Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is a fundamental principle that we have in this House to allow us, as Members of this House, to get input from the public. The only avenue that the public has to influence this House is by way of petitions, and having input in regard to the public hearing process when bills are submitted to committees for the 120-day review period. In this case, that did not happen.
I think it is crucial if we want to get input from the public, we have to ensure that opportunity is given during that public hearing process. We cannot rush bills through this House for the sake of passing a bill. The 120 days is there for a particular purpose. It is there to ensure that we take the time and think of exactly what the avenues are going to be used for public consultation, and make an attempt to get public input.
Making that attempt is key. I for one feel that any crucial legislation that has implications with regard to the rights of individuals, and also the rights of aboriginal peoples, have to be considered through a public process.
Mr. Speaker, I think it is crucial. I have been approached by members of the band council, the chiefs and Metis local presidents, that they wanted to know what was happening with this bill, where it was at. I think it is crucial that former Members of this House have asked the committee for public hearings, such as the former Speaker of this House. That did not happen.
I am asking here again that we allow due process to take place, have to allow for a public hearing to take place on this bill, and this is our last opportunity to do so. If not, I think we are doing injustice to not only the bill but to the people of the Northwest Territories. I think it is crucial that we take the time to have a public hearing.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Premier and Members of Cabinet to have a free vote on this. I would also like a recorded vote.