Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 1, Division Measures Act, 1999, at its meeting on March 17 and 19, 1999. The committee would like to thank the Honourable John Todd and his officials for presenting the bill and responding to issues raised by the committee.

Bill 1 would amend nine acts to carry out preparations for division. Corresponding amendments are being made to the Nunavut version of many of these acts in the Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, 1999. Amendments to the Flag Act and the Floral Emblem Act ensure that the Northwest Territories flag and emblem will not apply in Nunavut.

The Electoral Boundaries Commission Act will be repealed as of March 31, 1999, as the act is no longer needed. As well, minor amendments are made to the Statute Revision Act, the Interpretation Act and the Income Tax Act. It is amended to ensure that Nunavut businesses and corporations will have simplified tax responsibilities for their first fiscal year in the new territory.

The bill also amends the Commissioner's Land Act and the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation Act to transfer rights, interests and obligations in land situated in Nunavut to the Nunavut Commissioner and the Nunavut Housing Corporation.

Finally, amendments are made to the Public Service Act to ensure that public service employees in positions that are located in Nunavut will cease to be employees of the Government of the Northwest Territories at division. Corresponding amendments to the Nunavut Public Service Act will ensure that these employees become members of the Nunavut public service under the same terms and conditions of employment with their seniority protected.

Mr. Chairman, one amendment was made to the bill in committee to clarify the intent of the Public Service Act amendments. Otherwise, Members of the standing committee were generally satisfied with the amendments proposed in this bill. Mr. Chairman, this concludes the Standing Committee's comments on Bill 1, Division Measures Act, 1999. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.