works and Services. I wonder if the Minister would help in the area of getting the information on the cost of privatization of certain departments that have already proceeded in the past. Would he be able to help out in that area? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister of Public Works and Services, Mr. Arlooktoo.

Return To Question 35-13(2): Minister's Assistance In Obtaining Costs Of Privatization
Question 35-13(2): Minister's Assistance In Obtaining Costs Of Privatization
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 32

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Mr. Speaker, I'd be pleased to meet with the Member privately and discuss with him what exactly he's having a problem in getting and I'll see what I can do to help out. Thank you.

Return To Question 35-13(2): Minister's Assistance In Obtaining Costs Of Privatization
Question 35-13(2): Minister's Assistance In Obtaining Costs Of Privatization
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 32

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Ningark.

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the honourable Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation. Mr. Speaker, we have units with running water that are being renovated, while we have homes, which I call substandard, without running water. My question is will the honourable Minister provide information to this House regarding how many social housing units in Pelly Bay, Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak are without running water systems? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation, Mr. Ng.

Return To Question 36-13(2): Public Housing In Natilikmiot Without Running Water
Question 36-13(2): Public Housing In Natilikmiot Without Running Water
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 32

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it must be my day for detailed questions. Mr. Speaker, I'll have the Housing Corporation staff put that information together and report back to the House. Thank you.

Return To Question 36-13(2): Public Housing In Natilikmiot Without Running Water
Question 36-13(2): Public Housing In Natilikmiot Without Running Water
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 32

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Barnabas.

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister, Mr. Kakfwi. The justices of the peace in my constituency haven't had training in three years. They are very beneficial and of great assistance to the communities. Can the Minister tell us if they are prepared to hold a training session for JPs? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Justice, Mr. Kakfwi.

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I must say that I'm not aware of the status of our efforts in that area. I've been focusing mostly on trying to find some training money for coroners. I'll take the question as notice and advise all Members at the same time of what the status is of training

for JPs in the Northwest Territories in the coming year. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Ningark.

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is again directed to the honourable Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation. Some preamble first: When the renovation program is done renovating public units, it is mostly done in the winter. This is inconvenient for the tenants as they have to move from house to house in the dead of winter. Why are the renovations done in the wintertime instead of the summertime? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation, Mr. Ng.

Return To Question 38-13(2): Timing Of Renovations To Public Housing
Question 38-13(2): Timing Of Renovations To Public Housing
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm not sure about the specific contracts that the honourable Member is referring to but I can say that generally the construction is planned for the summer months. Sometimes we have materials waiting over the course of the winter for the spring and summer to have the ideal construction situation to make it more efficient for contractors to complete their work. However, Mr. Speaker, I will check into the matter of the units and the contracts in the honourable Member's riding and discuss the matter with him. Thank you.

Return To Question 38-13(2): Timing Of Renovations To Public Housing
Question 38-13(2): Timing Of Renovations To Public Housing
Revert To Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Item 6, oral questions. Back to item 10, petitions. Item 11, reports of standing and special committees. Item 12, report of committees on the review of bills. Item 13, tabling of documents. Mr. Ootes.

Item 13: Tabling Of Documents
Item 13: Tabling Of Documents

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Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Speaker, I wish to table the following document: Tabled Document 2-13(2), a discussion paper in support of an architectural profession act for the Northwest Territories. This is from the Northwest Territories Architectural Society.

Item 13: Tabling Of Documents
Item 13: Tabling Of Documents

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Item 13, tabling of documents. Item 14, notices of motion. Item 15, notices of motions for first reading of bills. Item 16, motions. Item 17, first reading of bills. Item 18, second reading of bills. Item 19, consideration in Committee of the Whole of bills and other matters: Minister's Statement 1-13(2), with Mrs. Groenewegen in the chair.

---Applause

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

I would like to call the committee to order.

---Applause

On our agenda today is Minister's Statement 1-13(2) entitled Sessional Statement. I see some of the Members are calling for a break. Just before we go for a break, I would like to, for those of you who didn't read through your Member's handbooks from cover to cover, make a couple of small points for when we come back for the new Members. Speeches are strictly relevant to the item under consideration; no Member shall speak for more than 10 minutes; and, no Member shall speak for a second time until each Member wishing to speak has had at least one chance to speak. The committee will recess for 15 minutes. Thank you.

---SHORT RECESS

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

If I have the agreement of the committee, I would like to suggest the process for consideration of this item would be for the Members to make general comments on the Premier's statement. Once all the Members who wish to make general comments have done so, I would allow the Members to direct questions to the Premier. Does everyone agree with that process?

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Some Hon. Members

Agreed.

---Agreed

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

So we have agreement. We will open the floor to general comments. Are there any comments? Mr. Ootes.

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Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

We don't have to stand up?

---Interjection

General Comments

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Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

You can if you want? Since no one had any general comments, I will make some comments with regard to the document that the Premier presented yesterday. In general, I guess I am certainly in favour of most of the areas. There are some areas that I feel I have some objections to.

I would like to make a comment about the statement that the deficit will be eliminated over two years. I have a concern in that area. First of all, we are looking at a $150 million deficit. We are also looking at eliminating that over a two-year period. What happens if we have further cutbacks from the federal government? From what I understand, that may be a likelihood. That means we have a further deficit in the upcoming year. That could really put us in a difficult situation. It might mean even if we plan this over two years, we will have three years in order to eliminate the deficit. We have to remember that our term really is only three years. I really don't want to go into two new territories with a deficit.

There was a comment made that we can no longer afford to be spending nearly half of every dollar for administration costs. I would like to clarify that because the percentage of spending by the GNWT administration is only 17 per cent of the budget, but 20 per cent is spent on boards and agencies.

I am very glad to hear that the Premier is looking at tackling this particular problem of the boards and agencies. They spend more than the administration of this government. My attitude would be let's immediately start tackling that and I would hope that that is being tackled from today on. The longer we talk about this, the more that is being spent. These are areas that can be tackled quickly.

With respect to the amalgamation of Renewable Resources, Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources and ED&T, I am certainly one that is in favour of that. I think it will become a more efficient administration. But I would also like to know if the Executive has considered developing an economic revenue-generating plan. All we are doing is looking at amalgamating, reducing and so forth. This particular department will be the only one in the government that is a revenue generator. It is extremely important for us to tackle that area and to have some foresight.

I can't remember the figures those departments generate now, but I am sure that can be improved. For instance, there is a good program in Coral Harbour for caribou hunting. I understand that more of that product can be sold. Muskox can potentially be sold. The forestry area is a great economic generator. That is an area that can be developed.

Regarding the transfer of occupational health and safety from the Department of Safety and Public Services to the Workers' Compensation Board, at the moment I have a lot of questions in that area because I wonder what the philosophy behind this is. My concern is that this is transferred to the Workers' Compensation Board, but the Workers' Compensation Board is driven by industry and employers. They pay the bill. If occupational health and safety is transferred there, could we possibly have pressure placed on the Workers' Compensation Board by the employers to say we don't want to pay this much for health and safety; therefore, we are going to lobby to reduce the inspections, et cetera? That is an area of concern I have. Again, I would like to hear some comments about the philosophy behind the transfer.

I certainly agree with the Premier's statement that we can no longer afford expensive procedures and delivery systems. Too many government departments, too many committees and too many boards and agencies, but I would like to refer later on where the Premier states: "I intend to move quickly to establish a panel of independent advisors on the economy and employment and on how to improve the business climate to attract jobs, investment and capital to the Northwest Territories." In other words, we have too many boards and agencies and now we are going to establish another panel of independent advisors to advise us how to handle and look at the economy and employment. I have some concerns in this area, one is we all have our network of people who we want to be consultants and so forth.

I would hope that, if this comes about, there would be a very good cross-representation of individuals.

There are some extremely good business people in this territory. I don't believe we need anyone from the South, number one, to help us consult on how we generate revenue up here. We know that ourselves. This is the first time I have seen this.

Another area I am concerned about is in this Legislature we have a number of people who are former business people and I am wondering if it wouldn't be advisable to have a committee of people from this Legislature to have a first crack at this and to pass back some comments to the Premier and Minister before we get into establishing committees and so forth. I don't see any reason also why the Premier and the Minister can't call on the people they know for ideas and so forth and feed them into a group of people here for consultation.

The Premier spoke about having met with the aboriginal summit and the development of protocol agreements. I am wondering if the Premier could explain how this works. Since there is a Constitutional Development Steering Committee, how does this tie in with that committee? We all are Members of the Constitutional Development Steering Committee. I am wondering if that protocol will be something he will seek consultation from us on, as well as from the Constitutional Development Steering Committee.

The northern accord is an area that is certainly of great interest to me. I think we all see the need for developing that. Could I get an explanation of why the northern accord didn't succeed the last time? What are the reasons for the failure? Why do we think we can accomplish a northern accord now, especially considering the possibility of some mines going ahead? That possibility is extremely good. I lost my train of thought, I am sorry. I'll let someone else carry on from here. Thank you.

---Applause

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

General comments, Mr. Erasmus.

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Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Madam Chair. I, too, would like to begin my comments looking at the comment that we will eliminate our deficit situation within two years. I favour trying to eliminate the deficit in a one-year time frame; however, if we cannot do this without making the people who can least afford it suffer too much, then I don't believe that we should.

Also, I think that if we can't do it in such a way that Yellowknife isn't taking the brunt of the cuts, then I think we should take two years to do it, as well. I know that from what I am seeing so far -- of course Yellowknife has the greatest amount of people working for the government, and we are always the favourite target -- that if we cannot do this without Yellowknife being hit unfairly, then I think it should be done in two years, as well.

I believe the block funding and empowering the communities is a very good strategy. The community people have been saying for years that they want to take over programs and have the ability to focus on certain areas that they wish, and that they are being restricted in funding and the rest of that, so I completely agree with this and I think that we should find ways of implementing this as quickly as possible.

I believe the consolidation of the three economic areas into a one-window shopping area for resource development and economic activity is very good, as well. For years, fishermen have been complaining that more fish have been thrown back into Great Slave Lake than the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation is actually sending out for sale. This is depleting our resources. Hopefully, consolidating these three departments into one will help us to get away from that and to use that fish that is now being wasted. I know people have talked about cat food, dog food, fertilizer and all those types of things. Certainly, if we can package those things with the fish that is now being thrown back, that would certainly improve matters.

With the refocusing of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs within the Executive department, I hope we are not sending the wrong message to the aboriginal people. I hope that it's not just going to be swallowed up and disappear, because there are definitely things that can be done that have not been done before. I hope we take this opportunity to refocus the energies of the people within those areas so that we get things done with the aboriginal people. The majority of the people in the Northwest Territories are aboriginal, and aboriginal and treaty rights have been protected under the constitution for over 10 years, yet there has been very little done to define those rights. It's probably time that we as a government tried to define those rights; at least as far as we understand them and how those rights can be practised in the territories.

The amalgamation of the Personnel Secretariat into the Department of Executive. Here again I have a concern that we have to ensure that affirmative action and other policies are still maintained. We have to have a watchdog out there. Without that, nepotism, favouritism or whatever "ism" you like can happen. I know that it's already happening that friends are being hired. Many people have complained to me that they see things happening every day, such as job descriptions being written to favour someone's resume and then that person just steps into the job. Hopefully, while reorganizing the Personnel Secretariat into the Executive we will find ways of ensuring that the old practices are done away with. I am sure that this is the intent, and I look forward to seeing some exciting results through there. In particular, women and aboriginal people have very low numbers in management. Hopefully, this will help us to increase those numbers.

Also in the area of partners operating health and education boards and asking people to eliminate duplication and save money by entering into new arrangements, we have received a letter from the Canadian Mental Health Association which is very timely in this area. They are proposing that a community health centre model be implemented where there would basically be a one-stop shopping centre in the mental health area as far as research and those types of things, and I think this is a very good idea that fits well into our new direction. Hopefully, we will be able to follow up in this area.

The Premier indicated that we have a young, capable and willing population which can benefit from opportunities we create. This is true; we do have a very young population, but we have to ensure that this young population is trained, and we have to take advantage of the jobs. We also have to ensure that we are in a position for them to get jobs from development that occurs on our lands in the Territories. People who are born here, northern aboriginal people and other people who are born here, should have a priority on all jobs. We have to find a way to ensure that this priority is implemented.

The northern accord is one way that this can happen. The Premier spoke of northern control over northern resources. I am sure that he's talking about the northern accord. Here again is a method of ensuring that our workers actually benefit from the development that occurs on the lands in the Northwest Territories. We have to start working on a northern accord as soon as possible. I know that monetarily we probably can't benefit for a couple of years, so it's certainly not going to help us in the 1996-97 fiscal year. However, it can help us in the future, and it can help us to try to ensure that our people get jobs. So we need to start working on this as soon as possible. I certainly agree with the Premier's message that we must be prepared to deal with change and change won't manage us, we will manage it. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Further general comments to the Premier's statement. Mr. O'Brien.

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Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Madam Chair. In general, I agreed with the overall comments that were made by the Premier, with two exceptions. Regarding the time frame to deal with the deficit, I, for one, would like to see the Premier and this government add another year to the equations for us trying to deal with the problem. I would say it would be only fair that we would look at between two and three years.

The second point I would like to make is regarding the Premier's comments on the proposed establishment of an economic advisory committee. My question to the Premier on this is, is he going to allow the ordinary MLAs to have some input into the selection process. Thank you, Madam Chair.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

General comments. Continue, Mr. Henry.

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Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

I would like to start off with comments that I have made numerous times at Caucus meetings when it was realized that there would be a requirement for cuts. I reiterated a number of times that I would support cuts as long as they were done fairly. That commitment still stands. I think from initial documents that I have received, at first glance, it appears that it is not very fair looking; certainly not for the community that I represent. So I would be looking for a lot more balanced approach and fairness, because the people of the Northwest Territories will accept the cuts that are coming as long as they are seen to be fair and they are fair. So from the initial documents I've seen, I believe there is still quite a bit of work to be done in that regard.

On comments with regard to balancing the budget, I certainly would be in favour of balancing the budget in the first year. I would welcome any comments from any individuals who can show me how I can spend more money than I take in. I would suggest that this government should not be conducting business in any other fashion. Don't live beyond your means. I think we have seen the negativeness of those particular attitudes over the last few years and it has contributed greatly to the situation we find ourselves in today.

Overall, I was pleased with the Premier's statement. Some comments I will make regard specifics that the Premier had mentioned. They have been referred to earlier and I would like to add a different sort of twist to them. The Premier has suggested; make no mistake, we will have to be aggressive with mining companies so that northern workers replace southern workers. I would encourage the Premier to be encouraging the peoples of the North to get out and take those jobs and not be demanding that the companies do everything to create them. I believe there's an obligation for people who require a job to get out and more encouragement should be put to people to take the jobs which are rightfully theirs. They're living in this Territory. So rather than hammering the investors who come to the Territories, let's us do our part. We need to train a workforce to make people employable by companies.

With regard to the comment about the independent advisors, I had not thought of it but I certainly support the idea that many times a profit is not recognized in its own land. I would suggest looking around the House. There may be sufficient input that you may want to talk to who can produce a northern advisory built and made in the North.

I think something that can go a long way to attracting jobs, as you've talked about, is a Territory -- as in our case -- with a balanced budget, balanced books and also keep taxes at reasonable levels to encourage developers to come. We will be able to benefit down the road from a northern accord, the taxes that those jobs generate and the business spin-offs that will be created from it.

I see the exercise that we're presently in as a great opportunity for the Territories. In the past number of years, we have had some bad habits that have to be corrected. We've had the bad habit of spending more than we have taken in a lot of times. I welcome the opportunity to get a little more creative. Hopefully we can rid of some of those bad habits, get our house in order, be in excellent shape to encourage the investment and also to take advantage of being creative when we are spending. Thank you, Madam Chair.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Further on general comments. Mr. Krutko.

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David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Madam Chair. With regard to the Premier's statement, I support a large majority of what was said. There are comments in there that I basically feel have to be supported fully by everyone here, especially with regard to the question about not cutting in only one area. I think in the larger centres looking at the smaller communities that have not had the opportunity to manage themselves in the past, they have always been sort of dictated to from the top down. I think it's now time through this process of empowering communities and allowing them more responsibility, to say how those communities operate by ways of block funding and streamlining government. We need to allow the administration of a lot of these programs and services to be done at the community level, not from the top down. I think that's what we're looking at here to save revenues and consider cutting the deficit. But we have to look at it in the context of how we can save, not in the context of what am I going to lose. I think we have to look at it in the context of not winners and losers, but looking at a new way of governing the Northwest Territories.

We've had a system in the North for the last 30 years which was brought from Ottawa and imposed on people in the North who lived up here all their lives. We have been stuck in a situation especially from the smaller communities where you have band councils, settlement councils and hamlet councils. But there seems to have always been the clash between the aboriginal groups; the imposed government structure within those communities. I think this gives us the opportunity now to work collectively in the community formulating one central government system so that everything basically flows from one level; that your administration costs will be down with regard to how they conduct the meetings in the community without have to run through three or four different agencies. You'll be basically dealing with one group.

The same thing with the northern accord and the other issues that relate to aboriginal people. I think you have to look at that in the context that we have always had two levels of government here. We had a government that was in charge of band councils -- basically, Indian Affairs out of Ottawa -- and we had another government which was in charge of municipal affairs and communities. I think we have to look at a way of dealing with problems in the communities which always seem to be handed off from one responsible authority to another, especially if it's a federal issue such as a health issue in which basically the individual is usually stuck in the middle wondering where to go from here. With regard to what was imposed by the Premier in his presentation, I support it fully but I think people have to also realize that we cannot get back into the mould of saying well, if I'm going to lose, I'm not going to support this. I think we have to look at it in the context that this is change and change is basically for the betterment of all people in the North; we can't just look at the larger centres versus the smaller centres but have to look at it in the context of how government is going to be moulded to operate in the North for the betterment of everybody. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Steen.

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Vince Steen

Vince Steen Nunakput

Thank you, Madam Chair. My comments relate to a refocus of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs. I'm not clear about just exactly what that means. I'm also unclear as to what downsizing of the Housing Corporation means. Does that means we'll do away with the Housing Corporation? I'm not clear on that point.

I have comments with regard to page 5, where there is reference to independent advisors on the economy. I'm surprised that we have reached that point already where we are now deciding that maybe we need advisors on how we can improve the economy when we haven't really had the opportunity to discuss it ourselves. I'm also concerned that we heard many comments from people that the government basically studies everything do death. They spend so much money studying it that there's no money left to do anything with it. With regard to that, I would be very concerned about how much these advisors are going to cost us and also whether or not we already have these people employed in the departments.

Furthermore, I would question why they aren't employed in the departments if they're that good. Why do we always have to hire consultants in order to accomplish anything? I think it's quite common now that there are more and more consultant firms being set up in the Territories and they're all being funded by the government. In other words, we talk about a lot of things, we study a lot of things, but we don't do anything. We're spending all our money importing consultants or assisting them to get established. I'm very concerned about that particular clause. Thank you, Madam Chair.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Any further general comments to the Minister's statement? Mr. Ningark.

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John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Madam Chair. The planning session, Madam Chair, that we have had for the last two months, I think, was worth it. There were many people across the Territories very anxious to know what was happening. The business plan in this case has been drafted by all 24 MLAs. I think we should congratulate ourselves that we have done a good job. I basically like the Premier's statement on behalf of this government. I know there is apprehension among the public, among the politicians. I wonder at times why we are so apprehensive when, in fact, we are living in a wealthy land in terms of renewable and non-renewable resources. We have a high potential for tourism; in fact, we are living in the last frontier and people like to come to this country, to the NWT, to see the culture, the wildlife, and to take photographs, et cetera.

Madam Chair, in the recent past, there was an article in the paper talking about caribou clothing. In fact, according to the scientific findings, caribou skin was far more practical than the conventional factory-made clothing. This finding gave us the great opportunity to enhance the use of caribou skin clothing.

I have stated earlier that we are living in a wealthy land; we've merely scraped the surface of the potential that we have within the land. How can we use the full potential of renewable and non-renewable resources? What is the stumbling block in this case? I think, unless we can speed up the land claims process within the jurisdiction, Madam Chair, only then can we realize the use of non-renewable and renewable resources. The claimants in the Eastern and Western Arctic are willing to work together and they want development. Before that can be realized, they want to settle the land claims. That's where it's at.

I speak not as a person from the Nunavut area, I speak as a public person. Madam Chair, most of the people in the Northwest Territories, the majority, rely on the fur industry. During the last 30 years, the sale of furs has declined. This government has tried to talk to people in Ottawa and in other countries but I don't believe that we have used our full potential to try and promote and enhance the trapping industry.

Madam Chair, we have people in the communities across the Territories who depend mainly upon carving. Carving, being a by-product of wildlife, has been rejected by some of the countries. Again, in this area we have done very little to promote our industry within the jurisdiction. In terms of creating jobs for the communities, the Premier, who was the Minister of Public Works and Services, has come a long way in terms of using the community manpower, made in the Territories, made in the communities, but I think we have not used the full potential of the local labour force that is available in every community.

We are still seeing in my area that when there are government projects in the communities, we still see contractors coming from outside of the Territories. I believe if there is a project taking place in Yellowknife, Yellowknife should have the first crack at it. If there is a community project in Iqaluit, Pelly Bay and other communities across the Territories, it should be likewise. People in the communities should be awarded contracts because when you award a contract to a local business, the community people will get the jobs and many people only depend on seasonal work. The only time people are able to afford to buy hunting equipment is when they get the opportunity to work during the summer, get their hunting equipment and supplement their income by hunting and trapping. Those are the areas we should really concentrate on because of the bad financial situation we are faced with.

Madam Chair, with regard to trying to balance the budget within two years, I believe we should have a mid-term review of the financial situation of this government. I don't think we should be committed to balance the budget in one or two years. We should leave that open, have a mid-term review of the financial situation and take it from there.

Madam Chair, within the last two months, people have asked me what is happening with this. Are you still planning? Yes, we have plans for two months. Now we have a business plan in place and we can take it from there. We can make that plan work so when the time comes for division, two territories in this jurisdiction, we will be able to realize that, even through difficult times. I have every confidence, Madam Chair, with the Cabinet Ministers, the Premier, the politicians and the people of the Territories that we'll be able to pull through. We will be able to say we stood by the business plan, we made it and we will be able to reminisce that we were the great ones. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Ningark. Are there any specific questions to the Premier specific to the statement? Mr. Miltenberger.

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Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Madam Chair. I was going to say I heard at least 25 questions during the general comments. I don't know if the Premier is making a list or if those were just rhetorical questions and now we will get down to the real questions. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. I have listened to all the comments the Members had to make. I did

pick up some questions through their opening comments. I would like to respond to some of those questions.

I realize that some Members are saying we should try to eliminate the deficit we do have within one year. Some other Members are saying we should look at three years. Other Members are saying we shouldn't set any time at all and we should review it. We have taken direction and listened to the concerns Members have. Looking at the deficit and the problems we face we should fully understand that if we try to eliminate the deficit too quickly, we could create too much hardship on those people who desperately depend on social programs from this government. We have to take that into consideration. There are no hard numbers decided upon yet, but we do have general agreement to try to eliminate the majority of that deficit within the first year.

We also recognize that it is going to take longer. It will take time to put things into place and make changes. We have to give people time to adapt. That is the reason, through my Sessional Statement, I said two years was the majority.

We are also going to look at all avenues of government and we are going to try to do it in a fair manner and a compassionate manner. I would just like to assure the Members who raised the concern that it would be done on the backs of the capital and regional centres; that isn't so. It will be spread out. You also have to realize where the majority of dollars are being spent. We have to look at that in a fair and compassionate way, which we will, and make the adjustments accordingly. I fully agree that whatever we do, we not only look at direct but indirect spending of our dollars and that includes boards and agencies, housing authorities, et cetera.

Regarding the amalgamation of Renewable Resources, EM&PR and ED&T, I believe that is the proper choice to make. By that amalgamation, we will be able to have a more focused approach on resource development as well as economic development. That is the right move to make. We have directed the staff to begin to put together the plans to accomplish that.

The move of occupational health and safety to WCB isn't going to happen overnight, but we are building the plans to do that. A lot of these things need planning and it will take time. There will be concerns no matter what you do in this government, but if we are going to change, there will be problems. With every problem, there are opportunities and solutions as well. We have to take those into consideration. We will develop the business plans to accomplish this in an orderly manner that respects everyone's integrity in this amalgamation. We will not compromise anyone. I understand there will be problems specific to this amalgamation, but it has potential to save a lot of dollars and it is also my understanding that 10 or 11 other jurisdictions in Canada do the same thing. We just have to make sure that the problems that pop up have solutions and we move ahead.

Some Members raised some concerns about my intent to move quickly about establishing an independent panel on the economy. I fully realize that myself as a Member of my Assembly, my background is business and there are many people in this House who have business experience. I also know that there are many business people out there who have a lot to offer the Northwest Territories, and I'm not talking about consultants, and I'm not talking about paying anybody any money. What I'm talking about is independent advisors, independent business person advisors. I don't plan on paying anyone any amount of money to come and give us independent advice. We all have people we draw on, whether it's a respected elder, a community member, or a business person, for advice from time to time. I'm basically being right up front with people here saying that I would like advice on who you think are good-quality business people in the Northwest Territories that can offer us advice from time to time, and are willing to do that for the good of the Northwest Territories. People that live here, that retire here, and will be buried here, those are the people who are interested in the future of the Northwest Territories and I think we have to have the opportunity to hear from them as well. I would welcome Members' advice on that issue, as well.

As far as our protocol agreements with aboriginal governments, the First Nations and this government, that's basically what it is. We're going to attempt to enter into protocol agreements with them as well as all the bands and Metis locals at the community level. I think that's a step in the right direction. That's a step towards the future and the future means a partnership with aboriginal people and that we'll have a good working relationship with them. So far, the meetings we've had with them, I've been very impressed on their desire to work with us and ours to work with them. I believe that signing agreements with them, recognizing them, will go a long way in helping the North move in the right direction.

Why did the northern accord not succeed the last time? Because we didn't have good working relationships with aboriginal groups. It's as simple as that. Why do I think it's going to succeed this time? Because we will have good working relationships with aboriginal groups and we will strive to make sure that those relationships are built on trust and clear, open dialogue.

Block funding for the communities. I was thinking back, I mentioned in this speech that eight years ago, when I ran for this Assembly, I had very clear intentions: to change government, change the way it operates. I'm sure that every Member of this Assembly ran basically on those fundamental principles: we're here to make change. Our voters didn't send us here to keep the status quo, they sent us here to make sure government changes and government becomes more responsive to the people it's to serve. Regardless of whether we have a $150 million deficit or not, I think block funding is the only way to go. That's the way to go into the future, it's the way of block funding the communities and empowering the communities so they make the decisions and set the priorities on how they would like to see their dollars spent. Ultimately, that's what we're all here for; we're here, we manage, we manage the dollars on behalf of our communities. People have been saying that for 20 years and it's about time we moved ahead and did it.

As far as the refocusing of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs into the Executive, I'm convinced that by doing this we will accomplish a higher degree of attention on aboriginal issues, First Nation issues, treaty rights, and I think that's a very important part of where we're going to go in the future. If we are to move ahead in the future with any amount of credibility or any amount of good faith amongst our aboriginal partners, we have to make sure that we give the right priorities to the issues that are at hand.

As far as rolling in Personnel into the Executive, that, too, is going to take some time and it cannot happen completely overnight. Once again, however, I believe, that we have all said and we have all heard that affirmative action does not work. We're still finding things that are happening to stop that. We have to ensure that people who are capable and willing to work and are from the Northwest Territories, get those jobs. By making managers, and I'll use myself as an example, as the Minister responsible for Economic Development: If I have 10 per cent aboriginal employment and my budget comes up, I can pass the buck to Personnel; Personnel can pass the buck back to me. We have to make managers manage, pay them accordingly, and hold them responsible. But we do need the watch-dog portion of Personnel to make sure that the things are happening. We have to make sure that we empower those managers and make them accountable so that if you don't see an increase in northern and affirmative action, then you hold them accountable.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

I believe that's 10 minutes. Do we have the agreement of the Members?

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Some Hon. Members

Agreed.

---Agreed

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you. Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. We should explore the idea, through the health boards, of the one-stop shopping for mental health, as well, brought up by Mr. Erasmus. That could be a money-saving exercise. Any advice we can get on how to save dollars is greatly appreciated.

I fully understand and will pay the most attention to our young people. Many people have brought it up that we not only have to be more aggressive with the mining companies, but by doing that, what we also mean is that we have to have a properly trained workforce for them to employ. Mr. Henry, you brought that issue up and that's a good issue because what we have to do is train our young people in partnership with the mining companies so that they end up with good employees in the end who are capable of doing the job.

I'm very supportive and a very strong advocate of northern control over northern resources. We have talked to the aboriginal groups and, as I mentioned earlier, we are going to proceed on that issue. We're going to proceed on it in partnership with our aboriginal partners to try our best to come to agreement so that when we go to deal with the federal government, we go with a united front. We'll go there to bring the control of northern resources home to the North where it belongs.

I've already addressed the time frame to deal with the $150 million deficit. Mr. O'Brien also brought up the issue of will Members be involved on this committee for rejuvenating the economy. As I previously mentioned, I will seek your advice; you know people who I don't know and other Members don't know but what we're looking for are very strong committed independent businessmen in the North who would like to volunteer their services to help this government through some hard times.

I've addressed the issue of fair cuts to Yellowknife. Like I said earlier, we have the fundamental belief that we have to balance the budget but we do not do it on the backs of only Yellowknife. We talked to our communities already and we've told our communities that you can expect to feel a portion of the reductions in this government. Let me say again that all sectors of the government will be touched by reductions of some sort once we work through that. So, with that, it will be done fairly and compassionately.

As far as the downsizing of the Housing Corporation, what we mean when we mention downsizing is so it becomes more in the community development mode; that's exactly what we mean. I am not talking about getting rid of the Housing Corporation totally. Because you have CMHC funding, you have to have a corporation, you have to have something to funnel that money through, but you also have to have less government, so we have to look at the role they play, the function they produce and whether or not it should continue the way it is. The communities are saying very clearly that they have the ability to run their own affairs and we have to work with them to develop their abilities so that they can make their own decisions at the community level, and I see the Housing Corporation playing a key part in that for the simple reason that they have presence in every community, houses in every community and housing is one of the highest priorities of this government because we have a great housing shortage in the North. So I can see that by block funding or doing community empowerment with the Housing Corporation, that would help the communities greatly in solving their own problems.

We also have to look very seriously at the whole issue of renewable resources and how the development of the renewable resource economy can help our people and how it can put jobs in the communities. So I completely agree with Mr. Ningark when he says that we have to look at it seriously and try to help the communities develop.

So that basically covers off pretty well all the points that I believe Members have raised. I will also read Hansard tomorrow to find out if I missed anything. I always appreciate Members' advice, and we have to work on this together. We have a great opportunity to change the way we do business. We have a great opportunity to make a government that is more in tune with what the people of the Northwest Territories would like to do, and that is control their own futures at the community level. With that, Madam Chair, I would like to thank you. Mahsi cho.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Premier. That covers off the questions that were asked during the comments. We will now move on to the questions. Mr. Picco.

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Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Madam Chair. I have a specific question, Mr. Premier, concerning the Northwest Territories parks system and the privatization as mentioned in the sessional statement. What are the time lines that we are looking at here, and what does that specifically entail? There is an NWT park in my riding and several people working for it. I have some concerns with the privatization that were raised by my constituents after the sessional speech yesterday.

I would also like to add my voice to Mr. Erasmus's with regard to the situation with Personnel amalgamation. I think it is a serious concern, as is the amalgamation of Finance.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. At the present time, we do not have the time lines in place for petroleum products division, property management, computer system services, community resupply operations and the NWT parks system privatization initiatives. We will be going back to the committees on February 22nd, and by that time we should have the time lines in place of how and when that should happen.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Mr. Roland.

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Floyd Roland

Floyd Roland Inuvik

Thank you, Madam Chair. My question to the Premier has to do with the privatization of different departments. Would the government be looking at allowing existing employees to buy out the portion that is going to be looked at for privatization?

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. I know through the previous privatization initiatives of this government that we always took into account employees and how they could be involved. I will make a commitment to the Member today that any privatization operation that we do, as we move ahead with it, we will involve the employees so that they fully understand what is happening and if they can be involved in working in the private sector at the end, then we will try our best to accomplish that.

We also have to take into consideration aboriginal groups. For example, the petroleum products division services certain areas, so we have to take into consideration aboriginal groups in that area, as well.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Any further questions? Mr. Steen.

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Vince Steen

Vince Steen Nunakput

Madam Chair, I don't believe I got an answer to my question about refocusing Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs. That was one.

My other question is about privatization of petroleum products. Is the government looking at turning all the tank farms and the fuel in those tanks over to private industry?

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. On the refocusing of IAA, we are looking at enhancing Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs by bringing it into the Executive and refocusing it so that it is there to assist aboriginal groups in the Northwest Territories. It is also very important that we have that department's advice on the things that this government does and how it affects the aboriginal people. So it will be refocused and integrated more within the Executive. The possible time line on that is that we should have business plans developed and brought back to the Cabinet by this month. Members will then have an opportunity to look at it to see whether they agree to it or not.

Through the privatization of petroleum products, yes, we are looking at complete ownership of tank farms and the delivery systems and fuel in there as well. I know an issue that we have to address is fuel and liability. I know that is going to be one of the issues of it, so we will have to address that, as well. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Any further questions? Mr. Ningark.

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John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Madam Chair. We're talking about partnerships within the jurisdiction of the NWT, but partnerships with other jurisdictions are equally important. Having a dialogue with a federal counterpart is one of the most important items that we should be looking at. By that I mean, do the honourable Premier of this government and the honourable Minister of Finance have any plans to meet with the federal Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister or other Premiers of the jurisdictions within the country in the near future? Are any meetings going to be attended by the representatives of the governments of the other jurisdictions in terms of talking about the economy of the country, et cetera?

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. I do have a meeting with the Premier of Alberta, Ralph Klein, next week. We are trying to find the time to meet with the Premier of Saskatchewan, Mr. Romanow, as well. We have a meeting scheduled for the beginning of June, the Western Premiers' meeting, as well. We do have agreements with Ron Irwin, the Minister of Indian Affairs, to meet with him four times a year, and any time items pop-up or issues need to be discussed, he's just a phone call away. I believe Mr. Todd has already developed a working relationship with the federal Minister of Finance. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Any further questions? Mr. Ningark.

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John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Madam Chair. In recent years, there have been some outstanding financial disputes with the federal government with regard to health billings and also in the area of having extra manpower coming in from other jurisdictions during a dispute at a certain mine in Yellowknife. Are there any accounts receivables that haven't been collected from the federal government? Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Ningark. I would like to remind the Member that we are asking questions relevant to the Minister's statement and we'll try and keep on that topic tonight. Go ahead, Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. Mr. Ningark, I'm not completely sure if the health billings dispute and the RCMP billings dispute are completely finished. I know there was a payment received by the previous government, an out-of-court payment. What I will do is request the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Justice to get you a briefing note on both issues. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Further relevant questions to the Minister's statement. Mr. Erasmus.

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Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Madam Chair. With all the plans to amalgamate -- and I know that we've just recently gone through amalgamation of departments -- people get used to going to certain places for certain things and it leads to mass confusion. Now again, we're going to amalgamate several departments. Say someone, Ed Picco, came from Hard Luck Bay and last time he went some place to get something and now he's going to have to go to another place. What kind of plans do we have to try and avoid this type of confusion? Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you. Mr. Premier.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. We'll have to make sure that the public in general are well-aware of what is happening as it is happening so that they can be redirected and go to the proper places to get the services that they need, when they need it. We'll do that through communications, through newspapers, or through the e-mail. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Mr. Steen.

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Vince Steen

Vince Steen Nunakput

Thank you, Madam Chair. In putting all these departments together, are we suggesting here that we're going to be reducing Cabinet? Are we talking about removing some departments in total? I'm wondering if we're going to be reducing the Cabinet? Are we looking at total removal of some departments? That's my question, Madam Chair.

I would like to take this opportunity to at least thank the Premier for putting forward a plan of operation for this government. Even though I don't totally agree with all of it, at least it's a plan and I appreciate that. I think he should be congratulated for at least putting forward a plan. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you, Mr. Steen. Mr. Premier, to the question of amalgamation and reductions in the Cabinet.

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Madam Chair. It will mean fewer departments in the end. It will mean that departments will be refocused so they're more specific; for example, EM&PR and ED&T so that they are results-oriented in resource management and economic development. I don't see, at this time, that that would be reduction in Cabinet Ministers. I know that Cabinet Members, like the ordinary Members of this Assembly, are working very long hours now to keep up with what they have. I don't see that as being a reduction in the very immediate future. Thank you.

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The Chair

The Chair Jane Groenewegen

Thank you. Any further questions to the Premier regarding his statement? Minister's Statement 1-13(2) is concluded. If the committee has no further business, I will rise and report progress.

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Some Hon. Members

Agreed.

---Applause

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The House will come back to order. We're on item 20, report of Committee of the Whole. Mrs. Groenewegen.

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Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your committee has been considering Minister's Statement 1-13(2), and I would like to report that consideration of the Minister's statement is concluded. Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of Committee of the Whole be concurred with.

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Seconded by Mr. Picco. The motion is in order. To the motion.

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An Hon. Member

Question.

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed. The motion is carried.

---Carried

Item 21, third reading of bills. Item 22, orders of the day. Mr. Clerk.

Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day

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Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Orders of the day for Friday, February 16, 1996:

1. Prayer

2. Ministers' Statements

3. Members' Statements

4. Returns to Oral Questions

5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

6. Oral Questions

7. Written Questions

8. Returns to Written Questions

9. Replies to Opening Address

10. Petitions 11. Reports of Standing and Special Committees

12. Reports of Committees on the Review of Bills

13. Tabling of Documents

14. Notices of Motion

15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills

16. Motions

17. First Reading of Bills

- Bill 2, An Act to Amend the Public Service Act

18. Second Reading of Bills

19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters

20. Report of Committee of the Whole

21. Third Reading of Bills

22. Orders of the Day

Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Clerk. This House stands adjourned until Friday, February 16, 1996, at 10:00 a.m.

---ADJOURNMENT