Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Standing Committee on Governance and Economic Development is pleased to report on its review of Bill 25, Municipal Statutes Replacement Act.

The committee would like to commend the work of the NWT Association of Communities and the department over the last several years to bring this bill before the Assembly. President Blake Lyons of the NWT Association of Communities informed committee that this review has continued through two territorial elections and at least three municipal terms. Members understand that municipal governments are looking forward to these long-awaited changes. As President Lyons stated, "Municipalities need adequate powers and discretion to deal with community needs now and in the future. The broader grants of power and discretion found in the proposed legislative changes will enable council to meet future needs."

The committee would also like to thank all the witnesses for their presentations and insights on this bill.