Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I believe what we need is for this House to work together for a common vision and fiscal leadership. That requires an honest and comprehensive debate between both sides of this House on all revenue options and spending priorities.
In the short time we have had, we have not had the opportunity to do this. Further, Mr. Speaker, until such time as we have a party system, we operate under a consensus system. For better or worse, this means there is no official opposition party in this House. I know my voters did not elect me to oppose everything in this House. They elected me to use all of my resources to make good decisions and to contribute to a good government for the good of all people.
I firmly believe, Mr. Speaker, as an Ordinary Member in a consensus government, I have a real opportunity to do that. I have a say on setting priorities and setting the agenda for the government. I will not forfeit the responsibility by a piecemeal approach. I will not give up that leadership role.
In my view, this motion was contrary to the real power and influence I have in this House in the overall decision-making process.
Mr. Speaker, I helped select this Cabinet. I want to see it work. At the very least, I want to give it a chance to work. I know the people of the Northwest Territories want this government to work. It has only been ten weeks since the Cabinet was selected. Personally, if I were given a job of governing, I would expect people to give me more than ten weeks to prove myself.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, as we close this Session today, I know the Premier will be setting out soon to meet with the Prime Minister to discuss the need for investment in our people and economy in more detail. I want to express my support for his endeavour, and let him know I sincerely hope he succeeds in advancing this agenda. Frankly, Mr. Speaker, if he does not succeed, there is no doubt in my mind that everyone in this House will face a decision 100 times tougher than a motion to reduce a mere $160,000 from the government's budget. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause