Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the past several days, issues surrounding governments and the basic foundation of public government in the Northwest Territories has caused much debate here and, indeed, in the national press. Mr. Speaker, the paramount focus of public government is that public government has to be ultimately accountable to the public. This includes the operations of government, contracts, policies and, indeed, the hiring of staff and the protection, Mr. Speaker, of the public purse. Mr. Speaker, perceptions of nepotism and cronyism have permeated this Assembly.

Seemingly, policies of this government are either followed haphazardly or by a system known only to a collective similar to the board. Mr. Speaker, the government needs to tighten up the enforcement of its hiring, contracting and other policies to demonstrate fairness to the ultimate power here, and that is our constituents, the people of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. They deserve nothing less. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause