The Honourable J. Michael Miltenberger, MLA for Thebacha, and Mrs. Jane Groenewegen, MLA for Hay River South, have both served the people of the North as elected officials with great dedication and they continue to demonstrate leadership and extraordinary commitment to advance the programs and services for the people of their communities, their regions and the Northwest Territories.
They are currently the longest-serving Members of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories, as both were elected in October of 1995. Their re-election to the 17th Legislative
Assembly marks their fifth consecutive term, and once completed, they will join former Members Tom Butters and Ludy Pudluk as the only Members to have served a fifth consecutive term in the history of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories.
The Honourable J. Michael Miltenberger is currently the Minister of Finance, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Minister responsible for the NWT Power Corporation, and Government House Leader. During the 16th Assembly he served as
Deputy Premier, Government House Leader, Minister of Finance, chair of the Financial Management Board, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Minister of Health and Social Services, Minister responsible for Persons with Disabilities, Minister responsible for Homelessness, and the Minister responsible for Seniors. During his time in the Legislature, he has served in a number of other portfolios as well. Mr. Miltenberger also stood as chair of the Financial Management Board and has led various committees over the years.
Mrs. Jane Groenewegen is currently the Deputy Speaker of the 17th Legislative Assembly. In
addition to her work as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, she has served previously as Deputy Premier, Minister of Health and Social Services, Minister responsible for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities, as well as the Minister responsible for the Status of Women. During the 15th Assembly she
also served as the Deputy Speaker.
Honourable Minister Miltenberger and Mrs. Groenewegen, your 17 years of service for the people of the Northwest Territories is well deserving of this honour.