Mr. Speaker, while we wait to see who blinks, I would like to make a statement on the proposed road to resources and diamond mines, which currently uses the Ingraham Trail. Mr. Speaker, this road was originally used to supply Echo Bay Mines, but recently with the addition of diamond mine exploration, there has been a substantial increase in the amount of usage, with trucks constantly going back and forth on the Ingraham Trail. I have many constituents who live on the Ingraham Trail. I also have constituents who use the Ingraham Trail to get to their traditional hunting areas. These constituents are concerned with first of all, the road being narrow. There are a lot of curves and it is dangerous when you meet a large truck. This has already caused accidents and there have been some fuel spills, possibly damage to the environment. There is also concern that the road is being damaged. Last year, Mr. Speaker, I asked the Premier about the road to resources, if we would be pursuing that. He indicated that he was looking at it. I also asked about the possibility of having the mines to actually pay for using the roads. Perhaps, a toll per truck. I know that we are currently doing an environmental study into the issue as well, as other transportation routes. However, that is looking toward the future. My constituents need to know what is happening now if there is legitimacy to their concerns. At the appropriate time, Mr. Speaker, I will ask the Minister questions in this area. Thank you.
Roy Erasmus on Member's Statement 487-13(5): Proposed Road To Resources
In the Legislative Assembly on June 2nd, 1998. See this statement in context.
Member's Statement 487-13(5): Proposed Road To Resources
Item 3: Members' Statements
June 1st, 1998
Page 1547
Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North
See context to find out what was said next.