Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the NWT Association of Municipalities, now called the NWT Association of Communities, was formed in 1967 and has stayed the course by adapting to the changing political landscape by providing a forum in which member communities can discuss and exchange information on common issues.
Mr. Speaker, over the last several decades, communities in the NWT have had to focus on land claims and what impact it would have, not only on individuals, but also on the communities as a whole. As aboriginal claims are settled, and aboriginal self-government becomes a topic, the same communities must now become informed on the impact that will have on communities. It is stated in the document, Securing Our Future, that the Government of the Northwest Territories must work with the aboriginal and community governments to clarify new roles brought on by aboriginal self-government.
Mr. Speaker, the association wishes to put action to that statement by taking up the challenge to assist each of its member communities in understanding aboriginal self-government and self-government implementation processes at the community level. With encouragement from the Premier, the association submitted a proposal to MACA requesting funds for the purpose of employing a self-government liaison officer whose duties will include providing communities with the information and support required to better understand the impact of self-government and self-government implementation may have at the community level.
This government now has the opportunity to live up to its commitment by supporting the proposal submitted to the Minister of MACA by the NWT Association of Communities. It's an excellent and timely opportunity for this government to develop a partnership with the communities for the delivery and communication of information on self-government. Who better to have as a partner than an organization with member community governments that interact with local residents on a daily basis.
Mr. Speaker, self-government may lead to a change in the way community government is structured and delivered. Therefore, it is important that we provide every resource to the communities in order that they better understand aboriginal self-government. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of this request from the NWT Association of Communities and I recommend this government show its support by considering this initiative, an initiative that will result in informed communities and individuals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause