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. Miltenberger, Honourable Don Morin, Honourable Kelvin Ng, Mr. Ningark, Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Ootes, Mr. Picco, Mr. Rabesca, 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 1177
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Good morning. Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Dent.
Minister's Statement 78-13(5): Signing Of The Labour Market Development Agreement
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1177
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good Morning. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to inform the Assembly that later this afternoon, I will sign the Canada/Northwest Territories Labour Market Development Agreement with the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Member of Parliament for Western Arctic, Secretary of State for Children and Youth on behalf of the Honourable Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of Human Resources and Development Canada.
I would like to take this opportunity to invite my honourable colleagues from this House to attend the signing ceremony at 2:30 this afternoon in the Great Hall.
This agreement will enable the territorial government to take on a bigger role in the design, management and delivery of labour market programs for unemployed northerners. Under this agreement, $18.8 million will be transferred to the NWT over the next four years to provide programs and services. These funds will support retraining subsidies for employers, employment counselling, and job placement services.
Northerners will be able to access these programs and services through a network of Canada NWT Service Centres in Yellowknife, Fort Simpson, Inuvik, Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet and Hay River. As well, this agreement provides the opportunity for the NWT to expand labour market services to the Kitikmeot region. Human Resources Development Canada will continue to pay financial support direct to unemployed Canadians through its Employment Insurance Program.
Accountability and measurable results are important aspects of the Labour Market Agreement. During 1998-99, we expect to see more than 400 employment insurance clients return to employment or become self-employed after referral to territorial programs and services. This will result in a saving of about $3.6 million to the employment insurance account.
The transfer will take place on April 1st of this year, although the actual implementation will take longer. The two governments will form a transition committee to review the way services are currently provided and create a plan to transfer staff, funding and other resources.
Helping people develop the skills they need to find and keep jobs continues to be a priority for the Government of the NWT and Government of Canada. This agreement clarifies roles and strengthens the collaborative relationship between our two governments. I look forward to this continuing partnership as our governments work together to improve labour market services to northerners.
This collaborative approach should go a long way toward improving opportunities for unemployed northerners to find their way back into the job market. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Minister's Statement 78-13(5): Signing Of The Labour Market Development Agreement
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1177
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Ministers' statements. Ms. Thompson.
Minister's Statement 79-13(5): Maca's Long Service Awards
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1177
Manitok Thompson Aivilik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay special tribute to the employees of the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs, and in particular, those employees who have long service with this department.
It is important to recognize the contribution that long service employees make in the north. We recognize their value and how they play such an important part in the lives of every citizen. Their dedication and commitment to their work and to serving the people of the NWT is truly appreciated.
The department will be presenting Long Service Awards at a special gathering later this afternoon to the following MACA staff:
- Bev Drozda and Linda Weselowski for 20 years of service with the department
- Debbie Decker, Ilona Legler and Ron Tecsy for 15 years service
- Susan Craig, Susan Sheck, Nancy Marchiori, Buddy Williams and Myles Sartor for ten years service.
- In addition, there are two employees from the South Slave - Deh Cho region who have 15 years of service. They are, Gladys Bourke and Ron Hardisty.
Thank you all for your valued contributions and continued hard work.
I hope that today's presentation marks a memorable highlight of your public service careers with the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Minister's Statement 79-13(5): Maca's Long Service Awards
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1178
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Ministers' statements. Mr. Dent.
Minister's Statement 80-13(5): Aurora College - Yellowknife Campus
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1178
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to inform the Members of this Assembly that the official opening of Aurora College's new Yellowknife Campus takes place today.
This is an important step in the development of the campus. Before the new facility was built, students were taking classes in a number of buildings across Yellowknife, none of which were specifically designed to be instructional space. As of January, however, students from most programs have been taking classes at the new campus in Northern United Place.
This impressive facility features new classrooms and student housing, laboratory space, instructor and administration offices, computer labs with Internet access, library space and a convenient downtown location.
This project is the result of cooperation on the part of the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, the Department of Public Works and Services, the NWT Housing Corporation and Aurora College. I would like to thank the representatives of those agencies whose hard work brought this project to a successful conclusion.
I would also like to mention the northern companies and people who made the new campus building a reality. Architects Gino Pin and Wayne Guy designed the facility while construction was skillfully carried out by Clark Builders and PCL Constructors Northern Inc.
The new campus is an illustration of this government's commitment to ensuring northern students are able to carry out their studies in the best facilities we can provide. This bright, spacious and modern campus will serve the students of Aurora College for many years to come. Mahsi cho.
--Applause
Minister's Statement 80-13(5): Aurora College - Yellowknife Campus
Item 2: Ministers' Statements
Page 1178
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Dent.
Member's Statement 338-13(5): Tribute To Elaine Dierk
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1178
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, In line with Minister Thompson's recognition of long-term employees I would like to take a moment to pay tribute and say thank you to another long-term government employee and more particularly a Legislative Assembly employee who is leaving the north for the warmer climate of British Columbia. Elaine Dierk started work with the Government of the Northwest Territories as a secretary in Fort Smith in 1966. She moved to Yellowknife in 1971 and began working with the Department of Organization and Planning. In her career with the government, Elaine also worked with the Departments of Industry and Development, Education and the Executive. For the last 17 years she has worked for the Legislative Assembly, most recently as the administration officer. Elaine had at one time held the Chamber's supervisor's position and travelled when the circus of the Legislative Assembly went on the road. She has some very interesting stories to tell about those times, Mr. Speaker, but I understand she is saving them for the book. Elaine officially retires on February 27th and I would ask all Members to join with me in expressing our best wishes to her and her daughter Sonja and wishing her good luck in British Columbia. Mr. Speaker, I point out that Elaine is in the gallery with a number of her co-workers from the Legislative Assembly at this time.
--Applause
Member's Statement 338-13(5): Tribute To Elaine Dierk
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1178
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Member's Statement 339-13(5): Notice Of Absence From The House
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1178
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to inform the Members of the House and my riding that today will be my last day in the House. I had hoped to remain until the last day as February 27th, was supposed to be the final day. I had made prior commitments to attend the opening of the hockey arena in Hall Beach. During our Ordinary Members Caucus I made a motion to adjourn the House and return in the middle of March. It was defeated. My reason for the motion was that I felt that we are getting frustrated with the lack of progress and many questions being asked in the House which do not affect many of the people we represent. This morning, I heard through CBC radio that the public is no longer interested in hearing anymore on the unsigned note that has been discussed. The people in my riding feel there are more important issues that we have to deal with.
Mr. Speaker, if the session was to continue beyond March 3rd, I would have considered returning but that does not make economic sense considering the high cost of my travel. Mr. Speaker, at the end of the day, I hope you will give me the opportunity to second the motion to conclude today's session. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (Translation ends)
Member's Statement 339-13(5): Notice Of Absence From The House
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1178
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you, Mr. Evaloarjuk. Members' statements. Mr. Ootes.
Member's Statement 340-13(5): Yellowknife Office Space Plan
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1178
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, during question period, I had asked Minister Antoine for some
clarification on the office space plan in Yellowknife and I made reference to a memo dated February 24th. It provides an overview of where the departments are located within the inventory of the office space in Yellowknife. Also attached to it was information on where the pockets of space are, the surplus, in other words. It also had a statement in that particular letter that the Yellowknife office space plan is intended to bring the departments together so that all staff occupies space in one particular building. When I sought clarification on this, I got some heckling from the other side that said well, read the letter, read the letter. I had the letter in front of me, Mr. Speaker, and I reread it and reread it. Now, I used to be in the editing business and I spent many years in that. I thought, well, perhaps there is something wrong here, maybe I am missing something. Let me read it to you, Mr. Speaker.
There is a 10,000 square foot surplus of space in Lahm Ridge Tower, a building currently occupied by Education, Culture and Employment and the Department of Transportation. However, the Department of Transportation is staffed in a variety of buildings around Yellowknife and the intention within this office space plan is to bring them together in the Lahm Ridge Tower, so they can all work together. Similarly, Education, Culture and Employment have staff in a variety of locations around the community. Those will all be consolidated within the Lahm Ridge Tower.
Then, I went to the allocations of where the departments are located, and I find that the Department of Transportation has a total of 20,879 square feet in other buildings and Education has 13,414 located in different buildings. My point is, Mr. Speaker, there is a total of 34,293 square feet located in other buildings that they are going to squeeze into 10,000 square feet in the one building, in the Lahm Ridge Tower. That is the reason I was seeking clarification. I cannot figure out, I must have some difficulty reading because I cannot figure out where I am going wrong when the Members tell me to read the letter. I just do not understand that, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
Member's Statement 340-13(5): Yellowknife Office Space Plan
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1179
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Henry.
Member's Statement 341-13(5): Funding Allocated To The City Of Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1179
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have sat in this House for over two-years and have taken for granted that the other Members would slam the city of Yellowknife at every opportunity. In actual fact, Mr. Speaker, complaining about Yellowknife and the decisions made in Yellowknife has been one of the favourite activities in the north ever since the federal government announced that the capital would move to Yellowknife. We are used to it.
However, Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a song on my lips and joy in my heart. Why am I in such a good mood, my colleagues might ask? I am in a good mood because during question period on Tuesday, I actually listened to my honourable colleague from Rankin Inlet defend the decision to provide the City of Yellowknife with an extra $400,000 to market ...
--Applause.
so that it can take advantage of future economic opportunities for Yellowknife and for all of the Northwest Territories. When you represent a riding in Yellowknife, you get used to the status quo and the government not being able to spend at the same rate as other communities. Even the communities of Detah and Ndilo represented by my friend, Mr. Erasmus, and Rae-Edzo, represented by my friend, Mr. Rabesca, are not capital funded the same as other communities in the north because of their unfortunate close proximity to Yellowknife.
I can stand and quote from the ten-year capital report, I could use numbers and percentages to prove my point, but I would probably bore you all to tears. I could say that I do not understand why my colleagues Mr. O'Brien and Mr. Picco were complaining when I look at the level of funding in the communities in their ridings. However, Mr. Speaker, I do understand they have to ask their questions and represent their constituents and get in the occasional round of the north's favourite game, complaining about Yellowknife.
Now, Mr. Speaker, I would again like to remind my colleagues that Yellowknife has taken more of its fair share of the cuts and will be impacted negatively more by division than any other community in the Western Territory. The diamond mines and the $400,000 will help the city market and take advantage of that opportunity. Do not begrudge us a small piece of the pie.
To my honourable colleague, Mr. Todd, thank you for coming to your senses, thank you for realizing that the Northwest Territories includes Yellowknife and thank you for defending my city's right to a prosperous economic future. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I say, good government, good government.
--Applause.
Member's Statement 341-13(5): Funding Allocated To The City Of Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1179
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Members' statements. Mr. Picco.
Member's Statement 342-13(5): International Women's Day
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1179
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on March 8th, women in Iqaluit will be getting together to celebrate International Women's Day. Mr. Speaker, International Women's Day will have as their focus the theme of women honouring women. The afternoon of March 8th will feature guest speakers and an opportunity for Iqaluit women to get together to talk about common concerns.
Mr. Speaker, all proceeds will be donated to the Qimaavik Women's Shelter and I would like to thank the organizers, Eliza Kingdon, Wende Halonen, Marie Fortier and Ellen Bennett. I would also like to thank the sponsors, DJ Sensations, Arctic Creations, the Bank of Montreal and the Frobisher Inn, for hosting this important event. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause.
Member's Statement 342-13(5): International Women's Day
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1179
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. O'Brien.
Member's Statement 343-13(5): Funding Allocated To The City Of Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will forego my prepared text and respond to Mr. Henry's earlier statement. Mr. Speaker, just for the record, when myself, Mr. Picco and I believe, Mr. Krutko, spoke of the $400,000 that was allocated or donated to the city of Yellowknife, I think we made it clear that we were not complaining about the donation, we were questioning how the smaller communities could also access that type of money.
The other issue which was brought up was the fact that we were asking what process was used, where did the money come from, who authorized it and where does it sit in the budget. I think that is the issue, the process. That is what we were talking about. We certainly were not complaining about Yellowknife getting $400,000. Thank you.
--Applause.
Member's Statement 343-13(5): Funding Allocated To The City Of Yellowknife
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Barnabas.
Member's Statement 344-13(5): Peary Caribou Conference
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is a conference going on in Yellowknife over the next few days to discuss the plight of the Peary caribou. Representatives from the federal government, the territorial government, the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, the Inuvialuit and Impact Hunters and Trappers Association, are meeting to share experiences and knowledge on the conservation of the Peary caribou. If we lose the Peary caribou in the north and the only ones left are the breeding ones in the south, I am worried that reintroducing them to the high Arctic at a later date, would not work and would require a high degree of support to make sure the caribou survive.
Mr. Speaker, if we are going to have to feed them when they are reintroduced to the Arctic, why can we not do it now? The people of the Arctic Islands, have very few employment opportunities. In my mind, it makes more sense to bring food to the caribou rather than bring the caribou to the food. We can provide employment in feeding the caribou.
Mr. Speaker, Peary caribou living in Calgary would create employment and economic development through tourism. I would like to strongly urge the government to also try and save the Peary caribou in the wild so that Peary caribou stay wild so that if they ever do reintroduce Peary caribou from the south, there would be at least Peary caribou around to them how to forage for food. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause.
Member's Statement 344-13(5): Peary Caribou Conference
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Rabesca.
Member's Statement 345-13(5): Housing For Low-income Residents
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I was very pleased to hear the Minister of Housing's Minister's statement on February 23, 1998. It is always good to hear that our lower income earners will not have to pay the mandated 30 percent of their income. This a very high rate for residents and can be a deterrent to find employment.
With this mind, I will ask the Minister if he would consider lowering the rent scale for the entire NWT from the high of 30 percent of income to the lowest level on the rent scale. By doing this, it will make all tenants equal and fair across the board. Our lower income earners across the north need incentives for wanting to go back to work and this may be a good way of doing that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Member's Statement 345-13(5): Housing For Low-income Residents
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Erasmus.
Member's Statement 346-13(5): Passing Of Frank Betsina
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to speak about the passing of Frank Betsina, a respected grand counsellor of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I attended Mr. Betsina's funeral and I have to say, it was one of the largest funerals I have ever attended. The Catholic Church was filled to overflowing and some of the people had to stand outside during the whole service. Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege of serving for one term on the Yellowknives Dene First Nation Council with Mr. Betsina and I considered him a friend and respected his advice. The passing of Frank also marks the passing of part of the Yellowknives Dene history. I say that, Mr. Speaker, because his grandfather, Suzie Drygeese signed Treaty 8 on behalf of the Yellowknives Dene in the year 1900 in Fort Resolution.
As we all know, the Yellowknives Dene have received many rights from the signing of that treaty, including the right to tax exemption and that right, which has still not been honoured by any level of government. Mr. Betsina followed in his grandfather's footsteps of service. He served three terms on the Yellowknives Dene Band Council and this legacy of service has also been passed on. Frank's son Ernest is currently serving his second term on council. Mr. Betsina was born on Latham Island 59 years ago. His parents were Alizette and Narcisse Betsina. He is survived by wife Murial as well as by two daughters, five sons and several grandchildren. Frank went to residential school for a time and finished his education at St. Pat's in Yellowknife. As a teenager, he started working for the local power company and continued working for the power company in its various forms for the past 41 years.
Yesterday, as a tribute to his long service, his co-workers brought Frank for one last ride through the city in the large truck that he used to drive. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Betsina was a good example for his family and the community in general. Council members have expressed respect for thoughtful contributions to council discussions and fittingly, council held a celebration to his life last night in a new building in Ndilo that was dedicated to his father this past fall. He will be missed by family, friends, fellow council members and neighbours. I am sure all Members of this House join me in offering condolences to the Betsina family and all the best in the future. Thank you.
Member's Statement 346-13(5): Passing Of Frank Betsina
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1180
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you, Mr. Erasmus. Members' statements. Mr. Morin.
Member's Statement 347-13(5): Support For Northern Hunters And Trappers
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1181
Don Morin Tu Nedhe
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to say that the Northwest Territories managed to get on the front page of the Globe and Mail. However, as normal, the Northwest Territories on the front page of the Globe and Mail, I believe it was yesterday's issue, Mr. Speaker, is not about what the Northwest Territories is about, it is about Greenpeace and animal rights movement's views of the Northwest Territories on how we harvest our wildlife.
For thousands and thousands of years, Mr. Speaker, the people I represent had harvested wildlife in the Northwest Territories and they did it properly and with the greatest of respect. Our fur industry in the Northwest Territories is working hard to come back. I have said many times before in this House how good Fort Resolution is doing, one of my communities, since we put in a revolving fur fund. My community came from 20 active trappers to more than 80. We are the highest fur producers in the Northwest Territories with the best quality of fur, and I am proud to say.
Also in conjunction with that, we see very clear that our social services rolls fell down from close to 300,000 a year being put into my community, down to about 60,000 or 70,000. This is a positive thing. We have all lived through Greenpeace and their meddling in Aboriginal Affairs before. We have all buried our young people because of Greenpeace's meddling in our business in the Northwest Territories. We have very little respect for these tree huggers from southern Canada who do not understand the reality of living in the Northwest Territories. They do not understand the reality of our young people in the Northwest Territories who go out and harvest to generate some dollars for the people in their community and for their family. When Greenpeace was successful in killing the sealing industry, our suicide rates doubled and tripled in some of our communities, that is what they did. They are so interested in protecting animals. They have no thinking at all for the aboriginal people of the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, our government is one of the best governments in Canada and in the world in managing our resources, we know how to manage it. We do not need someone to tell us how to do that.
--Applause
With that, I would just like to hope all my wolf hunters in Lutselk'e the best of luck, so they can bring some dollars into their communities.
--Applause
Member's Statement 347-13(5): Support For Northern Hunters And Trappers
Item 3: Members' Statements
Page 1181
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Picco.
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1181
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome to the gallery a well-known Iqaluit business person and secretary treasurer of NTI, Natsie Kalno. Thank you.
--Applause
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Page 1181
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 6, oral questions. Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1181
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I made a Member's statement and tabled two documents from the Baffin Divisional Board of Education. They wanted more funding to be used for teachers in the communities. The other document was from Pond Inlet district education authority about their concerns and the other document was to do with signatures. I know some Members have concerns dealing with education in the Northwest Territories. Can the Minister tell me if he would be able to provide me with answers about a petition that was coming from the Pond Inlet education authority? Thank you. (Translation ends)
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1181
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1181
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, divisional education councils and district education authorities across the territories have expressed concern to me about the level of funding to deliver programs. There is no question in the Northwest Territories right now that we have a difficult situation with probably the highest pupil/teacher ratio in Canada. As all Members in this House know, we have no new sources of revenue and therefore, we do not see any way in which to increase funding for councils to deliver their programs. One spot of good news in this year's budget, Mr. Speaker, is that we have found a way to include enough money in the budget for schools, so that the pupil/teacher ratio will not be expected to rise next year. We will be able to carry on with approximately the same pupil/teacher ratio as before. The Member asked if I will be able to respond to the documents he tabled in the House, I certainly will have a look at those and respond directly to the Member. At this point, we do not have any extra money to put into the budget. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1181
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Supplementary To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1181
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister tell me if he would be able to respond to the divisional board of education's request? Thank you. (Translation ends)
Supplementary To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1181
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am always prepared to respond to requests from divisional education councils and will be happy to do so, if that appears to be the course of action I should follow after reviewing the documents that have been tabled. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Supplementary To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister provide me with a date as to when he will have this looked into? Thank you. (Translation ends)
Supplementary To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Certainly, I would have a response ready within the next two weeks. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Question 462-13(5): Education Funding In The Baffin Region
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Miltenberger.
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment in relation to his statement today on the signing of the labour market development agreement. I noticed on page two he makes reference to the communities where services will be available. I was wondering if he could speak to the issue of where Fort Smith fits into the mix? Does it have an HRDC office? However, there is no reference to that office or services in there. Thank you.
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Member is right. Fort Smith was not specifically mentioned in my statement but neither was Norman Wells nor Igloolik. There are a number of communities in the north in which we will make sure the services are provided. The statement referred to Canada/NWT centres whereby the centres will be moved together to make sure that there is one-stop shopping. I suspect it will take some time to accomplish those moves in all communities, but there is no question services will be available in Fort Smith. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.
Supplementary To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Is the Minister saying then, the April 1st deadline that this transfer will take place, is not applicable in Fort Smith? My understanding was, in fact, they are moving to co-locate with the ECE office and we are going to be delivering those kind of services tied into this particular statement. Could the Minister clarify this?
Supplementary To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not exactly certain of the dates for each of the communities when co-location will take place. It is not so much a co-location as the provision of a joint presence because we will be taking over the functions of part of the Employment Insurance Act. It will be Canada and the NWT offices. We will take over administration programs on April 1st, although it will take some time for the transition. Again, I cannot speak to the exact date for when offices will be moved together as part of the plan is to develop a transition team to ensure that the transition is done as smoothly as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.
Supplementary To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Minister be able to provide me with the information of where Fort Smith fits into the time frame in this transition plan, so I can be prepared to respond to questions that may arise in my community about this significant event? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Further Return To Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Question 463-13(5): Labour Market Agreement
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Oral questions. Mr. Ootes.
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Premier just spoke very eloquently about an article in the Globe and Mail from yesterday. My question will be for the Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi about that story in the Globe and Mail. The headline on that was, snowmobile hunt claims hundreds of wolves. Could the Minister explain this a little further to us? I understand that some of these hunters are not from the Northwest Territories. Could he explain to us what some of the difficulties are in this whole area? Thank you.
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1182
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is always a concern when southern media starts to raise concerns about the way northern people manage their wildlife. The fact is, in the south, wildlife has all but become extinct. When they do show their pretty little heads, they are considered pests. In the north we have the only vibrant wildlife population left in Canada and I think we are managing it quite well without the criticism of southern people. The story which appeared in the Globe and Mail yesterday, is a result of some anomalies in the movement of Caribou. What has happened in the area which has been identified between Great Slave Lake and Baker Lake, two large caribou herds have converged in that area, the Beverly herd and the Bathurst herd, totalling more than 700,000 animals. With that comes two large wolf populations that follow each of those herds, as well as the resident wolf population from that area. You have a very high concentration of caribou and that brings, with it, a very healthy and high density of wolves. The hunters are from Saskatchewan, they are aboriginal, Dene hunters who have a right to harvest and hunt in the Northwest Territories. They have done so for 1000 of years. We do not condone and find totally unacceptable the running down and harassment of wildlife using skidoos. Hunting with the use of skidoos is allowed in the territories. Thank you.
Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Supplementary To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. One of the concerns is the running down of wolf packs by skidoo. I understand we do not have any regulations in that regard where there are regulations elsewhere. Some years ago with the sports hunting of polar bear, it became illegal to use skidoos. Can we look at a similar type of situation, here in the territories, where perhaps outside non-resident individuals are restricted from using skidoos on a massive basis to kill wolves? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Mr. Kakfwi
Further Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The normal mode of transportation of travel for aboriginal hunters and trappers, all northern hunters and trappers use snowmobiles in the winter. In the tundra and barren lands, it is the only means of transportation. At this time, we do not have any thoughts of disallowing people to use snowmobiles in pursuing, hunting and trapping as an occupation. We have no plans to outlaw the use of snowmobiles in the occupations of hunting and trapping. Thank you.
--Applause
Further Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Supplementary To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you. Some of the hunters are from northern Saskatchewan and the Minister mentioned they do have a legal right to hunt within the territories. Has this been done because of land claim recognition or is it treaty rights? Could the Minister explain that for us please? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The most basic legally recognized aboriginal right since the late 60s, early 70s is the right to hunt and trap, the right to harvest wildlife. In the case of the people from the provinces who have traditionally hunted and trapped in the Northwest Territories, this government has always recognized and respected their right to continue to hunt and trap, in their traditional lands, regardless of whether they are residents of the Northwest Territories or not. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Ootes.
Supplementary To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Does that mean that our aboriginal hunters from the Northwest Territories also have the right to hunt within the northern parts of the provinces should caribou herds move into those particular areas?
Supplementary To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, as I understand it, legally, aboriginal people, particularly treaty people, have the right to hunt anywhere in Canada on Crown lands. The practice is, if you have traditionally hunted and trapped in certain areas, then that has been supported and the practice continues.
Further Return To Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Question 464-13(5): Southern Perception Of Northern Hunting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral Questions. Mr. Steen.
Question 465-13(5): Methods Of Subsistence Harvesting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1183
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is also directed to the Minister of Wildlife, Mr. Kakfwi. Mr. Speaker, just for clarification, I will ask the Minister a question about the legality of hunting polar bear with skidoos. I am aware, Mr. Speaker, and I know my constituents are aware of, it is against the law to use skidoos for sport hunting, but we are not aware that it is against the law to use skidoos for subsistence hunting of polar bear. Mr. Speaker, as a Member who spent a few years hunting polar bear and wolves, I know there is no such thing as running down any of those animals. You have to work for it. In the end, it might look like a short run but you are going to work before you reach the end. Therefore,
I will be directing my question to the Minister of Resources. Is it legal for aboriginals in my communities to subsistence hunt polar bears with skidoos?
Question 465-13(5): Methods Of Subsistence Harvesting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 465-13(5): Methods Of Subsistence Harvesting
Question 465-13(5): Methods Of Subsistence Harvesting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, as long as the species that are being harvested are not endangered and there is agreement for allowable harvest by the appropriate wildlife boards. Aboriginal people do not have any limits on the wildlife they can harvest in order to sustain themselves. Skidoos and rifles are acceptable means used in the harvest for sustainable hunts. Thank you.
Return To Question 465-13(5): Methods Of Subsistence Harvesting
Question 465-13(5): Methods Of Subsistence Harvesting
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Picco.
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, following up on the line of questioning this morning on the article in the Globe and Mail. That type of publicity is damning to our hunters. Going back to 1982, 1983, 1984 when Greenpeace was on their anti-seal harvesting thing, it caused our fur prices to drop. Will RWED be looking at countering this type of bad publicity for our hunters and trappers? Thank you.
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During one discussion I had yesterday with a journalist, I said, if I dropped 100 wolves in Toronto tonight, by tomorrow morning they would all be killed because they would no longer be seen as beautiful wild animals. They would be seen as dangerous pests that must be destroyed because of public concern. There is a double standard that happens every time issues like this gets out of control. I consider the Globe and Mail issue to be incredibly biased. The fact is, there are 700,000 caribou in that area. There is in mainland Northwest Territories, not including the Arctic Islands, not including the wolf population within the treeline, between 9,000 and 10,000 wolves. The healthier the caribou herds are, and we have very healthy caribou herds, the population of wolves will always be healthy. The better we manage our caribou, the more wolves there will be. That is the way these things should be portrayed. The number of wolves that are harvested every year is about between 900 and 1,200 commercially sold to auctions down south. The fact is, there are thousands and thousands of people down south wearing leather belts, shoes, and coats. The only difference is, we do not cut the fur off. That is the only difference. People have a very hypocritical approach to issues like this. When they see fur, they are very quick to rise and condemn people who wear fur. They do not realize that the leather coats, leather belts and leather shoes they are wearing are the same thing as the skin of animals with the fur cut off. Thank you.
--Applause
Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think we have to get pro-active in this area. Last year, Mr. Kakfwi's department exhibited sealskin fashionable parkas and jackets which were quite nice, showing what our products can do. I also know, Mr. Speaker, in Iqaluit, Arctic Creations, a store owned by Monica Ell, is selling handiworks of sealskin and other northern products. Will the Minister for RWED be officially responding on this matter to the Globe and Mail and some type of promotional activity, to indeed show that hunting is not cruel? It is a way of life and puts money in the hands of our hunters and our people. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Supplementary To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our resources are limited. We do have an ongoing dialogue with the Canadian government and other provinces, people who are interested and supportive of the fur industry to continue to make sure that people are aware of the enormous implications, particularly to northern people, aboriginal people, who do not have the option to be vegetarians, farmers or the option to look for jobs in other industries. There is a real issue here that people's traditional economies must be respected. You can take for granted the majority of southern people are ignorant of realities of life in the Northwest Territories and in the Arctic. There is a real need to educate, to have some ongoing dialogues and to continue to fight the animal rights activists and over-zealous enthusiasts who have very little information and an overabundance of self-righteousness. Thank you.
--Applause
Further Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Picco.
Supplementary To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to see the Minister and this government make a statement and provide the facts to the Globe and Mail and any of the media in the southern audience who would listen. Can I have a commitment from the Minister and this government that indeed we will do that? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1184
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Harvesting Messages
Further Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I did speak with the writer from the Globe and Mail. After she wrote the article, she called up to ask me what I thought of the article and did I have a response? I thought it was a bit biased and unfair. If she had some commitment to try and keep a balanced approach, she would have called before the article went to print. We are in the mode of some damage control and I did not appreciate that very well and I told her in very blunt terms yesterday. There were a great many things said, all very blunt but civil. I do not know if she will print it since she was at the receiving end of most of the things that I had to say yesterday about this issue, but I do hope she recovers and prints it the way I told her because it would be a balanced article. It would be a full article that would provide an insight into the north and the reality here in the Northwest Territories, and get people to realize the hypocrisy with which they approach many of these issues from their southern point of view. Thank you.
--Applause
Further Return To Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-
Question 466-13(5): Responding To Anti-harvesting Messages
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Oral questions. Mr. Erasmus.
Question 467-13(5): Amendment To The Workers' Compensation Act
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board. Mr. Speaker, under the Workers' Compensation Plan, employees give up their right to sue their employers. In return, they get a no-fault compensation plan. This means an employee does not have to sue his employer and prove negligence in order to receive compensation when they are hurt on the job. Unfortunately, this is the only jurisdiction in Canada that allows the compensation board to sue the worker. Mr. Speaker, this is not the intention of Workers' Compensation. The Yellowknife MLAs have spoken to the Minister responsible for this area several times. Recently Mr. Henry asked the Minister if he would look at the possibility of an amendment to rectify this unbalanced situation. Could the Minister inform the House on what his checking up has revealed? Thank you.
Question 467-13(5): Amendment To The Workers' Compensation Act
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of the Workers' Compensation Board, Mr. Todd.
Return To Question 467-13(5): Amendment To The Workers' Compensation Act
Question 467-13(5): Amendment To The Workers' Compensation Act
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to report this morning that we could proceed, however, that is not the case. I did have a discussion yesterday with the president of the WCB, Mr. Gerry Meier. I asked him to review the request that has been made by my colleagues, Mr. Henry and Mr. Erasmus to see if there is any way we can make these appropriate changes. I know in previous reviews of the WCB that there has been a recommendation on a number of occasions. I should be able to report to my colleague before the House closes Monday or Tuesday, what course of action, if any, we can take. Thank you.
Return To Question 467-13(5): Amendment To The Workers' Compensation Act
Question 467-13(5): Amendment To The Workers' Compensation Act
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Steen.
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
February 26th, 1998
Page 1185
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to Honourable Jim Antoine, Minister of Public Works. Mr. Speaker, this government over the last few years has indicated consistently if they have large contracts, they would make every effort to break down those contracts into portions whereby smaller businesses could participate in the tendering process. The government has indicated they have a need for 35,000 square feet of office space in the city. Would the Minister consider assuring the House that he will make every effort to assure this need, is broken down to allow for all people with office facilities to take part in the contract process? Thank you.
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Public Works and Services, Mr. Antoine.
Return To Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Yellowknife office plan is something that this department is working on at the present time. It is a dynamic process and it is ever changing under requests and demand, but I am told that within the next little while, maybe even three weeks, things will start to gel and come together in this department. The process in trying to obtain office space would be to go through a tendering process through requests for proposals and this way, anybody who has office space in Yellowknife will have the opportunity to put in their proposal. Thank you.
Return To Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Steen.
Supplementary To Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the information I have been given of the ten major leaseholders in this city is that, almost all of them, live down south, the owners of those lease facilities. Therefore, there is no benefit to northerners. These people might own the buildings but they actually live down south. That is part of my point, Mr. Speaker, is to ensure that people who live in the north benefit from contracts from this government. The Minister will assure that this is taken into consideration? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Antoine.
Further Return To Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
Jim Antoine Nahendeh
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is true that the majority of the owners may have originally started in Yellowknife, eventually ends up down south. As we go through this office plan, we will take into consideration northern participation in providing these services. We will ensure that we look closely into what the honourable Member is directing here today. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Question 468-13(5): Apportioning Leasing Opportunities
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1185
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Barnabas.
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as per my Member's statement, I would like to ask the Minister of RWED if he was approached on the issue of Peary caribou by the people of the high Arctic. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister responsible for Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, sorry, I did not catch the last part of the Member's question. Thank you.
Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Your first question Mr. Barnabas.
Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Yes, for clarification, have there been any concerns from the residents of the high Arctic on the issue of salvaging the Peary caribou? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Kakfwi.
Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Of course there has been an ongoing concern by the Inuit in the communities of the High Arctic about the future of the Peary caribou herd. As you know, as a result of some rather severe winters and unusual winter conditions, the Peary caribou population has dropped dramatically in the last few years. In the next few days, I hope to see a workshop in Yellowknife with a number of different parties to address the issue of what should be done and who should be taking the lead and the responsibility for addressing the concern of the future of the Peary caribou herd. Thank you.
Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Barnabas.
Supplementary To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, is the Department of Renewable Resources in favour of this proposal to move the Peary caribou from high Arctic to Calgary? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Kakfwi.
Further Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Speaker, this was the recommended course of action that we had two years ago. We could not do it as a joint effort with the federal government at that time because of weather. Last fall, again the effort was to be made to carry out this plan. The Inuit communities and leadership asked if we could take the time to come up with a more acceptable option in addressing the issue. I agreed, while there is a real need to do something, I felt it was far better to lean to allowing the first users, people who depend on the caribou to develop a plan of action that would be acceptable to them, supported, managed and executed by them. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Question 469-13(5): Preservation Of The Peary Caribou
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. O'Brien.
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister responsible for Division, Mr. Todd. In watching the debate last night regarding the budget on Northbeat, Mr. Todd indicated he felt fairly confident that the money was in the federal budget for division and hopefully for the decentralized model, including the transition cost. I realize the Commissioner has not provided his plan yet, but can the Minister provide at least a small level of comfort to the people Arviat and Baker Lake as to when some of the jobs will be moved out to the smaller communities. Thank you.
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister responsible for the Division Secretariat, Mr. Todd.
Return To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I did say in my comments to the federal budget, I felt that no matter how small, the fact that there was some specifics in the fine print to the north, I think that was a credit to our MPs and of course, to the active work of this Legislature. One of the important components of the fine print, of course, was that the federal government was committed clearly to the fiscal resources necessary in division and the implementing costs attached to it. That is true.
On the job aspect of the decentralization, as I said to my colleague on a number of occasions and I will say again, I hope he can get clarity on it. I did have a discussion with Mr. Anawak earlier yesterday. I am optimistic that his plan for implementation will be with us very shortly and we will be able to move, I would hope, and support, his initiative quickly to move people into the decentralized communities. At the same time, we have to make sure the facilities are there, the housing, et cetera. I was in Arviat as late as two and a half weeks ago and their houses looked well underway there. My guess would be that if they start those housing units in the spring, they could be finished by late August or September and hopefully, by that time we will be able to work in conjunction with the Interim Commissioner to move some people into those communities. We certainly need the facilities like housing and office facilities to be able to move people, but I am optimistic. Maybe that is just my personal opinion, but in this game, you have to be optimistic and I am optimistic we can move, but it will be subject, to some extent, to the infrastructure completion and of course, the implementation plan that the Interim Commissioner is going to provide to all three parties sometime in March. Thank you.
Return To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1186
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.
Supplementary To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I realize the fact that the infrastructure is not fully in place yet in most of the communities, and as a result that will hamper the transfer of jobs. Can the Minister tell me whether or not there is any change in the schedule or if there are any plans to try and speed up the construction of the various office space and housing units in order to facilitate this transfer? Thank you.
Supplementary To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Todd.
Further Return To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
John Todd Keewatin Central
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I cannot speak for the other players, but certainly in my one-on-one discussions with the different players, there is a desire to try to move reasonably quickly to get the infrastructure in place. There is a desire to move as quickly as they can on some of the office facilities. The idea which was brought forward by my honourable colleague about finding temporary office space, I am sure with a pragmatic approach to this decentralization, we can accommodate that. The main thing right now is housing. I would suggest that once the housing is completed, I would think it would be in everybody's interests, the Interim Commissioner's, our own, et cetera, to give him and his office as much support as possible to get moving on this decentralization. My feeling is, and it is partly personal and partly professional, it really all depends on the completion of the housing units. I think offices are a secondary thing, we could probably find some temporary accommodation if there is a desire to do it. Again, that will be subject to the Interim Commissioner and we are prepared to provide as much support to him as we can to move on these issues. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.
Supplementary To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, would it be fair to assume the parties will not wait until all the construction is finished, that they can move on some of these transfers as housing and office space becomes available, rather than wait for the total completion of all the units?
Supplementary To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Todd
Further Return To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
John Todd Keewatin Central
Certainly, Mr. Speaker, I would hope so. I would hope that in the Interim Commissioner's pre-implementation plan, it is there. It is a possibility, but I caution my colleague by saying that we have a limited involvement on the infrastructure side and our desire is to move forward, provide support. I would think that the decentralization of the new government would be a phased-in approach and the sooner facilities are available, I would hope that there would be a staged plan which shows where people can move and when they can move, based upon the final completion of the infrastructure that the Nunavut Construction Company has embarked upon in Arviat and other communities across the Nunavut area. Thank you.
Further Return To Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Question 470-13(5): Federal Budget Reference To Division
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Rabesca.
Question 471-13(5): Lowering The NWT Rent Scale
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In reference to my Member's statement this morning, Mr. Speaker, I would ask if the Minister of the NWT Housing Corporation is considering lowering the rent scale for the entire NWT from 30 percent of income to the lowest level of rent scale referred to in my Member's statement this morning. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 471-13(5): Lowering The NWT Rent Scale
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of the NWT Housing Corporation, Mr. Arlooktoo.
Return To Question 471-13(5): Lowering The Nwt Rent Scale
Question 471-13(5): Lowering The NWT Rent Scale
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The rent scale moratorium that we introduced last year and have made the decision to continue over this coming year, will have the effect of the rent scale remaining the same. We have decided to do some more work on the research side because we have identified areas where we need to find more information. The result will be that the two new governments, both the east and the west, will have to grapple with the issue of the rent scale. Thank you.
Return To Question 471-13(5): Lowering The Nwt Rent Scale
Question 471-13(5): Lowering The NWT Rent Scale
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Henry.
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Education, Mr. Dent. In 1968, the aboriginal Teacher Education Program began in Yellowknife, it was the first one in North America. In 1961, the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi was the Minister of Education. The Minister suggested that a goal of 50 percent aboriginal teachers by the year 2000 would be an admirable position and stance to take. My question to the present Minister of Education, Mr. Dent is, what position and how much is the department on target to achieve this 50 percent of aboriginal teachers in the classroom? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.
Return To Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1187
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, since 1969, there has been 363 graduates of the Teacher Education Program in the Northwest Territories who have received a teaching diploma. Ninety-three of those graduates have gone on to receive a bachelor's degree. There are two who have completed a Masters of Education degree. The program has demonstrated a significant amount of success. The Member has asked how close we are to achieving the 50
percent goal that was announced for the year 2000. There are a number of boards which are coming relatively close to that goal in terms of the number of teachers right now. Those boards in the Nunavut region tend to be much closer. The boards in the western region are not as close. In fact, we expect with reprofiling the Teacher Education Program and reinvesting in it over the course of the next few years, we are going to set a new goal of 2003 to achieve the original target that was set for the year 2000. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Return To Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1188
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Henry.
Supplementary To Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1188
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and thank you, Mr. Minister, for that concise information. Does the Minister have any breakdown? He mentioned Nunavut had a much better success rate. Does he have any numbers and if not, can he provide those numbers to the House? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Supplementary To Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1188
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Mr. Dent.
Further Return To Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1188
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do have numbers that are available by each of the divisional education councils in the territories. For instance, we know there are 62 full-time aboriginal teachers in the Baffin, two part-time, six on leave and four are with the board. It would take some time for me to list off the individual boards. It would probably be best for me to prepare a letter to the Member and forward the details to him. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Further Return To Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Question 472-13(5): Aboriginal Teachers In The Nwt
Item 6: Oral Questions
Page 1188
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Oral questions. Item 7, written questions. Item 8, returns to written questions. Item 9, replies to opening address. Item 10, petitions. Item 11, reports of standing and special committees. Item 12, reports of committees on the review of bills. Item 13, tabling of documents. Item 14, notices of motion. Mr. Picco.
Motion 15-13(5): Reallocation Of Departmental Surpluses
Item 14: Notices Of Motion
Page 1188
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Monday, March 2, 1998, I will move the following motion.
Now therefore I move, seconded by the honourable Member for High Arctic, this House recommends that the Cabinet reallocate any departmental surpluses that may exist after fiscal year-end 1997-98 to the Departments of Education, Culture and Employment, Health and Social Services and further that the Standing Committee on Social Programs be consulted and fully involved in discussions regarding the redeployment of surplus funds to educational, health and social service initiatives. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Motion 15-13(5): Reallocation Of Departmental Surpluses
Item 14: Notices Of Motion
Page 1188
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Notices of motion. Mr. Ningark.
Motion 16-13(5): Extended Adjournment
Item 14: Notices Of Motion
Page 1188
John Ningark Natilikmiot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Monday, March 2, 1998, I will move the following motion.
I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Thebacha, that notwithstanding Rule 4, that when this House adjourns on Tuesday, March 3, 1998, it will be adjourned until Wednesday, May 20, 1998; and further, anytime prior to May 20, 1998, if the Speaker is satisfied after consultation with the Executive Council and Members of the Legislative Assembly, that the public requires the House should meet at an earlier time during the adjournment, the Speaker may give notice and thereupon the House shall meet at the time stated, in such notice and shall transact its business as it has been duly adjourned to that time. Thank you.
Motion 16-13(5): Extended Adjournment
Item 14: Notices Of Motion
Page 1188
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Notices of motion. Item 15, notices of motion for first reading of bills. Item 16, motions. Motion 13-13(5), Mr. Erasmus.
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1188
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This motion is on the resolution of the pay equity issue in the Northwest Territories:
WHEREAS there is a complaint outstanding for ten years that the rates of pay in the collective agreement that were negotiated by the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Union of Northern Workers remunerate male and female employees for performing work of equal value;
AND WHEREAS delays in resolving the pay equity complaint are unfair to affected employees who have been denied the right to be paid the same as other employees who are doing work of equal value;
AND WHEREAS delays in resolving the pay equity complaint are unfair to the interests of other groups as long as this long outstanding complaint creates uncertainty for those who rely on government services and programs for their social and economic well being;
AND WHEREAS delays in resolving the pay equity complaint create uncertainty in the clear division of assets and liabilities in the creation of two new territories on April 1, 1999;
AND WHEREAS the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Union of Northern Workers have both indicated a desire to resolve the pay equity complaint through negotiations;
AND WHEREAS the Canadian Human Rights Act prohibits employers from establishing or maintaining differences in wages between male and female employees who are performing work of equal values;
AND WHEREAS the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Union of Northern Workers are currently in negotiations for the revision and renewal of the Collective Agreement which expires on March 31, 1998;
AND WHEREAS the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Union of Northern Workers would be in contravention of the Canadian Human Rights Act if they signed a collective agreement that does not rectify the pay equity problem;
AND WHEREAS the Government of the Northwest Territories has provided assurances that every reasonable effort will be made to minimize the impact a settlement would have on government employment and client service levels;
NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Iqaluit, that this Legislative Assembly supports the principle of equal pay for men and women doing work of equal value;
AND FURTHER that the Legislative Assembly strongly urges the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Union of Northern Workers to work together in collective bargaining to negotiate fair compensation to affected employees and rates of pay that treat men and women equally for performing work of equal value;
AND FURTHERMORE that the Government of the Northwest Territories makes every reasonable effort to achieve pay equity and resolve the pay equity complaint and other employee wage and benefit cost issues within the timeframe for inclusion in a new collective agreement and in a manner that minimizes the impact of the settlement on government employment and client service levels.
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Let the record show that the seconder is changed from the printed version. The motion is in order. Mr. Erasmus, do you wish to speak to the motion?
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1189
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Mr. Speaker, I do not believe there is any need to speak on this issue. We have all spoken several times on this and we wish to resolve this. We wish to indicate our support to resolving this fairly and equitably, and at this time I would like to request a recorded vote.
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. The Member for Yellowknife North has requested a recorded vote. Mr. Clerk.
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1189
Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton
Mr. Erasmus, Mr. Ng, Ms. Thompson, Mr. Antoine, Mr. Kakfwi, Mr. Todd, Mr. Arlooktoo, Mr. Dent, Mr. Steen, Mr. Ningark, Mr. Evaloarjuk, Mr. Barnabas, Mr. Picco, Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Rabesca, Mr. Miltenberger, Mr. Ootes.
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. All those opposed? Please stand. All those abstaining? The result of the motion is 17 for, zero against and zero abstentions. This motion is carried unanimously.
--Applause
Motion 13-13(5): Resolution Of Pay Equity Issue In The Nwt
Item 16: Motions
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Motions. Item 17, first reading of bills. Mr. Ng.
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
BILL 15 Adoption Act
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 1189
Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot
Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Aivilik that Bill 15, Adoption Act, be read for the first time. Thank you.
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Item 17: First Reading Of Bills
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. Bill 15 has had first reading. First reading of bills. Item 18, second reading of bills. Mr. Arlooktoo.
Bill 7: An Act To Amend The Territorial Court Act
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 1189
Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Aivilik, that Bill 7, An Act to Amend the Territorial Court Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker,
This bill reforms the process for appointment and discipline of territorial court judges. It establishes a judicial appointments advisory committee to make recommendations to the Commissioner in Executive Council, respecting the appointment of territorial judges. The advisory committee will be composed of territorial judges, representatives of the Law Society of the Northwest Territories and members of the public must take into account the ethnic and gender composition of the Northwest Territories.
The bill changes the composition of the judicial council and provides for the appointment of lay members to be made by the Commissioner in Executive Council. It also changes the grounds and methods for the discipline of territorial judges, including the removal of territorial judges.
The bill gives the chief judge power to establish a plan for continuing education and a program of performance evaluation for territorial judges.
The bill also repeals the definition youth court judge since it is not used in the body of the act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Bill 7: An Act To Amend The Territorial Court Act
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills
Page 1189
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. The motion is in order. To principle of the bill. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. Bill 7, has had second reading, and accordingly stands ordered into a standing committee. Second reading of bills. Item 19, consideration in committee of the whole of bills and other matters. Bill 8, Appropriation Act, 1998-99; Bill 9, Loan Authorization Act, 1998-99; Bill 11, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 3, 1997-98; Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1997-98; Committee Report 2-13(5), Committee Report 3-13(5), Committee Report 4-13(5), Committee Report 5-13(5), Committee Report 6-13(5), Tabled Document 15-13(5) and Tabled Document 16-13(5). With Mr. Ningark 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 1189
The Chair John Ningark
I call the committee to order. Under
item 19, we have several items to be considered now. What is the direction of the committee? Mr. Barnabas.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1190
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the committee wishes to consider Bill 8, Appropriation Act, 1998-99, Committee Report 2-3(5), Committee Report 3-13(5), Committee Report 4-13(5), Committee Report 5-13(5) and will continue with RWED and Education, Culture and Employment. 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 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. I do not know if I can remember all this, but Mr. Barnabas is suggesting we continue with Bill 8, Appropriation Act, 1998-99, Committee Report 2, 3, 4, and 5 and then from where we left off yesterday with RWED and then Education, Culture and Employment. 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 1190
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 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Yesterday, when we broke for the day, the Minister had made his opening remarks, the appropriate committee had made their remarks and we are now in general comments. Before we begin general comments, I would like to offer the Minister if he wishes to bring in witnesses. Mr. 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 1190
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Do we agree that the Minister will 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 1190
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 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Could the Sergeant-at-Arms escort the witnesses please? Thank you. For the record Mr. Minister, could you please introduce the witnesses to the committee.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1190
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. On my left, deputy minister, Joe Handley and on my right, the director of finance, Jim Kennedy. 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 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Minister. Welcome to the committee. The Chair will now entertain general comments from the Members. 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 1190
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have some brief opening comments. I would first like to start by agreeing with the Minister that RWED has done a lot of good work. They have had some very tough times in the last two years. My own personal observation and working relationship with the regional office in Fort Smith is a very good one. I value the support and assistance that I get from the staff in the region. At the appropriate time, Mr. Speaker, I will be asking some questions about the Mackenzie River Basin Agreement, the type of agreements that have to be signed to get this board up and running, basically a work plan. I also have some questions at the appropriate time on community futures, especially as it relates to the south slave and specifically in Fort Smith. As well, I will be interested in some more information on the forest, timber inventories that are going on and timeframes for that as well as some questions in relation to forest management. 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 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger. I will allow Members who wish to make a general comment at the end. If there are no other Members who wish to make a general comment, I will allow the Minister to respond to the comments. Are there any further comments from the Members? 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 1190
Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Like the Department of Transportation, I have been somewhat concerned about cutbacks that have taken place. Certainly, in the Department of Transportation, it was quite heavy and in this department as well, certainly from year to year, and in the last two years holding the line. I am concerned about the fact this department is not getting more funding simply because it is one of the departments where there is potential for job creation. I am concerned about areas, like tourism, where at one time the tourist industry was supported very heavily with promotional money which has been cut back substantially of which there are many other areas. This particular department is responsible for employment throughout the territories, the fishing and forestry industry, all of our cottage industries and arts and crafts. If we do not allocate funds to this particular department for potential growth, then in essence, we get back to the old question, no jobs then what happens to people? They are dependent upon the social safety net. This means they have to be put on either income support or whatever means they can, but if we create jobs then they can be taken off that safety net and become healthy contributing citizens who feel good and they are not dependent anymore. In my mind, we need the Minister to be constantly aware of that and to fight for more dollars for this particular department.
This is a difficult time for us here in the territories and there are several departments that have increasing needs because of forced growth. We cannot do anything about that. At the same time, if we do not concentrate and put money into this particular department as well as transport to create jobs, then we are heading for problems. For example, tourism, there are many people in this territory who are dependent upon tourism for their livelihood, either on a full-time or part-time basis to supplement their income. From what I hear, we had a decrease in Yellowknife tourism in the last year. If we do not get out there and promote, have an advertising program to draw people and make them aware of the tremendous attractions we have here, all of our residents are going to lose out in the long run. We have to concentrate on job creation. I see this department as having a potential to solve some of those problems. Naturally, the mining industry, the oil and gas industry are huge employers, but we need to build a solid base behind that, something the people in the communities can work on for all of us to benefit in the long run because of the reductions in various other departments. 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 1190
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Ootes. General comments. Are there any further general comments? Mr. Minister, could you please respond to the general comments from the Members? 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 1190
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1190
The Chair John Ningark
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 1191
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 1191
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. On page 11-6, Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, 1998-99 main estimates, activity summary, corporate management, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $12.221 million. 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 1191
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I was wondering if the Minister could elaborate on the type of work that has to take place on the Mackenzie River basin board secretariat to get it up and running and the type of bilateral agreements that have to be negotiated along with the work plan over the next coming months? 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 1191
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Again, if the Minister would like one of his staff members to respond, that is his prerogative. Mr. 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 1191
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Probably the best thing to do is to get a short written update on the work we have done to date with the different governments from the Yukon, Alberta, Saskatchewan and BC on the work done to set up the boards and draft agreements we are working on, so that the Member would have a detailed report on which to work. We can provide that. We are going through the process of nominating members to sit on the boards, doing it with the federal government. We have put forward a name, Mr. MacLeod from the department because we think in the first year in establishing the board and secretariat there is a lot of work that needs to be done internally within government to get it up and running. We have done that, the following the year, we will consider nominations from the general public. There is also a nominee to come from the aboriginal side which is being finalized at this time. 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 1191
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. On corporate management. 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 1191
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, under corporate management we have the section of human resources. It seems for quite awhile the department have had problems staffing to capacity within the Department of RWED in different areas of the Northwest Territories. What are the Minister and his department doing to address the situation? We had some information tabled about the number of vacancies. Is it a unique situation, just to RWED? Why can we not attract people? What, generally, is the problem with getting up to staffing levels within the department? 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 1191
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Picco. Mr. Handley.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1191
Handley
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I do not know if the problem is unique to RWED or not, but essentially, we have a number of challenges before us as we staff. One is division. We would have to staff people in some cases to fill positions on a temporary basis until division happens. Second is, we have a number of positions that are temporary and some that are seasonal. Sometimes when we look at statistics it seems like we have a vacancy, when really, it is a seasonal position. It is not a vacant position, all year-round. Also, there are positions we have been holding back on staffing, particularly in Nunavut until the division plans were clarified. Now that there is a deputy minister who will be soon appointed to that position, then that should be resolved. I met with her yesterday, in fact, on this same issue. There are people who are probably uncertain about what the future holds and may not be applying. The kind of situation we are in is probably not unique given the status. We normally would expect about a 10 percent vacancy in a department of ours, but there is no specific reason why that happens, it is just regular turnover. 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 1191
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1191
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the department was waiting to staff up to full maximums in the Nunavut region based on the hiring of the deputy ministers for Nunavut which I think has been made public and is now in place. Has the department looked at using slippage monies to fund other positions not identified? For example, if you have not filled certain positions, could you reallocate that money for EDO positions, for economic development officers, in communities. I know in several Nunavut communities we have been requesting EDO and EDO support and we have not been able to identify dollars for specific communities. Have you been looking for something like that or would you commit to having a chance to look at reallocating funds within slippage of personnel dollars to maybe staff up EDO positions in communities? 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 1191
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Handley.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1191
Handley
We have been looking at using the dollars that are available to hire additional positions to help us out where there is greatest need. I am not sure if any money has been used to hire extra EDO positions, but we do have quite a few, what we call, unfunded positions, throughout the department. We also have a lot more money going into casual positions than we would normally have in this circumstance.
Item 19: 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. 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 1191
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Just following up on the EDO positions. In Iqaluit, we do not have, to the best of my knowledge unless something has changed recently, a dedicated EDO position for the community of Iqaluit and Apex, we do have the regional office there. When people have concerns with EDO or economic development initiatives or business plans, they usually have to go to the private marketplace or to senior staff within the department. Has the department looked at placing a dedicated EDO position in Iqaluit? 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, Mr. Handley.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Handley
I had that discussion yesterday, with the person who is going to be deputy minister of the transition. In the 1998-99 business plan, we have indicated we are transferring the equivalent of 16 positions and $2.7 million to Nunavut. The decision on whether or not to hire full-time or part-time or where to place EDO officers in Nunavut, I will be doing in consultation with her as we prepare our detailed plans in 1998-99.
Item 19: 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. The honourable Member for Iqaluit, 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
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Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Moving onto the environmental issues, the cleanup of DEW Line sites. Is there an update from the Minister on the situation under corporate management and environmental issues? Is it okay there?
Item 19: 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. Mr. Handley, Mr. Minister. Thank you. I advise Mr. Picco, you should be asking environmental aspects under environmental protection. Mr. Picco.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I had noticed on corporate management, there were environmental issues of concern and how the department developed policy, but I will hold that question until we get to environmental protection on page 11-8. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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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
With that, I thank you kindly, Mr. Picco. Corporate management, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $12.221 million. 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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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
Thank you. On page 11-7, corporate management, acquisition of equipment, headquarters, total region, $25,000. 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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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
Thank you. Total acquisition of equipment, $25,000. Agreed?
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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
Total activity, $25,000. 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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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
Thank you. On page 11-8, environmental protection, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance $1.791 million. 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
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Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Under environmental protection, I had earlier talked about DEW Line cleanups as an area of concern. This project is continuing in our region with the Qikiqtaaluk Corporation involved in DEW Line cleaning. This past summer I spent sometime at Resolution Island, which by all accounts, is probably the most polluted site in the Northwest Territories. It has environmental damage estimated at approximately $40 million to clean up. Following this, there was a concern raised in the House by myself and a couple of other Members with DIAND and the Department of National Defence request. The Department of National Defence request was to bury PCB-laden paint from DEW Line sites into the ground and they wanted a clause to opt out of the regulations. I understand now, there may be some satisfaction that has resulted from this concern, that indeed, the federal department of the environment would not allow DND to opt out and bury PCB-laden materials in the ground at these abandoned DEW Line sites. I wonder if the Minister could update us on the situation regarding the burying of PCB-laden paint? Thank you.
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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
Mr. Minister.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This has been an ongoing concern for a number of years that we have been working on. I understand there are meetings this week with federal officials to see if we can try to come to some resolution about who is responsible for cleaning up many of these sites. The responsibility for some of these sites has still not been clarified. We are working on it this week. In regard to the landfill option, we have said before that as far as we know, there is no scientific evidence that says burying some of these buildings and infrastructures that contained PCB in the paint on these buildings is an environmental concern which does not appear that it gets into the soil as a result of it being in landfills. However, that is the decision that was made by the federal government and the Minister of Environment, that the Department of Environment has rejected the request from National Defence to put some of these infrastructure and buildings in landfill sites. Thank you.
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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
Thank you. 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
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Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the concern was indeed in certain sites, not close to communities like Langstaff Bluff, Cape Hooper, Cape Dyer, where the Department of National Defence had asked for contracts to sell off those sites. Of course, the concern was, if a contractor was buying a site or business, they would go in there and take what they wanted, for example, there are bathtubs, toiletries and so on, then leave the abandoned buildings, then you had a discard of that material and there was some concern that they would be burying it. I am very pleased to hear that the federal Department of the Environment has turned down the option. Have the Minister and his staff addressed the concern of the problem with the level of control between the two federal departments and that is the DEW Line sites are under the control of the Department of National Defence, but it seems like the money to clean them up comes through the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs? This has caused some concern with communities and groups because they bring their complaints or problems forth to DND, you get a response from DIAND, then of course, our RWED gets involved. Has there been some discussion surrounding that? 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
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The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Minister.
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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
It is true, the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs is the lead federal department in regard to just about every issue in the Northwest Territories, specifically, lands and waters. They have primary jurisdiction and in cases of the environment, they do take the lead. Usually federal Ministers defer to the Minister of DIAND to take the lead in dealing with issues. In the case of these cleanups, although National Defence is the agency that set up these facilities and sites, it is DIAND that must take the lead in dealing with environmental land and water concerns. This is the reason for the way it has been handled by the federal government.
Item 19: 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. I have under environmental protection, 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 1193
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have some questions in regard to strategic energy planning, given that energy and the provision of energy are one of the biggest dollar items of this government. It is an area where there is potential for significant painless savings. Could the Minister indicate what plans there are, in fact, to develop a strategic energy plan? Obviously, at this point, with two separate parts, one for the east and one for the west, which focuses not just on communities, but as a territory and a government. Considering we are a major energy user, how do we intend to take advantage of things like conservation and retrofits, how we are going to deal with emissions of greenhouse gases, as we are one of the largest, per capita, offenders in that area, given our climate and alternate energy technology, to name three. 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. Mr. Handley.
Item 19: 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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Handley
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. About two months ago we hired the executive director for the Arctic Energy Alliance. The Arctic Energy Alliance is an incorporated body that is jointly funded and supported by RWED, Housing Corporation, MACA, Association of Municipalities and the Power Corporation. Each of us sits on the board. We met recently with the executive director who has given us his first draft of a strategic overview and he is now working on a plan. We feel that by working jointly and cooperatively between the departments and municipalities, we will be able to undertake some initiatives that will deal with broad issues like climate change and will also deal with very specific issues like making public housing more energy efficient, with various strategies for better utilization of the facilities and capacity of the Power Corporation. I expect that within the next month we will have a completed strategic plan, which we all agree on and work plans would follow shortly.
Item 19: 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. 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
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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am very glad to hear about the progress being made. My question will be in terms of process. Will those work plans and information be funnelled back as one of the venues through this House or through the appropriate committee for feedback? It is a very critical initiative and one that has long-term impacts. 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
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The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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
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Item 19: 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. With that, we will take a lunch break. Thank you, Mr. Minister. Thank you, Mr. Handley. Thank you, Mr. Kennedy.
--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
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The Chair Vince Steen
I call the committee back to order. We are on Bill 8, Appropriation Act, 1998-99, Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, activity summary, environmental protection, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $1.791 million. 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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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 Vince Steen
Thank you. Page 11-9, detail of capital, environmental protection, buildings and works, headquarters, total region, $400,000. 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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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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Item 19: 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 Vince Steen
Thank you. Acquisition of equipment, headquarters, total region, $10,000. 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 1193
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 1193
Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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 Vince Steen
Thank you. Page 11-10, activity summary, resource management and economic development, operations and maintenance, total operations, $54.669 million. 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 1193
Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In the Minister's opening comments, he made reference to 23 economic development positions that have been transferred to communities. There is an interest in Fort Smith to have access to such an opportunity. I was wondering if, in fact, the community leadership could agree and there was a request put in, would we also be able to apply for such a position to work with the community leadership on economic issues and strategies for the community?
Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to thank the Minister for that positive response. In the area of community futures as well, I know there has been talk for the South Slave of in fact, having an office in Hay River and in Fort Smith. I did not notice any specific reference to that in the Minister's statement. Is that, as well, still part of the plan that there is going to be an office in Fort Smith, I believe, providing services to Fort Smith and Fort Resolution?
Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The alternative plan is proposing to have two community futures boards in the South Slave. We are proposing to the MLAs and the community leaders to have one that would service Fort Smith, Fort Resolution and Lutselk'e. That is presently before the MLAs of those communities for their consideration and advice, and the community leaders. We have another proposal to expand the present Hay River Community Futures Board to include some of the communities like Providence, Kakisa, Enterprise, so expanding the Hay River Board as well, and that is just a proposal. The proposal needs advice, and probably will be changed, the location of the boards as well will be subject to some discussion, I am sure. 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
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Item 19: 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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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. My final question on this particular area is to do with the NWT Development Corporation. The last time we met with the NWT Development Corporation, they gave an oral presentation that was somewhat long in anecdote and short on any sort of facts and qualifiable information. At this point, I would like some indication that the next time around, we will have some clear information that is qualifiable and measurable in terms of how the money is working, especially given the fact that the new, I think it is $1.2 million in additional money that has been put into the Development Corporation. It is really critical that we start identifying really clearly if the intent is to provide subsidized employment, then we should not really be wasting a lot of time in making people do work to say that we are going to create stand-alone industry and where, in fact, there is an attempt to create a viable industry, we should differentiate. I do not think there would be a great problem with that, but the way it is now, at least my sense is that there is a lot of energy and pressure put on the Development Corporation to make sure we do not have to subsidize, when in fact, in the smaller communities there may be no other choice. 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
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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you. Mr. Chairman, we continue to work with the Development Corporation to ensure that they shore up their existing operations and subsidiaries in a way that is in line with their mandate that is getting to be an operation that can present good reports, reports that are understood and that are in acceptable format for use by Members of the Legislature and myself as a Minister. Mr. Glenn Soloy has been working on that and we will continue to see what we can do to make sure that the reports and the reporting format are standard and acceptable to everyone. 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
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Item 19: 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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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Could the Minister as well, speak briefly to the second part of my comments on the need to differentiate clearly between those businesses in which the government is going to be playing an ongoing role as opposed to those businesses that the Development Corporation is going to be involved with, but only on a short term basis because there is clear proof and evidence that they will be able to operate on their own once they are given sufficient support to get started? 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
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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yes, we will work to clarify that. We recently had a meeting and a workshop set up for the board of directors of the Development Corporation. The questions we asked them were to clarify what they thought their mandate was, their roles, responsibilities and specifically, to advise when we start up business subsidiaries in the communities, what is an acceptable level of a subsidy and what are the criterion that should be used when we set up these businesses. For instance, should we start a business that will surely result in the development of products. Is there some requirement to say, look, they should be saleable before we start producing them? At what point do we divest ourselves of some of these subsidiaries, for instance, if they become very viable and profitable. At what point, if the subsidy is 99 percent of the cost of the operation, should we stay in that business? At what point do we critically look at shutting down or divesting ourselves of it. We are working on it. 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
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Item 19: 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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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have another question in regard to tourism and the level of funding. Of late, there has been discussion in the House and as well, I have seen some articles in the paper about the diminishing level of funding that the Government of the Northwest Territories has been able to put toward what is considered the strategic area for economic development in the north. I was wondering if the Minister could indicate what plans are in place to try and shore up this critical sector and ensure that in fact, it does not die of lack of sustenance? 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
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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The drop in the level of funding provided to the tourism sector was because of the termination of the EDA, therefore the federal money that was allocated to this sector has disappeared, but our own allocation of Government of the Northwest Territories dollars has basically remained the same. What I have told the tourism groups and associations are that I expect, particularly the Western Arctic Tourism Association, to now request that members should pay a fee. There should be some contribution from the members to the association and once a good work plan strategy is developed, we would revisit the issue of funding and additional support if that was required. That is where we had left it. 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
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Item 19: 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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Michael Miltenberger Thebacha
With my final 20-seconds, my question would be to the Minister, is there the possibility of a new EDA
being negotiated with the federal government or have they totally withdrawn from this area? 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
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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We have been talking to Minister Jane Stewart. We have mentioned it to the Minister of Finance at a dinner meeting in October. I have talked to federal officials within the Prime Minister's office and we have talked to our Member of Parliament, Ethel Blondin-Andrew, about the need to have an Economic Development Agreement. The fact that we are the only region in Canada today without an EDA and yet we are the region in the most need of such a program, as a result of our lobby and the work of our MPs in the budget documents, the federal government has committed to working with the Yukon and the Northwest Territories in developing an Economic Development Strategy. In discussions we have had and will continue to have with federal officials, I believe a strategy will address the need for resources to be allocated to begin work on implementation of a strategy. An EDA is one of the most required elements of such a strategy at this time. 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 1195
The Chair Vince Steen
Thank you, Mr. Kakfwi. I am on resource management and economic development, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $54.669 million. I will ask Mr. Miltenberger to take the Chair while I have some questions. 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 1195
The Chair Michael Miltenberger
Thank you for this singular opportunity. I would like to make a comment for the record, I am very disappointed in the apparent lack of interest by my colleagues in passing this budget, since it is myself, Mr. Rabesca, Mr. Steen and Mr. O'Brien who are currently here. Mr. Steen.
Item 19: 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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Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Welcome to the committee. Mr. Chairman, my question is in relation to wildlife. My first question is in regard to the Peary caribou populations on Banks Island and Holman Island. I would like to ask the Minister if there are any new developments as to those populations at this time, whether they are increasing or decreasing and what exactly is the department doing to monitor the population?
Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, thank you. There has been no change in the picture as we presented it last fall. There is still concern about the population. We have not gone in to check on the caribou again. We have deferred to the request by the Inuit and the communities to let them take a more prominent role in deciding what should be done about the situation facing the Peary caribou at this time? Today, there is a workshop that has started here in town with all the different wildlife management groups, the government departments involved and other stakeholders to decide what course of action should be taken. That workshop has just started here in Yellowknife today. 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
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Item 19: 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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Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, could the Minister indicate what representation my communities would have at that workshop?
Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you. I think there are representatives from the Inuvialuit communities, but I know specifically the Inuvialuit game council is in attendance.
Item 19: 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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Item 19: 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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Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, over the winter I have had some discussion with hunters on both Banks Island and Holman, as well as on the mainland. All the hunters and trappers have identified what could be considered as a major increase in the wolf populations in all these particular areas. I have been advised by the hunters around Tuktoyaktuk for instance, that the wolf population has increased so much they are eating each other and they are starving. I have also been advised that the wolf population may be having a big impact on the return of the caribou up in Banks Island because the wolf population seems to be increasing there as well. Would the department among all other options, would they consider wolf control?
Item 19: 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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Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1195
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. All the methods we use for managing wildlife populations are done in cooperation and partnership with the aboriginal groups, with wildlife management boards, hunters and trappers. I am sure that options like the one the Member is suggesting would be considered. 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 1195
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1195
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, for a number of years now, I believe it is three years, the community of Sachs Harbour has been operating on a self-imposed quota of one caribou per family, per year. Now, I think everybody would realize that caribou are not very big to start with. They are imposing on themselves already in order to help to increase the herd. Over the last five to ten years, there has been nothing but a decline, rather than an increase. After this particular meeting the department is talking about, is there going to be some serious actions taken as to exactly what we could do to preserve this herd from extinction?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1195
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1195
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, as we speak, I know that the animal rights activists are incredibly worked up about the story that appeared in the Globe and Mail yesterday. The woman who wrote the article
seems totally tuned in with it. She is so tuned in, she knows they have worked overnight getting themselves all worked in Hamburg, Berlin and every other European country about what they should do about saving the wolves. It is a good question to put to these people. If the wolf population is a direct threat to the survival of other species, like the Peary caribou, what would they do about it? I have been telling them that they are hypocrites of the first order. Most of these people, especially the Europeans, have totally decimated their own wildlife populations. They do not even consider them wild animals they are considered pests. Pests that have to be destroyed at all cost and they have done it. What I have said is, we manage our wildlife and we manage it well. We have done it for thousands of years, and we will continue to do that. I am sure the aboriginal groups involved in discussions today, faced with what methods and approach should be taken to save the Peary caribou, will make proper decisions, good well-balanced decisions in the interests of everyone and everything that is involved. That, I trust, absolutely. I think the Member does as well. 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 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Resource Management and Economic Development, Mr. Steen.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1196
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman and welcome back. Mr. Chairman, I take it from the Minister's comment, if this particular body that is reviewing the Peary caribou population problems were to recommend wolf control, he would have no objection to it and I thank him for that. I am sure the members of my community would thank him as well. My other question, Mr. Chairman, is related to what seems to be a major increase in grizzly bear population in my regions as well. Mr. Chairman, these large increases in grizzly bear population are already having its effect on outpost camps and communities. I know this was brought up with the Minister before. I would like to know, since I brought it up last year, whether there has been any effort by his department to do further surveys of those grizzly bear numbers?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Steen. Mr. 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 1196
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am not aware at this time of any additional work we might have done in regard to grizzly bear studies. I would have to get back to the Member on it. 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 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Resource Management and Economic Development. Mr. Steen, you have 40 seconds.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1196
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I am sure the Minister must be aware of reports of increases in grizzly bear population, not only in my region, but also I understand in the central Kitikmeot, Coppermine areas there have also been large increases reported. Is the department aware of 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 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1196
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, the department is aware but I was not aware enough to answer detailed questions regarding these results that have come forward. I should make the point with all our wildlife populations, we take the position that they must be managed and the species have to be used in order to protect their well-being. It is our view that the day you stop using wildlife populations, is the day they start having their days numbered. We think all the species have to be managed and we have to do it together with the front-line users, the aboriginal people in communities. That is what we have taken. I say that because categorically, in Europe and in many places in southern Canada and the United States, it is very clear that the general public has taken categorical stands against huge numbers, huge species of wildlife. They have taken a stand against wildlife populations because they want their sheep or cattle to survive. They have decimated the fox, wolves, bison and the whole range of wildlife. In the Northwest Territories, the government and aboriginal groups do not condone these practices. What we do is take a well-integrated balanced approach to the use and management of wildlife populations. 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 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Resource management and economic development, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $54.669 million. 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 1196
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 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Steen.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1196
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I, 100 percent, agree with the Minister that our wildlife populations have to be managed, but I believe managed includes harvesting. At this point in time, I am suggesting that an increase in the quotas of grizzly bears would be the total solution to the increasing population of grizzly bears. What some of the elders are saying is that as industrial activity happens more and more in the south parts of the territories, populations like grizzly bears, seem to be migrating north and are being forced north to keep away from human activity. This seems to some degree, to be part of the problem. What I am saying here, Mr. Chairman, is in comparison to the Peary caribou, the grizzly bear has a lot more features that would help to protect themselves. Nobody is suggesting here that we are talking an increase simply for food. People are talking an increase for protection, as well and it has to be taken into consideration that whether the grizzly is killed in self-defence or whether it is killed in a quota, he is still dead. I appreciate the Minister's concerns of public pressure from down south, to some degree, has to be taken into consideration, but on the other hand, the public down south are not the ones that really have to live with grizzly bears in their backyard. With that, Mr. Chairman, I would hope that the Minister would also have that special group, that is meeting, consider the increased populations of grizzly bears as well. 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 1196
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1196
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I should clarify, for the Members, that when I talk about management of wildlife, the most important part of managing wildlife is using the wildlife, is harvesting of the wildlife. If the wildlife becomes a problem, then it is because we have no use for it anymore. They no longer become beautiful wild animals like wolves or grizzly bears, they become public nuisances, varmints and pests, which is exactly how they are defined in Europe. In
Europe, a wolf is a pest, a fox is a pest. They are not called wild animals. They are only wild animals if they live in North America and that is what I am talking about, the hypocrisy of animal rights activists. I agree with the Member that grizzly bears, if they will become over abundant, will inevitably start killing each other off. The young will starve. The animals will starve and they also become a problem for property owners and communities, so, all the more reason to look at options like having an annual allowable harvest of these species that can benefit the communities, the hunters and put value on the species, so that we will continue to try to protect and manage them in the best way we can to ensure their future viability. 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 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Page 11-10, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance. Mr. Steen.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1197
Vince Steen Nunakput
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I hope I am on the right activity. I know that the Minister and his department are in the process of stationing a wildlife officer or replacing the wildlife officer in Tuktoyaktuk and filling the position. I wonder if the wildlife service could give some consideration to having two wildlife officers stationed in a community the size of Tuktoyaktuk? One possibility, Mr. Chairman, would be the second wildlife officer could be a trainee but part of the advantage is, in this day and age when everybody travels with skidoos or small boats, they always try to travel in the buddy system of two people. It is quite a strain, I believe, on the wildlife officer to ask him to go out patrolling on the land all by himself. I am sure at the present time, the wildlife service does not have that many wildlife officers in Inuvik who could come down and participate with the wildlife officer on his patrols. In particular, if these patrols come up as and when needed. My question is to the wildlife service Minister, would they consider my suggestions? 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 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. I believe you are in the right activity because this activity deals with wildlife management. Mr. 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 1197
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I will look at the suggestion the Member is making and have the deputy minister work with the regional superintendent to see what we can do. 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 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Steen, are you okay? Thank you. On resource management and economic development, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $54.669 million. Agreed? Mr. Steen.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1197
Vince Steen Nunakput
Mr. Chairman, this is a very important department for me, not only wildlife, but economic development as well. In consideration of the attendance here, I move to 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 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Mr. Minister. There is a motion to report progress. The motion is not debatable. We do not have a quorum. I will ring the bell. There is a motion to report progress and I repeat, the motion is not debatable. All those in favour, signify in a usual manner please. All those opposed? The motion is defeated. For those who defeated the motion, please endeavour to stay in the House. Thank you.
Resource management and economic, operations and maintenance, total operations and maintenance, $54.669. Agreed? Mr. Erasmus and Mr. Picco. 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 1197
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I was one of those who was absent when the motion was made. We were over at the Aurora Campus for the opening of the campus building, a very beautiful education building indeed. Mr. Chairman, I would like to know and have some questions in the area of the Northern Accord. For sometime we have been talking about diamond mines that are potentially going to open in the north, the royalties and taxes that are going to the federal government which are astronomical in relation to the benefits the north will receive through royalties and taxes. I would like to know if there are currently any discussions to rectify this situation, so we can actually benefit more from royalties.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. The honourable Minister, Mr. Kakfwi.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1197
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, there are no active discussions going on right now with the federal government. We have indicated to them we would be interested in coming to some sort of agreement, at least in principle, to proceed with the Northern Accord in much the same way as they have done in the Yukon. We, of course, are asked again to check with all aboriginal groups to make sure that they are on side. The situation has not changed much from what it was four years ago. It has not changed much from where it was two years ago. It has not changed much from where it was a year ago. 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 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1197
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Mr. Chairman, the Minister indicated the situation has not changed much from four years ago. Could the Minister elaborate on what our aboriginal partners' position is on this particular issue?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1197
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
The positions vary from outright refusal to allow the Government of the Northwest Territories to assume any type of responsibility for oil, gas and minerals at this time, to outright support to proceed immediately with a devolution agreement under a Northern Accord. There are other positions, for instance, that say if certain regions do not want to proceed, then can we look at the regional type of an arrangement? There are a variety of suggestions out there. 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 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1197
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Has the department been together recently or at all with the aboriginal summit or the aboriginal governments involved? If they have, what was the result of that?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1197
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1197
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Due to the importance of this fall, the Premier had taken the lead in
working with the aboriginal groups starting two years ago. The department, through the deputy minister, worked in support of the Premier in working out possible arrangements and support of the aboriginal groups to proceed with this file. As I recollect, the last meeting that was held in discussions with the aboriginal groups, the Premier felt there was no basis on which to proceed at this time given the lack of support and diverse positions being taken by the aboriginal groups at that time. We have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in discussions with the aboriginal groups over the last six years, a tremendous amount of money and time. There is no reason to believe the prospects are any better now than they were in previous years. At this time, we are not closing the book on it, but there is very little time, in fact, even if we should get total support today for anything to be done before the year 2000. 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 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1198
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Minister indicated what occurred at the last meeting. Could he indicate when this last meeting occurred?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1198
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1198
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Minister had also indicated that there is no consensus among the aboriginal governments involved in the discussions in the past. Could the Minister indicate what the federal government's position is on this particular matter? Is there a requirement for an aboriginal consensus on this particular matter before it can move forward?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1198
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. As I understand it, the federal government requires us to show that all the aboriginal groups support the Northern Accord in order for the federal government to proceed. They do not qualify by saying any objections should have some substance to it. They do not indicate whether or not, say, 80 percent of the aboriginal groups would constitute sufficient support to proceed. It sounds like you do not have to give a reason to not show support, and everybody has to agree before anything can happen. It is not possible.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1198
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It almost sounds as though the federal government wants this initiative to fail so things will remain the way they are. Mr. Chairman, I do not have any further questions at this time, but it is just an observation that without having a reasonable answer as to why you are against something. Anybody can be against anything for some reason that perhaps might not even make sense. It is difficult to rationalize the federal government's position. 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 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. That was an opinion. There was no question. On the list I have Mr. Picco and Mr. Henry. Mr. Picco, we are dealing with resource management and economic development. 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 1198
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, under Fisheries, I raise some concerns with the allocation for the shrimp quota and some other areas concerning the quotas of fish. The situation is that, indeed, the federal Fisheries department has been allocating more fish per quota in straddling areas and stocks adjacent to Baffin Island and Nunavut region. Our concern, Mr. Chairman, is indeed to make sure that fish, which is located in our waters, is allocated to our fishermen. Can the Minister at this time update us on the status of the fisheries' quotas? Did we get the quota that we had asked for? Is the Minister lobbying the Department of Fisheries to make sure the Nunavut fishing interests are represented at the federal table? 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 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Picco. Mr. 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 1198
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Following some discussions with the Member from Iqaluit and other Members of Nunavut, we have contacted the federal Minister of Fisheries. We have asked that we be consulted and our position be taken into consideration before the allocation of shrimp is made. We have made the relevant point to the Minister and suggested we be prepared to meet if that would be useful to him at this time. 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 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. The honourable Member for Iqaluit, 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 1198
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I have to thank the Minister for following up on my concerns with the allocation of the shrimp stocks and the fishing stocks off of Baffin Island and the Nunavut settlement region. Has the Department of Fisheries, responded to the Minister? I know the Minister has said we have made our points to them to take our points into consideration. That happened last year, Mr. Chairman, and indeed Nunavut Tungavik Incorporated actually had to take the Department of Federal Fisheries to court and actually won a decision because they had not taken into consideration NTI's position. Has the Department of Fisheries come back with a positive response to the conversations and the contact that the Minister's department has had with our federal counterparts? 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 1198
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. The honourable Minister, Mr. Kakfwi.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1198
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you. We have been working on this file for a few years now, and we try to keep the MLAs informed, as well as the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board and the relevant community and Inuit leaders who have an interest in this file. It has been an ongoing fight in the previous government. Titus Allooloo, myself, and other previous Ministers of Renewable Resources have all worked on this file. Mr. Goo Arlooktoo, who has a keen interest in working to support myself as the Minister responsible, also is doing quite a bit of work on the Atlantic Fisheries and on this file. 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1199
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I know they are all doing a lot of work on the file, I am not saying they are not. What I was asking at the time was that, indeed, we have contacted Federal Fisheries, and you have made our concerns known but have they come back with any type of positive response? Have they said, yes, indeed when the quota is allocated, you will know? Did they ask for more scientific information or data from the department? I believe a couple of months ago, Mr. Kakfwi was telling me the federal and territorial fisheries Ministers had requested a meeting maybe in Nunavut or in Iqaluit itself or somewhere in the Northwest Territories. Could we get an update on that to the federal and territorial fisheries Ministers meeting? I believe there was one going to be held in Nunavut. 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1199
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We have not received a response to our letter to the Minister. Hopefully, we will receive one before the allocation is made. Better still, if it is a favourable allocation, perhaps that would be contained in the letter which I hope to receive very shortly. We will check with the Minister's office to see if we could try to prompt a positive and quick response, to our last letter. As far as meetings are concerned, of course, we take every occasion to try to locate meetings in the Arctic, in the Northwest Territories. Meetings with Ministers responsible for Fisheries, the Council for Atlantic Fisheries, we would try to locate them in the Arctic as the Member has suggested. 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Henry. We are dealing with considering resource management and economic development, page 11-10. 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 1199
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Following up on questions raised by Mr. Erasmus regarding the Northern Accord. I have also heard from senior officials of DIAND that the department would not consider any discussions or negotiations on the Northern Accord without 100 percent concurrence of the aboriginal groups. As Mr. Erasmus has stated, this is a way the federal government says we do not want to negotiate if they put that initial requirement to commence negotiations. We hear about the Aboriginal Summit not getting 100 percent unanimous consent to proceed with negotiations. My question to the Minister is, how does the department or the Minister ascertain how the rest of the population of the Northwest Territories feel in regard to negotiating a Northern Accord? 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1199
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, it is the view of the government that the Legislative Assembly is generally supportive of reaching an agreement on the Northern Accord with aboriginal groups, and it is about as generic as that. We all want to operate on a consensus basis to resolve these issues. Some of these issues are complex. They get us involved in areas like self-government negotiations, political and constitutional development processes are sometimes seen as negotiating and bargaining levers. The stakes are high and it is difficult to move, especially if the federal government appears very reluctant to allow anything to happen in this area by demanding unusual and unrealistic conditions to be met before proceeding.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Merci. 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 1199
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. For a little more clarity, if the Minister would, I would appreciate it. He had talked about the GNWT as generally supportive. To me, I am not hearing a really strong position there. I was wondering if that was just a term the Minster used or if he can give a very clear statement as to his department and this government's position on do they wish to proceed with negotiations and to secure a Northern Accord for the benefits of all northerners? 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1199
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, of course, we would like to reach an agreement on the Northern Accord. It should be absolutely clear. In the previous government, the Minister responsible for this file spent close to $1 million working with the aboriginal groups over a period of a year and a half to try to reach an agreement. As I recall, at least 75 percent or more or the aboriginal groups were in agreement. There was substantive agreement, I thought, at that time, to proceed. The Minister of the day, decided not to proceed, simply because he knew the federal government would refuse to proceed on that basis. It was of little use for the Minister to stand up and say he was going to proceed even though there was not 100 percent consensus and still one or two groups opposing the Northern Accord at that time. Those are the dynamics of these negotiations. Even if the entire Legislature and Cabinet of the day had decided to proceed, we would have been refused at the other end. We have to keep that in mind. 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1199
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the Minister for clarity there. I would accept that this government does represent all peoples of the Northwest Territories, aboriginal or non-aboriginal. Does the department or the Minister have any other avenues they wish to proceed, that given, I would suggest at least 75 to 80 percent of the population of the Northwest Territories? That is 75 to 80 percent of the population of the Northwest Territories would support some form of devolving some of these powers and financial resources that the territories could gain some semblance of independence. Does the Minister or the department have any other way to pursue this with the federal government? From the information that the Minister has presented, probably a good 80 percent of the population of the Northwest Territories does support this. 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 1199
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1199
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, at the end of the day, the Premier is responsible for this particular file. If there is a question, it would probably be best put to the Premier. As I was saying, what we need the most is a positive supportive federal government, a federal government that would set some
reasonable terms and conditions for work to proceed on this file. So far it has been rather ambiguous and, therefore, kind of futile for us to continue working at it, at this time. It is not for lack of interest. 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 1200
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. 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 1200
Seamus Henry Yellowknife South
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Final question in that area. A Northern Accord, other than the financial resources, how else would this, the securing of a Northern Accord, what other areas would affect the Northwest Territories and if the Minister can look at both areas, Nunavut and the Western Territory? 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 1200
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. The honourable Minister, Kakfwi.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1200
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
The other factor is there is simply no time even if we wanted to get into negotiations to reach any tangible results before the end of 1999 or by April 1, 1999. At best, if we do this, start discussions I mean, we may be able to sign some sort of memorandum with the federal government to say how we are going to proceed with discussions on the Northern Accord, after April 1, 1999 with Nunavut and the Western Territory. This has been brought forward as a consideration but if Members know, there is a horrific amount of work to be done in so many areas preparing for division. The suggestion has simply been made to the federal Minister, where there has been no substantive response, as far as I know. 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 1200
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. I will take your word for it. Mr. Henry, you had indicated your last question. (Translation) Thank you. Mr. Evaloarjuk. (Translation ends)
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1200
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have two questions for the Minister. I will use Renewable Resources as an example, such as foxes and other wildlife. We heard briefly that there is a market for foxes, a lot more than seals. I wonder whether the Minister and his department have any kind of financial assistance to provide to the hunters or trappers. The new traps, the conibear traps, the quick kill traps, are supposed to be very good, but at the same time we found some problems using them, mostly for the larger animals. We have problems with getting larger animals because they tend to break the conibear traps. The old traps we used to have before, we were told not to use them anymore, but we are able to use those old traps again. Perhaps, would the Department of Renewable Resources be able to assist the hunters or trappers in acquiring the new conibear traps because they are really expensive? The old traps used to be a dollar a piece. They had some this winter at a store and they were $26 a piece. They are very expensive for those hunters that do not have any other income. They cannot afford to buy them at that price. I just wondered if the Minister and his department have any funding available to assist the trappers is purchasing those traps?
The other question has to do with the question from economic development. Sometimes there are a lot of people who do carvings, but they do not have anywhere to market them. Sometimes the Co-op does not want to buy them. The Northern Store does not want to buy them either. There should be assistance provided to those carvers who cannot sell their carvings because they have no other way to get any income.
The hunters usually get cash from selling their carvings, but if they cannot harvest and carve, they have no other income. There are also some communities that are without caribou and some communities have more caribou than others. Perhaps this could be traded between communities? Is there any assistance from your department to trade this meat between the communities? I have asked this question before. There is some rancid meat we usually trade between each other like walrus meat, which is a delicacy for our people. Some people mentioned they are not able to sell them but we always eat them. It is our delicacy and that is our way of providing food for ourselves. Would there be any assistance for intercommunity trading such as native foods like the ones I mentioned? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (Translation ends)
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1200
The Chair John Ningark
Qujannamiik, Mr. Evaloarjuk. Mr. 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 1200
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you. First of all there are trappers in the eastern Arctic, trappers in the Inuit communities that need assistance to get back to the business or get into the occupations of trapping. They should check with the renewable resource officers or the economic development officers. The department is very interested in working with trappers, people who want to get into trapping to make sure they are properly equipped. They have proper funding to get into it. There are grants, loans, Harvester Assistance Programs. There are a lot of programs available for trappers and harvesters and to people who want to get into it as a business. That would be my advice.
The issue of traps. It is true Canada has agreed to phase out leg hold traps. The old traps, we have to stop using them and get into using the new traps, the conibear traps. These, as far as I know, are not developed for use for larger animals but they are working on it. Research is continuing to be done.
His concern about carvers not being able to sell their carvings is work that needs to be ongoing. For instance, carvers need to be aware that people who buy their carvings are down south, southern Canada and United States. Certain types of carvings are more in demand than others. We have to do more work on marketing in the department. The Development Corporation has been working on that. If they require additional assistance because again, we support carvers, we want them to be able to make a living from it. The superintendents and local economic development officers are the people to see to make sure we can support the carvers.
In regard to intercommunity trade of caribou of wildlife meat, it is an excellent suggestion and certainly one we would work to support. There are a number of programs available that can be used. There is the Community Assistance Program, for instance, money can be given to local communities to go out and harvest caribou. We also provide money for communities to do organized hunts. We can find ways in which to help communities transport and get into the trade with other communities.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Before I recognize Mr. O'Brien, who is next on the list. On behalf of Mr. Rabesca, I would like to recognize up in the public gallery, from his riding, attending basic education classes, from Wha Ti, Lawrence Nitsiza.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Cecilia Nitsiza.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Louisa Nitsiza.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Elizabeth Nitsiza.
-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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Cynthia Nitsiza.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Theresa Romie.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Carolyn Coey.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Welcome to the Legislative Assembly.
--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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Mr. O'Brien. We are dealing with resource management and economic development. Mr. O'Brien.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Just a followup to the question Mr. Picco posed earlier regarding fish quotas in Nunavut. I believe you indicated we have sent a request to the federal Minister, Mr. Anderson, regarding the concern we have, but to date, we have not had any response. Would the Minister take it upon himself, possibly at the first of the week, to inquire as to what the answer will be to our request, given the fact that it is only a week or so before they will make a decision, on the quotas? 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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1201
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Affirmative, Mr. O'Brien.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you. Mr. Chairman, I assume the Minister will get back to us next week once he has an answer. Can the Minister tell me what value is placed on the fishing industry in Nunavut? Does he have any idea?
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. The honourable Minister, Mr. Kakfwi.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
It is an important new industry. As I have said earlier in regard to management of wildlife, our fish stock would be the same, that the more we use it, the more important it is going to be for us as to how well we manage it and take care of it. That is my view. The more important it becomes to us economically, the more important it is going to be for us to be involved in the management preservation of these resources.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. O'Brien.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I was referring more to the dollar value. What dollar value is attached to the industry in Nunavut? 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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. I do not know if the Minister is knowledgable. Mr. 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 1201
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. What I will do is get a rough estimate of how many jobs we think have been created, for instance, in Nunavut fisheries, how many assets have been bought and how much money has been made from sales of these products in the last few years. If we can and provide it to the Member next week. 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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Page 11-10, total operations and maintenance, $54.669 million. 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 1201
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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Resource management and economic development, building and works, headquarters, total region, $393,000. 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 1201
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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Rabesca.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1201
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am curious about the Fred Henne Park expansion in Yellowknife. What is the size of the expansion we are looking at and what does it really pertain to? 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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you, Mr. Rabesca. Mr. 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 1201
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Fred Henne Park in Yellowknife out at Long Lake is the most heavily utilized park in the Northwest Territories. There are a great number of people locally, as well as southern tourists, who come to use the camping facility. We have had to turn people away in the previous year because we had no more room at the inn, so to speak. We have supported a request to add to the facilities at that camp site, add a second loop, make sure there are proper roads and facilities in place to service the growing demand by campers and tourist from down south from these facilities. 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 1201
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Rabesca.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1202
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Same page on the Prelude Lake Park and various North Slave, going on to Rae Lakes Park, Hidden Lake Park and Renovation Park. Are these all the expansions? The amount of money allocated to those areas varies from $18,000 to $170,000. What is the difference between those areas? 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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1202
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you. Mr. Chairman, these parks are all on the Ingraham Trail, and there has been a growing demand by visitors, tourists and local users for increased expansion of facilities at these sites. The access roads, bathrooms and camping facilities are provided at those sites. These monies allocated are to expand the present facilities in the area for use by campers and tourists.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Detail of capital, building and works, total region $393,000. 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 1202
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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Building and works, Fort Smith region, total region, $902,000. 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 1202
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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Building and works, Inuvik, total region. Mr. Rabesca.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1202
James Rabesca North Slave
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Regarding the Fort Smith region and building of Public Works regarding the Mission Historical Park in Fort Smith, the $10,000, what is it pertaining to? 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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. 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 1202
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Mr. Chairman, the $10,000 that is provided is to assist with doing an archaeological review to do some landscape research, catalogue and store old building contents and some building refurbishment, restoration and to provide for some interpretive planting. 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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Fort Smith region, total region, $902,000. 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 1202
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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Building and works, Inuvik, total region. $502,000. 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 1202
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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Page 11-13, building and works, Baffin region, total region, $330,000. 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 1202
Edward Picco Iqaluit
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, we ran into a problem last year with the amounts and we are showing the capital list for this year and nothing in future years anticipated. Is that just a typo like last year? 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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Kennedy.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1202
Kennedy
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In terms of how the estimates are developed, future years' costs are applied only to multi year projects. Projects like parks which are basically enhanced and go on year after year are not defined as multi year projects. Therefore, they would have no multi year costs. Most of your multi year costs would apply to construction projects which are greater than one year, generally less than three, which have a definite beginning and end. But our park's programs are mostly enhancements, so they are not defined as a multi year project and so they do not calculate any future year's cost even though there obviously will be some. Under the definition, it is not shown here. 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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Mr. Evaloarjuk.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1202
Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq
(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Concerning parks for the Baffin region, Mr. Chairman, what happens when people get extensions under building and works. For example, Hall Beach, Igloolik and Pond Inlet have no parks, and they have beautiful country up there. I am wondering why there is never anything set aside. Is it because you require proposals from the communities to set up parks so they have them under this funding? (Translation ends)
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Page 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Mr. 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 1202
Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. With the settlement of claims, we have to work in partnership with aboriginal groups in dealing with issues of land and protected area strategies. In the past, the way it has worked is communities or regions would propose or request parks and, then, it would require us to sit down and work with them to establish camp grounds, parks and that type of thing. This has been usually the process. We do not come in and propose them. It is usually the communities and/or groups that do that. 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 1202
The Chair John Ningark
Thank you. Let the record show Mr. Evaloarjuk is on the list. With that, I thank the Minister and the witnesses for appearing before the committee. I will recognize the clock and report progress. 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 1202
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
The House will come back to order. Good afternoon. We are on item 20, report of committee of the whole. Mr. Ningark.
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Page 1202
John Ningark Natilikmiot
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, good afternoon. Your committee has been considering Bill 8, Appropriation Act, 1998-99, and would like to report progress. Mr. Speaker, I move that report of committee of the whole be concurred with. Thank you.
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Page 1202
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Seconded by Mr. Evaloarjuk. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried.
Mr. Barnabas.
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Page 1202
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to return to item 13, tabling of documents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Item 20: Report Of Committee Of The Whole
Page 1203
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. The Member for High Arctic is seeking unanimous consent to go back to item 13, tabling of documents. Do we have any nays? Mr. Barnabas you have unanimous consent.
Tabled Document 69-13(5): Letters Of Support From Constituents
Revert To Item 13: Tabling Of Documents
Page 1203
Levi Barnabas High Arctic
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank my colleagues for allowing me to return to tabling of documents. Mr. Speaker, I would like to table two letters of support and encouragement from my constituency. The first letter is from the mayor of Grise Fiord, Leah Kalluk, and the second letter is from two constituents of mine, Marty Kuluguqtuq and Jaypatee Akeeagok. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
--Applause
Tabled Document 69-13(5): Letters Of Support From Constituents
Revert To Item 13: Tabling Of Documents
Page 1203
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. Tabling of documents. Item 21, third reading of bills. Mr. Dent.
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills
Page 1203
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Bill 14-13(5) An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly Retiring Allowances Act and the Supplementary Retiring Allowances Act
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills
Page 1203
Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move seconded by the honourable Member for Sahtu that Bill 14, An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly Retiring Allowances Act and the Supplementary Retiring Allowances Act be read for the third time.
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills
Page 1203
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. Bill 14, An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly Retiring Allowances Act and the Supplementary Retiring Allowances Act have had third reading. 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 1203
Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is a meeting of the Ordinary Members' Caucus at 9:00 a.m. on Monday.
Orders of the day for Monday, March 2, 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 Motions for First Reading of Bills
16. Motions
17. First Reading of Bills
- Bill 5, An Act to Amend the Financial Administration Act, No. 2
18. Second Reading of Bills
- Bill 15, Adoption Act
19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters
- Bill 8, Appropriation Act, 1998-99
- Bill 9,Loan Authorization Act, 1998-99
- Bill 11, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 3, 1997-98
- Bill 12, Write-Off of Debts Act, 1997-98
- Bill 13, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1997-98
- Committee Report 02-13(5) Standing Committee on Government Operations, Report on the 1998-99 Main Estimates
- Committee Report 03-13(5) Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Report on the 1998-99 Estimates
- Committee Report 04-13(5) Standing Committee on Resource Management and Report on the 1998-99 Main Estimates
- Committee Report 05-13(5) Standing Committee on Social Programs, Report on the 1998-99 Main Estimates
- Committee Report 06-13(5) Standing Committee on Government Operations, Report on the Review of the Report of the Auditor General to the NWT Legislative Assembly for the Year Ended March 31, 1996
- Tabled Document 15-13(5) 1998-99 Budget Address
- Tabled Document 19-13(5) Guidelines for Implementing Public/Private Partnerships
20. Report of Committee of the Whole 21 .Third Reading of Bills
22. Orders of the Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Page 1204
The Speaker Samuel Gargan
Thank you, Mr. Clerk. By the authority given to the Speaker by Motion 3-13(5), I will set the sitting hours for Monday, March 2nd and Tuesday, March 3rd, to be 10:00 a.m to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Therefore, this House stands adjourned to Monday, March 2nd, at 10:00 a.m.
--ADJOURNMENT
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