The process we operate under is one that has been existing for quite a number of years. In fact, many of the aboriginal governments in the Northwest Territories and aboriginal people say that this style is not representative of the people that live here in the North and that we should take a look at it. In fact, a number of processes were undergone. The 13th Assembly started some work; I believe it started in the 12th Assembly and went on into the 13th Assembly. In fact, I have recently spoken with the Dene national chief, Bill Erasmus, about looking at a process that would look at the Constitution, one, and a constitution of the Northwest Territories because there is not one right now. We operate under the NWT Act. First Nations and aboriginal governments working with self-government arrangements with the federal government, and we’re at the table. I would say that I agree that the consensus style of government and the system or, as some Members say, maybe the personalities at the table trying to make this work, we’ve been having quite a bit of difficulty. We need to take the next step to function and get things done for the people of the Northwest Territories. So I would say here’s the opportunity. Let’s take it up and let’s agree and let’s approach the aboriginal governments of the Northwest Territories and set up a new process where we can review how the Northwest Territories will be governed overall.
Floyd Roland on Question 160-16(3): State Of Consensus Government
In the Legislative Assembly on February 19th, 2009. See this statement in context.
Question 160-16(3): State Of Consensus Government
Oral Questions
February 18th, 2009
Inuvik Boot Lake
See context to find out what was said next.