Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to highlight one of the most significant happenings during the life of this Assembly and the history of the North. Of course, I am talking about the Tlicho agreement.
On August 25, 2003, the Prime Minister of Canada, the Premier of the Northwest Territories and the five chiefs in the Dogrib region signed a final agreement. Although both the federal and territorial governments still need to complete legislation for this agreement, a corner has been turned and self-government is in sight. One of the key elements of their agreement is the establishment of new community governments in the four Tlicho communities. These community governments will both represent all residents and be a method of implementing the aboriginal inherent right to self-government. In addition to community governments, the Tlicho government will be responsible for overall operations in the Dogrib region.
Mr. Speaker, self-government means many things to many people. To many self-government is a sign of hope and a sign of change. Self-government is defined by two key words: openness and accountability. We, in the Dogrib region, have, for many years, been accountable to the federal government in terms of finances, law-making and administration. Now in these areas, the Tlicho government will be accountable to the Tlicho people.
Mr. Speaker, elections will be held for officials in the Tlicho government. Tlicho government and all Tlicho companies and boards will provide audited financial statements and budgets for approval. By knowing what the budget is we can make choices for our future and the future of our children. We will be able to work toward self-sustaining communities.
Mr. Speaker, like anything, self-government is a process. A legislative process as well as an evolving personal and community journey. In recognition of this process, the negotiators have established a way that changes can be made to the future constitution if they are needed, so that the best interest of the Dogrib are protected.
Mr. Speaker, the creation, signing and implementation of the Tlicho land claim is and will be a time of learning for all our people as we try to promote and protect Tlicho heritage, culture and way of life. In closing I would like to acknowledge the years of dedication that the negotiators for the Dogrib Treaty 11 Council, the federal and territorial governments have spent in creating this agreement. Thank you Mr. Speaker.
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