This is page numbers 63 - 90 of the Hansard for the 13th Assembly, 7th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library. The word of the day was social.

Topics

Members Present

Honourable Jim Antoine, Honourable Goo Arlooktoo, Mr. Barnabas, Honourable Charles Dent, Mr. Erasmus, Mr. Evaloarjuk, Honourable Sam Gargan, Mrs. Groenewegen, Mr. Henry, Honourable Stephen Kakfwi, Mr. Krutko, Mr. Miltenberger, Mr. Morin, Honourable Kelvin Ng, Mr. Ningark, Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Ootes, Mr. Picco, Mr. Rabesca, Honourable Floyd Roland, 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 63

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Evaloarjuk. Good afternoon. Before we proceed with the orders of the day, I would like to extend a special welcome on behalf of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories and recognize, in the Speaker's gallery, the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, Her Honour Commissioner Helen Maksagak.

--Applause

We are honouring the Commissioner today for her work over the years as the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. She broke new ground for the position. She is the first woman to become the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories and she is the first Inuk to hold the position. She is also the last Commissioner of the Northwest Territories as we know it now.

I would like all Members to join me in welcoming the Commissioner to the House. I would also like to remind Members that a special reception will be held for the Commissioner in the Great Hall at 3:00 p.m. this afternoon.

Welcome, Commissioner, to the Legislative Assembly.

--Applause

I would also like to recognize in the Speaker's gallery the Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Dan Marion.

--Applause

We have a point of privilege. Mr. Morin.

Point Of Privilege
Item 1: Prayer

Page 63

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today on a point of privilege. Mr. Speaker, it is an unquestioned right of every Member of this Assembly to speak out on any issue. This is one of the most important, if not the most important privilege that we have as Members of this Assembly. Indeed, Mr. Speaker, I note that this privilege has been consistently been recognized by Assemblies throughout Canada and the Commonwealth, and has been affirmed and recognized by the courts in terms of a special status granted to statements made by Members in the Legislature. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow this Assembly will be debating a motion that is fundamental to the very structure and future of this Assembly. We will be debating the most important issue which we have faced in the life of the 13th Assembly, namely the confirmation of our Assembly and our relationships with aboriginal governments and aboriginal leaders.

Given the crucial importance of tomorrow's debate, Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is a vital issue and key to the issue of freedom of speech, that the Speaker be permitted, indeed urged, to participate in tomorrow's debate. While I appreciate that it has been a long-standing parliamentary convention that the Speaker not take part in the debate, with the greatest of respect to this convention, I believe that the privilege of freedom of speech should prevail over this convention for the purpose of tomorrow's debate.

I recognize that one of the main reasons that you do not participate in debate, Mr. Speaker, is to ensure the impartiality of the chair. Yet, Mr. Speaker, the Chairperson of committee of the whole, the Deputy Speaker, both routinely participate in debate. No one could argue that you are less impartial when you are in the chair because of the fact that they participate in the debate. We respect their impartiality in the chair and we also respect their words in the House when they speak in debate.

Mr. Speaker, the same is true of you. While you are in the chair, we respect your neutrality and impartiality. This respect is not eroded if you participate in debate. Mr. Speaker, should you sit in the chair tomorrow, you will be denied the freedom to speak on this very important issue and you will be deprived of the opportunity to air your views. You are the most senior Member of this Legislature and your views should be known on this crucial debate tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, I believe this is unfair and wrong and that you should not be prevented from participating in the debate tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, your inability to speak tomorrow because of adherence to this convention is an affront to your rights and to the right of every Member in this Legislature to hear your views on this very important issue.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you permit debate on the issue of whether there is a prima facie breach of your privileges and the privileges of every Member in this House. Thank you, with respect, Mr. Speaker.

Point Of Privilege
Item 1: Prayer

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. To remind the Member from Tu Nedhe that I am aware of my privilege in this House. The Member did rise on a point of privilege, and to rise on a point of privilege is for a Member that has been denied the privilege in this House. I would like ask whether or not anybody in this House has denied him the privilege to talk or has denied him any

proceedings in the House to make him rise to the point of privilege? Mr. Morin.

Point Of Privilege
Item 1: Prayer

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Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On my point of privilege, what I am basically saying to all Members in this Legislative Assembly is that as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, you are always neutral and you always have our respect. We always know that you are there to take care of the sitting of this House. But also, when you became Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, we also know you have given up your voice in this House. I believe that tomorrow is a very crucial time for the new Western Territory and you are also a Member of the Western Territory as a MLA from Deh Cho. I believe that my privilege is being infringed on as a Member of the Legislative Assembly because your privilege is being infringed on. You are not given the opportunity to participate in the debate tomorrow. You are not given the opportunity to speak through the debate tomorrow on this one crucial issue because you are sitting in the chair. I believe that as a Member of your riding the people that your represent should have the right to hear what you have to say. I, for one, would gladly acknowledge and hear what you have to say from your seat tomorrow.

This is a unique opportunity for us. In nine days, we will be moving to division. That is April 1, 1999, we will be moving into division. We have the opportunity by having the Deputy Speaker sitting in this House that is a Member of the Nunavut Caucus that could take the chair, allowing the western Member that is sitting in the Speaker's Chair to participate in the debate. I believe that by not allowing you to participate in the debate and vote tomorrow that this would infringe on your rights and ultimately would be infringing on all Members' rights of this Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Point Of Privilege
Item 1: Prayer

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Morin, I have in front of me the rule books that apply to all the Members that are in this House, and the privileges that they exercise as elected officials. As the Speaker, I cannot rule on myself, nor interpret what my privileges should be. I have not risen on that point of privilege either. I would appreciate if the Members would rise on their own point of privilege if they feel that they have been denied to speak or been denied to vote or been denied any other processes in this House to the Members. However, I would appreciate if the Members would refrain from what my privileges are when I am sitting in this chair. I do not see any point of privilege here. Orders of the day. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Mr. Antoine.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to a very special person, the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, the Honourable Helen Maksagak. Mrs. Maksagak has been our Commissioner since 1995. Before that, she was the Deputy Commissioner starting in 1992.

The role of Commissioner has changed substantially since the beginning of this century. It used to be that the Prime Minister appointed a Commissioner from the civil service in Ottawa. These people carried out the role of Commissioner in addition to their regular jobs and the Commissioner held a great deal of authority. The role of Commissioner started to change about 20 years ago, when the Legislative Assembly began to have elected Members. As the Legislative Assembly took on more responsibilities and powers, the Commissioner became more like the lieutenant-governors in the provinces.

The Commissioner continues to play an important role in our government today, providing the final assent to our legislation and administering the oaths of office, among her other responsibilities. The Commissioner is a representative of the Northwest Territories, both outside the North and when dignitaries and important visitors come here.

When people meet Helen Maksagak, they meet someone who has devoted her life to public service. In addition to raising six children, Mrs. Maksagak has been a foster mother and managed a centre for northern patients travelling south for medical care. Mrs. Maksagak has worked with young offenders and battered woman. She has served on many boards and agencies, including the NWT Round Table on the Environment. She is also an active church member.

Throughout her terms as Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner, Mrs. Maksagak has carried out her duties with dignity and modesty. We are lucky to have such a person to represent us. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Ministers' statements. Mr. Ng.

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, social programs like medicare and education are the most significant identifying aspect characterizing Canadian society from coast to coast to coast. On February 4, 1999, the Premier of the Northwest Territories, the Honourable Jim Antoine, signed an important intergovernmental agreement, addressing the future of social programs in this country. This agreement is called, A Framework to Improve The Social Union For Canadians. As Minister responsible for social union negotiations, I wish to provide Members of this Assembly with details of the social union framework.

Mr. Speaker, the social union is an agreement between the federal government and all the provinces and territories, with the exception of the province of Quebec. By signing this document, governments agreed to a new set of rules which set out the roles and responsibilities and the manner in which new Canada-wide social programs are funded and developed. The agreement addresses social policy and funding for new national programs in the areas of health, post-secondary education, labour market training and social services.

Mr. Speaker, the agreement is made up of six key elements. These elements include

- a set of national social policy principles,

- provisions to address the issue of mobility of Canadians, - provisions to develop a greater level of accountability for social programs in jurisdictions across the country,

- guidelines which will provide for a more cooperative development of social policy and programs,

- a set of rules which will guide the use of the federal spending power, and, finally,

- a mechanism to deal with disputes in social policy sectors.

Mr. Speaker, the agreement also recognizes the constitutionality of the rights of aboriginal peoples. The Social Union Agreement is positive for the Northwest Territories in a number of ways.

- First, it gives certainty to residents of the Northwest Territories, in matters that involve new national social programs, northern residents will be treated with the same fairness as all residents of Canada.

- Second, Mr. Speaker, under the terms of the social union, all governments have agreed to share information and best practices and to consult with each other prior to changing existing programming.

- The federal government has also agreed to provide notice and to consult with the territorial government when it intends to introduce any new social transfer.

- Flexibility is built into these arrangements, providing for equitable treatment by taking into account the diverse circumstances of the Northwest Territories.

- Mr. Speaker, the federal government has also agreed to put any disputes arising in social policy and funding arrangements into a dispute avoidance forum, something that currently does not exist. This is a positive step for social policy in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, under the agreement, all governments are committed to ensuring that Canadians, wherever they reside, can access social programs which are of a consistent nature across the country. As well, governments have agreed to monitor and measure social program outcomes, and to publicly account for the results they intend to achieve in their social programs. In this manner, Mr. Speaker, the residents of the NWT will be informed of the results and goals of northern public social programs.

Mr. Speaker, Canadians have become concerned about the state of their social programs. The Social Union Agreement will provide greater certainty to all Canadians that governments are committed to delivering the best social programs in an affordable manner. The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to delivering high quality programs and to ensuring that social programs for northern residents are affordable and on par with those delivered by all governments in Canada. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Ministers' statements. Mr. Kakfwi.

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the second day in a row. Mr. Speaker, a strong, independent and successful business community provides the backbone of a vital northern economy. Helping to build a strong business community is one of the main objectives of the Government of the Northwest Territories.

I am pleased today to announce that the northern business community is growing at a steady rate. Our trade and investment division reports new business start-ups during the year 1998 reached 293. That is a considerable increase from the 1997 figure of 102. During 1998, each region of the Northwest Territories benefited from new business start-ups. In the Baffin, 42 new businesses were opened; in the Sahtu, 12 new businesses were started; while in Inuvik, 42 new businesses began operating. Other regions saw similar growth in their business communities.

The greatest development was in the start-up of businesses offering trades and services. New businesses in this sector were developed in each region. More than 30 new businesses offering trades and services opened in both the South Slave and Inuvik regions. Other new businesses in arts and crafts, construction and travel and tourism sectors began operations in several regions. The North Slave region saw an increase in business growth in several other sectors including manufacturing, forestry, minerals, oil and gas, as well as transportation, communications and utilities.

Mr. Speaker, each of these new businesses received a personal letter of congratulations and an information package from the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. The package contains valuable information on economic programs available in the Northwest Territories, an application for the Business Incentive Policy and a complimentary portfolio manufactured by Fort McPherson Tent and Canvas.

Once again, I would like to congratulate everyone who started new businesses in 1998 and offer my encouragement to all those considering or planning to start a new business this year. Their commitment to our northern communities will help us build a strong and vibrant economy. Thank you.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Mr. Krutko.

Member's Statement 39-13(7): Passing Of Rachel Robert And Annie Vaneltsi
Item 3: Members' Statements

March 22nd, 1999

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David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I stand today with sad news of the passing of Mrs. Rachael Roberts of Fort McPherson last night at 1:10 a.m. Mrs. Roberts was a

wonderful 94-year-old lady who was born May 13, 1904, in Fort McPherson. She will be greatly missed by her family, her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. Also, all the people of Fort McPherson who knew Mrs. Roberts will greatly miss her.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to send condolences to the Vaneltsi family, who sadly lost Mrs. Annie Vaneltsi on Saturday, March 13, 1999. Mr. Speaker, I would like to mention at this time that Mrs. Rachael Roberts and Mrs. Annie Vaneltsi were elders of 94 years of age and were good friends throughout their entire lives. They both attended school in Hay River during their younger years. As I mentioned, my condolences go out to the Roberts family and the Vaneltsi family today. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Miltenberger.

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as most of us are aware, the Aboriginal Summit has written to Minister Stewart to outline extensively their strong concerns about what they see as the NWT constitutional crisis arising from the electoral boundaries court decision and they make six specific requests of the Minister. Mr. Speaker, I can, in fact, support some of those requests that the federal government publicly support negotiations of a political solution between the Legislative Assembly, GNWT and the aboriginal governments of the western NWT. I also am not opposed to the idea of amendments that would increase our terms from four to five years to bring us in line with other jurisdictions. I also think it would be a good idea for the federal government to join in and support an appeal of this decision based on the aboriginal rights questions raised by the Summit.

However, Mr. Speaker, as a Member of this duly elected public Government of the Northwest Territories, I cannot support the other three points, where they ask basically for the abolition of an elected public government in the western Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, I believe it is going to be critical for us, as a territory, to have in fact a strong central public government to work with our aboriginal partners to move ahead as a territory to provide standards, to provide support services to the people, all the people of the Northwest Territories.

I will continue to oppose 19 seats, I will continue to support the issue of an appeal, but I will also, under no circumstances, support anything or any calls to possibly abolish or put this House in jeopardy of limiting its rights to function as a duly elected body. Worse yet, I would not support the thought or the proposal to in fact request the Minister to turn over the running of the government to an appointed council or, worse yet, a federal civil servant. That would be a return to colonialism that would be unacceptable, I think, to all the people of the Northwest Territories. What we have to do is come up with a negotiated settlement, get the time to do that, so that we can resolve these problems as a territory, without having Ottawa come in and tell us what to do. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Members' statements. Mr. Ootes.

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on the eve of division I am drawn to visualize the future of our new Western Territory. There are many things our government, our communities, our aboriginal leaders are occupied with:

-economic development;

-land claims;

-self-government;

-local government.

Very crucial and important matters indeed, but not the only areas in need of our attention. We must also concern ourselves with our youth, our future workforce, the talented individuals who will lead our society in the next century. Our youth have an innate desire to work, to do well, to excel and what we need to do is give our youth that opportunity to excel. There are many who are graduating from our high schools, from colleges, from universities, who are seeking job opportunities. We must provide them with that opportunity.

There are also many who are facing the social and emotional problems that are out there:

-substance abuse;

-violence;

-teen pregnancies.

These issues cross many boundaries; they are not solely issues of education, nor of health. They are issues for our communities, for our leaders, for our parents to address. What we need is a government vision, a vision that builds the capacity of our youth. The government needs to support and promote a society that desires to make its young people a focus of its programs. We need to get back at bolstering the moral fibre of our citizens. We need to help parents to care about their teenagers; communities to care about their young people. By dedicating our energies in the next decade to our youth, we cannot only move to becoming a rich society and a powerful society, but to be the great society of the Canadian mosaic. Let us keep our eyes on the stars and do the possible for our youth. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Members' statements. Mr. Rabesca.

James Rabesca North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to discuss an issue that I have previously raised in this House, that being the lack of RCMP highway patrols along Highway 3. Mr. Speaker, as you may be aware, every year the traffic on this highway increases considerably. In the winter we have many trucks driving this road; in the summer we have more and more tourists coming north to explore our land. Currently, highway patrols are done on a very limited basis. While I understand the RCMP are dealing with the same problems we all face with limited resources, it is very important that patrols are made.

Mr. Speaker, I understand that the RCMP is currently looking at the possibility of setting up a permanent highway patrol section. I also understand that, if this goes ahead, these positions will be based in Hay River and Yellowknife. To this, all I can say is why not put these positions in the communities that are mostly affected by this road, that is Rae-Edzo and Fort Providence. If the patrols were located in those two communities, better response time could be realized if an accident occurred and it would be easier for patrols to take place on a regular basis.

I would also be interested to see a training program set up that could operate much the same as the Community Constable Program, whereby local residents could be trained to provide this valuable service. Currently, the Community Constable Program is proving to be a very good program and is viewed as a step toward community policing. By also having local residents trained to provide highway patrols, this could also be seen as a further step toward community policing. If the communities affected by highways can take on the responsibility to govern and patrol our highways, I believe a better system could be realized. Training at the local level can provide employment in areas of high unemployment, as well as provide a better understanding and relationship with the RCMP and the community. By working together, many opportunities can be achieved and this may be one area that the RCMP and the Department of Justice could look at.

In closing, I can only say that I fully support the RCMP in placing highway patrol staff in the smaller communities that are affected the most by the highway system, and to call for a training program to assist RCMP in providing this service. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Members' statements. Mr. O'Brien.

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to send good wishes and good health to my very good friend, one of my constituents and one of the pioneers of Nunavut, Mr. John Arnalukjuak, Sr. Mr. Speaker, John is a living legend, a well-respected elder and a man who has given freely of himself for the past half-century, not only to the people of Arviat, but to the people of Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, John is somewhat under the weather and, John if you are listening, I hope you are feeling better soon so you can join me in Iqaluit on April 1st for the historic Nunavut celebrations. Thank you.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Members' statements. Mrs. Groenewegen.

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there has been quite a bit of controversy recently over negotiated contracts. I want to make it very clear that I can appreciate the benefit of negotiated contracts in some circumstances. If employed properly and when the intended objectives are realized, negotiated contracts can do a great deal of good in developing our northern economy. What I have been suggesting, and what may not be understood, is that I believe it is time to assess and evaluate negotiated contracts as a business incentive tool to determine if they are being used to the benefit of developing northern labour and markets, and if they are being directed where they are most needed and if the premium sometimes paid to negotiate a contract is a cost which can be rationalized to the benefits obtained.

It has been approximately 12 years since the negotiated contract policy was developed. It is time to articulate what we have accomplished, in which instances we have achieved benefits and in which cases we have not translated into real benefits. I believe it can be safely stated that economic initiatives such as negotiated contracts, the Business Incentive Policy, business development fund contributions, economic development agreements, et cetera, have aided in bringing about the current reality whereby greater than 90 percent of all government purchases of goods and services are provided by northern companies. That having been accomplished, we need to assess what has worked and what has not worked, what may now be obsolete given the diminished role of southern bidders in the northern market place. For example, the Business Incentive Policy is an adjustment applied to all contracts. If all bidders are northern BIP registered companies, perhaps we need to look at the cost of administering this registry and applying this adjustment to all contracts.

Has there been a shift, a sufficient shift, in the purchasing philosophy in government departments and agencies where we could safely trust that this type of protection for northern companies is no longer an issue? Are issues of market disruption, political peace, transparency, cost efficiency and fairness being addressed by current practices of Business Incentive Policies, such as negotiated contracts? Recently, at a meeting of the NWT Chamber of the Commerce in Hay River, a motion was passed which is an interesting suggestion. The motion was that the GNWT be encouraged to publish, Mr. Speaker, I am going to have to seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for Hay River is seeking unanimous consent to conclude her statement. Do we have any nays? I am sorry, Mrs. Groenewegen, you do not have unanimous consent. Members' statements. Mr. Picco.

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the good people of Rankin Inlet, who recently hosted several Atom hockey teams for a tournament over there. Mr. Speaker, the Iqaluit team was ably coached by Craig Dunphy and Carl McLean and assisted by parents, Ben Kovic and Brian Aglukark, who also made the trip to Rankin Inlet. Mr. Speaker, the volunteers who worked tirelessly to pull off these tournaments, the coaches and the officials, need to be recognized.

The Iqaluit team pulled an early upset by defeating the eventual champion, Hay River. I understand from my son, Wally, who played with the Iqaluit team, that the highlight in Rankin Inlet was the Red Top. I will make it a point the next time I am in Rankin Inlet to drop by the Red Top and see what it is all about. I guess in conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I would again like to thank the people of Rankin Inlet for the hospitality that they showed during the team's stay in the community.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Mr. Erasmus.

Member's Statement 46-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about restoring faith in the government hiring process. Mr. Speaker, as other Members in this House have had occasion to travel to other communities and it seems that no matter where I go, whether it is Fort Smith, Hay River, Fort Providence, people are concerned with the hiring process. They are concerned with the inconsistencies between the different departments, the different processes that they use to hire people. They are concerned that people who have been laid off are supposed to have a priority when hiring is done, but they cannot even apply on most jobs because most of the jobs are internal competitions.

People are concerned that there is no central agency, that there is no independent person in the hiring process to ensure fairness. People are complaining that they get an interview, but that they have been told that they blew the interview even though they are well qualified for the job, therefore no job. People are complaining that there is no sense of fairness, that the only people in the hiring process are from the department itself and it is too easy to manipulate the end result. Mr. Speaker, plain and simply, the public has lost faith in our hiring process. We need to restore that faith.

Recently the Premier went on television and addressed the NWT and indicated he wanted to restore public confidence in our government, he wanted an open, accountable and transparent government. One of the best ways to do this is to restore faith in the hiring process. Mr. Speaker, it is important that our hiring process not only be fair, but it must appear to be fair. What I am saying is that it may be fair now, but it does not seem accountable, it does not seem to be fair. If we put an independent body into the hiring process from the start to the finish, this will verify fairness and accountability. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time I will be asking the Premier questions in this area. Thank you.

Member's Statement 46-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Mr. Arlooktoo.

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Steen on March 16, 1999, on the Down Payment Assistance Program. Mr. Steen asked whether there was a residency requirement attached to the Minimum Down Payment Assistance Pilot Program (MDAPP).

Mr. Speaker, the objective of the MDAPP is to provide financial incentives to individuals or families, regardless of income, to become homeowners as a means of stimulating economic activity. The target audiences for this pilot program are NWT residents who lack the savings required for a down payment, those residents who may wish to move from one community to another in order to access employment or training opportunities and workers on rotational shifts who work in the NWT, but live in the south.

Mr. Speaker, because the NWT Housing Corporation is trying to attract these rotational workers to take up residence in the NWT, there is no residency requirement for this pilot program. If there was a residency requirement, Mr. Speaker, then these workers who earn a living in the NWT, but pay their taxes and spend their wages down south, would not be attracted to move up here.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Ningark.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to recognize a number of people in the gallery, returning officers during Nunavut's first election. We have, bear with me, if I misread your names here, from Akulliq, Ms. Sarah Kidlapik; Amittuq; Ms. Catherine Piugattuk; Cambridge Bay, Ms. Jean Kaniak; Iqaluit Center, Ms. Annie Nooshoota; Iqaluit East, Ms. Meakie Pudlat; Iqaluit West, Ms. Wende Halonen; Kugluktuk, Ms. Agnes Allen; Nanulik, Ms. Liveena Kudluk; Nattilik, Ms. Nee Porter; Pangnirtung, Mr. Bill Kilabuk; Quttiktuq, Mr. Dan Leaman; Rankin Inlet North, Ms. Sandy Kusugak; Rankin Inlet South-Whale Cove, Ms. Elizabeth Dunkerley; South Baffin, Ms. Nina Manning Toonoo; Tunnuniq, Mr. Silas Takawgak; Uqqummiut, Mr. Peter Iqalukjuak; Nunavut Elections Office - Iqaluit, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Mr. Joshie Teemotee Mitsima; Administration Assistant, Ms. Kooyoo Nooshoota; Deputy Chief Electoral Officer of the NWT, Mr. Speaker, Glen McLean; and finally, Mr. Speaker, Coordinator of Training and Information, Mr. Brian Armstrong.

--Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Ng.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Commissioner Helen Maksagak; her eldest son Harry, who is accompanying her; two constituents have been pointed out by my honourable colleague, Mr. Ningark, Agnes Aklok from Kugluktuk and Jean Kuneyuna from Cambridge Bay; and also I would like to recognize Deputy Commissioner Dan Marion. Thank you.

--Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Henry.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, probably someone that really does not need to be recognized, I think we all know him, but I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Mr. Tony Whitford, constituent of Yellowknife South

and assistant to the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Picco.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome to the gallery a well known Iqaluit resident, Wende Halonen, who is a tireless worker for Iqaluit daycares and a well known writer of the Iqaluit Tea Talk column in News North and our Iqaluit returning officers just mentioned by Mr. Ningark. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Antoine.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

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Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, all MLAs, especially when you are a Minister, you spend a lot of time in Yellowknife and we usually have constituency assistants that take care of things for you in the community, so I would like to recognize Mr. Bob Villeneuve, he is my constituency assistant from Nahendeh.

--Applause

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Barnabas.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to recognize Mr. Dan Leaman, he is the Returning officer in Resolute Bay and also the SAO in Resolute Bay. I would also like to recognize Bill Kilabuk, my long time colleague and friend, Returning officer from Pangnirtung. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. O'Brien.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I cannot really see up there, but I would like to recognize, if she is there, Nancy Kalluak, Returning officer for Arviat. Thank you.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Mr. Evaloarjuk.

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I recognize the Amittuq constituents sitting with the people from Iqaluit and the elections officers from Hall Beach, also.(Translation ends)

Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery
Item 5: Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. For those that have not been recognized in the gallery, welcome to the Assembly. Item 6, oral questions. Mrs. Groenewegen.

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, at a recent meeting of the NWT Chamber of Commerce in Hay River, a motion was passed and it went to this effect: that the GNWT be encouraged to publish in local newspapers, and perhaps post on a Web site, intention to negotiate a contract, the name of the sponsoring department and the supporting MLA, and these should all be identified in a short ad together with the rationale for the negotiated contract and the budget allocation forecasted as the cost of the contract. Apparently this is a methodology that is used in Nunavut already for negotiated contracts. It seems like a reasonable suggestion on the transparency issue.

I was wondering, Mr. Speaker, if the Minister responsible for business development would be the appropriate Minister to say, has the government had an opportunity to consider the suggestion yet? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Mr. Premier.

Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think the honourable Member asked for the Minister responsible for business development, but I would like to respond and say that this government does have a negotiated contract policy and the request that the honourable Member is asking for is not included in the negotiated policy guidelines. It is something that we will have to review and any suggestions that come forward we would have to take a look at. Thank you.

Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mrs. Groenewegen.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you. Mr. Speaker, this was a motion and a suggestion that was passed on to the government by the NWT Chamber of Commerce and so I understand the Premier to say that they have not had a chance to consider this yet, but would be willing to consider such a policy to be incorporated with the negotiated contract policy? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am told that we are reviewing the policy and I know that this negotiated contract is a very hot item for some of the Members here and it has been in the press and so forth. We are aware of it, and as such we are reviewing the policy at this time. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mrs. Groenewegen.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 69

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am aware that not only the NWT Chamber of Commerce but also the NWT Construction Association and other organizations who are, I

guess, stakeholders in the business community in the North, are interested in having input on such a review. I am wondering if there is any process in place at this time to solicit input from other organizations? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am told the consultation was done over the last year and at this time we are reviewing, internally with the input that we have received over the last year. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mrs. Groenewegen.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Does the Premier anticipate that this consultation will result in a document that will be tabled in this House at some point in time? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with the input that we have acquired and the review that we are going through, we have to look at the policy and if the policy has to change then we will have to further consult other Members. I am sure there are opposing views to what the honourable Member is requesting here and that it is a matter that has to be reviewed by this House. As such we will have to bring forward any changes to that policy when it is done.

Further Return To Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Question 19-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mr. Ningark.

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister of Public Works and Services. Mr. Speaker, I have received a letter from the Mayor of Gjoa Haven and copies of other letters from other government officials. The letter was written to the government official in Cambridge Bay by the Mayor of Gjoa Haven. The letter that I received is in regards to bad, contaminated or poor quality gasoline in Gjoa Haven supplied by this government. I do not need to go into detail because the Minister has received the same letter. My question to the honourable Minister is, Mr. Speaker, what has the government done to deal with this matter at this point in time? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Public Works and Services. Mr. Roland.

Return To Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

Floyd Roland

Floyd Roland Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in response, the department has requested some samples of spark plugs and other equipment from the machines that were affected so that they could send them out for sampling to see indeed if it is gas quality that is the problem. The department has sent a petroleum products officer into the community to test the gas itself and the initial reports back are that the gas quality is the same as in other communities around the area. There needs to be further work done in the area to see it there are other possible causes to what is happening in this community. Thank you.

Return To Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ningark.

Supplementary To Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I thank the honourable Minister for a positive response. My supplementary question, is the government continuing to monitor the quality of gasoline in Gjoa Haven? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Roland.

Further Return To Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

Floyd Roland

Floyd Roland Inuvik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The department has monitored the quality of the gas in the community. It is the same gas that is delivered to a number of other communities along that area and to date the reports have come back that the gas quality itself is good, as I stated earlier. We are looking at other things. There has been a request made to those concerned to supply some additional information and I know that, for example, as I have said earlier, spark plugs and so on that were affected were sent to a laboratory in the south to see what the potential causes could be and when we have those responses we will be getting back to the Member and the community affected. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Question 20-13(7): Gasoline Quality In Gjoa Haven
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 70

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Krutko.

David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health and Social Services, regarding his statement that he made yesterday. It was regarding the consideration and review of health and social services in the new Western Territory. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Minister exactly how are they going to be looking at this. Is it going to be a system-wide review of all health and social services delivered in the Western Territory; also, considering that there will be some terms of reference? In regard to the independence of such a public review where I have tabled petitions in this House asking for an inquiry, I would like to ask the Minister exactly how soon does he see this process happening and what is the avenue that it is going to take?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. I heard many questions. I would like to ask the honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta if maybe he can just ask one question. Mr. Krutko.

David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask the Minister regarding the review process of the health and social services of the Western Territory, how soon will this process proceed?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Health and Social Services. Mr. Ng.

Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I can foresee that we would want to get it up and running as soon as possible. The plan is now to finalize the terms of reference, to identify some individuals possibly that could sit on the panel or the forum or whatever you would like to call it, and send them off to address some of these concerns by having some public input throughout the Western Territories. I would think from a timeline prospective, probably by the middle of April, late April at the latest, in respect of having it up and running, but obviously there are going to be factors in getting to that point. Thank you.

Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Krutko.

Supplementary To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Has the department developed terms of reference for such a committee and exactly what the role of the committee will be during the review?

Supplementary To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I had indicated, the terms of reference are currently being drafted and they have not been finalized to date. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Krutko.

Supplementary To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think that it is very apparent that a lot of concerns that have come forth have come from the smaller communities, and I would like to ask the Minister what kind of assurances can he give to the smaller communities that they will have representatives on this committee and be fully involved in any review of the health and social services in the Western Territory?

Supplementary To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I can assure the Member that the goal is to have as much input as possible from constituents throughout the western Northwest Territories, particularly those in the smaller communities that might not have as easy access to some of the individuals and professionals that are within the health and social services system. I cannot say right now exactly what mechanism, I cannot promise that there would be a forum or panel that would go to every community, but certainly there would be opportunities for community and individual input. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Krutko.

Supplementary To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
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David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like the Minister to ensure concerning any documentation regarding this review when it does become public, that as Members of this House we have access to all of this documentation as soon as it is made available. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I can give assurances to the Member and all Members of the western Northwest Territories Assembly that will be here, that once the draft terms of reference are ready, they will have an opportunity to provide input before they are finalized. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Question 21-13(7): Western Health And Social Services Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mr. Erasmus.

Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Premier, in relation to the statement that I made earlier, about the hiring processes. Mr. Speaker, as we all know we have had to lay off a lot of people who had been in indeterminate positions and they were classified as priority hire or have received a priority hire designation. After that we instituted a no layoff policy and to do that we instituted a policy where there would be a lot of internal competitions first. What I would like to know is, can people with priority hire designation apply on internal competitions if they are not currently working for this government? Thank you.

Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Premier.

Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 71

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as far as I know there is still the internal competition as a policy with this government to accommodate the no layoff policy in this time of transition of division. The specific question of the honourable Member is are priority ones still able to apply for competitions for these jobs. As far as I know the internal competition is still there, I am not too clear as to exactly if the priority one is already within the system then certainly it would apply for these internal competitions. If they are outside the internal hiring, if they cannot find anyone within the internal hiring then the priority ones could apply for these positions. That is the way I understand the whole system at this time. Thank you.

Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Erasmus.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I understand it, when we laid off these people we promised them that they would have first crack at jobs that came open in the GNWT. I would like to ask the Premier if this effect on people with priority hire designation, if this was considered when this new internal competition policy was put into place? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, maybe in reply to the honourable Member I would like to go back to the whole system of hiring in the government. I think in the honourable Member's earlier statement he indicated that there was a lot of concern about gaps in the system, perhaps lack of coordination between the different departments and that there is a lot of dissatisfaction, people losing faith with this government. I understand that. We all heard that and we all understand that.

We changed the system, we decentralized the personnel secretariat in 1996 in the whole process of trying to tighten our belts and so forth and we reduced the number of people that were doing this kind of work when we did away with the personnel secretariat. Now the onus is on each department. The onus is on each Minister and each deputy minister to comply with the policies that this government has. We know that it has been three years since we have made the change and perhaps the system is not working perfectly.

We know that whenever there is change there are unforseen problems that creep up and as a government we should deal with it. We are aware of these problems that the honourable Member is mentioning. I did answer a letter to him from the department which, more or less, said everything is okay, but basically there is still concern out there and we are aware of it. We will try to make the changes that are there, but again I want to now say that the onus is now on the Ministers and the deputy ministers to make sure these policies dealing with hiring for positions in the government are there with the Ministers who are responsible for each department. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Erasmus.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. At this time I am not speaking about the dissolution or the doing away with the Personnel Department. Policies that we have instituted seem to be inconsistent. On the one hand we are telling people we are laying you off from an indeterminate position, so you will have a priority hire designation. On the other hand we have instituted another policy where we are only having internal hires first, so people who have priority hire cannot even apply. What I would like to know is, how did this government consider and respond to those type of people when they were instituting this new policy of internal competitions? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we will have to look at that policy because again the honourable Member is saying were there inconsistencies in our system. I am saying that yes, each Minister and each deputy minister is responsible for making sure these policies are consistent and are fair to the people who want to work or actually the people who are not within the government system. I think that we should really take a close look at that again. The question is very relevant in that perhaps our policies need to be looked at closer to try to accommodate the people who want to work for this government. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral Questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Erasmus.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 72

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, could the Premier indicate when he will be doing this and whether he will bring the results of that review to this House? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to make a commitment that we will look at this situation right away and we will bring it forward to the Members as soon as we can. I cannot put a time frame on it, I need to talk to the staff that are doing this kind of work and I will get that information to the Members of this House. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Question 22-13(7): GNWT Hiring Process
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral question. Mr. Ootes.

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question will be for Mr. Antoine, the Premier. It is in relationship to my statement yesterday regarding negotiated contracts. I was very pleased to receive a letter, as I mentioned yesterday, from the Premier indicating that in December a committee was formulated of the deputies, senior representatives of the various government departments, to come up and formulate a review of the polices regarding negotiated contracts.

I am wondering if the Premier can tell us if he can commit to, once the recommendations come forward and the findings from that, if he will make that available to the stakeholders, Mr. Speaker? The people in the construction business, those that are consultants around the territories, the aboriginal leaders, and so forth; there are many people affected by such a policy and I understand the policy has been used for some economic stimulation and certainly regional stimulation from time to time. We need to have feedback from that on various stakeholders. I wonder if the Premier will commit to providing that to those stakeholders? Thank you

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Premier.

Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, once the review is done and the Cabinet has an opportunity to review it, we will share it with the Members of this House. Usually any information that comes to Members in this House finds its way into the public somehow or another, so I think that I can make that commitment to the honourable Member, that as soon as the Cabinet reviews this we will share it with the Members of this House. Subsequently, if it is approved by the Members we will share it with the stakeholders, too. Thank you.

Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral question. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr, Speaker. I think that is very good, I appreciate the response from the Premier on that, Mr. Speaker. The second item I referred to yesterday was the area of request for proposals which has been of concern specifically to me. I have had several organizations and several contractors get in touch with me in regards to the process. The principle problem that seems to be there is the feedback for the unsuccessful bidders; also, the transparency of that process in the end. Could the Premier make a commitment to expand the review by the senior officials of the departments to include the RFP process? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in regard to the request for proposals and what the honourable Member is asking in regard to transparency and getting feedback on the unsuccessful proposals that come forward, I would perhaps like to have an opportunity to review it. I think the Financial Management Board Secretariat is reviewing that now and will have something perhaps by the end of this month on the negotiated contracts. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 73

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Certainly I appreciate that the negotiated contract process is underway but, as I said earlier, RFPs are also of concern out there. One of the areas, it is not just limited to the one area of feedback, but also the transparency and public understanding of what the successful bid was for. I wonder if I could repeat my earlier question, if the Premier will commit to having the deputy ministers' committee, or the senior officials committee, look at the RFP process as well? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Yes, Mr. Speaker, the question is to give the request for proposal, to see if it could be more transparent so that the unsuccessful proposals can get some feedback to see why they were not successful, and to give that as a task to the senior members that make up the committee. We will give that direction to them as well. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is a great deal of information out there, there are national contracting process manuals, and so forth, used by various agencies, federal governments. I wonder if the Premier could tell us if his committee will also be reviewing other jurisdictions that use negotiated contracts and RFPs, so we get a complete national look at this and inject it into our system? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
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The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Antoine.

Further Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 73

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am not aware of whether this committee is looking into other jurisdictions on how to do their own contracting, the use of national standards or whatever. I will check into that and get back to the honourable Member. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Question 23-13(7): Negotiated Contract Policy Review
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 73

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral Question. Mr. Evaloarjuk.

Mark Evaloarjuk Amittuq

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Justice. This winter I gave him a question on the firearms regulations, and I have not received an answer to this point. We were given a statement that the firearms regulations were implemented in December, 1998, to the year 2000. They were going to have information programs for the general public.

We were told in Igoolik the RCMP is responsible for the firearms implementation in our region. For that reason, we will have to pay some fees, maybe approximately $25. At first, it started off as $150, and then it came down to $50, and then when you pay that fee we will be given a workshop in our area, after we have paid for the workshop fees. I do not believe this is required in our region. We are told to learn how to handle our rifles. These people are not from the Northwest Territories and they seem to be more knowledgeable about how to handle firearms. I would like to know exactly what kind of arrangements there are for firearms regulations. Thank you. (Translation ends)

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Honourable Goo Arlooktoo.

Return To Question 24-13(7): Firearms Regulations Implementation
Question 24-13(7): Firearms Regulations Implementation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 73

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Alberta government is responsible

for the firearms regulations. They are applying to the Canadian government to appeal the firearms regulations and we will be involved, as well, with the Alberta government, as well as the Yukon, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario governments, to oppose this bill. We are not familiar at this time exactly as to how far they have gone to date with this opposition to the new firearms regulations in Canada. It is through the Canadian Supreme Court that it will take place and the hearing has not been set. What the honourable Member has asked, the question, I am not familiar at this time and when I know, then I will be able to answer his question. (Translation ends)

Return To Question 24-13(7): Firearms Regulations Implementation
Question 24-13(7): Firearms Regulations Implementation
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mr. O'Brien.

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is directed to the Minister responsible for the Power Corporation. I would like to follow up on some questions that were asked earlier in reference to the contract that was awarded Woodworth Oil, a Newfoundland company, to provide fuel to a number of power plants in the Nunavut region.

Mr. Speaker, the Minister indicated that one of the criteria that they considered was creating a competitive environment. I would like the Minister to provide me with more detail as to exactly what he means by this. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister responsible for the NWT Power Corporation. Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would assume that the Power Corporation felt that by allowing another supplier or another supplier of shipping services to demonstrate whether or not they could do the job, that the next time the tender came up that there would be more chance of a competitive bid. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.

Supplementary To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Minister indicated, last week I believe, that the price was not a major factor, that the prices were similar when they reviewed the RFP or RFQs, whatever they were regarding this contract. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding over the last three and a half years we have been told an RFP, an RFQ, is a competitive process. What is the difference in reference to this award?

Supplementary To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I understand it, the process undertaken in the Keewatin was a request for proposal. It was not a request for quotation. A request for proposals is one in which the proposal by each company responding are evaluated by a team of managers and a decision is then made by the Corporation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.

Supplementary To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister tell the House the type of fuel that was purchased in reference to this contract, whether it is the same type, same quality fuel that we are using now?

Supplementary To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The fuel quality specifications would have been set in the request for proposal and there would be a minimum standard that would be required to be met by any supplier. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. O'Brien.

Supplementary To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik

Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that the fuel that was purchased was of a lower standard, a cheaper fuel. In reference to this contract as relates to the Iqaluit location, have arrangements been made to deliver this fuel from the waterside to the actual tanks? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am not familiar with that level of detail in the operations of the Corporation. I would say that if the Corporation has a deal to purchase the fuel, that will cover it. I would expect that it would be in the best interests of the residents of Iqaluit to make sure that they could get the fuel that has been contracted for so that power delivery could continue. I am sure if there is some concern about that, it will be dealt with. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Question 25-13(7): Nwtpc Fuel Supply Contract
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 74

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mr. Barnabas.

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health and Social Services. Mr. Speaker, for quite a long time now we have discussed this subject in the Baffin region. The mayors have expressed this issue in regards to the Baffin Regional Hospital. In the last meeting, there were going to be documents on the planning process for the new hospital to be built. (Translation ends) This one is directed to the Minister responsible for Health. Could the Minister of Health and Social Services update this House on the status of design money for the Baffin Regional

Hospital? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Ng.

Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my understanding that, first of all, we have approved the overall envelope for the project. There is an architectural firm that has been selected for the preliminary design phase. I do not know the specifics of the actual dollars and where the contracts lay. I know there is some issue right now in the fact that April 1st is just around the corner, nine days away, and in respect of ongoing financial commitments and the new Nunavut government, Cabinet will deal with this as one of their first priorities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Just to remind the Ministers that you are still speaking for this government.

--Applause

Supplementary, Mr. Barnabas.

Supplementary To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have read in the newspaper that it was stated that in regards to the funding. I have no idea as to where the funding is at this time, even though these two boards have to set up a budget for this hospital. I want to know exactly what the status is for the funding arrangements for the hospital. Thank you. (Translation ends)

Supplementary To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I guess in my haste in answering that earlier question, it was one of these transition issues between one government and another that I am unfortunately caught in. I think, Mr. Speaker, to answer the honourable Member, I know there is a specific concern right now, I understand, because of the fact that up until March 31st, the Office of the Interim Commissioner has some signing authority for contracts that are going to extend into April 1st of 1999. That might be one of the particular hiccups in this scenario that the honourable Member mentioned and I will make a commitment that I will try to check into that later this afternoon or tomorrow and try to resolve if there are any issues. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Barnabas.

Supplementary To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is just a comment. I will comment and then ask some questions.

--Laughter

(Translation) Mr. Speaker, there is more population in that region, that is why they think that they would require a hospital in that region. How have the funding arrangements been set and how is it going to be presented to the area? I do not know where it went and I have no idea as to how the funding arrangements have been set up. Thank you. (Translation ends)

Supplementary To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I believe the honourable Member is aware, with the three Nunavut and Inuvik capital projects for health facilities, we were trying to use the new P3 public/private partnerships method to try to creatively finance some of the capital construction for those facilities. As it stands now, our government, in full consultation with the Office of the Interim Commissioner, has gone along that route in, first of all, the planning and the aspect of the overall targets for those facilities for the Nunavut ones. I am speaking now for the Office of the Interim Commissioner where they are involved. The plan was always that anything would have to be signed off by either the Office of the Interim Commissioner or the future Nunavut government, post April 1st, who will have the legal autonomy to make those decisions and have the financial responsibilities for financing those projects. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Final supplementary, Mr. Barnabas.

Supplementary To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do not understand. Maybe it is only me that does not understand. I understand QC was supposed to be the one that was dealing with the public/private partnership. What happened there? Why is QC there that is dealing with the public/private partnership with this department? What happened to the money that was supposed to be there for the design? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng. Two questions.

Further Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 75

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. QC, the Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, is the owner. They are the private component under the P3 initiative and it is with them that they are going to be the owners. The plan is that they would be the owners of the facility and the Nunavut government would, of course, have some obligations for payments to them as part of the operators and the owner of the building.

There is also, the honourable Member is referring to, some capital injection from the federal government to the territorial government for the Inuvik and Iqaluit hospital replacement projects, the agreement that was reached between this government and the federal government. The proceeds from that agreement go into the division of assets and liabilities table that was reached, agreed to, and signed off between this government and the Office of the Interim Commissioner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Further Return To Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Question 26-13(7): Status Of Baffin Regional Hospital
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Picco.

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is the for the Minister of RWED on the new venture capital program. I am wondering if the Minister could tell us who the contact organization, group or individuals are that will be helping facilitate the initiative for our government? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. Mr. Kakfwi.

Return To Question 27-13(7): New Venture Capital Program
Question 27-13(7): New Venture Capital Program
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would have to get that information for the Member, so I will take the question as notice. Thank you.

Return To Question 27-13(7): New Venture Capital Program
Question 27-13(7): New Venture Capital Program
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Mr. Miltenberger.

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is addressed to the Minister of Health and Social Services, soon to be departed but none the less still Minister of Health and Social Services. Mr. Speaker, my question is in regards to the tendency over the last three and a half years for the department of Health and Social Services to keep innumerable studies and reviews and planning issues on the go with no real time when the planning and strategic train pulls into the station, and you can actually see the product and start making decisions based on this extensive strategic planning. Could the Minister indicate, as he mentioned in his statement yesterday, that once again they are into strategic planning mode, when in fact will we start to see some final products so that decisions can be made, planning can be done for children, for facilities, for health care centres? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister of Health and Social Services. Mr. Ng.

Return To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

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Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as all Members know, when you are dealing with health and social services issues, they are very complex and a lot of them are inter-related and quite frankly, the way I see it, there are evolving needs and you cannot put finality to a lot of these things. But what I think is important to recognize though, is that services are continuing to be provided and as programs change, those program changes will hopefully be beneficial to the constituency that they are trying to serve.

As many service providers are impacted when you try to change policies, and quite frankly, you have boards involved, you have non-profit agencies, you have communities and other deliverers of services. It is very complex if you are trying to mitigate any potential detrimental impact on any of these groups or organizations, that you have to try to coordinate some of these changes and make sure that they work. Thank you.

Return To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.

Supplementary To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Minister for that plain English response. My understanding of what the Minister said to us, if I can try to interpret it, is that you have to keep this process going and that you cannot really ever finalize it, you cannot come to the point where you make decisions; in the meantime, the department of Health officials will take care of business. I am concerned as a member of the Social Programs Committee and as MLA, of course, that in fact, we have heard year after year from our officials about all of these strategies. There are child welfare issues that are unresolved for instance.

There has to be a point when there are documents on the table that we can all look at so that we know that we are moving ahead in a planned way. Can the Minister indicate if there is a plan to bring some finality to these strategies at least on an interim basis so that, in fact, recommendations are on the table and we can look at them and move ahead as a department, as a government and as the Northwest Territories? Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there is finality and terms of reference of work plans and timelines for all of these strategies and quite frankly I do not have the specifics of each one with me, but I would be more that willing to provide that to the honourable Member. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Miltenberger.

Supplementary To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Could the Minister indicate when he would be able to do this? Is it before Friday, after Friday, I know the time is tight, but this is an important issue and I know he is going to have other responsibilities soon, but the problems are going to remain behind for us. Thank you.

Supplementary To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Ng.

Further Return To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 76

Kelvin Ng Kitikmeot

Thank you. I will try to provide it as soon as

possible. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Question 28-13(7): Health And Social Services Strategic Planning
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Morin.

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a very short question to the Premier. Tomorrow there will be a motion in this Legislative Assembly on the appeal of the Supreme Court decision on the Electoral Boundaries, Motion 5-13(7). Will the Premier allow the Western MLAs that are Ministers in his Cabinet a free vote or will Cabinet be abstaining from that motion? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The Premier, Mr. Antoine.

Return To Question 29-13(7): Free Vote On Motion To Appeal: 5-13(7)
Question 29-13(7): Free Vote On Motion To Appeal: 5-13(7)
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have had a very serious discussion about it in Cabinet and it is the position of the Cabinet now that we will abstain from that motion tomorrow. Thank you.

Return To Question 29-13(7): Free Vote On Motion To Appeal: 5-13(7)
Question 29-13(7): Free Vote On Motion To Appeal: 5-13(7)
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mrs. Groenewegen.

Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment provided me with a return to an oral question indicating that recently some seniors in Hay River were inadvertently included in a T5-007 mail out that was issued to social assistance recipients. This was, in fact, for fuel subsidies that they had received. My question for the Minister is, was it only seniors in Hay River who received these inadvertent T5-007s? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister responsible for Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my understanding is that about 15 seniors in total were affected and yes, I believe that they were all from the Hay River region. Thank you.

Return To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mrs. Groenewegen.

Supplementary To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members are saying, shame, it is a conspiracy, but I do have a senior in Hay River who seriously does believe that only my supporters received these T5-007s.

--Laughter

Anyway, the Minister also indicated that he is in the process of identifying those seniors and advising them that these T5-007s were in error. In the process he indicates that it is taking some time, these T5-007s were sent out several weeks ago and to those of us who get 1,000 pieces of mail a day this would not be an issue, but these are senior citizens that are now scurrying to have their income tax returns revised for previous years. This is urgent. This cannot be, we are in the process of doing it. We need this done right away. We need them to be contacted, told to ignore these, we need to retrieve them and apologize to them because this has caused a lot of stress. How soon are these seniors going to hear from the department? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am advised that some have been contacted. All will be contacted hopefully by the end of this week. Certainly no later than next week. Yes, Mr. Speaker, I would agree that the seniors deserve an apology. Thank you.

--Applause

Further Return To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mrs. Groenewegen.

Supplementary To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Jane Groenewegen

Jane Groenewegen Hay River

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I had contacted someone within the department and had offered to put an announcement on the Green Screen in Hay River just to let seniors know, just to make kind of a blanket announcement if you will, until we have a chance to identify who the seniors were. I did not realize at that time that it was specific to Hay River, but I would still like to suggest that something of that nature should be done while they are waiting to hear on this matter so that we can relieve any concern of our very respected and retired elders. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is unfortunate that the Member's suggestion was not acted upon as it sounds like a good idea. I will ensure that if all seniors are not contacted within the next two days that we try to initiate that action. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Question 30-13(7): Seniors' Tax Forms
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 77

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Mr. Krutko.

David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Premier. It is regarding the conduct of certain Ministers in his Cabinet, especially when statements are made by Ministers belittling aboriginal leaders, the Aboriginal Summit and the aboriginal negotiations that are going on, and also lawyers that work for aboriginal groups in the Western Territory. Mr. Speaker, I would like to know from the Premier, what will he do regarding the conduct and certain statements made by certain Ministers and in the presence of the Premier and Members in this House. I would like to ask the Premier, what is

the Premier going to do to reprimand this Minister in regards to those statements?

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Can I ask the Member from the Mackenzie Delta if he could clarify his question? The Member made reference to a Minister and also to comments made outside this Chamber. Mr. Krutko.

David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Regarding the comments made by a certain Minister about a statement made in public about a meeting that was held in Calgary between the Premier and the Minister, and also comments made in full Caucus this morning at which all Members were present and the Premier was present at this meeting.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Mr. Premier do you wish to respond.

Return To Question 31-13(7): Statements Made By Cabinet Members
Question 31-13(7): Statements Made By Cabinet Members
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to review this. The honourable Member mentioned comments made in Calgary, as well as full Caucus. I do not know what the rules say about this thing here, so I would like to take the question as notice. Thank you.

Return To Question 31-13(7): Statements Made By Cabinet Members
Question 31-13(7): Statements Made By Cabinet Members
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Mr. Henry.

Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister responsible for the Financial Management Board, Mr. Todd. Recently, Mr. Speaker, I received some correspondence from registered nurses in the Northwest Territories, from the association, outlining concerns about classification of nurses as a vocation as opposed to a profession under the Hay Plan. I would, therefore, like to ask the Minister for some clarification on this matter. Could the Minister please indicate for this House as to what classification registered nurses fall in under the Hay Plan? Are registered nurses considered a profession by this government? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The Minister responsible for the Financial Management Board. Mr. Todd.

Return To Question 32-13(7): Classification Of Registered Nurses
Question 32-13(7): Classification Of Registered Nurses
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I had the answers to those questions with me earlier but I cannot seem to find them. Given that it is a technical question in particular, as it relates to the Hay Plan, et cetera, I would beg my honourable colleague's indulgence. I apologize to him. I am afraid I have to take the question as notice. Sorry.

Return To Question 32-13(7): Classification Of Registered Nurses
Question 32-13(7): Classification Of Registered Nurses
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The question is taken as notice. Oral questions. Mr. Ootes.

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is also for the Minister of the Financial Management Board. It is in regard to the employment equity benefits for excluded employees of this government. I was wondering if the Minister could tell us, I had asked some questions by way of correspondence earlier whether former GNWT employees who are not part of the union are eligible for employment equity compensation packages. My question is, are those employees eligible for a compensation package? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Minister responsible for the Financial Management Board, Mr. Todd.

Return To Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We did give, recently we approved money on the pay equity side for the non-unionized employees that currently work for the government and we are reviewing the other aspects for those who no longer work for the government who were non-unionized as to whether or not we should pay them. We have not made that decision at this time and I will try to do that before I leave the office next week. Thank you.

Return To Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Oral questions. Supplementary, Mr. Ootes.

Supplementary To Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Also, could the Minister tell us how many excluded employees would be affected by this and the second question to that would be, what classification codes would be affected?

Supplementary To Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Mr. Todd, two questions again. The Member has used his third and final supplementary. Mr. Todd.

Further Return To Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Item 6: Oral Questions

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John Todd Keewatin Central

I am assuming that my honourable colleague means the employees that have left the employ of the government and are either living in the south or a few of them who might be living in the north. I will look into that, but we are paying all of our employees who are currently working for the government that are non-unionized that fall under the pay equity category as we speak. Thank you.

Further Return To Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Question 33-13(7): Compensation For Non-union Employees
Item 6: Oral Questions

Page 78

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Oral questions. Mr. Picco.

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of the Financial Management Board also. It concerns the pay equity situation. Could the Minister inform this House that indeed, if the pay equity reaches its final conclusion in the federal court, would this government or any successive government have to pay the amount that was owed? For example, we know that the Members right now of the UNW are signing off on an offer being presented by this Minister. If the court reaches its final conclusion, would the government or successive governments have to pay more? Does the Minister

have a reading on that or a legal opinion? Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

You cannot ask a Minister of a legal opinion in the House. It is a hypothetical question if you ask what if. The question is out of order. Question period is over. As I have mentioned in my statement regarding a reception. The question period is now over. I would like to invite the Members and the public to join us in the Great Hall for some presentations.

--Break

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The House will come back to order. Item 7, written questions. Item 8, returns to written questions. Item 9, replies to opening address. Item 10, petitions. Mr. Barnabas.

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker I would like to present a petition dealing with the matter of liquor licensing in Resolute Bay. Mr. Speaker, the petition contains 65 signatures from residents of Resolute Bay and the petitioners request that the NWT Liquor Licensing Board not issue any liquor licence for Jessco Logistics Ltd. in Resolute Bay. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Petitions. Item 11, reports of standing and special committees. Item 12, reports of committees on the review of bills. Mr. Miltenberger.

Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills

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Michael Miltenberger

Michael Miltenberger Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to report to the Legislative Assembly that the Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999; Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99; Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99; and Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99; and wishes to report that Bill 7, Bill 10, Bill 11 and Bill 12 are ready for consideration in committee of the whole.

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive rule 70(5) and have Bill 7, Bill 10, Bill 11 and Bill 12 moved into committee of the whole for today. Thank you.

Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills
Item 12: Reports Of Committees On The Review Of Bills

Page 79

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for Thebacha is seeking unanimous consent to waive rule 70(5). Do we have any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Miltenberger, you have unanimous consent. Bill 7, Bill 10, Bill 11 and Bill 12 will be moved into committee of the whole for today. Report of committees on the review of bills. Item 13, tabling of documents. Mr. Todd.

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have two documents I wish to table today. I wish to table the following document entitled Northwest Territories Liquor Commission 44th Annual Report.

John Todd Keewatin Central

If I may, Mr. Speaker, I wish also to table the following document entitled Northwest Territories Public Utilities Board Annual Report 1998. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Tabling of documents. Mr. Barnabas.

Levi Barnabas High Arctic

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to table a letter and attachments I received from Mrs. Terry Jesudason of Resolute Bay concerning the granting of a liquor licence by the NWT Liquor Licensing Board to Jessco Logistic Ltd. of Calgary, Alberta. In her letter, Mrs. Jesudason expresses her concerns regarding the licence and availability of alcohol in Resolute Bay. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Tabling of documents. Mr. Morin.

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to table a document from the Western NWT Aboriginal Summit, a letter to the Honourable Jane Stewart, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, March 22, 1999, signed by co-chair, Bill Erasmus.

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Also, Mr. Speaker, I would like to table another document to the Territorial Minister of Justice from the solicitor of the Friends of Democracy, solicitor Brian J. Wallace, signed by himself. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Tabling of documents. Item 14, notices of motion. Item 15, notices of motion for first reading of bills. Item 16, motions. Item 17, first reading of bills. Mr. Todd.

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 9, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99 be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. Your motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. Mr. Morin.

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to, at the appropriate time, have a recorded vote on this motion.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you, Mr. Morin. Mr. Morin.

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have been here for 11 years, but I am still learning. I would like to withdraw what I just said. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order to Bill 9. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 9 has had first reading. First reading of bills. Mr. Todd.

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 13, An Act to Amend the Financial Administration Act, be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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? Motion is carried. Bill 13 has had first reading. First reading of bills. Mr. Antoine.

Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife Frame Lake, that Bill 15, An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act, be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. Mr. Morin.

Don Morin Tu Nedhe

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, for one, will not be supporting this bill. One of the reasons I will not support it is I think that this bill...

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

I am sorry, Mr. Morin. The Member for Tu Nedhe is requesting a recorded vote. Question has been called. All those in favour, please stand.

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Antoine, Mr. Dent, Mr. Ootes, Mr. Henry, Mr. Roland.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

All those opposed, please stand.

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Krutko, Mr. Rabesca, Mr. Morin, Mr. Miltenberger.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

All those abstaining, please stand.

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Todd, Mr. Arlooktoo, Mr. Ningark, Mr. Evaloarjuk, Mr. Barnabas, Mr. Picco, Mr. O'Brien, Ms. Thompson.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The recorded vote for Bill 15 is five for four against eight abstentions. Bill 15 has had first reading. First reading of bills. Mr. Dent.

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Keewatin Central, that Bill 16, An Act to Amend the Supplementary Retiring Allowances Act, be read for the first time.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. Mr. Picco.

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the bill. Bill 16, An Act to Amend the Supplementary Retiring Allowances Act, I will not be available...

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

There is no debate on the bill.

--Applause

Thank you. To remind the Members that on first reading of any bill, the Member can request recorded vote, but no comments on it. It is only when it gets to the second reading the principle of the bill, that you can make that. Mr. Picco.

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would request a recorded vote at the proper time on this bill. Thank you.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Question has been called. Are you requesting a recorded vote?

Edward Picco Iqaluit

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request a recorded vote on Bill 16.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for Iqaluit is seeking a recorded vote. All those in favour of Bill 16, please stand.

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Dent, Mr. Ningark, Mr. Evaloarjuk, Mr. Barnabas, Mr. Rabesca, Mr. Morin, Mr. Miltenberger, Ms. Thompson, Mr. Roland, Mr. Antoine, Mr. Todd and Mr. Arlooktoo.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. All those opposed to Bill 16, please stand.

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Picco, Mr. Ootes, Mr. Henry, Mrs. Groenewegen.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. All those abstaining on Bill 16, please stand.

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Krutko.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

On Bill 16, 12 for, four against, two abstentions. Bill 16 has had first reading. The motion is carried.

--Applause

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

First reading of bills. Item 18, second reading of bills. Mr. Todd.

Bill 9: Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills

Page 80

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 9, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99, be read for the

second time. Mr. Speaker this bill makes supplementary appropriations for the Government of the NWT for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1999. Thank you.

Bill 9: Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99
Item 18: Second Reading Of Bills

Page 81

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried. Bill 9 has had second reading and accordingly, the bill stands referred to committee of the whole. Second reading of bills. Mr. Todd.

John Todd Keewatin Central

Mr. Speaker, I seek consent to proceed with the second reading of Bill 13, An Act to Amend the Financial Administration Act.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The Member for Keewatin Central is seeking consent to deal with Bill 13. Do we have any nays? Mr. Todd, you have consent.

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, colleagues. I move, seconded by the Honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 13, An Act to Amend the Financial Administration Act, be read for the second time.

Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Financial Administration Act to expand the definition of a public officer to include a person acting as an agent for the government. The bill authorizes the investment of surplus funds in the consolidated revenue fund and the money belonging to public agencies in specified classes of investment.

The regulation-making power is added respecting the minimum standards of credit readiness that will be required of users of securities purchased by the government of public agencies. The bill also permits the territorial corporations specified in schedule C of the act, that is the Workers' Compensation Board, to invest in any class of security that its board of directors determines to be prudent. A consequential amendment is also being made to the Workers' Compensation Act.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

Thank you. The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 13 has had second reading and accordingly, the bill stands referred to a committee. Second reading of bills. Item 19, consideration in committee of the whole of bills and other matters. Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999; Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99; Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99; Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99, 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 81

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. I would like to call the committee to order. Under item 19, consideration in committee of the whole of bills and other matters, we have Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999; Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99; Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99; Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99. May I have direction from the committee. What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Ootes.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 81

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. That we proceed with Bill 9, followed by Bill 7, Bill 10, Bill 11 and Bill 12, in that order.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 81

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. We have Bill 9, Bill 7, Bill 10, Bill 11 and Bill 12, in that order, as recommended by Mr. Ootes. 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 81

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 81

The Chair John Ningark

Do you wish to get on with business or do you wish to take a break? We will deal with Bill 9. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 81

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you. Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99, requests authority for additional appropriations of $35,598,364, made up of $29,223,364 for operations and maintenance expenditures and $6.375 million for capital. Approximately $7.5 million of the new supplementary requirements will be offset by revenues or other recoveries and will not impact the government's operating results for the year. Twenty million dollars was anticipated and provided for in the government's fiscal framework to address the ultimate outcome of the new collective agreement. The net new funding requirements included in this supplementary appropriation amount to $8.1 million.

Improvement in the 1998-99 revenue forecasts and a one-time retroactive adjustment to the grant from Canada in the 1997-98 fiscal year has permitted the government to provide for additional critical needs through supplementary appropriations, which exceeds the anticipated requirements included in the 1998-99 Main Estimates.

With the revenue forecast adjustments on the year-to-date supplementary appropriations we do project an accumulated surplus at the end of the 1998-99 fiscal year of approximately $58 million as compared to an accumulated deficit of $28 million forecast in 1998-99 estimates.

The operations and maintenance supplementary appropriation requirements include the following major items: $20.5 million for implementation for the Job Evaluation System and the recently ratified collective agreement; $1.7 million to address the legal costs of the Conflict Inquiry; $1.6 million for the increase borrowing costs required to meet the government's requirements to the end of the fiscal year; and $1.6 million for the government's share of the replacement cost of the RCMP plane, this amount will be offset by recoveries of prior years' expenditures related to the Policing Agreement. The supplementary capital appropriation requirements include $5 million for the NWT Housing Corporation to address capital requirements associated with the Plan 2000 Program implementation. This will be offset by recovery of an operations and maintenance surplus from the Housing Corporation, $1 million for the Housing Corporation to extend the Minimum Down Payment Assistance Program pilot project. Mr. Chairman, that is all. 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 81

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Todd. It is my understanding there are no committee review reports, so we will go into general comments. Before I do that, I would like to ask the Minister if he would like to bring in the witnesses? I take that as a yes. Does the committee agree?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Mr. Todd will bring in the witnesses. Proceed, Sergeant-at-Arms. Mr. Todd, for the record, would you please introduce your witness 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 82

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. To my immediate right is Mr. Lew Voytilla, deputy minister of the Financial Management Board Secretariat.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

The floor is now open for general comments. Do you wish to go into detail now?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. We are dealing with Bill 9, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99. We will go to page 5, detail. Legislative Assembly, operations and maintenance, not previously authorized, Office of the Clerk, not previously authorized, $2,126,666. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. 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 82

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Chairman, where are we in the bill?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. We are in detail and we are dealing with Bill 9. On page 5 of Bill 9. 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 82

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have some questions in regard to the Conflict of Interest Inquiry and the bill for that particular inquiry. I wonder if we could get an indication of or some detail provided to us in regard to the billing from various departments and firms? Does this figure include the amount billed by the amount of time and lawyers' costs and so forth from the territorial government's representation at 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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Mr. Todd, do you wish to respond?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

John Todd Keewatin Central

No, it does not.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

John Todd Keewatin Central

The Management and Services Board through the chair, Mr. Gargan, has provided the House with the detailed breakdown of the costs that were requested in committee the other day. There are no costs indirectly associated with any legal expenditures that we may have had in House. None.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. 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 82

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I note in the detail provided here, I am trying to find the amount provided to the law firm that represented Mrs. Groenewegen. I wonder if I could get clarification on the amount 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 82

The Chair John Ningark

I believe that requires some detail. I wonder if the Minister has the breakdown? 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 82

John Todd Keewatin Central

I believe that they are all listed there. Mr. Hamilton will know where they are, but they are all listed there somewhere. One hundred twenty-five thousand, two hundred and twenty-four dollars.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. 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 82

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

I would also like to ask a question or two on various other areas here. I also note that the firm representing Mr. Mrdjenovich was $137,000 and $65,000 for the firm representing Mr. Bailey. Does this amount for Mrs. Groenewegen represent the total amount that was billed from the firm?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

John Todd Keewatin Central

I understand that is $137,000, $65,000 for Mr. Bailey and $297,000 for others, and $704,000 for others. I can read. My only point was that it certainly is a lot of money when it is all accumulated at the end of the day. Mr. Chairman, I do not know if these are all the invoices. I would have to check with Mr. Gargan and Mr. Hamilton. If you just give me a moment, I will do 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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

John Todd Keewatin Central

I believe, Mr. Hamilton advised me that is the total amount they submitted.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Office of the Clerk, not previously authorized, $2,126,666. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Office of the Speaker, not previously authorized, $91,100. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Total department, $2,217,766. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 6, Bill 9, Executive, operation and maintenance, not previously authorized. Executive Offices, Cabinet Secretariat, not previously authorized, $301,527. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 7, Executive, Operations and maintenance, Financial Management Board Secretariat Directorate, special, not previously authorized, $490,265. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Labour Relations and Compensation Services, special warrant, $600,000. 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 82

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 82

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Government

Accounting, not previously authorized, $785,000. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 7, Bill 8, Executive, operations and maintenance. Aboriginal Affairs, not previously authorized, $70,337. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Total department, special warrants, $600,000. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $1,647,129. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 9, Bill 8, Finance, operations and maintenance. Directorate, not previously authorized, $207,461. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Treasury, special warrants, $1,600,000. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, special warrants, $1,600,000 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Not previously authorized, total department, $207,461. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 10, Municipal and Community Affairs, operations and maintenance. Corporate Affairs, not previously authorized, $556,352. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Municipal and Community Affairs, total department, not previously authorized, $556,352. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 11, Public Works and Services, operations and maintenance. Directorate, not previously authorized, $1,424,012. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Asset Management, not previously authorized, negative $125,000. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, $1,299,012. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 12, Health and Social Services, operations and maintenance. Administration, not previously authorized, $6,259,253. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $6,259,253. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. On page 13, Justice, operations and maintenance. Directorate, not previously authorized, $1,899,918. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Law Enforcement, special warrants, $1.6 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Legal Services Board, special warrants, $560,000. 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 83

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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Registries and Court Services, not previously authorized, $80,000. 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 83

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 83

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 83

Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Registries and Court Services of $80,000 is to provide funding for administration of the Firearms Program. Is this government not presently in court fighting that particular ruling and if we are, why are we paying for a program that we are supposedly fighting? 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 83

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. I believe Mr. Todd will explain why the amount is here. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 83

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The notes indicate to me that the net effect on the government will be nil as this funding will be fully offset by recovery from Canada. Just give me a chance to read the other notes here. We have actually sent this back to the federal government. The full $80,000 will be reimbursed to the Government of the Northwest Territories by the federal government. In fact, as of November 1999, the Firearms Program has been transferred to the federal government and the GNWT now has no role in the program, so we are just recovering the costs. 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 83

The Chair John Ningark

The amounts show, but we will get the money back. 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 84

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. On this particular program, can the Minister tell us if the employees are seconded from the RCMP? Let me ask that question first.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

John Todd Keewatin Central

Employees? I am not aware of any employees being seconded from the RCMP, not in any of the notes that I have.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

John Todd Keewatin Central

As Mr. Henry indicated earlier, the government's position is to oppose the Firearms Program. We had to do some work on it, we are recovering the dollars. We have transferred it back to the federal government and we no longer have a role in it. Period. Time up. It may be that there were some people gone, I would have to look into it, but I am not aware of it.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Second question, 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 84

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Perhaps I could explain, Mr. Chairman. Many of the people working in the Firearms Office now are, to my knowledge, either former RCMP or they may still be RCMP who are seconded from the RCMP. While I do not have any concern with that, my point is that in a roundabout way, are we paying from the territorial government the RCMP its full allotment, yet they are seconding people to the Firearms Office?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. I believe this is the right program under Justice. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

John Todd Keewatin Central

I do not know where that relates to this $80,000, but I will look into the matter and report back to the Member.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. 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 84

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Chairman. It is correct, it does not relate to the $80,000, but I am just curious what is happening at the Firearms Office. There is a further concern there. In the communities, the program is administered by the RCMP, therefore this territorial government is paying for the administration of that. Are we recovering those monies from the federal government because it does consume the RCMP's time? They have to be concerned about training courses, issuing permits and so forth. That is my point.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you for that clarification. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

John Todd Keewatin Central

I think that would probably be a question better asked in question period to the Minister of Justice. All I am saying is that it does not relate to this $80,000 expenditure and I think that is where I would suggest the Member takes it. I do not have the answer so, as I said, my point I was trying, I was not trying to be a smart alec, I was just saying it has no relationship, I do not think whatsoever, to the $80,000 which we are debating today. My advice to him would be to ask the question to the Minister of Justice tomorrow.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

I believe Mr. Ootes is indicating that he agrees, so we will try again. Registries and Court Services, $80,000. 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 84

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 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Community Justice and Corrections, not previously authorized. The $80,000 was not previously authorized. Community Justice and Corrections, not previously authorized, $50,000. 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 84

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 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, special warrants, $2.160 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 84

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 84

The Chair John Ningark

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 84

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Chairman, I wonder if I could get permission from the Members to go back to Law Enforcement for a moment?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ootes is seeking consent from Members to go back to Law Enforcement. Do we agree to allow Mr. Ootes to ask his questions?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

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 84

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Ootes, proceed with the question.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

Jake Ootes

Jake Ootes Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am concerned about this particular warrant from the perspective that we have traditionally advised the government that we do not want to get into an overly extensive number of warrants simply because certain items should be budgeted for ahead of time. It looks like the purchase of a new aircraft. While I do not have a problem with that, it is the process of having this special warrant to do it. I wonder why it was processed as a special warrant instead of budgeting for it in the usual process?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

The Chair John Ningark

Perhaps it was unforseen. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 84

John Todd Keewatin Central

While I concur with my honourable colleague that special warrants, you have to be careful that they are not abused, and I think I have demonstrated over the last four years that has not taken place. This particular expenditure came about because the lease was expiring on the aircraft and it was determined it was more cost-effective to purchase the aircraft rather than continue with the lease. This was at the request of the RCMP and when we did the analysis, we determined that there were significant fiscal savings to that.

For the record, for Mr. Ootes' benefit, we did purchase a new aircraft, but we sold a twin otter and we used those proceeds against the aircraft and the net cost to the government was $1.6 million. There was a leasing agreement that was costing us somewhere in the region of about $26,000 per month. That is the particular reason for the special warrant. I concur with him entirely, special warrants should be done as a last resort and, in this particular case, it was because the lease was expiring and it had to be done. It was determined that in the long run, this would in fact, save us money. 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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. I believe Mr. Ootes was answered by Mr. Todd so we will move on. Total department, special warrants, $2.160 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $2,029,918. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Page 14, NWT Housing Corporation, operations and maintenance. NWT Housing Corporation, not previously authorized, $601,655. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $601,655. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 15, Education, Culture and Employment, operations and maintenance. Directorate and Administration, not previously authorized is $4,009,520. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $4.920 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 16, Transportation, operations and maintenance. Corporate Services, not previously authorized, $1,190,326. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Airports, not previously authorized, $428,502. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $1,618,828. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. The next page, Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, operations and maintenance. Corporate Management, not previously authorized, $3,466,470. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, not previously authorized, $950,000. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $4,416,470. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 18, Bill 9, Public Works and Services, Capital. Assets Management, not previously authorized, $125,000. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, not previously authorized, $125,000. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Page 19, Bill 9, Northwest Territories Housing Corporation, capital, not previously authorized, $6 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, $6 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 20, Transportation, capital. Airports, not previously authorized, $250,000. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total department, $250,000. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Now moving back to clause by clause of Bill 9, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99. Clause 1. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 2. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 3. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 4. 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 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 5. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 85

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 85

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 6. 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 7. 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Schedule E, page 4, Bill 9, part 1, vote 1, operations and maintenance. Total operations and maintenance, $29,223,364. 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 6, part 2, vote 2, capital. Total capital, $6.375 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Total supplementary, appropriation in parts 1 and 2, $35,598,364. 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Preamble. 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill as a whole. 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 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 9 is ready for third reading? Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill 9 is ready for third reading. I would like to thank, on behalf of the committee, Mr. Todd and Mr. Voytilla for appearing before the committee. The next item, as we agreed to, is Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statues Amendment Act, 1999. I believe Mr. Arlooktoo has the opening remarks on this bill. Mr. Arlooktoo.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999, amends various statues of the NWT. It corrects errors or inconsistencies that have been identified in the ongoing statute revision project or that have been brought to the attention of the Department of Justice by members of the public or by the staff of the Department of Justice or other departments. In this respect, some changes proposed in Bill 7 consist of grammatical or spelling corrections to either the English or French version of the statute. Other amendments contained in Bill 7 relate to statutes or provisions of statutes that have not been proclaimed in force. The bill repeals sections 5, 6 and 8 of an Act to Amend the Jury Act. The matters dealt with in those sections, in addition to other matters, are addressed in the amendments to the Jury Act contained in this bill.

Most of the proposed changes to the Jury Act clarify the regulation-making powers so that procedural matters may be dealt with effectively in regulations. Bill 7 also repeals an unproclaimed 1992 act amending the Real Estate Agents Licensing Act. Departments responsible for the administration of the various statutes being amended by the Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999, have each reviewed and approved the changes to the statutes under their authority.

The amendments are of such a nature that the preparation and legislative consideration of the individual bills to correct each statute would be time- consuming for the government and the Legislative Assembly. In order for an amendment to be included in the bill, you have to meet the following criteria:

a. It must not be controversial;

b. It must not involve the spending the public funds;

c. It must not prejudicially affect the rights of persons; and,

d.It must not create a new offence or subject a new class of person to an existing offence.

Mr. Chairman, in our view the amendments proposed in Bill 7 meet those criteria. My officials will be pleased to answer any questions you may have. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Arlooktoo. I would like to ask the Chairman or the representative of the Standing Committee on Government Operations to give opening remarks on the review of the bill. Which one is it? 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 86

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amending Act, 1999, at its meeting on March 23, 1999. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Justice and his legislative counsel for presenting the bill and responding to the committee's questions. The purpose of this bill is to correct non-controversial errors and inconsistencies in various NWT statutes. These include corrections to typographical errors, incorrect section references, errors in grammar and structure and errors in the French translation. The standing committee has no difficulty with this bill. This concludes the standing committee's comments on Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999. 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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you for the nice report. Before we get into general comments, I would like to ask Mr. Arlooktoo if he wishes to bring any witnesses?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Yes, I do, 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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Do we have the blessing of the Members?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

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 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Proceed. Thank you. Mr. Minister, would you introduce your witnesses. This is for the record.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Yes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. With me are Legal Counsel, Rebecca Veinott, and our Legal Interpreter, Mr. Philip Melas.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 86

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Welcome to the committee. We announce the floor is now open for general comments. Details. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999, clause 1. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 2. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. We move on to Page 2, clause 3. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 4. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 5. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 6. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 4, clause 7. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 8. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 9. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 10. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 5, clause 11. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 6, clause 12. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill as a whole. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 7 is ready for third reading? Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill 7 is now ready for third reading. I would like to thank Mr. Arlooktoo and the witnesses for appearing before the committee. Thank you. Now, we move on to another item, as we agreed to, which is Bill 10. Thank you. Moving along accordingly. Mr. Todd, do you have any opening remarks dealing with Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99? Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The purpose of the Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99, is to authorize the forgiveness of certain debts listed in the schedule to the act. Pursuant to section 25(1) of the Financial Administration Act, the forgiveness of a debt or obligation of the government exceeding $1,000 must receive Legislative Assembly approval. When a debt is forgiven or made, no further collection action shall be pursued. The forgiveness being proposed in this act will not require any appropriation. Allowances for doubtful account were charged to an appropriation at the time it was determined that the collection of the debts was considered unlikely.

The account has been recommended for forgiveness as a result of bankruptcies, compromised settlements, and/or in the public interest. In cases where a compromised settlement is reached, the following factors are considered, possibility of future recoveries, the cost of continued legal action and the value of the security. For example, do the personal guarantees hold a reasonable worth? 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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Todd. I believe we will ask the Minister if he wishes to bring in any witnesses. Mr. Henry, do you have a remark on behalf of the Standing Committee on Government Operations? 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 87

Seamus Henry Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99, at its meeting on March 23, 1999. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Finance and his officials for presenting the bill. This bill would authorize the government to forgive approximately $252,000 in debts. The committee noted that this is relatively consistent within recent years. In the majority of cases, the debts have been discharged by the courts following bankruptcy proceedings. Mr. Chairman, committee Members may have additional comments or questions on this bill during the review in committee of the whole. This concludes the report of the Standing Committee on Government Operations on Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99. 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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Todd is already seated at the witness table. I do not know if he is ready. Mr. Todd, would you introduce the witness, please.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. As always, I have with me the Mr. Lew Voytilla, deputy minister of the FMBS.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. The floor is now open for general comments. Details. 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 87

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 87

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill 10, Forgiveness of

Debts Act, 1998-99, clause 1. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 2. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Flip the page over, we have a schedule. 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 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page 4. Total, $252,533.92. 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 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill as a whole. 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 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 10 is ready for third reading. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Bill 10 is now ready for third reading. Thank you, Mr. Todd and Mr. Voytilla.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

The Chair John Ningark

We move on to Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99. Mr. Todd is the lead Minister to make an opening remark. Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Chairman and colleagues. The purpose of the Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99, is to authorize the write-off of the granular program revolving fund assets listed in the schedule to the act. Pursuant to section 24 of the Financial Administration Act, the write-off of government assets or debts exceeding $20,000 must receive Legislative Assembly approval.

The write-off being proposed in this act would not require an increase in appropriation. The write-off would be charged against Public Works and Services appropriations and will not result in an over expenditure to that department. This write-off is comprised of two components. The first is to reduce the book value of the granular material on hand to the actual surveyed value. The second one is to account for the deterioration of the value of the granular material where there is no market due to lack of requirement or protocol in material where the stock value is too small to monitor on a cost-effective basis, or whether the remaining material is contaminated.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

The Chair John Ningark

That concludes your opening remarks, Mr. Todd? We have Mr. Erasmus to do opening remarks on behalf of the Standing Committee on Government Operations.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99, at its meeting on March 23, 1999. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Finance and his officials for presenting the bill. This bill would write-off approximately $941,000 in stock piled granular material assets the Department of Public Works and Services held in the granular products revolving fund. In most cases, the write offs reduce the book value of the material to reflect the actual value. In some cases, stock piled material has no current value due to a lack of market, poor quality material by the small size of the stock pile. The committee understands that there will be no further granular production under the fund as it was not cost-effective. Mr. Chairman, the standing committee had no difficulty with this bill and this concludes the report of the Standing Committee on Government Operations on Bill 11, Write- off of Assets Act, 1998-99. 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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. We shall proceed with general comments. At the witness table we have Mr. Todd and Mr. Voytilla, for the record. General comments. Clause by clause. We are reviewing Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99. Clause 1. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 2. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Page, schedule, total, $941,402.78. 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 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill as a whole?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Does the committee agree that Bill 11 is ready for third reading? Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

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 88

The Chair John Ningark

Bill 11 is now ready for third reading. Moving onto Bill 12. Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99. Mr. Todd, do you have any opening remarks on behalf of the department? Mr. Todd.

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 88

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The purpose of Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99, is to authorize the write-off of debts listed in the schedule to the act, pursuant to section 24 of the Financial Administration Act. Write-off of government assets or debts exceeding $20,000 must receive Legislative Assembly approval. Pursuant to section 82 of the Financial Administration Act, write-off of debts owed to a public agency exceeding $20,000 must also receive Legislative Assembly approval. The write-off of debts owed to the Workers' Compensation Board exceeding $50,000 must receive Legislative Assembly approval. The write-off being proposed in this act will not require a new appropriation. The write-off will be charged against allowances for bad debts which were established in the department budget at the time it was determined that the collection of the debt would be unlikely.

I wish to emphasize that the write-off of a debt does not relieve a debtor of the liability for repayment or mean that the government will not continue to attempt to collect the outstanding amount through continued reviews by my staff. Future recovery of the debt may still be achieved. In addition, in the case of debts owed by companies, we track down the principals in each company or firm for future credit references. 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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Mr. Erasmus, in his capacity as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Government Operations, will do the review of the committee. 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 89

Roy Erasmus Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, at its meeting on March 23, 1999, the Standing Committee on Government Operations reviewed Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Finance and his officials for presenting the bill. This bill would authorize the government to write-off more than $404,000 in debts. The committee recognizes that some of these amounts may yet be recovered and encourages the government to make feasible efforts to collect the amounts owed.

Mr. Chairman, committee Members may have additional questions or comments on this bill during its review in committee of the whole. This concludes the report of the Standing Committee on Government Operations on Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99. 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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you, Mr. Erasmus. At the witness table we have Mr. Todd and Mr. Voytilla. We are dealing with Bill 12. We are open for general comments. Details. 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 89

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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99, clause 1. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 89

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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Clause 2. Agreed?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 89

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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Schedule E, total, $404,436.86. 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 89

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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill as a whole. 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 89

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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Does the committee agree that Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99, is now ready for third reading?

Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Page 89

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 89

The Chair John Ningark

Thank you. Bill 12 is now ready for third reading. I would like to thank Mr. Todd, who has been busy, at this time, and Mr. Voytilla for appearing before the committee. That concludes the bill that we were to review as agreed to. I will rise and report progress to the Speaker. 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 89

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The House will come back to order. 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 89

John Ningark Natilikmiot

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the committee has been considering Bill 9, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99; Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999; Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99; Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99; Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99; and would like to report that Bills 9, 7, 10, 11 and 12 are ready for third reading. Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of the 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 89

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? Motion is carried. Item 21, third reading of bills. Mr. Todd.

Bill 1: Division Measures Act, 1999
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 89

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member from Baffin South, that Bill 1, Division Measures Act, 1999, be read for the third time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Bill 1: Division Measures Act, 1999
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 89

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 1 has had third reading. Mr. Arlooktoo.

Bill 2: Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, 1999
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 89

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Keewatin Central, that Bill 2, Nunavut Statutes Act, 1999, be read for the third time.

Bill 2: Nunavut Statutes Amendment Act, 1999
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 89

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 2 has had third reading. Mr. Arlooktoo.

Bill 3: Legal Registries Division Measures Act, 1999
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 89

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Aivilik, that Bill 3, Legal Registries Division Measures Act, 1999, be read for the third time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Bill 3: Legal Registries Division Measures Act, 1999
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 89

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 3 has had third reading. Mr. Dent.

Charles Dent

Charles Dent Yellowknife Frame Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Baffin South, that Bill 4, Northwest Territories Power Corporation Division Measures Act, be read for the third time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 4 has had third reading. Mr. Arlooktoo.

Bill 5: Nunavut Power Utilities Statutes Amendment Act
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 90

Goo Arlooktoo Baffin South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Sahtu, that Bill 2, Nunavut Power Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, be read for the third time.

Bill 5: Nunavut Power Utilities Statutes Amendment Act
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 90

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 5 has had third reading. Mr. Todd.

Bill 6: An Act To Amend The Pubic Utilities Act
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 90

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member from Inuvik, that Bill 6, An Act to Amend the Public Utilities Act, be read for the third time.

Bill 6: An Act To Amend The Pubic Utilities Act
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 90

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 6 has had third reading. Mr. Todd.

Bill 8: Interim Appropriation Act, 1999-00
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 90

John Todd Keewatin Central

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the honourable Member from Nahendeh, that Bill 8, Interim Appropriation Act, 1999-00, be read for the third time.

Bill 8: Interim Appropriation Act, 1999-00
Item 21: Third Reading Of Bills

Page 90

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

The motion is in order. To the motion. Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 8 has 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 90

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

Mr. Speaker, the meeting of the Standing Committee on Infrastructure immediately after adjournment. Tomorrow morning at 9:30, the Western Resource Management and Infrastructure Sub-committee. Orders of the day for Wednesday, March 24, 1999:

1. Prayer

2. Ministers' Statements

3. Members' Statements

4. Returns to Oral Questions

5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery

6. Oral Questions

7. Written Questions

8. Returns to Written Questions

9. Replies to Opening Address

10. Petitions

11. Reports of Standing and Special Committees

12. Reports of Committees on the Review of Bills

13. Tabling of Documents

14. Notices of Motion

15. Notices of Motion for First Reading of Bills

16. Motions

- Motion 5-13(7), Appeal of Supreme Court Decision on Electoral Boundaries

17. First Reading of Bills

18. Second Reading of Bills

- Bill 15, An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act

- Bill 16, An Act to Amend the Supplementary Retiring Allowances Act

19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters

20. Report of Committee of the Whole

21. Third Reading of Bills

- Bill 7, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 1999

- Bill 9, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 5, 1998-99

- Bill 10, Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1998-99

- Bill 11, Write-off of Assets Act, 1998-99

- Bill 12, Write-off of Debts Act, 1998-99

22. Orders of the Day

Item 22: Orders Of The Day
Item 22: Orders Of The Day

Page 90

The Speaker Samuel Gargan

This House stands adjourned to Wednesday, March 24, 1999 at 1:30 p.m.

--ADJOURNMENT