Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, I raised an important point about building a positive relationship specifically with our neighbouring government, the Tlicho Government. Mr. Speaker, the Tlicho Community Government in each community appoints representatives to sit on a regional board for this agency, the Tlicho Community Services Agency. The chairperson is jointly appointed by the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, in consultation with the Tlicho Government. However, under 4(2) under the Tlicho Community Services Act, the legislation says that a person is not eligible for appointment to the board if their spouse or dependents work for the agency. This has been interpreted to mean that, once appointed, spouses and children of the board members cannot work for the agency, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, my question to the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs is would the Minister please tell us is there a compelling reason why conflict of interest for the agency board such as the Tlicho Community Services Agency members need to be imbedded in legislation where it is difficult to change? Mahsi.