[English translation not provided.]
During the 15th Assembly I introduced a motion
requesting the government to establish a policy that would spend up to 1 per cent of the budget on each G.N.W.T. building or major renovation on Northern
arts creations displayed or integrated into the design of that building.
This motion passed, supported by the government of the day. Premier Handley at that time promised an arts enhancement policy that was supposedly already in the works at that time.
Now a new community building is being built in Fort Simpson that will replace the Deh Cho Hall. This is the perfect opportunity to ensure that art is included in the building. The Deh Cho complex will be central to the life of the community. What better place to make the community members proud, and indeed the N.W.T. tradition of artistic expression is exposed to the public anytime that people gather there.
I approached the Minister of Public Works and Services about the government’s plans to include arts and crafts in the new Deh Cho Hall. I was very saddened to hear that there is no budget at all for these arts and crafts. Several constituents have urged me to address this issue and urge government to move forward with this important initiative.
Artists and artisans of Nahendeh and the N.W.T. have been recognized for their outstanding arts and crafts. This should be on public display in all our government buildings. One of the goals of the 16th Assembly….
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.