Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am please to inform the Assembly that following extensive consultation with interested parties in the Northwest Territories, I have recently signed off a regulatory amendment package that would substantially change the Wildlife Business Regulations. These regulations which are enacted under the NWT Wildlife Act, administer the licensing of all wildlife related businesses including big game outfitters, fur dealers, tanners, game farms and fur farms. Until recently, the regulations called for ten different licences, each with its own application form, requirements and fee schedule.
This government made a commitment to streamline processes and eliminate unnecessary regulations. I am pleased to advise that we have addressed this issue by simplifying many aspects of the Wildlife Business Regulations. Several types of licences have been amalgamated into one, while application forms and basic criteria for all businesses have been standardized. Part of this standardization includes adjustments to the licence fee schedule. Licences which previously cost $25 to $50 annually will now cost $100 on first application and $50 thereafter. Considering this is the first fee increase in 20 years, I believe the increase is justified and a small price to pay to access a significant natural resource.
In order for businesses to operate on a sound footing, we have also extended the evergreen clause to include all outfitting businesses in the Northwest Territories. The evergreen clause entitles licence holders to an annual licence for ten years from the date of issue. This provides outfitting businesses with a secure base on which to develop long range marketing plans and relations with suppliers and financial institutions.
While this government has made a commitment to reducing paperwork, we have not forgotten our responsibility for the protection and maintenance of our natural resources, in particular our wildlife. As of October 1, the date these new regulations come into force, courts in the Northwest Territories are able to assess fines of up to $500,000 for infractions under the Wildlife Business Regulations. This is a far cry from the previous limits under the Act of a maximum of $1,000 per offence.
The people of the Northwest Territories have entrusted this government to ensure proper management of our natural resources. I believe these actions clearly demonstrate this government's commitment to the people.
Mr. Speaker, I believe that the recent amendments to the Wildlife Business Regulations are one more step towards creating a business climate which is free from unnecessary government regulation. It emphasizes our ongoing commitment to protection of the north's natural resources, while supporting northern business.