Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, you know this obviously is a sensitive issue and it is a very important one as it relates to people's livelihoods, et cetera. I think that the original requirement for further discussion on this issue, and you are absolutely correct, it is our intention to discuss this further with the parties, NTI and, of course, with the interim commissioner. The interim commissioner will ultimately have the legislative authority to enter into collective bargaining agreements with the interim civil service that will be required. I think that it requires a little more careful consideration by all parties. Now, I am talking specifically about the headquarter's staff. I think that is what my colleague is alluding to. Again, I have to be clear. Our position is clear and I do have heart. Our position is clear when it comes to the current residents or employees in Nunavut. They fundamentally must be transferred to the new Nunavut government. On the headquarter's side, there is a requirement for further discussion by the parties. We need to embrace the interim commissioner whoever he or she may be, and move forward to seeking a satisfactory resolve to this important issue. One, to the staff that are currently there and two, quite frankly, to ensure that the operations and the mechanics of government will be up and running on April 1, 1999 to ensure the financial system that I know is well in place, to ensure that the operations of government run. I am confident that all parties will see the need for a practical approach to this issue. I see that I have everybody's attention.
John Todd on Question 327-13(4): Staffing The Nunavut Government
In the Legislative Assembly on February 14th, 1997. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 327-13(4): Staffing The Nunavut Government
Question 327-13(4): Staffing The Nunavut Government
Item 6: Oral Questions
February 13th, 1997
Page 645
John Todd Keewatin Central
See context to find out what was said next.