Mr. Speaker, one could say the reason that legislation was adopted by the previous government was to protect the residents of the Northwest Territories. For example, if the Power Corporation itself, which is fully regulated by the PUB…. I must say, on the PUB side their voice is being heard through this process, as the Minister responsible seeks their input in some of the work he brings to the table. That aside, the rate structure, or the structure that was put into place around the hydro corporation side of things, was done in a way that would minimize impact on the rate base or the residential groups and commercial groups out there that are now regulated.

For example, if we were to do hydro expansion within the existing framework, all of those costs per capita would end up being borne by the rate base of the Northwest Territories or that region or community. It was felt that in today’s framework, that would not be affordable for individuals or companies. Instead, for example, the Taltson is outside that system. It’s going to be paid for by industry if the plan moves ahead as it’s been designed.