Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My comments are to the Minister responsible for Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. On many occasions, Mr. Speaker, the government has granted land use permits, including timber-cutting permits, without adequate consultation with the local communities and stakeholders.
For example, recently in the settlement of Enterprise, the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development identified areas in their timber application that may be of concern to the public. These concerns were listed in the application to the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review board as required. The board in turn informed the community of Enterprise that it would hold public hearings on the matter in September of 1999. But in August of 1999, the community was informed that the decision had already been made. As a result, the community did not have a chance to have their concerns heard.
Mr. Speaker, we need to make sure the views and concerns of the residents of the Northwest Territories are incorporated in the decision-making process that may affect their well-being. For Enterprise to be left out of the decision making process that deals directly with their community is unforgivable.
Mr. Speaker, I ask the Minister where is the accountability that this government is so proud of? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.