This is page numbers 585 - 623 of the Hansard for the 13th Assembly, 6th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library. The word of the day was nunavut.
Members Present
Honourable Jim Antoine, Honourable Goo Arlooktoo, Mr. Barnabas, Honourable Charles Dent, Mr. Erasmus, Mr. Evaloarjuk, Honourable Sam Gargan, Mrs. Groenewegen, Mr. Henry, Honourable Stephen Kakfwi, Mr. Krutko, Mr. Miltenberger, Mr. Morin, Honourable Kelvin Ng, Mr. Ningark, Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Ootes, Mr. Picco, Mr. Rabesca, Mr. Roland, Mr. Steen, Honourable Manitok Thompson, Honourable John Todd.
Oh, God, may your spirit and guidance be in us as we work for the benefit of all our people, for peace and justice in our land and for the constant recognition of the dignity and aspirations of those whom we serve. Amen.
Item 1: Prayer
Item 1: Prayer
Page 585
Samuel Gargan Deh Cho
Thank you, Ms. Thompson. Good afternoon. Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Dent.
Minister's Statement: 92-13(6): School Opening In Pangnirtung
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
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Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. On December 17th , the Attagoyuk Ilisavik School will open in the community of Pangnirtung. This opening marks the result of an impressive cooperation between the community, staff of the Baffin Divisional Education Council, the Government of the Northwest Territories and several northern contractors.
As this House knows, Mr. Speaker, the school in Pangnirtung was lost in a tragic fire during the winter of 1996. The facility, which was being renovated at the time, was completely gutted. While the loss was devastating, quick thinking in the community resulted in very little disruption to the school program. Displaced students were accommodated in several locations, including Nunavut Arctic College's Community Learning Centre. Schooling continued with strong support from the Baffin Divisional Education Council and other schools throughout the Baffin region.
To speed the reconstruction of the school, the community district education authority decided to use the school design adopted from a similar-sized facility that will soon be completed in Pond Inlet. The Pangnirtung school will accommodate 385 students. It is important to note that it includes a large gymnasium that will provide excellent space for community activities. This enlarged gym was made possible because the Hamlet of Pangnirtung paid for the space in excess of Education, Culture and Employment standards.
The new school has also taken an innovative approach to designing space for career and technology studies. These rooms will be at the front of the school and visible to students and the community.
Capital projects such as this are important to ensure that students across the north have a suitable environment in which to learn. This year, approximately 25 projects are under way to renovate or construct new schools. As well, nine college facilities are under development.
In closing, I would like to thank all those involved in the Pangnirtung school project. Close working relationships and solid commitment have provided, with the resources available, the best possible facility for Pangnirtung residents.
Congratulations to Pangnirtung and the students of Attagoyuk Ilisavik School. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Minister's Statement: 92-13(6): School Opening In Pangnirtung
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Ministers' statements. Ms. Thompson.
Minister's Statement: 93-13(6): Crackdown On Telemarketing Fraud
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
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Manitok Thompson Aivilik
Mr. Speaker, on November 12th and 13th, I attended the Conference of Ministers Responsible for Consumer Affairs, which was held on Prince Edward Island.
Consumer Affairs Ministers recognize the importance of working together to better inform consumers about telemarketing fraud. More importantly, the Ministers agreed that there was a need to help enforcement agencies crack down on cross-border fraud and scams.
At our meeting, all Ministers agreed to sign the Cooperative Enforcement Agreement on Consumer Related Measures. In addition, CANSHARE, an information network, was launched.
Together, these initiatives will increase sharing of information on consumer protection issues. They will allow faster and better national tracking of deceptive telemarketing and other kinds of scams.
Mr. Speaker, a public education campaign will be launched in January 1999, which has been declared the International Year of Older Persons. The campaign is designed to inform all consumers, including senior citizens who are often a target of these scams.
In addition, Mr. Speaker, Ministers have agreed to harmonize the rules governing the cost of credit information to consumers. This will strengthen efforts to have one set of rules in place by the year 2000 for disclosure of information about the cost of credit by financial institutions and automobile leasing firms. With these new rules, consumers will have a legal right to obtain more information from businesses when they are borrowing money or leasing a car.
Mr. Speaker, our efforts in educating northern consumers and protecting senior citizens from telemarketing and consumer fraud is vital. The Department of Municipal and Community Affairs recognizes this important role and is taking the necessary steps to ensure adequate protection of consumers across the north.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Minister's Statement: 93-13(6): Crackdown On Telemarketing Fraud
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Ministers statements. Mr. Ng.
Minister's Statement: 94-13(6): Social Union Negotiations
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Mr. Speaker, as Members may be aware, social union negotiations became a very high profile issue in the Quebec election campaign. Now, with the Quebec election behind us, all participating governments are eager to successfully conclude these negotiations.
The primary objective of a new social union arrangement is to provide for more effective and efficient delivery of social programs to all Canadians. These negotiations will shape how governments in this country relate to one another and to all Canadians.
In recent years, Mr. Speaker, the GNWT has come to be recognized as a legitimate participant in a variety of intergovernmental forums where issues of national significance are considered by federal and provincial governments.
Discussions about social policy reform began at the 1995 Annual Premiers Conference in St. John's, Newfoundland. Since that time, this government has been working toward a strong national partnership which would oversee the more effective and sustained delivery of social programs and services to all Canadians.
With the establishment of Nunavut and with Aboriginal self-government agreements, the makeup of the Northwest Territories will change forever. However, all northern governments will continue to be faced with the realities of the north.
Our government's goal in these negotiations, Mr. Speaker, is to ensure that these realities are reflected in the social union framework for the nation.
Discussions around the social union framework cannot separate responsibility for the provision of social programs and services and the fiscal arrangements that provide the necessary capacity for governments to provide comparable services to all Canadians.
We all know, Mr. Speaker, that delivering social programs and services in the Northwest Territories is more expensive than in southern Canada. We know that we must face the challenge of delivering these programs and services in a high cost part of Canada where access is a major factor in providing comparable and affordable services.
For this government to be successful in delivering social programs and services to territorial residents, the outcome of social union discussions must recognize that we have responsibilities equal to those of the provinces. The ongoing challenge for us is to maintain access to social programs and services that are taken for granted in most provinces.
The GNWT is committed to these objectives. We will continue to be active participants in the negotiation process that will hopefully reach a successful conclusion in the coming months.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Minister's Statement: 94-13(6): Social Union Negotiations
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Miltenberger.
Member's Statement 238-13(6): Northwestel Public Image
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to speak again about NorthwesTel, the second part of my statement that I wanted to speak to on this particular issue.
As I indicated, we had lunch with Mr. Boorman, the President, yesterday and he gave us a broad overview of some of the factors affecting NorthwesTel and its ability to be a viable appropriation. On the other half of that equation, while we have to be sympathetic to a certain extent to NorthwesTel, we have to recognize that the communities, as well, have strong concerns about the level of service and whether it will, in fact, be affordable.
Mr. Speaker, NorthwesTel is aware of that concern, if not from me, from many others that they have heard those concerns from. They recognize and they have been told repeatedly that they have to do a better job in terms of marketing and responding to people and community concerns.
Mr. Boorman indicated the fact that they intend to go out to the communities and start trying to, in fact, address that shortcoming. Mr. Speaker, I think we have to see our relationship with NorthwesTel as something of a partnership that requires a certain amount of goodwill by both parties. That has to be based, of course, on both parties having all the facts and being aware of all the figures to ensure that, in fact, we are not subsidizing a corporation.
CRTC, I think will be, I would hope, looking at those factors when NorthwesTel approaches them on these issues of concern. Mr. Speaker, the people of the north and NorthwesTel have a vested interest in a strong, affordable telecommunication system that links all of our communities together and to the world. I would encourage NorthwesTel as they come to us looking for support to ensure that their corporate house is in order as well and that they are going to be able to address in a reasonable, affordable way, the concerns of the people of the communities of the Northwest Territories. Thank you.
--Applause
Member's Statement 238-13(6): Northwestel Public Image
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Members' statements. Mrs. Groenewegen.
Member's Statement 239-13(6): Conflict Of Interest Exhibit Signed By Ministers
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Jane Groenewegen Hay River
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday in my comments concerning Document 246 I challenged each Member who signed that document to provide an explanation of their involvement. Each of them did that.
Member's Statement 239-13(6): Conflict Of Interest Exhibit Signed By Ministers
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
I anticipated that Members would make reference to the conflict of interest issue that was concluded yesterday. For that reason, we have come up with some rulings that address the process that we had yesterday. In Beauchesne's, it states that a Member may not speak again or reflect upon any determination of the House unless intending to conclude with a motion for rescinding it. It is a wholesome restraint upon Members that they cannot revive a debate already concluded, and it would be little use in preventing the same question from being ordered twice in the same session. Without being offered, its merit might be discussed again and again. I would caution the Members. The matter of the conflict of interest issue has been concluded and for anybody that wishes to bring it up. I would have to make a ruling on whether or not it is appropriate to bring it up again. Mrs. Groenewegen.
Member's Statement 239-13(6): Conflict Of Interest Exhibit Signed By Ministers
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Jane Groenewegen Hay River
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do not know whether it is appropriate then to conclude my Member's statement. It was in conclusion to the transactions in the House yesterday. If you do not feel it is appropriate, I am sorry. I did ask permission before I stood to make this speech today. Thank you.
Member's Statement 239-13(6): Conflict Of Interest Exhibit Signed By Ministers
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
No, if it is in response to what happened yesterday the matter is concluded, Mrs. Groenewegen. Members' statements. Mr. Barnabas.
Member's Statement 240-13(6): Effects Of Global Warming
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in 1997, the final report of the Mackenzie Basin Impact Study concluded that the plant and animal life, lakes and rivers, forest industry and communities across the north will face drastic changes in upcoming years if steps are not taken to reduce the effects of global warming. The negative effects of the greenhouse effect are more evident where temperatures have been rising. For example, frozen soil or permafrost is starting to melt or weaken in many areas. As a result the surface becomes softer and if there is infrastructure such as roads or buildings on top of it, the consequences can be very real. Roads may collapse, buildings and homes will start to sink. As we all are aware, barges are a cost-effective form of resupply that may be compromised. The number of forest fires in the west may most likely increase and drought may also result from low lake levels. This is just the beginning.
With significant changes in the weather in such a short period, the Government of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut need to take preventative and coordinated action at national and international levels to reduce the potential consequences arising from global warming. Unfortunately, according to the aforementioned report, initiatives at the local level may most likely compromise little.
Mr. Speaker, there is a need to make an effective and concentrated effort by both territorial governments and the federal government to bring attention to this impact and important issues that affect all of us. Increased attention and efforts at all levels is needed for the effective strategy to stem the damage from global warming. Mr. Speaker, this statement I make today also reflects the studies that have been done in the high Arctic in my riding, which are affecting the global warming, and the studies will be used to find out if the global warming is really happening. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Member's Statement 240-13(6): Effects Of Global Warming
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 587
The Speaker
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Roland.
Member's Statement 241-13(6): National Child Day Poster Contest
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Floyd Roland Inuvik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am a little late in delivering this, but it is regarding the National Child Day poster contest that I sponsored in Inuvik for November 20th. In celebration of National Child Day, my office held a poster contest last month. The children were asked to draw a poster on what it is like to be a child growing up in Inuvik. The response was overwhelming and my constituency office received 74 entries. The children drew pictures of traditional activities like jigging for fish and caribou hunting. They also drew pictures of roller blading, playing hockey and being a part of the Brownies, playing soccer in the field and playing baseball, just to mention a few.
Miss Cassandra Kirk was a first place winner in the poster contest. Cassandra is a six year old student of Mrs. Ross' grade 1 class at Sir Alexander Mackenzie school in Inuvik. Her parents are Rob James Kirk and Valerie Norris-Kirk. She has two sisters, Jacqueline and Kimberly. Cassandra's best friend is Caitlin, one of the newer students in her class.
It took Cassandra two whole days to draw her poster. She drew the Sir Alexander Mackenzie School and its new playground equipment because she likes playing on the new playground. Cassandra enjoys skating, boating, camping and swimming, but her favourite activity is tobogganing. Cassandra drew the sun and the moon to show the summer sunlight and the winter's darkness. When asked what she prefers, Cassandra answered that she enjoys the winter more because she can do her favourite things like skating and tobogganing. She also drew fireworks from the annual Sunrise Festival in January. Cassandra and her family will be moving to Norman Wells in January and she is excited, but she will miss all of her friends in Inuvik. I would like to thank Cassandra and all of the children who entered the poster contest because each of the entries that were received were wonderful as we have many talented young artists in Inuvik. I would like also to thank the teachers at Sir Alexander Mackenzie School and the parents who encouraged their children to enter the poster contest. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Member's Statement 241-13(6): National Child Day Poster Contest
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Ootes.
Member's Statement 242-13(6): St. Patrick's Students Against Drunk Driving Program
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to bring to Members attention the efforts and accomplishments of St. Patrick High School's program, Students Against Drinking and Driving, a program known as SADD. This program began in November, 1994, and back then they had 12 students as members. Today there are 67 active and dedicated members. Last year the group received an award for the most active SADD chapter in the western region. Since 1994, the St. Patrick High School SADD program has offered Yellowknife youth healthy alternatives in the form of overnighters, open gym nights, drive parties and educational community events. Members have made presentations to the Rotary Club of Yellowknife, Community of Rae-Edzo and Yellowknife City Council. In November they travelled to Norman Wells to give a presentation about the SADD program. They have also been active in activities such as the National Addiction Awareness Week, Arctic Winter Games, the Fire Department demonstrations and Candy Cane check stops. Each year members attend the Canadian Youth Against Impaired Driving conference, a national conference held annually in a major Canadian city.
It is important to note that not only do our youth benefit from activities organized by SADD, but the students actively involved in the group develop many leadership skills. St. Patrick's SADD program is also the founder of the 1998 Yellowknife Youth Leadership Awards banquet. They worked together with the Youth Volunteer Corps, Sir John Franklin's SADD program and participants of both high school student councils to organize the leadership awards event. I would like to acknowledge some of the key organizers of the SADD program. Angela Masongsong is the President and teacher advisors, Michelle Thoms and Renee Lamoreux. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Member's Statement 242-13(6): St. Patrick's Students Against Drunk Driving Program
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Henry.
Member's Statement 243-13(6): Presentation On Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/fetal Alcohol Effect
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Over the past three years there have been several Members of this Legislative Assembly make statements and ask questions on the issue of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effect. Like myself, colleagues have attempted to raise awareness of this serious affliction, which has affected so many people in the north. Questions have been asked on what can be done to stop this affliction from continuing to spread throughout the population.
Today, Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to the attention of this House and the public a very important presentation that is to take place this Thursday evening at 7:
30 pm in the auditorium of Northern United Place. On Thursday evening, the public will have an opportunity to hear a presentation and a panel discussion on the subject of FAS/FAE. This event has been arranged through members of the FAS community team, who receive funding from the City of Yellowknife to bring a specialist on FAS to the north to conduct workshops over a period of two days in Yellowknife, as well as to Fort Rae, Lutselk'e, Detah and N'dilo.
I would urge my fellow Members to take the time to attend this presentation on Thursday evening. We must learn all we can on the issue of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and assist in making progress in reducing that problem. As legislators, we are responsible and accountable to make a difference to the people that we serve. Perhaps this is one area we can look at to learn what we can, especially when we have such a significant opportunity to hear from a learned and respected professional on the subject. I urge all members of the public to come out and learn more on the subject. It affects us all whether directly or not. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Member's Statement 243-13(6): Presentation On Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/fetal Alcohol Effect
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
Thank you. Members' statement. Mr. Steen.
Member's Statement 244-13(6): Need For Larger Boats For Harvesting Purposes
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 588
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as you all know, a dramatic climate change is taking place in the north. This climatic change is known as global warming. The most noticeable effect of global warming is earlier breakups and late freeze-ups. In most cases, people tend to welcome the shorter winter period and longer and hotter summers.
There are also some negative aspects to changing weather patterns. In general, both humans and wildlife have to adjust to these changes. Migrating wildlife such as caribou and water fowl, sea mammals and fish must contend with and adjust to these climatic changes in order to complete their migration to and from the breeding grounds. For example, spring migrating caribou may find their routes to the camping grounds cut off by early breakup of rivers. In the fall their routes to the staging areas will be blocked by large bodies of open water. Although caribou are excellent swimmers, they tend to avoid swimming when the temperature hovers around the freezing mark. In particular, in the fall. Another example is spring char runs out of the rivers. Char are known to take advantage of the high water levels during breakup in order to reach the sea. As break-up in the rivers arrives earlier, so do the whales arrive sooner than in previous years. Reduced sea ice coverage in the Beaufort will have it's affect on polar bear movements as well.
Mr. Speaker, I think biologists will be very busy in the next few years if they want to record all of the effects of global warming on northern wildlife. Since 99 percent of the people in my riding depend on wildlife for their livelihood, they too must adjust their hunting cycles and strategies to coincide with the changing weather patterns. For example, reductions in snow coverage on land both in spring and fall have served to limit the use of snowmobiles. Where conditions permit, people have adjusted by employing the use of ATVs for a longer period of time. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
Member's Statement 244-13(6): Need For Larger Boats For Harvesting Purposes
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 589
The Speaker
Thank you. The Member for Nunakput is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Do we have any nays? Mr. Steen, you have unanimous consent.
Member's Statement 244-13(6): Need For Larger Boats For Harvesting Purposes
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my colleagues. In coastal areas, extended open water seasons have allowed for more use of boats to access the harvesting grounds. Mr. Speaker, as a government we must continue to monitor the affects of global warming on both our citizens and our wildlife populations. We must ensure our aboriginal people continue to have the ability to harvest wildlife effectively and efficiently. The rewards will be realized through the evidence of a healthy northern population who will continue to enjoy the benefits of higher nutritional country foods regardless of climatic changes. Mr. Speaker, one of the major negative affects of global warming that is being experienced by wildlife harvesters in coastal communities is due to reduced sea ice coverage in the Beaufort Sea and Amundsen Gulf area. In particular, the residents of the communities of Paulatuk and Holman have expressed an immediate need for larger closed-in boats for the purpose of navigating large bodies of open water, open sea to and from the prime harvesting grounds. Small, open boats, effective and efficient in the past in ice-covered waters, are now considered unsafe for extended hunting journeys. The options of using float-equipped aircraft to move people and supplies to outpost camps is not available in these communities as there are no planes based in these settlements. Therefore, marine transportation remains the only viable option during summer months.
Mr. Speaker, I know this government has assisted communities in the Baffin and Keewatin to obtain large vessels for harvesting purpose in past years. It would seem only fair that assistance be made available to coastal communities in the Nunakput area. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time today, I will be asking the Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development questions pertaining to this matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Member's Statement 244-13(6): Need For Larger Boats For Harvesting Purposes
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 589
The Speaker
Thank you. Member's statements. Mr. Krutko
Member's Statement 245-13(6): Constituency Assistant Neil Pascal
Item 3: Members' Statements
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David Krutko Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is with great pleasure I recognize Mr. Neil Pascal. Neil spent the last three years in Nunavut, two and a half years in Cambridge Bay as a regional superintendent to personnel. Then, when the government decided to do away with the Department of Personnel, Neil joined the Kitikmeot Health and Social Services Board as manager of personnel. Neil spent the last eight months with the Office of the Interim Commissioner where he assisted the Nunavut government in their staffing requirements for the new public service. I am fortunate to have Neil as my constituency assistant. Neil is a beneficiary of the Gwich'in land claim. He brings experience in human resource management, and as well, experience working with various aboriginal organizations and groups across the Northwest Territories, as well as in the Yukon. Mr. Speaker, there are people like Neil who will certainly bring credibility to the bureaucracy of our public service. Mr. Speaker, please assist me in welcoming Neil as my new constituency assistant. Welcome back to the west, Neil.
--Applause
Member's Statement 245-13(6): Constituency Assistant Neil Pascal
Item 3: Members' Statements
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The Speaker
Members' statements. Mr. Antoine.
Member's Statement 246-13(6): Candidacy For Premier Position
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we are going through very difficult times here in the Legislative Assembly. I wanted to see this Conflict of Interest Report dealt with before I decided to consider the position of Premier. After much reflection, Mr. Speaker, and having consulted with my family, my constituents and other MLAs and my friends, I have made the very important decision to let my name stand for the position of Premier for the Northwest Territories. There is support and encouragement from you to seek this important position on our government. For that, I would like to say thank you.
Mr. Speaker, what qualification would I bring to the position of the Premier, you may ask. Experience, perhaps some loyalty, attentiveness, hard work, honour and integrity, Mr. Speaker. My working life in the Northwest Territories has afforded me the privilege and the opportunity to visit all regions and to meet with the broad range of citizens. I possess a firm grasp of issues and challenges facing all northerners, aboriginal and non-aboriginal. I have dedicated and resolved a requirement to tackle different challenges and to encourage positive results. With me, Mr. Speaker, what you see is what you get. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you.
Member's Statement 246-13(6): Candidacy For Premier Position
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 589
The Speaker
The Member for Nahendeh seeks unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Antoine, you have unanimous consent.
Member's Statement 246-13(6): Candidacy For Premier Position
Item 3: Members' Statements
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Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to continue where I left off, but I just want to say that with me, what you see is what get. I have no hidden agendas. I have respect for all points of views and resolve to get things done. Officials in our society today must have common objectives, Mr. Speaker. The chiefs, the Metis presidents, leaders of aboriginal organizations, mayors and respected councils, leaders of Inuit organizations, Interim Commissioner of Nunavut, Members of Legislative Assembly, and certainly, the Premier, must recognize the common objectives they share and dedicate their efforts to work together to achieve the desired results. I believe we must respect the fact that various political institutions in the north are involved in the wide variety of processes and initiatives.
However, we do share common goals. Working together in the spirit of cooperation and respect will ensure that the rest of Canada understands that we know where we want to go and are committed collectively to get there. The time remaining in our term of office here is relatively short, however, it is indeed a very important time for us in the Northwest Territories. I believe we must remain focused, grow through our mistakes, work together, encourage innovation and seize the tremendous opportunities which had been presented. No one can undermine our resolve to succeed if we work together, Mr. Speaker. By letting my name stand for Premier, I am saying that I know the challenges that lay ahead of us and I have made a commitment here to face any challenges along with everybody here in the Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Member's Statement 246-13(6): Candidacy For Premier Position
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
The Speaker
Members' statements. Mr. Erasmus.
Member's Statement 247-13(6): Public Inquiry Into Residential School Abuses
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss an inquiry into the residential school abuses in the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, there has been an outpouring of aboriginal people coming forward in recent years with claims of having been abused while in the care of residential schools in the NWT. The issue of abuse in residential schools is not isolated to the NWT, it is a widespread topic of concern throughout Canada and the United States. Several groups have recommended that a public inquiry be held into the abuse that took place in residential schools saying that a public inquiry would be beneficial for the victims and for the general public of the Northwest Territories. Some of those are the Sir Joseph Bernier Federal Day School, Turquetil Hall Investigation in 1994, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples in 1996, the NWT Native Women's Association, August, 1998, the Metis Nation of Northwest Territories, September, 1998, and the Law Commission of Canada, October, 1998.
Mr. Speaker, the NWT Public Inquiries Act allows the Commissioner to establish a public inquiry in to any matter of public concern. The Commissioner may appoint one or more persons to a board to carry out the inquiry and to report its findings to the Commissioner. The words of the RCAP final report and inquiry would enable aboriginal people to do what is necessary to stand in dignity, to voice their sorrow and anger and to be listened to with respect. Although a federal public inquiry has been called for, there is an important role for a public inquiry specific to the Northwest Territories. A national public inquiry could not be expected to devote sufficient time and attention to NWT issues. Its recommendations for action would not take into account the unique nature of the north and its people. Only in the north has a residential school system affected such a large proportion of the population. By hearing the experiences of others, individuals and families affected by residential schools may lose some of their sense of shame and may feel more able to come forward and access the funds that have been made available for healing by the federal government. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
Member's Statement 247-13(6): Public Inquiry Into Residential School Abuses
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
The Speaker
The Member for Yellowknife North is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Do we have any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Erasmus, you have unanimous consent.
Member's Statement 247-13(6): Public Inquiry Into Residential School Abuses
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A public inquiry would also reflect the importance of the issue and may influence public viewpoints, attitudes and behaviour. A public forum would allow those affected to gain a sense of justice and will give the residents of the Northwest Territories a better understanding of the events and circumstances surrounding NWT residential schools. Of course, this may help to ensure that similar abuses never happen again. Thank you.
Member's Statement 247-13(6): Public Inquiry Into Residential School Abuses
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
The Speaker
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Rabesca.
Member's Statement 248-13(6): Rae-edzo Friendship Centre Executive Director
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to announce to this House that the Rae-Edzo Friendship Centre has hired a new executive director to oversee their operations. Bob Richardson is a long-time northerner who has lived in Rae-Edzo for the past 35 years. He brings with him many years of public administration and government experience that will no doubt help him in his new capacity. Bob started his duties as executive director in December 4, 1998, and is looking forward to seeing the Friendship Centre reviving the open door policy that makes all Friendship Centres a welcome place to come and visit and have a cup of coffee. I am told he has many new ideas that will help bring the Friendship Centre in as a place for all residents. He want residents to come and visit and feel they are at home. Also, he wants everyone to know that the door is always open so, feel free to drop in and have a cup of coffee and delightful conversation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Member's Statement 248-13(6): Rae-edzo Friendship Centre Executive Director
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
The Speaker
Members' statements. Mr. Picco.
Member's Statement 249-13(6): Actions Of The Iqaluit Emergency Measures Organizations
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 590
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this past week was very hectic for the EMO and Fire Department people in Iqaluit. On Friday, there was a plane crash and Sunday there was a major fire at some new construction in town. There were some burn injuries to some of the children as a result of that fire. Mr. Speaker, the fire resulted with the power, phone and cable lines being disrupted. The power was quickly restored in about three hours after the fire and I understand that cable TV was back up yesterday.
However, Mr. Speaker, phone service to most of Happy Valley and all of Tundra Valley and Apex is still not available. Mr. Speaker, as a result, Joamie School in Tundra Valley and Nanook School and Apex were closed yesterday. Because they had no phones, it was felt that it might put the children in jeopardy if phone service was not in place. EMO in Iqaluit have today provided two-way communications for both Nanook and Joamie School and have placed their command bus in Apex for communications with Iqaluit. The command bus was donated by one of the long serving EMO people in Iqaluit, Mr. Bob Hanson. It was outfitted with telecommunications and other necessary equipment by donations from Iqaluit businesses. Mr. Speaker, the command bus is being monitored by the EMO staff and they will continue to have it in place in Apex until phone service is restored. I understand that NorthwesTel has brought in extra resources to deal with this problem and have been working around the clock to have the service restored.
Mr. Speaker, Mr. Mike Ferris, the EMO coordinator for the Baffin, and his capable staff are to be congratulated for the work they have done over the past few days. Also, the volunteers at the fire department, staff at NorthwesTel, NTPC, and the cable TV staff. Mr. Speaker, I have not been able to speak to my children since this weekend because of the phone service outage. I would like to take this opportunity to say hi to my wife and kids back home in Iqaluit and say well done. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Member's Statement 249-13(6): Actions Of The Iqaluit Emergency Measures Organizations
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 591
The Speaker
Members' statements. Mr. Dent.
Member's Statement 250-13(6): Reflections On Matters To Be Considered By The Legislature
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 591
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the past two weeks have been difficult: difficult for our constituents, for the civil service, for ourselves and for our families. Through this, all of us in this Assembly, I think, have taken lessons learned and wish to move forward to the end of a chapter; let us turn the page and move on. We have already taken an important first step, Mr. Speaker, setting up an independent review panel to make recommendations for changes to our conflict of interest legislation and regulated policies and guidelines will help everyone understand that we really are prepared to make change; change that should help to ensure more open and transparent government. Mr. Speaker, let us leave that issue for now. The panel can get to work and do its job and then we need to move quickly to debate the changes they recommend.
As many have said, we must get on with the work that needs to be done in this next year. Time is running short. We must get on with the final preparations for the creation of two new territories. We must set the stage for a renewed, less dependent fiscal relationship with the federal government. We must continue to work towards the settling of land claims and the conclusion of self-government negotiations with claimant organizations and the federal government. Mr. Speaker, we must ensure that the resources for social programs are adequate to meet the needs of northerners.
Mr. Speaker, stability in this Assembly and the government is absolutely essential if we are to get on with this work. A stable, responsible government sends a message to banks and investors that they can be confident and remain willing to invest in northern business. The next important step on the road to stability, Mr. Speaker, takes place this Thursday when we choose a new Premier. It will be important for us to get behind whoever is selected and demonstrate support and solidarity.
Mr. Speaker, I have had many constituents tell me that they would like to see me put my name forward for the Premier's position. I have had a number of MLAs suggest the same. I have truly appreciated these expressions of support.
Mr. Speaker, while flattered by the attention, I have decided not to allow my name to be considered at this time. I look forward to the speeches and questions on Thursday and wish both announced candidates well; I have worked with both Mr. Kakfwi and Mr. Antoine for the last seven years and I am sure we can look forward to continuing a good working relationship.
Mr. Speaker, while I will support the successful candidate on this Thursday, I will give fair notice that following the next election, Mr. Speaker, should my constituents return me to the House, that I may again take another look at the top job.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Member's Statement 250-13(6): Reflections On Matters To Be Considered By The Legislature
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 591
The Speaker
Members' statements. Mr. Todd.
Member's Statement 251-13(6): St. Patrick's Interschool Hockey Tournament Victory
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 591
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Rarely do I make Members' statements, Mr. Speaker, and I just have a small statement that I would like to make today. I hope it does not embarrass my boy. The St. Pat's hockey team, Mr. Speaker, travelled to Hay River this weekend for an interschool tournament with various schools across the NWT. I would, first of all, like to extend my appreciation for the hospitality by the people of Hay River for the teams that were there. I am also pleased to say that St. Pat's won all the games, Mr. Speaker, and of course, the tournament. Why am I making this statement? I am making this statement because my boy, Justin, plays for St. Pat's and in the first game against Fort Smith, he scored three goals, was the MVP, and frankly, Mr. Speaker, in this particular time in my life, it makes me feel proud to be able to talk about the accomplishments of the team and, of course, the contribution of my boy, Justin. Thank you.
--Applause
Member's Statement 251-13(6): St. Patrick's Interschool Hockey Tournament Victory
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 591
The Speaker
Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Ms. Thompson.
Return To Oral Question 204-13(6): Formula Funding For Rae-edzo
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Page 591
Manitok Thompson Aivilik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to oral question asked by Mr. Rabesca on November 10, 1998, formula funding for Rae-Edzo. In recognition of the unique situation in Rae-Edzo, the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs has provided the community with additional funding. Detailed information on this matter has been provided to Mr. Rabesca, MLA for North Slave, as he requested. Thank you.
Return To Oral Question 204-13(6): Formula Funding For Rae-edzo
Item 4: Returns To Oral Questions
Page 591
The Speaker
Thank you. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 591
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question will be directed to the Minister of Health and Social Services. For a number of months past, possibly closer to a year, the Mayor of Igloolik had written correspondence to the Minister concerning health and social services and what the policies are regarding programs. I wrote to the Minister myself, requesting that he make a response to the Mayor of Igloolik. I am wondering if the Minister will be able to respond either to myself or the hamlet, prior to the end of this session. I am assuming that the Minister understands my request because I
did give him a letter earlier this month. Thank you. (Translation ends.)
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Ng.
Return To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Member for the question. I was aware of the issue that he had raised. Quite frankly, what had happened, from my recollection, is that the Hamlet of Igloolik requested, I believe, the transfer of the social worker position to the community. We had requested the Baffin Regional Health and Social Services Board to find out the status of what was happening in that respect. We have not received an answer yet, but I will commit to the Member on following up on that matter before the end of this week. Thank you.
Return To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions. Do you have a supplementary, Mr. Evaloarjuk?
Supplementary To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the Minister has misunderstood my question. I was talking about policies concerning ratio and the number of nursing staff required in the communities. That was the policy that I was asking about and I think he will remember that correspondence. Thank you. (Translation ends.)
Supplementary To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
Mr. Ng.
Further Return To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I apologize to the Member for misinterpreting the issue that he was referring to. There has been, as I have indicated in the past, no set ratio or policy in respect to the ratio of staff to residents of a community. We know that the deployment of the resources is currently within the mandate of the Regional Health boards. Recognizing that at the time of the health transfer from the federal government in 1988, the existing resources in communities were the amounts that were transferred to this government and have been kept intact since that time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Supplementary To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to thank the Minister for his response but I would also like to see his response in writing. I will thank the Minister in advance and let him know that there is more of an adequate number of staff in Igloolik right now, as it is. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (Translation ends.)
Supplementary To Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Question 271-13(6): Community Nursing Services
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
Thank you. I did not hear a question. Oral questions. Mr. Barnabas.
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As per my Member's statement, I would like to direct my question to the Minister responsible for the environment, Mr. Kakfwi. What ongoing efforts has the government undertaken to aid the reduction of global warming at regional, national and international levels? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to give a 15-minute response, much to my Member's chagrin.
--Laughter
The Government of the Northwest Territories has participated with other provinces and the federal government to look at the issue of global warming. It is a major global concern. The Government of Canada has signed, along with 160 countries, in December of 1997, an agreement to reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions in the world by a certain percentage within a few years. I believe it is a six percent reduction from 1990 levels by the year 2013.
We have made a commitment, the Canadian government has made a commitment, and we are now working with the federal government and the provinces to develop a process by which we will develop a strategy to try to reach that target. We are also doing some work to define the economic impact that such a strategy would have on our communities and our economy, as well, the cost of undertaking such a strategy.
Here in the territories, we have done a number of things. We, for instance, have continued to work to improve the energy efficiency of all our buildings or houses. We have set up an energy alliance using the Power Corporation, municipalities, the Government of the Northwest Territories and other stakeholders, to look at ways in which we could reduce the amount of energy consumption and increase the energy efficiency of our buildings and our programs. We have an energy conservation capital program, which has been in existence for a number of years, that is available for individuals, communities and organizations to apply for. They can ask for capital money where they can show that it will result in a reduction of energy consumption and where it will improve on the energy efficiency of particular buildings. This is open to the private sector as well as broader-based community organizations.
These are some of the initiatives; of course, we have the user-pay programs that the government has initiated where everyone, even tenants, as well as the government departments, have to be conscious of how they use their buildings, electricity and heating. User-pay makes us more conscious of how much we are consuming as clients within our own departments and buildings. Those are some of the examples I can give. Thank you.
Return To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 592
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr.
Barnabas.
Supplementary To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, have there been any studies done on permafrost? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, permafrost is one characteristic of our ecosystem up here that is unique and one that is considered extremely sensitive by everyone concerned. We have a number of studies that are ongoing, some of them on a national level; it looks like, in particular, sensitivities of permafrost in regard to climate change and temperature fluctuations. I would be pleased to provide Members with a summary of the most recent studies completed and in progress regarding permafrost and the impact, particularly the impact that global warming will have on permafrost in the north. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Barnabas.
Supplementary To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last spring during my whale hunt with my colleagues in Arctic Bay, we noticed that there are significant changes to the ice, really thin ice. The ice went pretty fast in our area. I noticed on a documentary on television that there have been studies on the ice. A ship called Sheeba was studying in the high Arctic areas, in the western Arctic area. Can the Minister give the Members the results on the study of the ice? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, I would be pleased to locate the particular information and study that the Member is referring to and share it with the Members. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Question 272-13(6): Global Warming Initiatives
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
At this time I would like to recognize in the gallery a former Member, Mr. Ernie Bernhardt.
--Applause
Welcome to the Assembly. Oral questions. Mr. Miltenberger.
Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is addressed to the Acting Premier. Yesterday in the House, we passed a motion that one of the components of it was to strike an independent review committee. I would like to ask the Acting Premier if he could indicate what the relationship is going to be with the committee of deputies that has been struck prior to yesterday that was going to look at some similar and related issues and if you could outline the connection and how they would together to a positive end? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
The Acting Premier, Mr. Arlooktoo.
Return To Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I had indicated last week, the intention of getting the deputy ministers together to look at the report was to ensure that the government, in every possible way, reacted positively to the many recommendations and comments to the report. I have since heard Members have some reservation on possibly the credibility of this committee and I am sensitive to that. I have asked the secretary to Cabinet to keep that in mind and the work that they are undertaking to not interfere in any way with the processes that have been started here in this House. We are also sensitive to the perception by the public and the MLAs that, that process remain as credible as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.
Supplementary To Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It would seem that the issue would be not only the one of possibly interfering with each other, but, in fact, being able to feed in to each others' efforts and to ensure, that possibly they complement each other, so that at the end of the day when the final report is brought to the House that it reflects not only the work of possibly this independent committee, but this separate deputies committee as well. Could the Acting Premier indicate whether he would, in fact, consider that sort of proactive step to make sure that, in fact, they are linked and working together? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Question 273-13(6): Deputy Minister Review Committee
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
Thank you. I must rule the question out of order. It is a matter for MSB not the Acting Premier. Oral questions. Mr. Steen.
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the honourable Mr. Kakfwi, Minister of RWED, in regard to my Member's statement, as Mr. Barnabas referred to global warming and how it is affecting the people, the ability to harvest in relation to changing migration patterns of the wildlife. My question to the Minister, Mr. Speaker, is, is the department monitoring these changes and the effects that the climate changes are having on the wildlife? At this point in time, is there any major effort on the part of the department to monitor these changes? Thank you?
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 593
The Speaker
The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is a coordinated effort between federal officials and our government officials both in the laboratories, field studies, as well as our wildlife officers and biologists, to monitor the status of our wildlife species. It is their attention that any changes in global warming will impact on the vegetation and the migration routes and other habits of the different species. There has been notable changes among some species. Of course, we make the observations but are not always able to say we are backed by scientific study. We know that global warming is happening. The people know global warming is happening. We just do not have a solid scientific basis yet to say that it is, in fact, an observation or a conclusion based on an accumulation of science and an organized body of science. Yes, we are trying to keep an eye on the impact that it is going to have on our wildlife and we are aware of the implications of it. Thank you.
Return To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Steen.
Supplementary To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my follow-up questions would be, does the department have some kind of programs in place either through economic development or renewable resources, harvesting assistance programs in place that would assist people to adjust to global warming and the effect it is having on their ability to harvest? In particular, I am referring to, Mr. Speaker, conditions in the Beaufort Sea where there is no more ice compared to previous years where there was a lot of ice coverage. My follow-up question is, are there any programs in place that the department could assist these people? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
Thank you. Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, this government has been a very strong supporter of aboriginal peoples livelihood, particularly out in the land, hunting and trapping. It seems to be more than just an economic activity. It is the means by which we know that our aboriginal peoples will best maintain their culture and their economic independence to be very particular about the kind of industrial activity they will allow on their land. It is our government's intention to do everything we can to support the continued use and access that aboriginal people must have to live off the resources of the land, to harvest the wildlife. If there are changes brought on by climate change that are having a negative impact on the access and ability of our peoples, then it will be our intention to change our programs, adopt our programs to assist people to ensure that they do not suffer because of the impact of climate change that is becoming a reality right now. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Steen.
Supplementary To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think this government should take the lead in possibly identifying the negative affects of global warming on people's ability to harvest. One form of taking the lead would be some kind of assurance from the department that the officials of the department will discuss these needs with the communities at the community level. Could I have the Minister's assurance that someone from his department would discuss these needs with the communities within the near future? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the Member brings up an excellent suggestion. One, we are obliged to do and one I think should serve to reassure people at the community level, that we are there primarily to assist them to continue the relationship that they have and the access that they have to harvest wildlife and continue their way of life. I would be very pleased to provide that direction to the department. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Question 274-13(6): Impact Of Climate Change On Wildlife
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
Oral questions. Mr. Picco.
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There has been some concern raised over the last couple of weeks at home in Iqaluit concerning a large gathering of about 300 people from across Nunavut and the north attending a religious festival that, indeed, there was a case of active tuberculosis. I am wondering what type of processes are in place from the Department of Health to allay some of the fears that have been generated because of this and indeed what type of process has been in place from the Department of Health. My question is for the Minister of Health. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
The Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Ng.
Return To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, when it was first learned of the incidence of the circumstances surrounding the possibilities of TB, the health protection unit from the department went to Iqaluit to meet with the Baffin Regional Health and Social Services personnel that were involved in that whole process. They have since stepped up the TB surveillance in the region. They are tracking down some of the individuals that were involved at the gathering. They started community screening in all Baffin communities for TB. Thank you.
Return To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 594
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just to help allay some of the fears concerning this issue, would the Minister
be able to say that, indeed, things are well in hand and that people have nothing really to fear, that the Department of Health is on top of the matter? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
Mr. Ng.
Further Return To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yes, the Department of Health and the Baffin Regional Health and Social Services Board has been working closely right from the start in dealing with this matter. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, would it be possible for the Minister of Health or his department or through some communications with the Baffin Regional Health Board in Iqaluit to put out a press release or at least keep the public informed as to the developments around this issue?
Supplementary To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
Mr. Ng.
Further Return To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we can take a look at what we are going to do in that matter. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Question 275-13(6): Tuberculosis Concerns In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
Okay. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Henry.
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister responsible for the FMBS, Mr. Todd, in the area of the P3 initiatives and also guarantees that this government make. Mr. Speaker, I believe that we have as the Legislature in place, to ensure that a figure of not more than 15 percent of gross revenues of the GNWT can be placed in the form of guarantees. We have placed guarantees for many endeavours that the government saw as worthy of government support. The GNWT has presently a budget of collectively $1.2 million and on April 1, 1999, that will be reduced in the west to approximately $700 million. My question to the Minister is, at division will the guarantees in place in the west still remain within the 15 percent of the revenue figure? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
The Minister responsible for the Financial Management Board, Mr. Todd.
Return To Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would have to double-check, but I would think that there would be 15 percent of the total revenue of the new Western Territory. I had better double-check with Mr. Voytilla, but it would seem to me to make sense that is what would occur. I know that they have got some of those checks and balances in there to ensure that this government and future governments do not get in over their head, as they say, financially. Certainly, in keeping with the approach that we have taken for all the division issues, we would have to separate that out. I will double-check with Mr. Voytilla and confirm with my colleague tomorrow.
Return To Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Henry.
Supplementary To Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yes, I think that is important information and I would await the Minister's response to it. My second question is, Mr. Speaker, is the figure of 15 percent cumulative? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
John Todd Keewatin Central
I do not have the answer to that question, Mr. Speaker, I have to be candid, so I will take the question as notice and report back to my honourable colleague tomorrow afternoon.
Further Return To Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Question 276-13(6): Limit On GNWT Guarantees
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Mr. O'Brien.
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is to Mr. Todd, the Minister responsible for FMBS. I wonder if Mr. Todd could give the House a status report of the P3 projects that are under way in Nunavut?
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
The Speaker
The Minister responsible for the Financial Management Board, Mr. Todd.
Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 595
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there are, I think, two active projects right now. Three, my colleague says. I believe one in Cambridge Bay, one in Arviat, four actually, my apologies, I am just trying to get my numbers right because they are all at different stages, so maybe I will just take one at a time. Let us use the Arviat one first, because that being my own riding the concern of my colleague is understandable. The Arviat Medical Centre is out for, I believe, RFP, right now. There are a number of firms apparently interested in doing that. I am not quite sure exactly when that closes. I know that there is an effort right now to try and get that done early in the new year. There is an RFQ out on the Cambridge Bay medical facility, that is at the RFQ level, and that is to determine who is going to do the architectural work, et cetera. The medical facility in Iqaluit, Cambridge Bay, I do not know why I have lost track. Maybe I should start again. I am sorry. There are four projects, let me try again. Pardon me. I had a phone call and I lost track of what I was saying.
There are four projects, Mr. Speaker, out there. The one in Arviat is currently at the RFP stage. The one in Cambridge Bay is at the RFQ stage. The ones in Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet still have not got to either of those stages, as they are trying to complete the plan with the health boards and with the Department of Health so they can then move to the RFQ and RFP stage. Thank you.
Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.
Supplementary To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wonder for the benefit of the public and Members of this House if Mr. Todd would give us the official definition of an RFP and RFQ.
Supplementary To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
John Todd Keewatin Central
An RFQ is where we request, where we advertise for a particular project and we ask individuals or organizations or companies that are interested in bidding on this particular project. There is a criteria set and a management team determines who has the capability, who has interest, et cetera. They then determine a short list because there is a significant cost to the developer and that short list then moves to RFP, which is a Request for Proposal. A Request for Proposal is similar, as we have said on a number of occasions, to a tender, but gives some flexibility to the private sector to provide some innovative ways in which the particular project can move forward. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.
Supplementary To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wonder if the Minister could give me some details or actually what the process is after the RFP is concluded? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, once the RFP is concluded then the committee, made up of a variety of department people, will then decide on who is the successful proponent based upon whatever the criteria is, cost, ownership, design, et cetera. There is a list of criteria that proponents have to meet. They would then make that decision at the departmental level and move onward and award the contract. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.
Supplementary To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the Minister could confirm what the dollar amounts are, roughly, at this point in time in relation to the Arviat project, the Cambridge Bay project, and the Rankin Inlet project, and also if the Interim Commissioner's Office has signed off on these particular projects? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
I will just let the Minister respond. Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just to round it off in the millions, it is easier that way, I believe the Arviat project is somewhere in the range of $4 million, the Cambridge Bay project is somewhere in the range of $9 million, the Rankin Inlet one somewhere in the range of $11.8 to 12 million, and the Iqaluit project somewhere in the range of $31 to 32 million. Thank you.
Pardon me, on the issue of the Interim Commissioner, we have been working very closely with the Interim Commissioner's Office and I think there is, now I cannot speak on his behalf, but I believe there is a recognition by his office and by the staff of the future Nunavut Government that P3 projects are important and a way in which we can get public infrastructure built, and I believe they are now partners, if you want, in the decision-making process on the RFP and RFQ process. They are now a partner in that. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Question 277-13(6): Status Of Nunavut P3 Projects
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions, Mr. Ootes.
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question will be for Mr. Dent, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. I referred in my statement yesterday to the pressures that are placed on our front line professionals, teachers and nurses. Recently, the Canadian teachers' leaders were predicting there would be a teacher shortage in Canada. There was an article in the Globe and Mail, apparently, that predicted a tremendous shortage in Ontario, as well as areas such as New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The comment, of course, that they are addressing is that there will be a great supply and demand gap looming fairly shortly. My question for the Minister is, has the Minister addressed the implications of this potential shortage here for the Northwest Territories?
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
The Speaker
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 596
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, one of the ways in which we are addressing the potential of any shortage of teachers is to improve our ability to train northerners to become teachers. As Members of this House will no doubt remember, I announced earlier this year an initiative which would focus on teacher education programs at the community level, particularly in the western NWT, which hopefully will lead to many more northern teachers in the course of the next three years. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Supplementary To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the Minister could tell us if the enrolment in the Teacher Education Programs, both here and in Nunavut, will meet anywhere the need for the projected shortcomings? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I cannot say whether or not we will be able to meet any future shortfalls in the numbers of teachers available to teach in the Northwest Territories. To date we have not seen any problems with the numbers of applicants and we will have to monitor the statistics across Canada, in terms of available candidates, and see what develops. We have taken a very proactive approach in training northerners to be teachers and I think that, in the long run, that will be the best solution. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Supplementary To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the Minister could supply me a copy of the enrolment in the Teacher Education Programs that are in place across the north?
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid that to find that information in my briefing book in the time that is allotted to me to answer that question, would be impossible. I could probably have the answer for the Member within a few minutes, but I will endeavour to provide it to him within the day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Supplementary To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the Minister could also tell me if the department is doing an analysis of present-day supply and demand, both in the Teacher Education Programs in the territories and what the future supply and demand will be here in the Northwest Territories, remembering of course that we want to be assured that the needs of the students in the territories will be met in future years? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I can tell the Member that the department does keep track of the statistics across Canada in terms of supply and demand for teachers because it helps us to be aware of whether or not there might be a problem coming up. It would probably be of interest to the Member to know that this year, for instance, in the western Northwest Territories, the student growth in all of our schools was only .9 percent and future projections are that we will not see any growth at all in the total school population for some time in the western NWT.
In Nunavut they are projecting considerable growth in the school system. Given that, what we are looking at is compensating for natural teacher turnover, which for the past ten or so years has averaged about 20 percent a year. We can certainly provide the Member with what that means in the territories in terms of new teachers and an estimate of the number of teachers that will be trained through the Teacher Education Programs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my final question is, has an analysis been done...
Further Return To Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Question 278-13(6): Canadian Teacher Shortage
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
I am trying to keep track, here, but I lost count. The Member for Yellowknife Centre has used up all of his supplementaries. Oral questions. Mr. Picco.
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of the Housing Corporation, concerning the new housing assistance plan. My question concerns the demand for the project to date. I wonder if the Minister could update us? Thank you.
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Thank you. The Minister of the NWT Housing Corporation, Mr. Arlooktoo.
Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the project has been in existence for a little over a week now. We announced it on December 1st, but I must say the response from all across the Northwest Territories has been very positive and that there are many people who are interested in the program, whether in applying to try to get a grant or those who have houses to sell are very interested. I know there have been many inquiries to the Housing Corporation for the program. I do not have the exact number, but all I can say is that the response has been very positive and there is no question that this very popular program will probably soon outlive its budget. Thank you.
Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 597
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, are people allowed to use the newly announced program money and use it in conjunction with other programs that are available from the Housing Corporation? As an example, Mr. Speaker, using the Down Payment Assistance Program or the EDAP Program and using it in conjunction with the $15,000 that is available for the residents of Nunavut? Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Supplementary To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Mr. Arlooktoo.
Further Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The short answer is no, you cannot stack the two programs. I believe that the client, generally, if you are eligible for the EDAP Program, in terms of total dollars, that you are likely better off applying for that program, although the minimum amount of dollars that you can get through EDAP is $5,000, but the top end is substantially higher than that. Whereas the Minimum Down Payment Assistance Program is generally for those who will not qualify for EDAP. As I stated earlier, it is a flat $10,000 for the western Northwest Territories and $15,000 for the Nunavut region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Oral question. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, because of the demand that has been generated by this program, I am wondering if the program applies to the purchase of a single-family home or the Staff House Purchase Program, or for example, in Iqaluit right now where we are trying to develop a condominium market? Can the money be used for the condominium units? I wonder if the Minister could explain the availability of the program for what type of unit you can purchase. Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Mr. Arlooktoo.
Further Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If I recall correctly, the whole idea for the program was not to be restrictive. I would have to, once again, check on that. I have passed around to all the Members an information package on the program. Whether or not it is for stand-alone single-family dwelling units or if it also includes condominium units, I would have to check and pass on the information to the Members. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Oral questions. Final supplementary. Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think it is a very good program. I have had some good feedback from my constituency, from people who have tried to access it. I am wondering, as a follow-up, Mr. Speaker, if indeed the money that is in the program and has been allocated east and west, I am wondering how much has been budgeted for? Has it been budgeted by region, like the Baffin region, the Keewatin region, the Sahtu region, or is it just a pot of money divided east and west and first-come, first-serve? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Mr. Arlooktoo.
Further Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I stated the other day, the total amount for the program until March 31, 1999, is expected to be $2.995 million, of which approximately $1.6 million will be pushed through supplementary appropriation from this House today. It is further subdivided, or budgeted, to an amount for Nunavut and an amount for the western Arctic which are basically estimates of what will likely be spent in these two areas. Those estimates are based on the number of empty housing units that are waiting to be sold in the regions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Question 279-13(6): Demands On Down Payment Pilot Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Oral questions. Mr. Henry.
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to follow up on some questions that were asked of the Honourable Mr. Dent, the Minister of Education, that were asked by my honourable colleague, Mr. Ootes, on the Teacher Education Program. I wonder if the Minister could advise me as to the number of years that the Teacher Education Program has been in place? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Than you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Teacher Education Program has been in effect for 30 years. It was first begun in 1968. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Henry.
Supplementary To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like the Minister to confirm that he did say 30 years. My second question is, does the Minister have the number of students that graduated in that period of time? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
The Speaker
Thank you. There were two questions. Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 598
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the Member's confidence in my memory but no, I do not have 30 years of statistics in my head at this point. I cannot answer that question, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Henry.
Supplementary To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My final supplementary, Mr. Speaker, and I will certainly try to listen a lot more carefully next time is, does the Minister have statistics on tracking the number of graduating students that went back to their home communities after they successfully completed the Teacher Education Program? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I can tell you that we have had fairly good success with the Teacher Education Program in the Northwest Territories and we do, in fact, have the majority of the graduates staying in the north and continuing their work.
I can answer the Member's previous question now. Since the beginning of the program, there have been 394 teaching diplomas issued, 133 have gone on to Bachelors of Education and four have gone on to Masters of Education from the program. We have a number who are still employed in the Northwest Territories and of that number, 228 are currently teachers or divisional education council staff, education consultants, college instructors or on staff with Education, Culture and Employment. Nine are preschool teachers or special needs assistants. There are 32 who are currently enrolled in full-time Bachelor of Education studies outside of the Northwest Territories. There are 45 who are employed in other occupations that we are aware of and 64 who have passed away. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Question 280-13(6): Teacher Education Program
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
Oral questions. Mr. Picco.
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Education. Mr. Speaker, my question concerns the federal government's commitment, I understand, to construct a new Francophone school in Iqaluit. I am wondering if the Minister could update this House on the status of this school? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps I could take this opportunity to clarify an answer to a previous question of Mr. Henry's as well. I had indicated that 64 TEP graduates had passed away, but that number includes retired graduates. Some of the members are retired and some have passed away. I would hope that most of the retired have not passed away.
--Laughter
In response to Mr. Picco, I had expected that by this time we would have an agreement signed between our government, the Department of Education in Nunavut and the federal government on the school in Iqaluit, but I cannot say for sure whether or not this has happened. I will have to look into it, Mr. Speaker, and get back to the Member.
Return To Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
Just a moment. With regard to the response that the Minister made is a question that was asked by Mr. Picco, not Mr. Henry, so the Minister, again, is taking up a question that was asked by Mr. Picco, not by Mr. Henry. I would like to warn the Minister by saying that when a Member asks a question the Minister answer that Member and that Member only. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the negotiations for the new Francophone school in Iqaluit have been ongoing between this government and the federal government for quite some time. I appreciate the support that Mr. Dent has shown this project in Iqaluit. I am wondering, Mr. Speaker, if the Minister could, indeed, update this House as to what has caused the delay? Indeed, we did think that the agreement would have been signed off. Is it a problem with the federal government or is it a commitment of funds from this government? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To clarify, I did not mean in my previous answer to the Member to indicate that there was necessarily a problem. I am not aware if the agreement between the three governments has been finalized yet. I do know that negotiations have been going fairly well and I have, for instance, shared with the Member a draft copy of the plans for the school. I think, it is probably just a matter of not being able to get everybody together to finalize the agreement, rather than it being a problem. I will look into the issue and get back to the Member forthwith.
Further Return To Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Question 281-13(6): New Francophone School In Iqaluit
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Ootes.
Question 282-13(6): Number Of NWT Teachers
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just following up again on matters regarding teachers and education in the territories, I wonder if the Minister could tell me how many teachers are employed in any form of education here in the Northwest Territories?
Question 282-13(6): Number Of NWT Teachers
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
The Speaker
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 282-13(6): Number Of Nwt Teachers
Question 282-13(6): Number Of NWT Teachers
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 599
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will have
to take that question as notice.
Return To Question 282-13(6): Number Of Nwt Teachers
Question 282-13(6): Number Of NWT Teachers
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Mr. Henry.
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question today is to Mr. Antoine, Minister of Transportation. The department provided a copy of a document, Mr. Speaker, on the Slave Geological Province Transportation Corridor Proposal, Environmental Scoping Information. I find it extremely informative, Mr. Speaker. There is a part in it that talks about the winter roads and particularly there is a winter road privately built by Echo Bay Mines, which runs between the end of Highway 4 and the Lupin Mine on Contwoyto Lake. My question to the Minister is, does his department, or is he aware of which department, issues the permit for the construction of that winter road? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Antoine.
Return To Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, that is the federal government that issues that land use permit. It is not under our jurisdiction. It is under the federal jurisdiction. Therefore, they give the land use permit to Echo Bay Mines to construct this winter road every year. Thank you.
Return To Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
Oral questions. Mr. Henry
Supplementary To Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the Minister for that. My second question, Mr. Speaker, is does the Minister's department have any input into the issuing of that permit? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
Mr. Antoine.
Further Return To Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Transportation does not have any input or influence over that land use permit. What I meant earlier was that this winter road is built every year, but this permit is for a number of years. I believe it expires in about two years' time, but I am not too certain, I should check on that. It is a lengthy land use permit. It had been issued some time ago and it is going to expire within the next two years, we are aware of that. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Question 283-13(6): Land Use Permits For Winter Roads
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
Oral questions. Mr. Picco.
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of the Financial Management Board Secretariat. I believe next week the UNW and the government will sit down in the next phase of the negotiations. I wonder if the Minister could update us as to the process for next week? Thank you.
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
The Minister responsible for the Financial Management Board, Mr. Todd.
Return To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
John Todd Keewatin Central
Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, as I have tried to say consistently in this House, maybe to the point of being repetitious and boring, the intent next week hopefully is, to come to an agreement with the union. It was the union, remember when we tabled the offer and took the pay equity off the table several weeks ago, who asked for some time to evaluate the offer and to give them time to review what their position would be. I am hopeful and optimistic that next week the union will see the value of the offer of the collective agreement, come to an agreement with our negotiators and move it out for a vote by the membership. I am told that should take somewhere between 4 to 6 weeks, I think that is how it works.
Assuming that we could get a positive vote we would be able to conclude a new collective agreement and put more money into the hands of our employees; hopefully by the end of this term in March 31, 1999. That is kind of the process that is underway. I would urge, since I have been given the opportunity if I may, I would urge the UNW to work closely with us on this. We have made all the concessions that they asked, I think most of the concessions we have asked them to. The offer is fair, let us get it out to our employees, let us put new money in the hands of our employees, so that we can get on with the job. Thank you.
--Applause
Return To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Todd can be a little bit repetitious, but he is hardly boring. If agreement is not reached, Mr. Speaker, would the Minister use the power granted him out of the Public Service Act to implement a collective agreement? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
John Todd Keewatin Central
No, I will not, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
The Speaker
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 600
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, that is good to hear, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, if negotiations are not successful next week, the first
part of my question was to ask what the process was. Mr. Todd did explain what would happen if we had a successful agreement take place next week. What would the process be if negotiations next week are not successful?
Supplementary To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 601
The Speaker
Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 601
John Todd Keewatin Central
I would like to think, Mr. Speaker, that is, as my honourable colleague said, a hypothetical situation. I am confident that common sense will prevail, that we have made the concessions that were required, we have taken pay equity off the table. That was their request not mine. The offer we have is fair and that the union at the end of the day will see their obligation and responsibility to allow the membership to vote on it. I have not even, at this stage of the game, thought that we would get to that situation. That is what mediation is all about. We try to mediate a fair settlement. We are trying to get more money into the hands of our employees as quickly as we can. Some of us would have preferred prior to Christmas, through unfortunate circumstances that has not occurred. We are in mediation and it would be inappropriate for me to determine how mediation will ultimately unfold. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Question 284-13(6): Process For Collective Bargaining Negotiations
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 601
The Speaker
Oral questions. Oh, time is up, I got caught up. Question period is over. Item 7, written questions. Mr. Henry.
Written Question 9-13(6): Public/private Partnership Funding Guarantees
Item 7: Written Questions
Page 601
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My written question is to Mr. Todd and the Financial Management Board. First of all, is it anticipated that any government support of P3 initiatives proposed in the west after April 1, 1999, will exceed the 15 percent figure allowed for in legislation. Second, what is a cumulative amount of guarantees that will be in place after April 1, 1999, for the new Western Territory? Thank you.
Written Question 9-13(6): Public/private Partnership Funding Guarantees
Item 7: Written Questions
Page 601
The Speaker
Thank you. Written questions. Item 8, returns to written questions. Item 9, replies to opening address. Item 10, petitions. Mr. Rabesca.
Item 10: Petitions
Item 10: Petitions
Page 601
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I tabled three petitions from the Deh Cho constituency. Mr. Speaker, with your permission I would like to table all three of these petitions since all three documents involve the same subject matter.
Petition 8-13(6): Naming Of The New Western Arctic
Item 10: Petitions
Page 601
James Rabesca North Slave
Petition number one has 132 signatures from the Hay River Reserve.
Petition 9-13(6): Naming Of The New Western Arctic
Item 10: Petitions
Page 601
James Rabesca North Slave
Petition number two contains 206 signatures from the community of Fort Providence.
Petition 10-13(6): Naming Of The New Western Arctic
Item 10: Petitions
Page 601
James Rabesca North Slave
Petition number three has 28 signatures from the community of Kakisa.
The petition reads as follows:
We, the constituents of the Deh Cho in the communities of Fort Providence, Hay River Reserve and Kakisa wish to petition the Government of the Northwest Territories, and all Members of the Legislative Assembly, and request support for officially adopting the traditional name of Denendeh for the western Arctic after division on April 1, 1999.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Petition 10-13(6): Naming Of The New Western Arctic
Item 10: Petitions
Page 601
The Speaker
Thank you. Petitions. Item 11, reports on standing and special committees. Item 12, reports of committees on the review of bills. Mr. O'Brien.
Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 601
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wish to report to the Legislative Assembly that the Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed Bill 22, Legal Registries Division Measures Act, and wishes to report Bill 22 is now ready for committee of the whole. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive rule 70(5) and have Bill 22 ordered to committee of the whole for today. Thank you.
Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Page 601
The Speaker
Thank you. The Member for Kivallivik is seeking unanimous consent to waive rule 70(5). Do we have any nays? Mr. O'Brien you have unanimous consent. Bill 22 will be ordered to committee of the whole for today. Reports of committees on the review of bills. Item 13, tabling of documents. Mr. Morin.
Tabled Document 54-13(6): Letter From Ms. Becky Schaub Regarding A Complaint Of Conflict Of Interest Previously Filed Against MLA Jane Groenewegen
Item 13: Tabling Of Documents
Page 601
Don Morin Tu Nedhe
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to table a document from Hay River Mobile Home Park Ltd. in Hay River requesting the MLA of this Legislative Assembly to table this document. It is a conflict of interest inquiry into Mrs. Groenewegen, MLA for Hay River, and it is signed by Becky Schaub. Thank you.
Tabled Document 54-13(6): Letter From Ms. Becky Schaub Regarding A Complaint Of Conflict Of Interest Previously Filed Against MLA Jane Groenewegen
Item 13: Tabling Of Documents
Page 601
The Speaker
Tabling of documents. Item 14, notices of motion. Mrs. Groenewegen.
Motion 15-13(6): Changes To The Electoral Boundaries Of Deh Cho And Hay River
Item 14: Notices Of Motions
Page 602
Jane Groenewegen Hay River
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Thursday, December 10, 1998, I will move the following motion:
Now therefore I move, seconded by the Honourable Member for Thebacha, that Schedule A of the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act be amended to include the community of Enterprise within the electoral district of Deh Cho, as was outlined in tabled document 26-13(6), being the Report of the Northwest Territories Electoral Boundaries Commission, 1998. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Motion 15-13(6): Changes To The Electoral Boundaries Of Deh Cho And Hay River
Item 14: Notices Of Motions
Page 602
The Speaker
Notices of motion. Item 15, notices of motion for first reading of bills. Mr. Arlooktoo.
Bill 33: An Act To Amend The Access To Information And Protection Of Privacy Act
Item 15: Notices Of Motion For First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Thursday, December 10, 1998, I will move that Bill 33, an Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Bill 33: An Act To Amend The Access To Information And Protection Of Privacy Act
Item 15: Notices Of Motion For First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. Notices of motion for first reading of bills. Item 16, motions. Item 17, first reading of bills. Mr. Arlooktoo.
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to proceed with the first reading of Bill 33, an Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. The Member for Baffin South is seeking unanimous consent to proceed with Bill 33. Do we have any nays? Mr. Arlooktoo, you have unanimous consent.
Bill 33: An Act To Amend The Access To Information And Protection Of Privacy Act
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Nahendeh, that Bill 33, an Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Bill 33: An Act To Amend The Access To Information And Protection Of Privacy Act
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 33 has had first reading. First reading of bills, Mr. Dent.
Bill 28: An Act To Amend The Social Assistance Act
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Mr. Speaker, I move seconded by the honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act, be read for the first time.
Bill 28: An Act To Amend The Social Assistance Act
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 28 has had first reading. First reading of bills. Item 18, second reading of bills. Mr. Dent.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Mr. Speaker, I seek consent to proceed with second reading of Bill 28.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. The honourable Member for Frame Lake is seeking consent to proceed with Bill 28. Do we have any nays? Mr. Dent, you have consent.
Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Social Assistance Act to give retroactive effect to an amendment to the Social Assistance Regulations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Mr. Dent.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 602
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive rule 69(2) and have Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act, ordered into committee of the whole for today.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 602
The Speaker
Thank you. The Member for Yellowknife Frame Lake is seeking unanimous consent to waive Rule 69(2). Do we have any nays? Mr. Dent, you have unanimous consent. Bill 28 is ordered into committee of the whole for today. Second reading of bills, Mr. Arlooktoo.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 603
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek consent to proceed with the second reading of Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 603
The Speaker
The Member for Baffin South is seeking consent to deal with Bill 33. Do we have any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Arlooktoo, you have consent.
Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 603
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Nahendeh, that Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this bill extends the period of time before the provisions of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act will prevail over the provisions of any other act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 603
The Speaker
Thank you. The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. Mr. Arlooktoo.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 603
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to waive rule 69(2) and have Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, ordered into committee of the whole for today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 603
The Speaker
Thank you. First of all, Bill 33 has had second reading. The Member for Baffin South is seeking unanimous consent to waive rule 69(2). Do we have any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Arlooktoo, you have unanimous consent. Bill 33 will be ordered into committee of the whole for today. Second reading of bills. Item 19, consideration in committee of whole of bills and other matters. Bill 19, Bill 20, Bill 21, Bill 22, Bill 23, Bill 24, Bill 25, Bill 26, Bill 27, Bill 28 and Bill 33 with Mrs. Groenewegen in the chair.
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
Page 603
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
I call committee of the whole to order. We have quite a number of bills in front of us today. What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Ootes.
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
Page 603
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. That we proceed with Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act and the Motor Vehicles Act, followed by Bill 20, Bill 21, Bill 22, Bill 23, Bill 24, Bill 25, Bill 26, Bill 27, Bill 28 and Bill 33, in that order.
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
Page 603
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
Page 603
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 603
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. We will have a 15 minute break and we will return to the business.
--Break
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
Page 603
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
I would like to call committee of the whole back to order. We are going to proceed with Bill 19, An Act to amend the Public Highways Act and Motor Vehicles Act. Mr. Henry.
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
Page 603
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I have some opening comments. If you wish, I will proceed with them. I am pleased to be here today to present Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act and the Motor Vehicles Act. This bill is quite straightforward. Right now our Public Highways Act is unusual in Canada, in that it places restrictions on the maximum speed limit that may be set on our highways. Under Section 4 of the act, the Commissioner may set maximum speed limits for any class of highway outside a municipality and for primary highways within municipalities. However, the Commissioner may not set a maximum speed limit of more than 90 kilometres per hour or 50 kilometres per hour for all-terrain vehicles within communities. This bill removes the restrictions placed on the Commissioner. This does not mean that speed limits will automatically be raised, but it does allow the Minister and the Department of Transportation to examine the issue so that the Commissioner may set maximum speed limits of more than 90 kilometres per hour where it is appropriate.
Madam Chairperson, in the course of drafting these amendments, my legal counsel discovered a similar section in the Motor Vehicles Act. The Motor Vehicles Act allows the council to set maximum speed limits on highways within the municipality. In certain cases, a council may also set limits on primary highways within a municipality, but only if the council has an agreement with the Minister. I understand that there are, currently, no such agreements. Section 344 of the act, provides that a bylaw may not set a maximum speed limit of more than 90 kilometres per hour. This bill would repeal this restriction as well, which is consistent with repealing the restriction on the Commissioner. This concludes my opening comments. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 603
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Henry. Now I would like Mr. Krutko, who is representing the resource management committee, if he would like to make remarks on the review of the bill. Thank you, Mr. Krutko.
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
Page 603
David Krutko Mackenzie Delta
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The Standing Committee on Resource Management and Development reviewed Bill 19, An Act to amend the Public Highways Act and the Motor Vehicles Act, at its meeting on December 3, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Member for Yellowknife South, Mr. Henry, for presenting the bill and responding to issues and questions raised by the committee. As it is now, the maximum speed limit in the Northwest Territories, is 90 kilometres an hour on all primary highways. This bill will remove the limit on the maximum speed limit on highways outside municipalities and primary highways within the municipalities that may be established by the Commissioner in the Public Highways Act or by the municipal council in the Motor Vehicles Act. In other jurisdictions, the Minister of Transportation and the municipal council had the authority to increase the speed limits if needed to. Generally, there are no restrictions placed on the maximum speed limit that may be set by the Commissioner, Minister or council.
This bill does not automatically mean that all speed limits would be increased. It will, however, give the Commissioner or the municipal council the authority to make this decision on primary highways, for example, the highway from Fort Rae to Fort Providence meets the criteria, the speed limit could be increased from 90 to 100 kilometres per hour.
Bill 19 will be consistent with other jurisdictions and would allow for flexibility to increase the maximum speed limit. On certain sections of the highway in the Northwest Territories will remain 90 kilometres an hour or 50 kilometres an hour in municipalities, unless otherwise posted in the Northwest Territories.
Madam Chairperson, the members of the standing committee are satisfied with the amendment proposed in this bill. Individual Members of the committee may have comments to make on this particular matter. The standing committee recommends, on Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act and Motor Vehicles Act. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 603
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
Page 603
Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Madam Chairperson, with the knowledge and consent of myself, as the
Minister of Transportation, and my department, the Member from Yellowknife South has introduced Bill 19, a private Member's bill to amend the Public Highways Act and the Motor Vehicles Act. The affect of the amendments will be to remove the restrictions presently in these laws that prohibit the setting of maximum speed limits on territorial and municipal highways greater than 90 kilometres per hour.
Most importantly, Madam Chairperson, the amendments will place no obligations on the ministry and the department to do anything at all. However, the amendment simply removes the restrictions on the prerogative to set maximum speed limits. On passage of the bill, Madam Chairperson, as the Minister, I will be instructing my department to review some of the maximum speed limits that are out there now and in effect, and possibly look at raising some of them when it is deemed safe and sensible to do so on the existing highway system. With that, normally the practice of this House is that members of the Executive Council abstain on private Member's bills, but in this case, Madam Chairperson, I will be voting in favour of this bill. Thank you.
--Applause
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
Page 604
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Antoine. Mr. Henry, would you like to call any witnesses to speak to this?
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
Page 604
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Madam Chairperson, no I would not. This is certainly a low-budget bill. I do not have any legal counsel, but I have assistance should any of the Members have questions they wish to ask.
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
Page 604
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. There are no general comments. General comments? If not, we will proceed to the clause by clause review of the bill. Private Member's public bill, Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act and Motor Vehicles Act. Amendment to Public Highways Act, clause one. Agreed?
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
Page 604
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 604
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
Page 604
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 604
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
Page 604
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 604
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 19 is ready for third reading? Agreed?
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
Page 604
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 604
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 19 is now ready for third reading.
--Applause
The next bill. Bill 20. Mr. Todd.
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
Page 604
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I am pleased to be here today to review the Division Measures Act, No. 2.
Similar to the provisions in the first Division Measures Act, the primary purpose of this bill is to address any legislative consequences that arise with the division of the NWT on April 1, 1999. I want to, if I may, Madam Chairperson, go through some of these amendments.
The Psychologists Act has been amended to remove an obsolete reference to the nomination of the Association of Psychologists of the NWT as the association responsible for the registration and discipline of members in the territories. In addition, it allows the Minister to designate another person or body to perform the duties of the association in the event that the association ceases to operate. This will facilitate the recognition of the association under the Psychologists Act of Nunavut.
Amendments to the Legal Services Act have been drafted to permit the Minister to appoint additional members to the Legal Services Board. This will permit the Minister to appoint representatives of the regional committees in Nunavut to the board. The Minister has also provided the authority to enter into agreements with the Interim Commissioner or the Government of Nunavut for the provision of legal services and for the division of assets and liabilities of the Legal Services Board.
Amendments to the Labour Standards Act, Maintenance Orders (Facilities for Enforcement) Act, and the Reciprocal Enforcement of Judgements Act can be broadly grouped together. Changes to these acts have been drafted to ensure that any judgements, orders, certificates that may be issued by either Nunavut or the NWT, can ultimately be enforced in the other territory.
In conclusion, Madam Chairperson, I want to thank the Department of Justice and the Psychologists Association of the Northwest Territories for the work that has been done in the development of this legislation. Thank you.
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
Page 604
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Todd. The Government Operations committee has reviewed this bill and I would ask Mr. Erasmus if he could please provide those comments. Mr. Erasmus.
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
Page 604
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 20, Division Measures Act, No. 2, at its meeting on December 7, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Honourable John Todd and his officials for presenting the bill and responding to issues raised by the committee. Bill 20 would amend five acts to carry out preparations for division. Amendments to the Labour Standards Act, the Maintenance Orders (Facilities for Enforcement) Act, and the Reciprocal Enforcement of Judgements Acts will allow Nunavut to make arrangements with other provinces, territories and countries, including the Northwest Territories, so that one jurisdiction may enforce orders made in another jurisdiction.
As well, amendments are made to the Psychologists Act and the Legal Services Act that correspond with amendments made to the Nunavut version of those acts under Bill 21, the Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2. Together, the two bills will allow the Association of Psychologists of the Northwest Territories to carry out responsibilities in both territories. The two bills will also allow agreements to be made between the two territories so that the Legal Services Board may administer the Legal Services Act in Nunavut after division. The agreement will also set out how the assets and liabilities of the board will be divided on termination of the agreement. As well, under this bill, the Minister is given the power to appoint such additional members of the Legal Services Board as he or she considers necessary. Madam Chairperson, members of the standing committee were generally satisfied with the amendments proposed in the bill. This concludes the standing committee's comments on Bill 20, The Division Measures Act, No. 2. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Erasmus. Would the Minister like to bring witnesses? Mr. Todd.
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
Page 605
John Todd Keewatin Central
Yes, thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Does committee agree that Mr. Todd should be allowed to bring witnesses? Sergeant-at-Arms, please. Thank you. Mr. Todd, could you please introduce your witness for the record?
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
Page 605
John Todd Keewatin Central
Yes, thank you, Madam Chairperson. I have with me on my immediate right, the ever present, Mr. Mark Aitken who is with the Department of Justice.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Clause by clause.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Clause by clause. On Bill 20, Division Measures Act No. 2? Agreed.
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
We are going to stand down the clauses one to five and proceed to schedule A. Amendments to the Psychologists Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule B, Amendments to the Labour Standards Act. Item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule D, Amendment to Maintenance Orders, Facilities for Enforcement Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule E, Amendment to Reciprocal Enforcement of Judgements Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Now please turn back to page 1 and we will consider the clauses. Clause 1. Agreed?
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 20 is ready for third reading?
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
Page 605
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 605
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 20 is now ready for third reading. Thank you, Mr. Todd. Thank you, Mr. Aitken. The next bill is Bill 21, Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2. With opening remarks, Mr. Arlooktoo.
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
Page 605
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Yes, thank you, Madam Chairperson. I am pleased to be here today to review the Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2.
This bill seeks to amend the laws of Nunavut before they come in to force on April 1, 1999. Similar to the three division bills that I reviewed with this committee previously, this bill utilizes the authority given to the NWT Legislative Assembly under Section 76.05 of the Nunavut Act. This unique authority can only be used on the recommendation of the Interim Commissioner and after consultation with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated.
Madam Chairperson, I am pleased to report this bill has been drafted with the cooperation of the Office of the Office of the Interim Commissioner and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. This cooperative approach was formally confirmed when the Speaker read the Interim Commissioner's letter of recommendation in the Legislation Assembly.
In addition, NTI also confirmed that they had been consulted on the development of this bill in a letter that I tabled in the Legislative Assembly on December 3, 1998.
Madam Chairperson, as with the three previous division bills reviewed by the committee, this bill was prepared in a collaborative fashion. I want to thank the Interim Commissioner and his staff, Nunavut Tunngavik and the GNWT Department of Justice for their hard work and cooperation in its development. It is also important to pay tribute to the efforts made by the professional associations in this process. Their input was invaluable. Madam. Chairperson, I have some specific remarks on the contents of this bill.
Similar to the Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, this bill addresses the division-related consequences of acts which will be duplicated in Nunavut. These amendments are primarily technical in nature.
The proposed amendments to the Dental Profession Act, the Medical Profession Act, the Psychologists Act and the Northwest Territories Teachers' Association Act are designed to ensure the regulation and functioning of these professions continue smoothly and without interruption in Nunavut.
Amendments to the Legal Services Act have been drafted primarily to enable the GNWT and Interim Commissioner to come to an agreement on the provision of legal services in Nunavut.
Thank you, Madam Chairperson, I would be pleased to answer any questions that Members may have.
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
Page 606
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo. On behalf of the Special Committee on Nunavut Legislation, Mr. Picco is going to provide us with a review of the bill. Mr. Picco.
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
Page 606
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I am very pleased today to give the opening comments on the Special Committee from Nunavut Legislation on the review of Bill 21, The Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act. Madam Chairperson, we would like to begin by thanking Mr. Arlooktoo for introducing the bill and for the leadership shown by Mr. Arlooktoo with the Nunavut Caucus over the past several months, especially the last couple of weeks, with the amount of legislation we have had to do.
Madam Chairperson, the bill amends the Dental Profession Act and the Medical Profession Act to enable the review offices, the registrars and the registration committees set up in the Northwest Territories to carry out responsibilities in Nunavut.
As well, amendments are made to the Psychologists Act to allow the Association of Psychologists of the Northwest Territories to perform functions in Nunavut.
Now Madam Chairperson, the amendments to the Legal Services Act will allow Nunavut to enter into agreements with the Northwest Territories so that the Legal Services Board may administer the act in Nunavut. The agreement will also set out how the assets and liabilities of the board will be divided on the termination of the agreement. I think that is important to note that, Madam Chairperson.
Finally, amendments to the Northwest Territories Teachers' Association Act, will establish the Federation of Nunavut Teachers as the representative body and collective bargaining agent for teachers in Nunavut. Madam Chairperson, the special committee was satisfied, and I should say very satisfied, with the amendments proposed in this bill. They are appropriate and to be made in preparation for division. This concludes the special committee's comments on Bill 21, Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2.
I would like to thank you and the committee for their time and we would like to now move into the next phase of the review of Bill 21 here in committee of the whole. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 606
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Picco. Would the Minister like to bring witnesses for consideration of the bill?
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
Page 606
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Yes, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 606
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
Page 606
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 606
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms. Thank you. Mr. Arlooktoo, again for the record, would you please introduce the witness?
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
Page 606
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Once again I have with me Mr. Mark Aitken, Director of the Legislation Division of the Department of Justice.
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
Page 606
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Clause by clause.
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
Page 607
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 21, Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2, clause by clause. We will stand down the clauses and turn to page 3, schedule A, part 1, Amendments to Dental Profession Act, item 1? Agreed?
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule B, part 1, Amendments to Medical Profession Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Part 2, Consequential Amendment to Evidence Act. Item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Agreed. Thank you. Page 7 now. Schedule C, part 1, Amendments to Psychologists Act. Item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Part 2, Consequential Amendment to Evidence Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule E, part 1. Amendments to Northwest Territories Teachers' Association Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 607
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 607
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Agreed. Thank you. Part 2, Consequential Amendment to Public Service Act. Item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Agreed. Thank you. Please turn back to page 1, clauses. Dental Profession Act. Clause 1. Agreed?
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Agreed. Thank you. Northwest Territories Teachers' Association Act. Clause 5. Agreed?
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Agreed. Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 21 is ready for third reading?
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
Page 608
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 608
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 21 is now ready for third reading. Moving on. Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo, and thank you, Mr. Aitken. Bill 22, Legal Registries Division Measures Act. Mr. Arlooktoo, please.
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Page 608
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Bill 26?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Page 608
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Page 608
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The main purpose of this bill and its companion, Bill 23, is to place corporations and limited partnerships that are more closely related to Nunavut than the successor Northwest Territories under the relevant legislation of Nunavut.
This is achieved by deeming business corporations, societies, co-operatives and limited partnerships be no longer incorporated, registered or formed under the NWT legislation on April 1, 1999, when their registered office, locality of operations, general partners or address of service, as the case may be, is in Nunavut. The Nunavut Legislation, as amended by Bill 23, will deem these corporations and limited partnerships to be incorporated, registered or formed under the corresponding Nunavut statutes.
The NWT legislation also provides that these deemed Nunavut entities may continue to operate in the NWT without registration as an extra-territorial corporation or limited partnership until March 31, 2001, during which time their existing rights and liabilities are preserved.
Similarly, the Nunavut legislation provides that the corporations and limited partnerships which remain in the NWT may continue to operate in Nunavut without registration until March 31, 2001. Again, their existing rights and liabilities are preserved during this period of time.
Finally, this bill also includes several more minor amendments to legal registries legislation in order to deal with the consequences of division. In closing, I would like to thank the Members of the standing committee for the review and support of this bill. I would be pleased to respond to any questions or comments which Members may have. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo. I believe Government Operations has reviewed this bill and Mr. O'Brien has the remarks from the Government Operations Committee. Mr. O'Brien.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 608
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 22, the Legal Registries Division Measures Act, at its meeting on December 7 and 8, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Honourable John Todd and his officials for presenting the bill and responding to issues raised by the committee. Madam Chairperson, this bill makes technical amendments to the Business Corporations Act, Co-operative Associations Act, the Partnership Act and the Societies Act that will assist those bodies in making the transition to the two new territories. The amendments provide that corporations, co-ops, partnerships and societies primarily located in Nunavut as of March 31, 1999, will be deemed as of April 1, 1999, not to be formed under NWT
legislation.
Under corresponding amendments made to the Nunavut versions of these acts by Bill 23, these bodies will be deemed to have been formed under Nunavut legislation. Bodies deemed to have been formed in Nunavut will be able to carry on business in the NWT without having to register as an extra-territorial body until March 31, 2001. Other transitional provisions will allow NWT bodies to use offices and addresses in Nunavut until March 31, 2001.
Madam Chairperson, this bill also amends the Land Titles Act to repeal spent transitional provisions and adds a transitional section to the Securities Act allowing addresses for service in Nunavut to be used.
Madam Chairperson, Members of the standing committee had no concerns with this bill. This concludes the standing committee's comments on Bill 23, the Legal Registries Statutes Nunavut Amendment Act. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Page 609
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Yes, thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms. Just before Mr. Arlooktoo introduces his witnesses, I have been asked to recognize, I am afraid to say your names because sometimes Mr. Picco just plays tricks on me, Mr. Joe Devereaux and Mr. Nanauk of Arviat in the gallery. Welcome to the gallery. Is that really your names? I trust that is really your names and Mr. Picco is not trying to play a trick on me. Thank you. Mr. Arlooktoo, could you please introduce your witnesses for the record.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I have with me Gary MacDougall, Director of Legal Registries in the Department of Justice and Mr. Mark Aitken once again, Director of Legislation Division with the Department of Justice.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Clause by clause.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. We will proceed to clause by clause. Schedule A, Amendments to the Business Corporations Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule B, Amendments to the Co-operative Associations Act, Item 1. Agreed?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule C, Amendments to the Land Titles Act, item 1. Agreed?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule D, Amendments to the Partnership Act, item 1. Agreed?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Please return to Page 1, Business Corporations Act, clause 1. Agreed?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
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
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 22 is ready for third reading?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 609
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 22 is now ready for third reading. Thank you. Mr. Arlooktoo, Mr. Aitken and...what happened? Oh no, I think it is okay...Mr.
Arlooktoo could just remain seated at the witness table to continue with Bill 23. Great. Thank you. Bill 23, Nunavut Legal Registries Statutes Amendment Act. Mr. Arlooktoo, could you please introduce the bill?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 610
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I earlier spoke to Bill 22 and in so doing, summarized the primary purpose of this bill as well. As noted at that time, the two bills together will have the effect of transferring responsibility for corporations and limited partnerships to the applicable legislation in Nunavut where these corporations of limited partnerships are most closely connected with Nunavut. At the same time, existing corporations and limited partnerships may continue to operate in both territories until March 31, 2001 without registration as an extra-territorial corporation or extra-territorial limited partnership.
Madam Chairperson, in addition, this bill would amend the Land Titles Act to provide that the Nunavut Land Titles Office may be temporarily located outside of Nunavut. Current plans would see that the office be located in Yellowknife for a transitional period.
At this time, I would like to acknowledge the role of the Office of the Interim Commissioner and their staff, NTI and their staff in the review of both the legal registries bills, as well as a Special Committee on Nunavut Legislation for its review and support of this bill. I would be pleased to answer any questions the committee may have. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 610
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo. The Special Committee on Nunavut Legislation has reviewed and I am going to ask Mr. Barnabas if he would bring the committee's remarks. Mr. Barnabas.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 610
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The Special Committee on Nunavut Legislation reviewed Bill 23, Nunavut Legal Registries Statutes Amendment Act, at its meeting on December 4, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Honourable Goo Arlooktoo and his officials for presenting the bill and responding to issues raised by the committee.
Madam Chairperson, this bill makes technical amendments to the Business Corporations Act, the Co-operative Associations Act, the Partnership Act and the Societies Act that will assist those bodies in making the transition to two new territories. The amendments provide that NWT corporations, co-ops, partnerships and societies primarily located in Nunavut as of March 31, 1999, will be deemed as of April 1, 1999, to have been formed under Nunavut legislation. NWT bodies will be able to carry on business in Nunavut without having to register as an extra-territorial body until March 31, 2001. Other transitional provisions allow Nunavut bodies to use offices and addresses in the NWT until March 31, 2001.
This bill would also amend the Land Titles Act to allow the Northwest Territories to provide land titles registration services to Nunavut for so long as the Nunavut Minister considers advisable. A further transitional section is added to the Securities Act to allow addresses in the NWT to be used.
Madam Chairperson, the special committee had no concerns with this bill. This concludes the special committee's comments on Bill 23, the Nunavut Legal Registries Statutes Amendment Act. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 610
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Barnabas. General comments. Mr. Clerk, do we have to introduce the witnesses again? For the record, we should recognize the witnesses again. Mr. Arlooktoo.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Yes, Madam Chairperson. Mark Aitken, Director of Legislation and Gary MacDougall, Director of Legal Registries.
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
Page 610
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Detailed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 610
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. We will proceed to clause by clause. Bill 23, Nunavut Legal Registries Statutes Amendment Act, page 3, schedule A, Amendments to the Business Corporations Act. Agreed?
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 610
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 610
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule B, Amendments to the Co-operative Associations Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 610
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule C, Amendments to the Land Titles Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 610
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Schedule D, Amendments to the Partnership Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 610
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
Page 610
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 610
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 23 is ready for third reading?
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
Page 611
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 611
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 23 is now ready for third reading. Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo, Mr. MacDougall and Mr. Aitken. Bill 24, Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act. Ms. Thompson, would you please introduce the bill?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 611
Manitok Thompson Aivilik
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Madam Chairperson, I am pleased to have this opportunity to speak to the committee about Bill 24, Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act. This proposed bill is needed to permit the transfer of the Community Employees' Benefits Program to a federally-incorporated, not-for-profit corporation.
Madam Chairperson, under the Nunavut Act the current Community Employees' Benefits Program Act would duplicate in Nunavut creating a board for each territory. This would add substantially to the costs of administering the programs and increase costs to the employers and employees enrolled in the CEBA Program. To ensure that the program would remain affordable and could continue to grow, the CEBA Board expressed the desire to remain as one. Madam Chairperson, the current program includes approximately 93 participating employers and 1,292 participating employees. These are, for the most part, from municipalities and housing associations. Overall, $19.5 million is held in trust by the board.
The program provides pension plans, retirement programs, group insurance and group RRSPs which are all competitive benefits on par with those available to GNWT employees. The NWT Association of Municipalities administers this program through a contract with the board. Over the years, the work of the association has been key to its success and growth. The board's long-range planning has been to specialize in providing services to northern locations. There are other northern locations, such as northern Quebec and the northern parts of various provinces, which could be interested in purchasing these types of services. This would meet the needs of northerners living in other jurisdictions and would also allow the program to expand and attract additional employees and employers.
Madam Chairperson, Bill 24 will ensure that the transfer to the new northern Employees' Benefits Program does not have an impact on the participating employers and employees. The objectives of the transfer are to ensure the program remains affordable and tailored to the needs of northerners; that there is fair and equitable representation of Nunavut and the west on the board; that there is continued stability in the administration and management of the program; and that there is opportunity for the program to expand if it is the wish of the members.
Madam Chairperson, I am pleased to say that in cooperation with officials from the board and the Office of the Interim Commissioner, these objectives can be met. As proposed, the program will remain affordable to employers and employees and will remain tailored to the needs of northerners. In addition, I have agreed to take the appropriate action necessary to have Nunavut and the Western Territory represented equally on the board. This will mean that at the time of incorporation there will be four members each for Nunavut and the west.
To ensure success of the new corporation it is expected that, for the time being, the NWTAM will continue to administer the program. Once the new corporation is established, participating members will be able to elect their own board members and will decide where the head office should remain or if services should be expanded to other northern regions. These decisions will come from the members, not the government.
Madam Chairperson, Bill 24 provides for all the assets and liabilities currently held by the board to be transferred to the new corporation. The bill also ensures that existing benefit plans and the benefit entitlements will continue after the transfer. In closing, Madam Chairperson, I am pleased that the proposed Bill 24, Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act, will serve the interests of people in both Nunavut and the NWT. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Ms. Thompson. The infrastructure committee has reviewed the bill and Mr. Henry is going to provide us with an overview. Mr. Henry.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 612
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Madam Chairperson, the Standing Committee on Infrastructure reviewed Bill 24, Community Employees Benefits Program Transfer Act, on December 5, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs and her officials for presenting the bill.
The bill allows the transfer of the Community Employees' Benefits Program to a federally-incorporated not-for-profit corporation. Under the Nunavut Act, the Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act, would be duplicated in Nunavut resulting in a board for each territory. This division would add substantially to the costs of administering the program and resulting in increased cost to participating employers and employees. Bill 24 will ensure current economics of scale are maintained. The bill provides for all the assets and liabilities currently held by the board to be transferred in their entirety to the new corporation. The bill further ensures that existing benefit plans and entitlements will continue after the transfer of the program.
The committee expressed concern that the proposed transfer may incur additional costs for the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Nunavut government. The Minister assured the committee that there are no costs incurred for either government. The committee was also concerned that additional costs or a potential reduction in benefits may be incurred upon employees in the benefit program as a result of the proposed transfer. The Minister and her staff assured the committee that there would be no negative impact on the employees' benefit plan or entitlements.
Finally, committee members were concerned there may not be east/west membership parity on the board after the transfer. The Minister advised the board that her department are awaiting the Office of the Interim Commissioner's selection of a board candidate. The selection of this candidate will ensure there is east/west parity for the federally-incorporated, not-for-profit corporation that will manage the Community Employees' Benefits Program.
Madam Chairperson, following the committee's review, a motion was carried to report Bill 24, Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act, to the Assembly as ready for committee of the whole. Additional comments or questions of the Members may be posed as we proceed. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Henry. Would the Minister like to bring witnesses, please. Is the committee agreed?
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms. Ms. Thompson, could you please introduce all of your witnesses for the record?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 612
Manitok Thompson Aivilik
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. To my right is Mr. Bob McLeod, Deputy Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, and Chris Keely, Finance Director. Sean Flynn to my left is Legal Counsel for the Legislative Assembly.
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
Page 612
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. We are considering Bill 24. General comments. Is committee agreed?
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Please turn to page seven. Charter Communities Act, item one. Agreed?
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 612
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 612
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
Page 613
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 613
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
Page 613
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 613
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
Page 613
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 613
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 24 is ready for third reading?
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
Page 613
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 613
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you. Bill 24 is now ready for third reading. Thank you, Mrs. Thompson, Mr. McLeod, Mr. Flynn and Mr. Keely. Bill 25. Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act. I am going to ask Mr. Todd if he would introduce the bill. Mr. Todd.
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
Page 613
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I am pleased to be here today to review the Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act.
This bill and its companion legislation, the Nunavut Workers' Compensation Statutes Amendment Act, under the proposed Workers' Compensation Transitional Agreement between the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Interim Commissioner of Nunavut, are the result of a long series of negotiations concerning the Workers' Compensation Board. These negotiations included the Government of the NWT, the Office of the Interim Commissioner, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and the Western Coalition.
Madam Chairperson, before I get into the specific elements of the bill I would like to provide some context for the transitional agreement and, may I stress, transitional agreement. As Members will recall, the negotiations surrounding the WCB began with the proposal by the GNWT on a long-term continuance plan that was provided to all parties early in 1998. It became obvious in June, in the subsequent discussions with the parties on this proposal, that a long-term continuous plan was not likely to be achieved prior to division.
The result was the need to consider the transitional agreement that would one, ensure stability of workers' compensation services in both Nunavut and the NWT in the short-term, provide the opportunity for two new governments to re-examine their relationship with respect to the services to determine if they wish to continue with a shared arrangement, set a clear determination date for the joint board, allow sufficient time to ensure a fair and equitable division of the assets and liabilities of the current WCB and allow for a reasonable period of time for Nunavut to develop a stand-alone Workers' Compensation Board.
Madam Chairperson, with these principles in mind, the GNWT developed a proposal that was presented to the parties in the fall. Negotiations with the parties continued up until earlier this week. The result is the legislation and draft agreement that constitutes the components of this transitional agreement. This agreement, Madam Chairperson, is designed to maintain the status quo in the short-term. The transitional period set out in this agreement with both Nunavut and the NWT to consult with the stakeholders to determine how workers' compensation services are to be delivered in the future. The key elements of the transitional arrangements are intended to one, provide the terms and the conditions and how the WCB will operate in Nunavut and NWT for a transition period to December 31, 2002, to authorize the current Workers' Compensation Board to operate in Nunavut during the transitional period, to allow the Nunavut Minister responsible for the WCB to nominate two members to the board and to ensure consultation by the NWT Minister with the Nunavut Minister prior to filling any vacancies that occur on the appeals tribunal.
In addition, Madam Chairperson, there are specific provisions in this arrangement that one, provides for meetings to take place between the Nunavut and NWT Ministers responsible for WCB in order to complete administrative duties such as receiving the WCB's annual report and corporate plan for tabling in their respective Legislative Assemblies and ensures each party only exercise its authority under the Workers' Compensation Act with the consent and approval of the other party; allow the appointment of statutory officers to fulfil the responsibilities in both territories, ensures that the WCB employees in Nunavut will remain members of the NWT public service through consequential amendments to the Nunavut Public Service Act, ensures the transfer of WCB employees to the Nunavut agency after the transition period with full rights intact and provides for continuation of the Accident Fund during the transitional period as a singularly-administered fund, authorizes the transfer of the post of Accident Fund of $20 million or 20 percent of benefits liabilities, whichever is less, to the Nunavut government on request; to allow for the creation of a successor Nunavut agency allows for the tracking and recording of individual claims in each new territory which will serve as the basis for the division of claims and pension liabilities at the end of the transition period;
- ensure the agreement of the Government of Nunavut to be bound by the terms of the Hunters and Trappers Program, with respect to claims arising from it;
- sets out a formula to divide the assets and liabilities of the WCB in proportion to the benefit liability attributable to each jurisdiction on the termination date; and finally,
- provides a dispute resolution mechanism to address any disputes that may arise during the transition period.
I think it is also important to point out the invaluable contribution of the staff of the Workers Compensation Board under the direction of the board and its president for the work they have done on this important agreement. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.
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
Page 614
The Chair Jane Groenewegen
Thank you, Mr. Todd. Government operations reviewed this bill. Mr. Miltenberger.
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
Page 614
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Madam Chairperson, the Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 25, Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act, at its meeting on December 7, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Honourable John Todd and his officials for presenting the bill and responding to issues raised by the committee.
The amendments will allow the NWT Worker's Compensation Board an appeals tribunal to function as the board and appeals tribunal for Nunavut during a transition period from April 1, 1999 until December 31, 2002.
Bill 25 authorizes the Minister to enter into a transitional service agreement with Nunavut. The agreement will set terms and conditions under which the Northwest Territories Workers' Compensation Board and Appeals Tribunal will carry out their duties in Nunavut.
The agreement must also set out how the assets and liabilities of the board will be determined when the agreement has ended and how the assets and liabilities will be divided between NWT and Nunavut. The transitional service agreement will last until at least December 31, 2002. Bill 25 would also amend the Workers' Compensation Act to provide that, where the Minister has entered into a transitional service agreement with Nunavut, two of the board members appointed on or after April 1, 1999, will be appointed on the recommendation of the Nunavut Minister.
As long as the transitional service agreement provides for it, the board may administer the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Accident Funds as if they were a single accident fund. Over the transitional period, the assessments, costs and payments paid into and out of the fund will be tracked for each territory.
This bill also provides that employees will not be entitled to severance benefits for the loss of their employment with the NWT Public Service when the transitional agreement terminates if they become employed in the Public Service of Nunavut within 90 days. Under the transitional agreement, employees in Nunavut will be transferred to the new Nunavut Board. They will become Members of the Nunavut Public Service and their seniority and benefits will be protected.
Mr. Chairman, members of the committee may have additional comments on the bill as we proceed. This concludes the standing committee's comments on Bill 25, Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
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The Chair John Ningark
Thank you kindly, Mr. Miltenberger. Before we get into general comments, I would like to offer the Minister to bring in his witnesses, Mr. Todd. Do we agree?
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
Page 614
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 614
The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. Bring in the witnesses, please. For the record, Minister Todd would you please introduce the witnesses to the committee?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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John Todd Keewatin Central
Yes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. On my immediate left is Mr. Gerry Meier who is the CEO of the Worker's Compensation Board. On my immediate right is the ever present sensitive negotiator for the division secretariat, Mr. Richard Bargery, Assistant Deputy Minister.
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
Page 614
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Meier and Mr. Bargery. Welcome to the committee. We are dealing with Bill 25, Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act, for the record. General comments?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 614
Some Hon. Members
Clause by clause.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 614
The Chair John Ningark
Clause by clause. We will move to page 1 of Bill 25. Clause 1?
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
Page 614
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
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The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. Clause 2?
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
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Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
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The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. Clause 3 on page 2?
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
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Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. On page 5. Clause 4?
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
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The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. Now back to preamble. Agreed?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 614
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 614
The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Bill as a whole?
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
Page 614
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 614
The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 25 is ready for third reading?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 614
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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The Chair John Ningark
Agreed. Thank you. Bill 25 is ready for third reading. Thank you, Mr. Todd and the witnesses, Mr. Meier and Mr. Bargery. Thank you.
--Applause
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
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The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. We are going to wait momentarily. I will allow Mr. Arlooktoo an opening comment. Take your time.
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
Page 615
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am pleased to be here today to review the Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act with the committee of the whole.
Mr. Chairman, this bill, and its companion legislation, the Nunavut Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act, and the proposed Workers' Compensation Transitional Agreement between the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Interim Commissioner of Nunavut are the result of a long series of negotiations concerning the Workers' Compensation Board. These negotiations included the Government of the Northwest Territories, the Office of the Interim Commissioner, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the Western Coalition.
As with other Nunavut related bills that have been reviewed by this committee, the amendments being proposed in this bill are being proposed under the unique authority vested in this Legislative Assembly under section 76.05 of the Nunavut Act.
Similarly, these bills have been drafted in cooperation with the Office of the Interim Commissioner, and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. This cooperative approach was formally confirmed with a reading of the Interim Commissioner's letter of recommendations, in this Assembly.
Formal notification of our consultation with NTI was confirmed with a letter from the president of that organization with I tabled in this Assembly.
Mr. Chairman, the specific elements of this bill, and the transitional elements with respect to transitional arrangements for the WCB are the same as Mr. Todd just provided for Bill 25. I will, however, provide similar comments on this bill for the record.
The result was the need to consider a transitional arrangement that would:
*ensure stability of workers' compensation services in both Nunavut and NWT in the short term:
*provide the opportunity for the two new governments to re-examine their relationship with respect to these services to determine if they wish to continue with a shared arrangement;
*set a clear termination date for the joint board;
*allow sufficient time to ensure a fair and equitable division of the assets and liabilities of the current WCB; and;
This agreement, Mr. Chairman, is designed to maintain the status quo in the short term. The transitional period set out in this arrangement will allow both Nunavut and NWT to consult with the stakeholders to determine how workers' compensation services are to be delivered in the future.
Mr. Chairman, the key elements of the transitional arrangement are intended:
*to provide the terms and conditions of how the WCB will operate in Nunavut and the NWT for a transitional period to December 31, 2002;
*to authorize the current Workers' Compensation Board to operate in Nunavut during the transition period;
*to allow the Nunavut Minister responsible for the WCB to nominate two (2) Members to the Board;
*to ensure consultation by the NWT Minister with the Nunavut Minister prior to filling any vacancies that occur on the Appeals Tribunal.
In addition, Mr. Chairman, there are specific provisions in this arrangement that:
*provides for meetings to take place between the Nunavut and NWT Ministers responsible for the WCB in order to complete administrative duties such as receiving the WCB's annual report and corporate plan for tabling in their respective Legislative Assemblies;
*ensures that each party only exercise its authority under the Workers' Compensation Acts with the consent and approval of the other party;
*allows the appointment of statutory officers to fulfil their responsibilities in both territories;
*ensures that WCB employees in Nunavut will remain members of the NWT public service through consequential amendments to the Nunavut Public Service Act;
*ensures that the transfer of WCB employees to the Nunavut agency after the transition period with full successor rights intact;
*provides for the continuation of the accident fund during the transition period as a singularly administered fund;
*authorizes the transfer of a portion of the accident fund to the Nunavut government on request to allow for the creation of a successor Nunavut agency. The amount of this transfer shall be $20 million or 20 per cent of the accident fund, whichever is less;
*that provides for the tracking and recording of individual claims in each new territory, which will serve as a basis for the division of claims and pension liabilities at the end of the transition period;
*that ensures the agreement of the Government of Nunavut to be bound by the terms of the hunters and trappers program with respect to claims arising from it;
*that sets out a formula to divide the assets and liabilities of the WCB in proportion to the benefits and liabilities attributable to each jurisdiction on the termination date; and finally,
*provides dispute resolution mechanism to address any disputes that may arise during the transition period.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 616
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Minister Arlooktoo. I now invite the Chairman of the Nunavut Legislation Special Committee, Mr. Ningark, for his comments from the committee.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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John Ningark Natilikmiot
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the Special Committee on Nunavut Legislation's review of Bill 26, the Nunavut Workers' Compensation Statutes Amendment Act, had its meeting on December 4, 1998. The committee would like thank the Honourable Goo Arlooktoo and the Honourable John Todd and their officials for presenting the bill and responding to issues raised by the committee.
Mr. Chairman, Bill 26 amends the Nunavut version of the Workers' Compensation Act. The NWT has the legislative authority to amend laws for Nunavut under section 76.05 of the Nunavut Act. As required by that act, the Interim Commissioner has recommended this bill to the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly and NTI has confirmed that it was consulted with respect to the bill and the bill is appropriate for Nunavut.
The amendments will allow the NWT Workers' Compensation Board and appeals tribunal to function as the board and appeals tribunal for Nunavut during the transition period from April 1, 1999 to December 31, 2002. Corresponding amendments will be made to the Northwest Territories Workers' Compensation Act by Bill 25, the Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act.
Bill 26 authorizes the Minister to enter into a transitional service agreement with the Northwest Territories. The agreement will set terms and conditions under which the Northwest Territories Workers' Compensation Board and appeal tribunal will carry out their duties in Nunavut. Mr. Chairman, the agreement must also set out how the assets and liabilities of the board will be determined when the agreement has ended and how the assets and liabilities will be divided between the NWT and Nunavut. When the agreement ends, the assets and liabilities must be divided as set out in the agreement. The transitional service agreement will last until at least December 31, 2002. As long as the transitional service agreement provides for it, the board may administer the Northwest Territories and Nunavut accident funds as if they were a single accident fund.
Over the transitional period, the assessments, costs, and payments paid into and out of the fund will be tracked for each territory. Bill 26 also makes consequential amendments to the Nunavut Public Service Act to ensure that employees of the board are not considered to be members of the Nunavut public service. The employees will continue to be members of the NWT Public Service until the transitional agreement ends. At that time, the transitional agreement provides that employees in Nunavut will be transferred to the Nunavut board, with their seniority and benefits protected.
Mr. Chairman, the special committee recognizes that the arrangement is the result of the extensive negotiations between the Interim Commissioner, NTI, GNWT and the Western Coalition. The transitional agreement is clearly necessary to ensure stability while two new governments continue their discussions to allow for a fair division of assets and liabilities and to enable Nunavut to establish its own Workers' Compensation Board. The special committee supports this bill Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, Members of the committee may have additional comments on the bill as we proceed.
This concludes the special committee's comments on Bill 26 and Nunavut Workers' Compensation Statutes Amendment Act. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 616
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Ningark. I now invite Mr. Arlooktoo if he would like to bring in witnesses.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 616
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Yes, I do. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 616
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
Page 616
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 616
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms bring in witnesses. Mr. Arlooktoo, could I ask you to introduce your witnesses please?
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have with me Mr. Gerry Meier, Chief Executive Officer of the WCB, and Mr. Richard Bargery, the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Division Secretariat.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 616
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo. Welcome to the committee. I open the floor for general comments.
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
Page 616
Some Hon. Members
Details.
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
Page 616
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
Page 616
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 616
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Okay, we will start with the schedules. On Page 3, schedule A. Agreed?
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
Page 616
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 616
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
Page 616
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 616
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
Page 616
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 616
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Page 9, schedule B, Amendments to Public Service Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Page 10, schedule C, Amendment to the Financial Administration Act, item 1. Agreed?
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 26, covering sheet, Nunavut Workers' Compensation Statutes Amendment Act. Agreed?
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 26 is now ready for third reading. Agreed?
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 26 is now ready for third reading. I thank the Minister and his witnesses. We will move on to Bill 27. Agreed?
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
Page 617
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act. I will invite Minister Kakfwi for his opening comments on the bill.
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
Page 617
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am pleased to present Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act. This bill is designed to do a number of things. First and foremost, the bill recognizes the Gwich'in and Sahtu Comprehensive Land Claim Agreements. Secondly, the amendment outlines that the land claim agreements will take precedence over the Wildlife Act if there is a discrepancy between the two. Finally, Mr. Chairman, the amendment will clarify that third parties who are not signatories to the land claim agreements are bound by the harvesting and management provisions in the agreements.
Mr. Chairman, this amendment has been developed in consultation with the Gwich'in Tribal Council, the Gwich'in Renewable Resources Board, the Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated and the Sahtu Renewable Resources Board.
I also want to take this opportunity, Mr. Chairman, to advise Members that work has begun on the larger project of revising the entire Wildlife Act. Our focus throughout this project will be on the western NWT as Nunavut is developing its own wildlife legislation. Although the legislation will not be drafted before the year 2000, the department will be distributing a discussion paper shortly after division as the basis for community consultations. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I would be glad to answer any questions Members may have.
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
Page 617
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Minister Kakfwi. I invite the Member from the Resource Committee, Mr. Ootes, for the committee's comments on the bill.
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
Page 617
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Resource Management and Development reviewed Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act, on December 5, 1998. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development and his officials for presenting the bill.
This bill amends the Wildlife Act to recognize the Gwich'in and Sahtu Dene and Metis Land Claim Agreements and the rights of the Gwich'in and Sahtu beneficiaries within the Act. Due to time constraints and with division fast approaching, a comprehensive amendment to the Wildlife Act is not possible. However, the department has advised the Members that they have begun work on revising the entire Wildlife Act.
Mr. Chairman, this amendment has been developed in consultation with the Gwich'in Tribal Council, the Gwich'in Renewable Resources Board, the Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated and the Sahtu Renewable Resources Board.
Bill 27 will recognize the Gwich'in and Sahtu Land Claim Agreements, wildlife harvesting and management provisions. The proposed bill will give the land claim agreements precedence should there by any discrepancy between the agreements and the Wildlife Act. Bill 27 will also clarify that third parties who are not signatories to the land claim agreements are bound by the wildlife harvesting and management provisions of the agreements within the areas of land covered by the agreements.
Mr. Chairman, following the committee's review, a motion was carried to report Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act, to the Assembly as ready for committee of the whole. Additional comments or questions of Members may be posed as we proceed. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Ootes. I invite the Minister, Mr. Kakfwi, if you would like to bring in witnesses. Does the committee agree?
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Agreed. Thank you. Please seat the witnesses, Sergeant-at-Arms. I invite the Minister to introduce his witnesses.
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
Page 618
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have on my right, Deputy Minister, Mr. Handley, on my left, legal counsel, Mr. Flynn. Thank you.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Kakfwi. Welcome to the committee. The floor is open for general comments on the bill. Any general comments? Clause by clause?
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Agreed. We are ready for clause by clause. Thank you. On page one of Bill 27. Clause 1. Agreed?
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Back to the cover sheet. Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act. Agreed?
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 27 is now ready for third reading. I thank the Minister and his witnesses. We will now move on to Bill 28. Agreed?
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
Page 618
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 618
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act. I invite the Minister, Mr. Dent, to make his opening comments on the bill.
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
Page 618
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, as Members may recall, following extensive public consultation, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment proposed major changes to the Income Support Program in 1996.
The changes were approved and implemented in January of 1997. Included in the changes were the establishment of the concept of productive choice, an alteration to the categories for benefits as well as changes to rates paid for particular benefits under the program.
Given the regulatory structure of the Income Support Program, it was necessary to make amendments to the regulations under the Social Assistance Act in order to implement some of these changes. The regulation giving approval for the changes retroactive to January 1, 1997, was approved by the FMB on January 13, 1997. However, as the result of a combination of factors, the regulation was not registered. When this oversight was discovered earlier this year, the regulation was registered. However, it could only be retroactive to the beginning of the 1997/98 fiscal year. This leaves three months during which the revised Income Support Program was delivered without the necessary regulatory changes necessary to do so.
The bill before you simply rectifies this oversight and gives legal force to the implementation of the program between January 1st and March 31, 1997. I will be happy to answer any questions Members may have. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Minister Dent. There are no comments from the committee, so I invite the Minister to bring in any witnesses.
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
Page 619
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I do not have any witnesses with me so I will try and answer the questions.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Dent. General comments on the bill? Does the committee agree we are ready to go clause by clause on the bill?
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Cover sheet. Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act. Mr. Henry.
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
Page 619
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I certainly realize that the payment was made to some individuals as the Minister has stated. I would also suggest that probably the individuals in this situation would not have the funds to repay it, nor would I be suggesting it. I was wondering if the Minister could tell me what would happen in a similar situation of an overpayment, as there has been in the Student Financial Assistance Program. Would the department recoup the monies that had been paid out in excess of what should have been paid out? Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Henry. I take it you are addressing your question to clause 1 in the act.
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
Page 619
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
The bill.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
The bill as a whole? Thank you, Mr. Henry. Mr. Dent, would you like to answer the question?
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
Page 619
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In any case where income support is overpaid, the department officials make attempts to recover any overpayment. This situation, though, is one which the payments were issued as a result of the change in the regulation, but the regulation was not registered. The payments that were given to individuals match the schedule. Nobody was overpaid or underpaid according to the schedule. The problem is that the schedule was not registered, so there was no legal basis for having made the changes to the payments that we made. Some people received more than they would have before the regulations were changed, some people received less. It was just that the whole system was changed and we did not manage to register the changes to the regulations. The changes did not have the effect of law but nobody was paid anything different than what the schedules called for.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Minister Dent. I call again, Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act. Agreed?
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Does committee agree that Bill 28 is ready for third reading? Agreed?
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 28 is now ready for third reading. I thank the Minister for his presentations on the bill. I have now, Bill 33. Does the committee agree that we move to Bill 33? Agreed?
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Mr. Ootes, you have your hand up.
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
Page 619
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Mr. Chairman. I move that we extend the time to allow us to finish this particular bill.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Ootes. We have a motion on the floor to extend the time to conclude this item. The motion is not debatable. All those in favour?. I do not have a quorum. I will have to ring the bell. I recognize a quorum. We have a motion on the floor to extend the time until we conclude this particular item. The motion is not debatable. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. I will now proceed and invite Mr. Arlooktoo for his opening comments on Bill 33.
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
Page 619
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. On Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, this bill will extend by one year, the period for which the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act has primacy in the event of a conflict with provisions in other legislation. This year, it will be used to address the concerns of the Access and Privacy Commissioner raised in review of the previous bill. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo. I do not have any recorded comments from the committee. We will then move on to invite the Minister to bring in his witnesses.
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
Page 619
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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
Page 619
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
Page 619
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 619
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. You may bring in the witnesses, Sergeant-at-Arms. I will ask the Minister to introduce his witnesses, please.
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
Page 619
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have with me Mr. Sean Flynn, Legislative Counsel with the Department of Justice, and Marie Doyle, Policy Advisor with the Department of Justice.
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
Page 620
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo and welcome to the committee. The floor is now open for general comments on the bill. No general comments. Are we prepared to go clause by clause? Agreed?
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
Page 620
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 620
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
Page 620
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 620
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
Page 620
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 620
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Agreed?
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
Page 620
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 620
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
Page 620
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 620
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 33 is ready for third reading? Agreed?
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
Page 620
Some Hon. Members
Agreed.
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
Page 620
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you. Bill 33 is ready for third reading and I thank the Minister and his witnesses. Since the motion said we would conclude this item, I will now rise and report progress.
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
Page 620
The Speaker
The House will come back to order. Good evening. We are on item 20, report of committee of the whole. Mr. Steen.
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Page 620
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your committee has been considering Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act and the Motor Vehicles Act; Bill 20, Division Measures Act, No. 2; Bill 21, Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2; Bill 22, Legal Registries Division Measures Act; Bill 23, Nunavut Legal Registries Statutes Amendment Act; Bill 24, Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act; Bill 25, Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act; Bill 26, Nunavut Workers' Compensation Statutes Amendment Act; Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act; Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act; and Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act and would like to report that Bill 19, Bill 20, Bill 21, Bill 22, Bill 23, Bill 24, Bill 25, Bill 26, Bill 27, Bill 28 and Bill 33 are ready for third reading. Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of the committee of the whole be concurred with.
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Page 620
The Speaker
Thank you. Seconded by Mr. Arlooktoo. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. Item 21, third reading of bills. Item 22, orders of the day. Mr. Clerk.
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Page 620
Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton
Mr. Speaker, there is a meeting of the Special Committee on Nunavut Legislation immediately after adjournment tonight, also, the same committee at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow. At 9:00 a.m., also, of the Standing Committee on Government Operations, and at 11:00 a.m. of the Ordinary Members' Caucus.
Orders of the day for Wednesday, December 9, 1998:
1. Prayer
2. Ministers' Statements
3. Members' Statements
4. Returns to Oral Questions
5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery
6. Oral Questions
7. Written Questions
8. Returns to Written Questions
9. Replies to Opening Address
10. Petitions
11. Reports of Standing and Special Committees
12. Reports of Committees on the Review of Bills
13. Tabling of Documents
14. Notices of Motion
15. Notices of Motion for First Reading of Bills
16. Motions
- Motion 13-13(6),Waiver of Parliamentary Privilege for Judicial Review Application to Proceed
17. First Reading of Bills
- Bill 32, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 4, 1998-99
18. Second Reading of Bills
19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters
20. Report of Committee of the Whole
21. Third Reading of Bills
- Bill 19, An Act to Amend the Public Highways Act and the Motor Vehicles Act
- Bill 20, Division Measures Act, No. 2
- Bill 21, Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, No. 2
- Bill 22, Legal Registries Division Measures Act
- Bill 23, Nunavut Legal Registries Statutes Amendment Act
- Bill 24, Community Employees' Benefits Program Transfer Act
- Bill 25, Workers' Compensation Division Measures Act
- Bill 26, Nunavut Workers' Compensation Statutes Amendment Act
- Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Wildlife Act
- Bill 28, An Act to Amend the Social Assistance Act
- Bill 33, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act
22. Orders of the Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Page 621
The Speaker
Thank you. This House stands adjourned to Wednesday, December 9, 1998, at 1:30 p.m.
--ADJOURNMENT
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