Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Mr. Ningark. Replies to the special committee's questionnaire was one source of reaction from Northwest Territories' residents to the Calgary consultation framework. As replies continue to be sent to the special committee, the following provides a preliminary assessment of the input received to date.
In response to the question, "Overall, do you support the framework?", the majority provided qualified support as outlined below.
When asked, "What are the elements of the framework that you particularly like?", there was support for elements of points 1, 3 and 4 of the framework which make reference to equality of Canadians and equal rights; Canada's diversity, tolerance, compassion and equality of opportunity and Canada's diversity of peoples and cultures, languages and multiculturalism.
Reaction to the question, "Are there any elements in the framework that concern you?", focused on the need for stronger references to territories as a unique region of Canada and their role in the national unity process. A number of replies also expressed concern about the need for references to aboriginal peoples which reflect the historical and current realities of their status in Canada, including their rights and interests.
Other concerns expressed opposition to recognizing the unique characteristics of Quebec, the need for more emphasis on the social welfare of Canadians and that the end product of the consultation process may not produce meaningful change or progress.
Mr. Speaker, next, northern residents were asked, "Are there other elements that should be included?" The replies confirmed concerns raised about the need for more references to aboriginal peoples and the territories in a National Unity Resolution.
In response to the question, "Do you think the interests of northerners are reflected in this framework?", two-thirds of respondents said yes while a third said no. In interpreting these results it is important to note that most of the support for the Calgary framework was qualified, while most of those who opposed the framework felt that it needed some fundamental improvements.
The question, "What does it mean to you to be Canadian?", resulted in a wide range of replies from residents who both supported and rejected the Calgary framework. In addition to the characteristics stated in points 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the framework, replies made reference to Canada as a land of opportunity where there is freedom, freedom of expression and freedom from oppression; where Canada is the best place in the world to live because it is vibrant, healthy, tolerant, compassionate and diverse in its population; where Canada is respected by the rest of the world because of its generosity, sincerity and ability to be unified in one of the largest and most diverse countries in the world and because it is a nation which respects, honours and affirms aboriginal peoples' rights and institutions.
The questionnaire, Mr. Speaker, also asked, "Does the framework reflect aboriginal views and values on national identity? If not, how should these values be reflected?" In the replies received to date, the response is split. However, it is important to note that there is a general consensus among those who both support and reject the framework that aboriginal references need to be revised to reflect the historical and current status of aboriginal peoples in Canada, including their rights and interests.
Mr. Speaker, the special committee continues to receive replies to the questionnaire and will be preparing a more detailed review for presentation during the Legislative Assembly's session early in 1998.
Community meetings hosted by MLAs were another approach to collecting reaction to the Calgary consultation framework. Meetings were held in Yellowknife, Hay River and Fort Smith. MLAs from these communities will provide more detailed accounts of their constituents' views in the debate on the special committee's report and its recommendation for a National Unity Resolution.
With respect to consultations with Northwest Territories aboriginal leaders, Minister Antoine was advised by the Aboriginal Summit that they considered the consultation and resolution process to be rushed. However, they provided some proposals for the content of a resolution. They also respected that this is a Legislative Assembly initiative and that western residents and organizations should express their views and concerns through their MLAs and the special committee. Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated indicated their support for the resolution.
Overall, the special committee acknowledges that Northwest Territories' residents have not responded in large numbers to the national unity consultations. Nevertheless, the questionnaire replies and reaction at community meetings have provided an important contribution which has helped to confirm some of the special committee's concerns with the Calgary framework and provide direction on the approach to a Northwest Territories National Unity Resolution. The special committee will continue to monitor and assess more input which is expected in the future. Mr. Speaker, if you would permit I would hand over to the Member of Nahendeh, Mr. Antoine.