Mr. Speaker, we have made it very clear that as we move ahead after April 1, 1999 in the new Western Territory, we want the same level of services. We also want want an affordable and workable government. That does not say that yesterday what we said in this House is that we recognize the inherent right of aboriginal people to govern themselves. In order for aboriginal people to express their inherent right, they have to have choices. They have to make those choices. If they choose to take a parallel system, that is completely up to them. That is their choice, their inherent right. What we are saying is we prefer a partnership arrangement. Everybody should make their decision with the clear facts on the table. That is most important. The clear facts have to be on the table so their people fully understand what their leaders choose. We as well, if partnership is our choice, we have to go and talk to the people and say these are the reasons we think partnerships should work. Aboriginal governments, the MLAs, the leaders in the community all have the responsibility to put the facts on the table. One thing is very clear to me, Mr. Speaker. Regardless which way the aboriginal governments choose to go, I want to see a clear path from the start to the end, and where we are going to end up, in the end. Thank you.
Don Morin on Question 108-13(6): Components Of A Strong Central Government
In the Legislative Assembly on September 24th, 1998. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 108-13(6): Components Of A Strong Central Government
Question 108-13(6): Components Of A Strong Central Government
Item 6: Oral Questions
September 23rd, 1998
Page 198
Don Morin Tu Nedhe
See context to find out what was said next.