In opening comments at the outset of every public hearing the chair advised that the tax was a government initiative and it was the committee's responsibility to hear the views and comments of the residents of the Northwest Territories. The chair confirmed that, after careful consideration, the committee would report those concerns back to their colleagues in the House. Despite this reassurance the committee continually heard from various stakeholders that Bill 13 was a "done deal". Jack Rowe, a Hay River operator (Homesteader's Inn) wrote "Precedence proves that once Cabinet makes up their mind on a particular item it becomes a way of life and the individuals adapt."
Sandy Lee on What We Heard
In the Legislative Assembly on March 1st, 2001. See this statement in context.
What We Heard
Item 11: Reports Of Standing And Special Committees
February 28th, 2001
Page 1418
See context to find out what was said next.