Thank you,
Mr.
Chairman. Yes, I do. The Department of
Environment and Natural Resources is responsible for working with all people and interested organizations to protect our environment. This is done through the responsible and sustainable use of our resources for the social and economic benefit of residents.
Departmental goals include the protection of our air, land, water, wildlife and forests, a recognition that these important elements are linked, and an understanding that all residents have a part to play in keeping the environment healthy.
For the 2008–2009 fiscal year the departmental Main Estimates total $56.9 million, representing a decrease of approximately 1 per cent from the previous year. While the current fiscal situation of our government presents some challenges, it has also demanded the department focus its efforts on a few key areas and improve overall efficiencies in some programs.
Climate change remains a serious issue for the NWT. New actions proposed will help the GNWT achieve its greenhouse gas emission targets and will allow the GNWT to assist other sectors to develop their own emission-management plans and targets.
During 2008–2009 the department will spend almost $1
million on energy conservation and
alternative energy initiatives. Another $1.1 million will be spent on improving our environmental monitoring efforts. Members will note that there have been some reductions. Some of this funding will be re-profiled to meet actions identified under the Strategic Initiative Managing This Land and support the Legislative Assembly’s goal of an environment that will sustain present and future generations.
An operational review of the fire management program identified proposed reductions and increased efficiencies. ENR will work within these parameters and focus on a fire-management program that meets the objectives of protecting persons, property and other values at risk.
During 2008–2009 ENR will continue to provide wise stewardship management and protection of our natural resources and environment. Work will continue on major legislative initiatives, including tabling a new Species at Risk Act this spring, drafting a new Wildlife Act, expanding programs under the Waste Reduction and Recovery Act, and updating and modernizing forest management legislation and policy.
As I previously mentioned, the department will be focusing on four strategic investment areas: protect our waters, mitigate and adapt to climate change, improve environmental monitoring, and environmental stewardship. These actions identified under the Managing This Land Strategic Initiative are essential in ensuring our environment sustains present and future generations.
Members of this Legislative Assembly, aboriginal governments, and residents have identified protection of our water resources as a major priority. In response, the department is leading the development of an NWT water strategy to guide our actions in protecting water supply and quality.
ENR will also work closely with other departments to develop a Northwest Territories land-use framework. This framework will guide GNWT participation in land and governance issues and help to increase northern control over land and resources. In order to effectively respond to the proposed Mackenzie Gas Project and other major development projects, the GNWT requires the capacity to participate effectively in the regulatory reviews and manage the impacts of development.
Environmental monitoring is a crucial element in ensuring the sustainable development of our resources. Completion of the Northwest Territories ecosystem classification will provide a vital tool for government and industry in ensuring resource development is sustainable.
Environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility in the NWT and an integral part of our
day-to-day activities. We will continue to work with federal departments and agencies, aboriginal governments and organizations, industry, harvesters and stakeholders to preserve and conserve our wildlife and forest resources and protect our environment. Given the potential impacts of increased resource development on wildlife habitat, extra focus will be placed in some areas, including implementing actions outlined in the Barren-Ground Caribou Management Strategy to address issues raised by Members of the Legislative Assembly, co-management boards and delegates at the Caribou Summit.
As Members know, environmental issues are high on the agenda of NWT residents and other Canadians. The department will continue to work with federal and territorial departments and agencies, aboriginal governments, communities and other stakeholders on these issues. I am confident the Main Estimates for Environment and Natural Resources will ensure our environment can sustain present and future generations.
I would like to thank the Members of the Standing Committee on Economic Development and Infrastructure for their comments and suggestions during review of the Main Estimates. I look forward to the committee’s comments today, and I’m prepared to answer any questions the Members may have.