Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have been involved in the last couple of days, reviewing this legislation. As I indicated in the House, a number of days ago, I was going to be very vigilant and carefully scrutinize this legislation to make sure it addressed the concerns that I had experienced as a result of the last election in Thebacha. I am pleased to say that I think this is a very good piece of legislation, overdue, but a good piece. I think the many months of hard work of pulling this together should be commended. In an ideal situation, my opinion is of course that proxies are not necessary. However, I think what is in this legislation is a good compromise that the case was made by Members in other constituencies justifying the need for proxies and though everyone recognized the need to tighten it up which has been done. As well it is very important that we clarify the authorities in the Election Act in who is in charge, who resolves disputes, and who responds to complaints so that we will never have the confusion of the RCMP tripping over the CEO who is tripping over himself. So that issue as well has been dealt with and I think in an effective way. Above all we are finally going to have northern control over northern elections. I think that is an important step. It is not actually part of this legislation, but it is tied to this legislation. I am very happy that this bill is coming forward before we prorogue this session. I think it is a good step for the north and I will be fully supporting this bill. Thank you.
Michael Miltenberger on Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
In the Legislative Assembly on October 16th, 1997. See this statement in context.
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
October 15th, 1997
Page 1638
See context to find out what was said next.