Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday at noon we historically marked the first public review of the Northwest Territories bills related to the devolution of responsibility of lands and resources from Canada to our government. More history will be made next week with the passing of third reading of these bills and others.
The Standing Committee on Priorities and Planning reviewed three bills: the Reindeer Act, the Archeological Sites Act and the Surface Rights Board Act. Like all devolution legislation, these bills have to mirror the existing federal legislation just as the GNWT will mirror the administration themselves after April 1st .
The committee’s review was thorough, but limited. Usually committee can improve and amend the bills it considers, typically after holding public consultations and seeking advice from the public. In the case of the devolution bills, we could not amend them because then they would not mirror the current federal laws as per our Devolution Agreement.
I want the public to know that we are listening. It is not lost on us that they want changes. We cannot change these bills today without jeopardizing devolution, but we will be able to change them once they become territorial law. Speaking with constituents, I know that they understand this.
In some ways the colonial type of distant government of our lands and resources in Ottawa will now be closer to home on April 1st of this year.
We can make northern decisions with northern tools to address northern priorities.
I was very pleased during the committee’s public hearing on Wednesday that the Premier committed to a public process for reviewing and understanding the devolution legislation soon after it passes. Involving all of our Aboriginal partners is critical.
Along with a lot of my MLA colleagues, I am focused on the future of our lands and resources under our own laws. I look forward to improving a management system that really works for our people and protects the lands and waters.
Later today I will have questions for Mr. Premier. Thank you very much.