Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question will be directed to the Premier of the Northwest Territories. It is based on Tabled Document 27-14(2), which is a transcription of an interview the Premier did with CBC. The interview was a reflection of his trip to Ottawa.
On a number of occasions they speak of the potential and what was accomplished in that trip. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Kakfwi stated that one of the goals was to get the attention of Ottawa. At one point he stated, "I think that we did capture their attention".
Mr. Speaker, I believe we do get their attention, seeing as they receive 95 cents of every dollar that comes out of this ground in royalty resources. We would have their attention since we have diamond mines, oil and gas. Hopefully, we at least have their attention in that area.
Mr. Speaker, the area of concern is, are there going to be any differences made in the near future to the revenue coming from Ottawa to the Northwest Territories? Yesterday, I heard Mr. Handley say they will be sending someone up from the Minister of Finance's office to review our books. I think that is a step backwards.
Mr. Kakfwi states in the interview that there is some minor relief in sight. Mr. Speaker, I would like to know from the Premier, in what instance might there be some minor relief? Can he elaborate on that in this forum so we know what we can expect as we review the interim appropriation? So we know when we are putting new resources out there, how far can we go? Thank you.