During clause-by-clause review of the bill, committee passed a motion approved by the Minister that 4(c) be amended to delete the words "during pregnancy."

As the act was presented to committee, clause 4(c) stated that midwives

"[consult] with medical practitioners or other health care professionals if medical conditions exist or arise during pregnancy that may require management outside the scope of the practice of registered midwives"

Ms. Paulette spoke on behalf of the Midwives' Association of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut to recommend "the words 'during pregnancy' be removed from this clause, as they limit the circumstances under which midwives may initiate a medical consultation."

The members of the standing committee could see no reason why this amendment should not be made. In communities midwives can, and do, relieve some of the burden of other medical professionals by counseling women on health and reproductive issues. The standing committee was pleased the Minister concurred with this amendment.