Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My comments are with regard to a statement I made at the beginning of the session as to looking at amendments to the NWT Wildlife Act and also the Bankruptcy Act. Currently, the NWT legislation defines the maximum fine of $1,000 or one year imprisonment, or both.
With regard to section 83, section 91 of the act titled 'general punishment,' outlines that the fine not exceed $1,000 or imprisonment of a term not to exceed one year. Because of that, there is inconsistency in the act. I made contacts in the Yukon territory and a section of their legislation outlines the range from $1,000 to $25,000, depending on the nature of the offence. In discussions with the Yukon government, it is clear that even those amounts are insufficient. The Yukon government is once again looking at updating its legislation and the fines that are in place to date.
I am sure you would agree that wildlife is one of the most valuable resources we have in the North. Not only does it provide an economic base and a food source for many communities, but it is also unique to our northern culture and the way of life. By not increasing these fines, I fear that the NWT will become a prime territory for poachers, illegal hunters and a host of related problems that are associated with that trade which is presently taking place, especially in southern Canada.
I have been in touch with the Minister on the matter, working along with his department, to look at these amendments for the fall session.
With regard to the Bankruptcy Act, I've noted that there is a real discrepancy; especially in the North where we talk about beekeepers and protecting people's cattle, et cetera.
Mr. Speaker, can I ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement?