Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. (Translation) My Member's statement for today is regarding leaders, the RCMP. When we call the RCMP station in Rae, we are forwarded to Yellowknife station. Sometimes when there are emergencies, we have to wait a very long time to get a response and people are not happy with that. (Translation ends)
...an issue or a concern that many people from my community of Behchoko have been phoning the RCMP after normal hours. Mr. Speaker, calls from Behchoko to the RCMP are routed to Yellowknife detachment after regular hours with no person there speaking the Tlicho language. In Behchoko, a number of people that speak their Tlicho language just hover over 60 to 80 percent. This is something that we take great pride in, Mr. Speaker. Unfortunately, it sometimes puts our citizens at risk when services are not available in our own languages. Measures must be in place to ensure the protection and safety of our people, especially those who are unable to speak English, should be a priority.
Mr. Speaker, elders in our community who can only speak their native tongue rely on the people to speak for them. They cannot always count on someone being able to help them especially in emergency and violent situations.
Mr. Speaker, as part of the RCMP accountability to the Northwest Territories, they state that in cooperation with the GNWT Department of Justice, they are committed to leading the country in the delivery of superior services, reflective of community needs and values. They have an opportunity to demonstrate this commitment by providing round-the-clock services in a Tlicho language, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, the people of Behchoko want to work with the RCMP and the Government of the Northwest Territories to find a solution. Together, in partnership with the GNWT and RCMP, we can work towards a safer community for all residents. Mahsi.
---Applause