This is page numbers 1041 - 1062 of the Hansard for the 14th Assembly, 5th Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library. The word of the day was responsible.

Topics

Members Present

Honourable Jim Antoine, Mr. Bell, Mr. Braden, Mr. Delorey, Mr. Dent, Mrs. Groenewegen, Honourable Joe Handley, Honourable Stephen Kakfwi, Mr. Krutko, Mr. Lafferty, Ms. Lee, Mr. McLeod, Honourable Michael Miltenberger, Mr. Nitah, Honourable Jake Ootes, Mr. Roland, Honourable Vince Steen, Honourable Tony Whitford.

-- Prayer

Item 1: Prayer
Item 1: Prayer

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The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger. Good afternoon, colleagues. Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Premier, Mr. Kakfwi.

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure today to salute the work and service of the Native Women's Association of the NWT.

During this time of unprecedented change and growth in the Northwest Territories, the extraordinary women who make up this valuable association are to be commended for their tireless commitment to issues concerning health care, education, child care, social services and self-development in our communities. For over 25 years the strength and determination of the Native Women's Association and the wisdom and guidance of its membership have been reflected in programs and initiatives such as:

  • • The Native Women's Association Training Institute through which many aboriginal women have been able to graduate to a better quality of life, both for themselves and for their families.
  • • The Victim Services Program which helps numerous clients every year to face and address their personal difficulties and challenges.
  • • The Human Resource Development Program that is opening doors daily for individuals who for many reasons may not have the opportunity to advance.

Mr. Speaker, two weeks ago I was proud to address the annual general meeting of the Native Women's Association of the NWT at which a new board of directors was identified. Today I would like to thank, in particular, the outgoing members of the Native Women's Association board for their work, their sacrifice and their commitment.

  • • President Liza Charlo-Pieper of Yellowknife
  • • Margaret Ireland from the Deh Cho
  • • Ruth Stewart, Mackenzie Delta

Angie Lantz, South Slave

  • • Doreen Wesstrom, Weledeh
  • • Elder Helen Gruben, North Mackenzie Valley
  • • Elder Mary Heron representing the South Mackenzie Valley

It is the policy of the NWT Native Women's Association to alternate its leadership between representatives of the NWT's northern and southern regions. This year Gina Dolphus from Deline, a northern representative, was elected as president. She joins the other newly elected members of the Native Women's Association board:

  • • Vice-President, Noelene Villebrun of Fort Resolution
  • • Patricia McKinnon representing the Mackenzie Delta
  • • Agnes Silverthorn, Deh Cho
  • • Cece Heron, South Slave
  • • Lyla Erasmus, Weledeh
  • • Elder Julie Lennie representing the North Mackenzie Valley
  • • Elder Lena Pederson representing the South Mackenzie Valley

Together with existing board members:

  • • Secretary Treasurer, Annie Goose from Holman
  • • Agnes Kuptana, Holman
  • • Dora Duncan, Colville Lake
  • • Lena Gargan, Wha Ti

They will chart a course that builds on the accomplishments of the NWT Native Women's Association while maintaining their high level of commitment to the social, economic, cultural and political equality of women in the NWT. Thank you.

The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Minister responsible for Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Antoine.

Minister's Statement 72-14(5): Kyoto Protocol
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

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Jim Antoine Nahendeh

Mr. Speaker, in the Northwest Territories we are already seeing the effects of climate change. As a government we are concerned that these effects will intensify if global emissions of the gases that cause climate change are not controlled. That is why, Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories has remained actively engaged in international and national discussions on climate change for over 10 years.

To date, this government has consistently supported the Kyoto Protocol because it is the only coordinated global plan, signed by over 160 nations, to control global greenhouse gas emissions. Prime Minister Chretien stated in Johannesburg that Canada will ratify the Kyoto Protocol. Mr. Speaker, the way Canada sets out to fulfill its Kyoto obligations could impact all Canadians, the economy and the natural environment which is so important to our residents. To date, we do not know what Canada's plan is.

However, on October 26th, federal Environment Minister David Anderson and Natural Resources Minister Herb Dhaliwal, are expected to release Canada's draft climate change implementation plan to all energy and environment Ministers in Halifax. Last week Minister Anderson reconfirmed to me that a basic principle of the implementation plan will be that no one region or sector will be unduly impacted. This is critical to the Northwest Territories where unprecedented levels of economic development are resulting in increased levels of greenhouse gas production.

Our government will review Canada's plan carefully in relation to our plans for resource development. We will also look at what actions called for in Canada's plan will cost this government and northern business. We need to understand how the plan can assist the Northwest Territories in reducing our dependence on important fossil fuels through energy efficiency measures and the development of natural gas and renewable energy sources that make economic sense. We also need to see how the federal plan fits with our greenhouse gas strategy and the energy strategy that we are developing.

Mr. Speaker, our analysis of Canada's implementation plan cannot begin until we see the plan. I will report on the outcomes of the October 28th meeting with energy and environment Ministers to the Legislative Assembly and provide a copy of Canada's plan to this Legislature, which is essential before any debate takes place.

In the meantime I will table two documents today that provide the most recent information we have about what Canada is considering including in its draft climate change implementation plan. The first document is the Discussion Paper on Canada's Contribution to Addressing Climate Change that was released in May this year. This document formed the basis for consultations that took place across Canada, including Yellowknife, over the summer. The second document is the report of the discussions at the Yellowknife workshop on June 13th.

Mr. Speaker, climate change is real. It represents an unsurpassed challenge for all Canadians and Northerners. This government has, and will continue to, actively participate in the national discussions on how Canada will fulfill its Kyoto obligations. Mahsi.

Minister's Statement 72-14(5): Kyoto Protocol
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Minister. Item 2, Ministers' statements. The honourable Minister responsible for the Status of Women, Mr. Kakfwi.

Minister's Statement 73-14(5): Tribute To Vi Beck
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

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Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to pay special tribute today to a strong and tireless advocate of women's equality in the Northwest Territories and an individual who has given selflessly for many years to advance issues of importance to the North's women, their families and their communities. I am speaking of Mrs. Viola Beck.

Vi's list of accomplishments, the roles she has played and the work she has done is lengthy. She served as the president of the Status of Women Council from 1999 until earlier this year. She was instrumental in the recognition of outstanding northern women through the annual Wise Women Awards. She was a valued participant in the economic development steering committee and served as chairperson of NWT Family Services. Mr. Speaker, these are just a few small examples of the many contributions Vi Beck has made to the North.

Today, however, after fighting for so many years on behalf of others in the NWT, Vi is waging her biggest battle ever -- against cancer. I would like to wish her well.

Over the years Vi's personal journey, particularly her healing and recovery from abuse, has inspired her and given her the strength to go out and help others. Two weeks ago in a News/North article she expressed her regret that this sickness was no longer allowing her the opportunity to work for others. It was a very telling comment from a woman who has spent most of her life committed to, and working for, the betterment of others.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this time today to thank Vi for her work and dedication and to wish her rest and recovery. Thank you.

Minister's Statement 73-14(5): Tribute To Vi Beck
Item 2: Ministers' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Premier. Item 2, Ministers' statements. The Honourable Premier, Mr. Kakfwi.

Stephen Kakfwi

Stephen Kakfwi Sahtu

Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that the Honourable Roger Allen will be absent from the House today to attend the funeral of Mrs. Agnes Semmler in Inuvik. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker

Thank you. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta, Mr. Krutko.

Seniors' Fossil Fuel Subsidy
Item 3: Members' Statements

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David Krutko

David Krutko Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak today on the programs and services that we have in place to support our seniors. Mr. Speaker, the seniors' home heating subsidy program is something that our seniors look forward to, but Mr. Speaker, from the information I have received, almost 50 percent of the people in my communities are either being rejected or told to appeal the decision. In most cases, it is because of income information.

Mr. Speaker, the seniors home heat subsidy helps low-income Northerners aged 60 and over who own their own homes to offset the high cost of heating during the winter months. The criteria, Mr. Speaker, in order to receive the subsidy, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • • Meet the approved household income test;
  • • Be a homeowner and principle resident of the home;
  • • Must be 60 years and over and a resident of the Northwest Territories; and
  • • Must not be eligible for income support or social assistance.

Mr. Speaker, the problem I see with the program as it is being delivered today, is the whole concept of that information that is needed to classify yourself in regard to your income...(inaudible)...., which is to qualify for seniors heat subsidy program, the applicant's maximum allowed household income for that year, it is line 236 of the federal income tax return, will not be more than what the maximums are set at.

Mr. Speaker, everyone knows that when you file your income tax, it is for the previous year. It is not for the year that we are in. The people who apply for the fuel subsidy program is within the year that we are in. That is the injustice that I see with this program as it is being delivered today.

Mr. Speaker, I think it is appropriate as a government to clear up this injustice to ensure our seniors do enjoy their time that they have remaining with us, but also ensure that the benefit is being delivered fairly. Right now, the way it is being delivered is unjust because of having to deal with federal income tax returns. The program should be based on the year that you apply for, and the income should be based on actual income of the day that you applied for the program.

Mr. Speaker, with that, I will be asking the Minister responsible for this program questions on it later. Thank you.

Seniors' Fossil Fuel Subsidy
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Krutko. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Hay River North, Mr. Delorey.

Northern Transportation Company Limited
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Paul Delorey

Paul Delorey Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize a company that has been plowing our waterways throughout the North for the past 68 years. The company I am referring to, Mr. Speaker, is Northern Transportation Company Limited, or NTCL for short.

Mr. Speaker, NTCL's roots date back many years, when two Edmonton businessmen looked north and saw a business opportunity moving goods throughout the Mackenzie River watershed. Mr. Speaker, in 1931, Northern Waterways Limited opened its doors with a massive fleet of one wooden tug and two wooden barges, and offered service between Waterways, Alberta and Aklavik, Northwest Territories. In 1934, Mr. Speaker, White Eagle Mines purchased all of Northern Waterways' equipment and the infant Northern Transportation Company Limited was born.

Mr. Speaker, NTCL has witnessed many transformations, accomplishments and milestones over the years on its way to becoming the dynamic company that it is today. One such milestone was the beginning of the 1937 navigational season, when NTCL introduced the first steel hull vessels into the watershed.

Mr. Speaker, NTCL has had many ups and downs over the years and has survived competition from many other transportation companies. There have been many industrial influences that have dictated NTCL's growth and direction, such as mining, oil and gas, increase in population growth in communities, as well as pressures from the Government of Canada and the United States. In addition, World War II, the Distant Early Warning line, the CANOL project, and the movement of bulk fuels have all played a pivotal role.

Mr. Speaker, the amount of freight handled through Hay River increased dramatically in 1948 with the completion of the Mackenzie Highway to Hay River, and NTCL soon opened a terminal there. The activities of the early 1970s saw the size of the NTCL fleet increase dramatically, and its commitment to serve the exploration industry and resupply the northern communities necessitated that the company improve its retrofit facilities, and in 1973, construction began in Hay River on a massive marine maintenance building and the only in-land sinker west of the Mississippi River.

Mr. Speaker, the ownership of NTCL has also changed a number of times over the years, including becoming a Crown corporation in 1949. There was probably no more important date, Mr. Speaker, as July 15, 1985.

Northern Transportation Company Limited
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Mr. Delorey, the time for your Member's statement is over. Mr. Delorey.

Northern Transportation Company Limited
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Paul Delorey

Paul Delorey Hay River North

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

Northern Transportation Company Limited
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you. The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to continue with his statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. You may continue, Mr. Delorey.

Northern Transportation Company Limited
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Paul Delorey

Paul Delorey Hay River North

Mr. Speaker, July 15, 1985, when the Government of Canada sold NTCL to the Inuvialuit Development Corporation and Nunasi Corporation. Mr. Speaker, the most important date for both myself and the residents of Hay River was June 15, 1995, when NTCL officially opened its new head office building in Hay River.

The company has been formally recognized as the NWT Business of the Year, and also received the Human Resources Canada Certificate of Merit Award for its initiatives and achievements in employment equity.

Mr. Speaker, NTCL is a vital part of Hay River's economy, employing in excess of 300 employees at peak times, and NTCL is a terrific corporate citizen.

Mr. Speaker, NTCL is Canada's only pan-Arctic marine operator with a transportation system that covers 11,000 kilometres. NTCL is now an international company with global dimensions and is continually looking for new opportunities.

Mr. Speaker, Hay River is very proud to be at the centre of NTCL's operations and I would like to wish them every success in their quest for a bright and prosperous future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Northern Transportation Company Limited
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Delorey. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for North Slave, Mr. Lafferty.

Highway No. 3 Maintenance And Repairs
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Leon Lafferty North Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the past few years, I have continually raised concerns about the maintenance, the repairs and the departmental priorities with regard to Highway No. 3. Mr. Speaker, I have repeatedly written the Minister responsible for Transportation over the last few months with specific suggestions on effective maintenance and their priorities. In his responses, the Minister lists reasons why the condition of Highway No. 3 has declined. The two main reasons include the decline of permafrost, which makes the road buckle, and an increase in traffic along this road.

He rightly points out that there is a greater need for maintenance along this road but resources made available to the department have not correspondingly increased.

What must also be considered is that the amount of gravel surface has decreased and maintenance dollars have remained at the same level. Still, the road condition continues to deteriorate. In his letter to me, the Minister stated that the maintenance methods used for the past 15 years by the department are effective. If this is the case, Mr. Speaker, then these are very low standards that are being used for Highway No. 3.

In the past, I have suggested more effective ways of maintaining this section of road because the conditions of the road have changed and it needed more attention.

Mr. Speaker, it has continually appeared to me that the department's priorities are on Highway No. 4 and the city streets over Highway No. 3 in the North Slave region. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, I witnessed work being done on roads into the city and also on the Ingraham Trail, but there were no crews on Highway No. 3.

Although I have been assured by the Minister that all highways have the same priorities, this is not reflected in actual practice. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions on these issues later today. Thank you.

Highway No. 3 Maintenance And Repairs
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Range Lake, Ms. Lee.

Breast Health Awareness Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Sandy Lee

Sandy Lee Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the Members are probably already aware by the pink ribbons they are wearing and the wonderful display set up in the Great Hall, October is Breast Health Awareness Month. The start of the campaign is marked annually by the hugely successful CIBC Run for the Cure, which this year, with the help of six other communities in the North, the city of Yellowknife may reach the $200,000 mark in money raised for the first time.

Mr. Speaker, I believe this tremendous community generosity comes from our growing understanding of the unflinching grasp of this disease, which continues to touch each and every one of us. While still less than in the provinces, the number of incidents of breast cancer in the North is on the rise.

Mr. Speaker, fortunately for all of us, early detection and advances in treatment through education and research, are helping to keep the rate of survival on the rise as well. When breast cancer enters a woman's life, it causes long-reaching effects into the lives of families, friends, and communities. More than anything else, the woman and her family reach out and rely on the help of those who understand the full characteristics and implications of this disease in all of its manifestations, physically and emotionally.

Two organizations in the North in particular worked very closely to provide information and support in this way. NWT Breast Health/Breast Cancer Action Group and the Canadian Cancer Society. The action group began their organized activities in 1997. This is a dedicated group made up of those who had been affected by breast cancer, either directly or through a loved one. With funding from Health Canada, which will last until March, 2003, their work is in development and dissimination of materials for youth by northern women and health care professionals in every community.

Their written, oral and visual and very unique materials created specifically for the northern women by northern women are being used by groups across Canada and as far away as Africa.

The action group also works in conjunction with many organizations that have an interest in breast health and breast cancer. One example is the development of guidelines and protocols for clinical breast exams and breast self-examinations developed by the Department of Health and Social Services in consultation with the action group.

The Canadian Cancer Society, whose work includes breast health and breast cancer began their work in the Northwest Territories eight years ago. Mr. Speaker, may I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement? Thank you.

Breast Health Awareness Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, you most certainly may. The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude her statement. Are there any nays? There are no nays. You may conclude your statement, Ms. Lee.

Breast Health Awareness Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

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Sandy Lee

Sandy Lee Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. Mr. Speaker, the Canadian Cancer Society, whose work includes breast health and breast cancer began their work in the Northwest Territories eight years ago. In addition to providing materials to every community in the North, the society provides all-important peer support training whereby recovered Northwest Territories cancer patients are taught how to give one-to-one emotional support to a newly diagnosed person.

The society has also just launched the Cancer Connection, a toll-free service whereby trained volunteers can provide emotional support by telephone to cancer patients in any community in the Territories.

Mr. Speaker, together these two organizations are addressing the information and the emotional needs created by the devastating disease of breast cancer. In honour of the Breast Health Awareness Month, and on behalf of everyone in this House, I would like to express my appreciation and recognize these organizations for the tremendously important contribution they make on a daily basis, for every woman and family and friends touched by breast cancer.

In particular, Ruby Trudell of the action group and Arlene Yaeeyko of the Cancer Society. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause

Breast Health Awareness Week
Item 3: Members' Statements

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The Speaker

Thank you, Ms. Lee. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre, Mr. Ootes.