Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I know the intent of the motion, but I would just like to make it clear, especially for the public out there, that no way, shape or form that we as a government should railroad this budget through the House by taking advantage of the rule in the motion.
I believe the intent of the rule is in place strictly to allow the House to conclude its business where we are finding there is a backlog in the process and we are behind on the budget. Most budgets that have gone through this House have taken up to eight weeks.
Yet this budget, I do not want to see it not go through the process of allowing debate and ensuring the communities that are affected by this budget, especially regarding the cuts that are taking place in this budget, have an opportunity to debate it and do justice for the people we serve in the Northwest Territories. They elected us to be here to ensure their say is being heard, their issues raised and there will be something done with this government.
This budget will set the precedent for the next four years. I feel this rule should only be used when we find ourselves in a bind and down to a time crunch. This Session was supposed to take three weeks. I do not want to see it take two weeks. I want debate. I want to see issues put on the table, Ministers held accountable and departments hearing the concerns and questions by Members of this House.
I want to ensure that debate takes place. I do not support this motion.