Good afternoon, Members.

Colleagues, after consideration of the matter, I wish to give my ruling on the point of order raised by the Government House Leader on June 17, 2016, regarding comments made by the Member for Yellowknife Centre on the previous day. I recognize that we have a great deal of business before us, so I will endeavour to be brief.

In raising the point of order, the government House Leader cited Rule 24(k) of the Rules of the Legislative Assembly, "use of abusive or insulting language of a nature likely to create disorder."

I have now had the opportunity to review the unedited transcripts from June 16, 2016, and have carefully considered the remarks which gave rise to the point of order. In her Member’s statement, the Member for Yellowknife Centre stated that recent increases to Government of the Northwest Territories' sole--source contracting limits "raise the possibility of malfeasance and corruption in the spending of public funds," and further stated that, "these elevated amounts increase the possibility of kickbacks and preferment."

I am guided by the second edition of the House of Commons Procedure and Practice, 2009, which states at page 619: "In dealing with unparliam entary language, the Speaker takes into account the tone, manner and intention of the Member speaking; the person to whom the words at issue were directed, the degree of provocation; and most importantly, whether or not the remarks created disorder in the Chamber. Thus, language deemed unparliamentary one day may not necessarily be deemed un-parliamentary the following day," and further, "expressions which are considered unparliamentary when applied to an individual Member have not always been considered so when applied in a general sense."

Colleagues, it can be difficult to evaluate the words spoken by a Member in terms of tone, manner, and intention. As Speaker of the House, I must trust that all Members will choose their words with care and attention and also to speak with integrity and also respect. As Members of this House, we enjoy and are protected by parliamentary privileges when we speak in this House. When we exercise this privilege, we must do so in a manner that is fitting for this House, and demonstrates respect for the people that we represent.

Whether or not a statement made in this House violates the rules of this Assembly, our words can have unintended consequences. Every time we speak we must carefully consider our words and the impacts they may have. Our freedom of speech as Members does not outweigh our responsibilities to this House, our colleagues, and the people of the Northwest Territories.

After careful consideration of the Member's comments, as set out in the unedited Hansard as well as remarks during the debate on the point of order, I conclude that there is no point of order at this point.

There is no doubt that the Member for Yellowknife Centre used strong and inflammatory language to describe the possibility of a very serious issue. However, on its own, such language does not necessarily constitute a violation of the rules of this Assembly.

During debate on the point of order, the Member for Yellowknife Centre reiterated her view that recent increases to Government of the Northwest Territories sole-source contracting limits increases the risk of "improper conduct" but went on to recognize that the Government of the Northwest Territories has been vigilant in responding to this increased risk. At no point did the Member state that any individual is guilty of a violation of the law or Government of the Northwest Territories' procurement policies.

Democracy relies on a certain level of tension between the various branches of government. In our consensus system, we try to keep that tension at a healthy and productive level. While there is no point of order, I caution the Member, and all Members of this House, to choose their words carefully in the future. I would just like to say masi.

Item 2, Ministers' statements. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment.

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to advise this House that a ceremony was held earlier today to celebrate seven individuals who have made tremendous contributions to education in the Northwest Territories. The Department of Education, Culture and Employment launched the Education Hall of Fame in 2010 to recognize the many Northerners that play an important role in supporting the education of our children. It reflects the valuable contributions made by various educators, volunteers, board members, administrators, and other community members across the territory.

Mr. Speaker, for this year's celebration, nominations poured in from every region, and seven people were chosen from across the territory. The 2016 inductees embody the commitment, diligence, creativity, and passion that we want education to inspire in us all.

From the Beaufort Delta Region, Sarah Jerome is a Gwich'in Elder who was among one of the first Northwest Territories' residents to become a certified teacher. Sarah began working in the education system with the teaching and learning centre in the Beaufort Delta sharing her passion for language and culture. That passion continued throughout her lifetime as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent of the Beaufort Delta Education Council, Languages Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, and most recently as a guest lecturer at Harvard University.

From the Dehcho Region, Valerie Gendron is a tireless advocate for education and activity. A teacher in Fort Simpson for more than 25 years, her commitment to education encompasses coaching curling, hockey, track and field, soccer, figure skating, speed skating, gymnastics, and table tennis. She has lobbied for funding to improve the cooking program and volunteered at the local pool, running classes for parents and children.

From the Sahtu Region, Vivian Pellissey has been a teacher in Tulita for over 35 years. Her dedication to ensuring that her students understand their culture and speak their language has been a driving force for her. She has taught generations of children, and continues teaching today.

From the South Slave Region, Jane Dragon has been active in her community since the 1960s. Acting as a key parent volunteer during the years her six children went to school, she could be counted on for field trips, teaching students about cooking traditional foods, skinning a muskrat, as well as travelling as a coach or a chaperone on numerous school trips and competitions. She has helped guide the development of Chipewyan resources in the community, has extensive traditional knowledge, and maintained an open house to any student that needed a place to stay or home-cooked meals.

From the Tlicho Region, Jim Martin is a Senior Policy Advisor with the Tlicho Government. His efforts in education in the Tlicho region span many years through numerous positions. He has always focused on transforming the education system through leading from behind and empowering local people to take responsibility for their learning and leadership for themselves and their communities. He has been a teacher, principal, superintendent, and the Tlicho Community Service Agency's first Chief Executive Officer. In 2006, under his leadership, the TCSA received the prestigious Silver Innovative Management Award from the Institute of Public Administrators of Canada, and the Public Service Award from the United Nations in 2007.

In the North Slave Region, Rita Mueller has been involved with youth since she arrived in the North in the late 1980s. She has been a lifeguard, a coach, a teacher, a principal, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Tlicho Community Services Agency. At the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, she was the Director of Early Childhood and School Services and now holds the position of assistant deputy minister of Education and Culture. She has consistently encouraged students to set their goals high, and helped them reach those goals through her passion and dedication. Under Rita's principal leadership, Chief Jimmy Bruneau School in Behchoko was selected as one of the top Aboriginal schools in Canada.

For the Minister's Choice Award, Muriel Tolley from Yellowknife has been a passionate advocate for education for many years. A pioneer in teacher preparation and induction, as well a long-time teacher and educator at all levels of education in both Nunavut and the NWT, Muriel has a deep knowledge of the history and policies of education in the North. She has made a professional career through advancing education in the NWT focusing on the importance of Aboriginal peoples' history, traditions, culture, and language and has been a dedicated advocate for positive change to take place at the community level, seeing education at all levels as the path for growth.

Of these distinguished people, some are with us today in the Gallery. Mr. Speaker, this is our seventh group of inductees into the Education Hall of Fame. They are truly remarkable people who reflect the principles of dedication and passion in education and inspire us to do more and believe in ourselves.

Education is one of the priorities of this Assembly, and the 2016 Education Hall of Fame inductees are shining examples of reaching beyond barriers and challenges and inherently understanding the need to invest in our students and communities. Please join me in honouring the 2016 inductees and thank them for dedicating their life's work to the students, families, and communities of the Northwest Territories. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Ministers' statements. Minister of Human Resources.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories is a diverse workplace, with employees working in many different locations and in a variety of capacities. Regardless of the kind of work they do, all employees have a fundamental right to be healthy and safe in the workplace. Ensuring we have a strong, safe, and healthy workplace allows the GNWT to deliver key services and programs to residents of the Northwest Territories.

As the biggest employer in the Northwest Territories, it is important that the GNWT leads by example. By creating a safe and healthy work environment, the GNWT can maintain its position as an employer of choice. I am committed to ensuring that the Department of Human Resources continues its leadership on the corporate framework that supports the implementation of the GNWT's occupational health and safety program in its departments and agencies.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Human Resources is developing an overarching occupational health and safety framework that will assist with streamlining GNWT health and safety procedures. More importantly, the framework will put consistent standards and directives into place across all departments and agencies to ensure that we are all doing the right things for our employees. The Department is also working to strengthen the occupational health and safety culture of the GNWT through the development of a suite of policies that will complement the existing Occupational Health and Safety Policy.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that for the 2015-16 fiscal year, the GNWT has been successful on the Worker's Safety and Compensation Commission's Safe Advantage Program and the Management Practice Questionnaire. This is an annual process that involves a 48-point questionnaire, as well as a rigorous audit by the WSCC to confirm our responses. This significant achievement demonstrates the government's commitment to health and safety in the workplace and provides us with valuable, objective feedback on how we can continue to improve.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my congratulations to the GNWT departments, boards, and agencies for our recent success on the Safe Advantage Program and to challenge our entire government to continue to meet and exceed standards for health and safety in the workplace. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Ministers' statements. Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment.

Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories has a centuries-long history in trapping and the fur trade. We have a high regard for the cultural values entrenched in this tradition, which set Northerners apart from other Canadians, and for the activities of the traditional economy, which have helped shape our North and remain in many of our communities today. As a proud founder and partner of the Fur Institute of Canada, the Government of the Northwest Territories continues its tradition of leadership in this industry.

This week, the Fur Institute of Canada will hold its Annual General Meeting in Yellowknife. This is an ideal time to reflect on the important role trapping plays in our Northwest Territories economy and what our government is doing to support it. Mr. Speaker, Northwest Territories trappers are the very best in their trade and so is the fur they ship to market. The Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program and the similarly targeted Hide and Fur Procurement Program are testaments to this fact and reflect this government's commitment to support and promote excellence in our traditional economy, from the trap line through to the marketplace.

Mr. Speaker, with over $2.5 million in contributions to the economy, last year, trapping provides individuals in our territory valuable opportunities for income and employment and is as important to the northern economy as small-scale farming is in southern Canada. Mr. Speaker, this is particularly true in our most remote communities where the fur industry has sustained Aboriginal populations for hundreds of years, providing food, clothing, shelter, tools, and goods for trade. An industry that can continue to offer a reliable and sustainable safe haven against the fluctuations of a boom-and-bust economy and helps us diversify and balance our economy in a manner that respects the social and cultural values and aspirations of our people.

Mr. Speaker, trapping also instills a respect for, and knowledge of, our land and wildlife. It requires careful, consistent observation of the environment and the animals which interact with it. Reports back from trappers have long played an important role in the Northwest Territories' conservation efforts. Mr. Speaker, through trapping, our Aboriginal populations pass the practices of our ancestors to new generations. By bringing youth into the fold, cultural pride and an appreciation for getting out on the land can be fostered and encouraged for a lifetime.

Mr. Speaker, it is for these reasons our Government has chosen to remain ahead of the curve in our proactive approach to this important sector, jointly led by the Departments of Industry, Tourism and Investment and Environment and Natural Resources. We continue to connect our trappers to international markets while educating and training resident trappers to maximize their returns with consistent and best practices for trapping and pelt preparation with the world-renowned Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur brand. Through our Hide and Fur Procurement Program, we also connect local artisans with traditional materials to support their arts and their livelihoods, reinvigorating community-based sewing groups, bringing youth and elders together to pass on traditional skills and hear stories of the past.

Mr. Speaker, The Department of Environment and Natural Resources works with trappers to deliver the Take a Kid Trapping Program, and provide fur remnants to schools across the territory for use in crafting projects every year. The Northwest Territories is one of very few jurisdictions offering this kind of support for traditional practices. We are proud of this and of the fact that our programs are the envy of the Canadian trapping industry. The benefits of these small, but extremely dynamic, made-in-the-Northwest-Territories programs to our trapping industry continue to impress. Our government will continue to support and encourage this sector and the socio-economic benefits it brings to our residents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Ministers' statements. Minister of Transportation.

Mr. Speaker, investments in the transportation system will help to improve the safety of the travelling public, lower the cost of living, adapt to the effects of climate change, and support economic opportunities. Successful funding agreements with Canada are critical to see these projects to completion.

Last summer, we received federal approval for the first bundle of projects submitted under the New Building Canada Plan, creating significant opportunities to improve Northwest Territories highways. Now, with the summer construction season upon us again, the Department of Transportation will continue to make improvements to highways and airports across the territory.

Mr. Speaker, work is currently being done on nearly every NWT highway. I would like to provide a brief summary of these ongoing improvements, starting in the south and moving north.

The section of Highway No. 1 between Fort Simpson and the junction with Highway No. 3 will see improvements ranging from road widening to drainage improvements and resurfacing. Highway No. 6 to Fort Resolution will also see road widening and drainage improvements, along with sub-base and base course construction. Rehabilitation to increase the structural integrity of Highway No. 7 will take place near Fort Liard. Structural strengthening, road widening, drainage, and resurfacing work will take place on Highway No. 3 between Behchoko and Yellowknife. Final work on the realigned section of Highway No. 4, including clearing the right of way, installing permanent signage, and bridge improvements will be completed this summer. Finally, on the Dempster Highway, embankment will be widened in various sections.

In addition to this work, the 2016-17 federal budget included $21.6 million in funding to pave the section of Highway No. 5 that runs through Wood Buffalo National Park. Parks Canada will be taking responsibility for the project and will identify the full scope and design. We have been in contact with Parks Canada to discuss available granular resources for the project and will assist our federal partners as required.

Mr. Speaker, all airports in the NWT are federally regulated. Improvements to air services and airport infrastructure are mutually beneficial to both our government and the Government of Canada.

The federal Airport Capital Assistance Program, or ACAP, was developed in 1995 to help regional airports pay for up to 100 per cent of the costs of projects aimed at improving safety, protecting assets, and reducing operating costs. The Department of Transportation has taken advantage of this program in the past and there are currently several projects benefitting from its funding. A total of $1.3 million has been dedicated to rehabilitating runway lighting at the airport in Tuktoyaktuk beginning in 2016-17, to enhance operational safety and improve maintenance ability at the airport. In 2016, the Department of Transportation will also finish rehabilitating the runway lighting at the Norman Wells airport. That project received $1.4 million from ACAP, back in 2014. Finally, the Department has received $800,000 to replace the emergency response crash truck at the airport in Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, a great deal is being done to strengthen and improve our existing transportation system. However, the list of priorities continues to grow and additional resources are required on an ongoing basis. Our government must continue to take every opportunity to highlight the infrastructure needs of our territory and work with the federal government to achieve our mutual priorities. The final report of the Canada Transportation Act Review Panel, which was released in February 2016, included a list of recommendations for federal investment in some of our top transportation infrastructure priorities, including investment in the development of three corridors: the Mackenzie Valley Highway, the Tlicho All-Season Road and access to the Slave Geological Province. This summer, the federal government is engaging with key stakeholders, governments, and the general public in all jurisdictions to talk about the findings of this report. Our government will use this opportunity to support the implementation of these important recommendations.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to strengthen our partnership with Canada by ensuring that the priorities and challenges of our territory are being recognized. Our government has made significant commitments to increasing NWT transportation infrastructure by contributing 25 per cent of the costs for projects funded under the New Building Canada Plan and delivering project management and ongoing operations and maintenance. Infrastructure improvements provide significant economic and social benefits for NWT residents, including employment and training opportunities, reducing the cost of living in remote communities, supporting local businesses and local economies, and providing more efficient means to bring non-renewable resources to markets. The Department of Transportation is committed to identifying new prospects to increase investment in the NWT transportation system in collaboration with our federal counterparts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Nahendeh.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, Mr. Speaker, I'm fulfilling the commitment I made to some youth ambassadors who are part of the NWT Association of Communities 50thAnniversary Conference. It was great to see them work hard and engaged in the process.

Mr. Speaker, the NWT Youth Ambassador Program was a pilot project at the 2007 Canada Winter Games. With this event being a success, the program had expanded to 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver. With the success of these two pilot projects, the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs made the program permanent. The amazing part of this program is to watch youth develop into strong leaders through a lead and organized experience, whether it's at territorial events like the Circumpolar Games, national events like the Federal/Territorial/Provincial meeting in the NWT, and international events like the Para-Pan and PanAm Games. It is a model that is recognized by other governments and expanded to Greenland this year, which is very impressive.

Mr. Speaker, at all these events they have an opportunity to develop life and job skills while building on their confidence necessary to deal with challenges that they face throughout their life journey.

Mr. Speaker, I could spend hours telling you stories about some of their feats. With limited time, I want to share one story with you about a young man who liked working late shifts. This young man would spend hours and hours switching shifts so he could work in the evening. At the end of the evening he would actually take boxes of food and come back home to the residence. Unfortunately food would never ever make it back home and we couldn't understand what was happening with this food.

About two days before the end of the event, a fellow youth ambassador came to us and explained what was happening. This young man was taking the food and giving it to people on the street, the homeless, and making a difference. This is the young peoples and leaders of our territories, which I'm very proud to say I was part of.

Mr. Speaker, at the end of the events the ambassadors were asked to fill out a form that's called "Describe the Most Significant Change." Mr. Speaker, I've asked and received permission to share one with you here today. Youth ambassadors -- and this is her words exactly: "Youth ambassadors offer a door to endless possibilities and success. For many of us, having a point in your life where you think there is nothing you can do and you feel your life is going nowhere, and then coming to a program and then meet people like MACA sport and recreation staff and peers would make a difference in our lives.” Mr. Speaker, I'd like to seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you.

---unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank my colleagues for allowing me to conclude my statement. “Knowing that there are people in the North constantly working towards providing and sharing the opportunity for our opinions and leadership is refreshing, it fills us with the empowerment for change, self-discipline and the chance to voice the thoughts, feelings and solution of the youth. On behalf of all the NWT youth, please acknowledge the efforts of the youth. If we are struggling, mentor us, do not leave us. If we are succeeding, encourage us and do not tear us down. For me, making a difference in the future is a guarantee if I have the support.” Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I'd like to talk about the Agriculture Strategy for the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, people everywhere have certain basic needs that unite us as humans, such things as shelter, family, clothing, and the need for food. To thrive and flourish, every human being requires access to a healthy diet. Without that, none of the other elements of a healthy and happy life are possible. Like a lot of things, getting access to a healthy diet presents the North with more challenges than most other Canadian regions. Our communities are smaller and sparsely located, we're challenged by transportation between communities and access to the rest of the country, and our climate doesn't favour growing in abundance or during all periods of the year.

Nevertheless, the land has provided for people here, for as long as any of us can remember. Many types of foods thrive on our land, and have sustained people for many generations. There's a history of producing local crops in many northern communities in all regions. Recent years have seen innovation and new initiatives that make producing some of our own foods a reality in most NWT communities.

Mr. Speaker, like anything, food production takes knowledge and hard work. Anyone who has worked the land will tell you, it's not a matter of throwing down some seeds and then harvesting supper. But it is possible to supplement imported processed and packaged food with locally grown crops. Not only does that provide us with a healthy alternative in many cases, it also helps us to become more independent, and less reliant on southern producers. It helps us to be more secure in our own supply of our own foods and ultimately our own health. Most certainly there are economic benefits to our communities that result from spending here at home, as well as reducing the cost of living.

Mr. Speaker, last summer the government consulted with people in the agriculture community. Northerners are excited, and many are passionate, about the potential for growing our own food. In our mandate discussions earlier this year, this Assembly committed to investing in our agricultural sector, and specifically to developing and implementing an Agriculture Strategy, that I am now pleased to see is underway. At the appropriate time today, I'll have questions about the strategy for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Members' statements. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.

Marci cho, Mr. Speaker. I would like to use this time to speak about the important work the Yellowknives Dene First Nation are doing to enhance skills and employment for members in Ndilo and Detah.

Through strategic planning, the YKDFN have identified gaps and areas of need for skills development. Mr. Speaker, both of YKDFN's Community Readiness Plan and their Labour Force Development Strategy analyze local job market and skill gaps for Members in Ndilo, Detah, and Yellowknife. These studies demonstrate a need for skills development and education upgrading in these communities. Approximately 46.6 per cent of residents in Ndilo and Dettah have a high school diploma, which is below the territorial average of 73.6 per cent. As well, Mr. Speaker, employment rates in Ndilo and Dettah are very low. As is the case in most of the small communities.

Mr. Speaker, YKDFN's solution is a locally delivered skills training to employment program that offers job counselling, personal counselling, targeted skills training, and work integrated training opportunities, all while retaining important connections to culture and tradition. The program, Dechita Naowo, is an upgraded version of a skills development program already delivered by YKDFN's Wellness Department that was successful in moving members from training to employment.

The Dechita Naowo program is an implementation of recommendations outlined in our Labour Force Development Strategy. Dechita Naowo also closely aligns with the GNWT's Skills 4 Success initiative. For instance, goal one of Skills 4 Success is to increase skill levels through relevant education and training. Dechita Naowo has built-in training programs and educational upgrading programs that prepare members to work in emerging jobs in the NWT. Dechita Naowo aligns with goal two of Skills 4 Success through bridging employment gaps through targeted supports by developing targeted training programs. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. By developing targeted training programs to participants that are based on needs of the industry. As well, information about Dechita Naowo participants will be tracked and maintained in YKDFN's labour force database. YKDFN will be able to better monitor their labour force and develop skills training that align with labour market trends. There is alignment between Skills 4 Success, YKDFN's Labour Force Strategy, and the Dechita Naowo program, but there is little synergy between the strategies to implement local skills development. The YKDFN have worked very hard to strategically identify and find solutions to these local skills gaps. Thank you Mr. Speaker

Masi. Members' statements. Member for Sahtu.

Mr. Speaker, today I'd like to use this time here to share a couple announcements here. One is to Ms. Vivian Pellissey there who the Minister earlier mentioned on receiving the Education Hall of Fame. Congratulations Ms. Pellissey on your over 30 years of dedication to strengthening the educational foundation of the Community of Tulita, truly a large and most recognized reward and I extend my support to you.

The second one is to recognize this day here, 23 years ago we seen the conclusion of the Sahtu Dene and Metis Comprehensive Land Claim, which was signed on this day and received a royal assent that following fall. So it's a contributed recognized achievement for the people of the Sahtu region, so I'd certainly like to share that with my colleagues in this House and the people in the gallery. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Members' statements. Member for Kam Lake.

Mr. Speaker, both on the hustings and in this House, I've spoken about the NWT's need to evolve into a knowledge economy. That is the key to breaking the boom-and-bust cycle that prevents the North from transforming into the long-term sustainable economy we are all working so hard to build. Though this government avoids taking the steps required to achieving this, luckily, a group of Northerners is already taking the caribou by the horns, so to speak, in actively building our knowledge economy.

Since its inception in 2009, Dechinta Bush University Centre for Research and Learning has become a flexible, innovative, and responsive institution that is filling the need for a northern university. It should be noted, Mr. Speaker, that Canada is the only circumpolar country without a university in their northern territories, yet the demand for one has long existed and only keeps growing. Last year alone, Dechinta had 104 potential applicants and a mere 30 spaces. They're receiving three times as many applications as they have funding for and cannot meet this ever-growing demand for potential students. Moreover, 97 per cent of those students who are able to attend are Aboriginal, and 72 per cent are women. And, Mr. Speaker, they have an astonishing zero per cent dropout rate and 100 per cent program completion record. They have built this successful record almost purely on their own resources, tenacity, and devotion to higher learning. They could do so much more for our students and our economy if the government supported them with more resources and legislative change.

Dechinta's commitment to building a knowledge economy is unparalleled, and their graduates are already participating in achieving that shared goal, with all of them either having pursued higher education or have entered the labour force. Breaking that down even more, Mr. Speaker, 49 per cent pursued further post-secondary and 57 per cent are employed, 97 of these in the NWT labour force. This clearly demonstrates they are quickly becoming a major contributor to our future economy and social growth, yet they could do so much more. If Dechinta was given both core funding and recognition under the Education Act, they would create 158 new jobs with 153 of those jobs outside of the capital. Mr. Speaker, I speak unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, an increase in university graduation is directly tied to GDP growth, poverty alleviation, and rise in real income, and we have a responsibility as a maturing jurisdiction to offer the ability to pursue such a degree here, at home. Dechinta has already taken the first steps, the hardest steps, and this government should now assist them with the funding and accreditation to climb even further in their pursuit of achieving a knowledge economy that we can all share and participate in. We need this if we are to attain a truly sustainable future for all peoples of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Mackenzie Delta.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I, too, would like to congratulate Sarah Jerome on her achievement today with the Education Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, Sarah was also my teacher while I was at Grollier Hall, and I'm sure she taught our Minister of Education, as well, but many, many people throughout the Delta, Mr. Speaker. She has also encouraged many of the teachers that we have today and worked very closely with all those that work with the Gwich'in language. Mr. Speaker, it's so important now because our language is at a critical state, and we need to encourage more of our youth and those that get involved in the Gwich'in language. And I'd just like to say on behalf of the all the people of the Beaufort Delta a big mahsi cho. Mahsi.

Masi. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Frame Lake.

Merci, monsieur le President.

The Wek’eezhii Renewable Resources Board released part A of its decision on the joint Tlicho Government and GNWT management proposal for the Bathurst caribou herd on May 26thof this year. This decision focused on the state of the herd, harvest restrictions in time for the 2016-17 season, and wolf control. Part B will come later this summer and will feature recommendations on biological and environment monitoring and cumulative effects.

Mr. Speaker, the board found that "despite all the management actions taken over the past seven years, the herd is still declining and recovery of the herd remains uncertain," and that "this is an issue of serious conservation concern." Furthermore, the board said, "With the Bathurst herd in such a perilous state, all peoples who harvest in Wek’eezhii must do their part to ensure the recovery of the herd. Users and managers must act now in whatever way is possible to protect the herd so future recovery may be possible."

What is our government doing to help with recovery of the Bathurst caribou herd? This government actively opposes resource development in the calving ground of the herd on the Nunavut side of the border. This was the GNWT position taken in the recent review of the Sabina Gold and Silver project by the Nunavut Impact Review Board. I commend our government for taking such action, but what are we doing on our side of the border?

While we have set up mobile caribou protection areas to restrict harvesting, there has been no such protection from disturbance caused by mining activities. Such measures were used in the 1980s in the Kivalliq region to help protect the Beverly and Qamanirjuaq caribou herds from disturbance caused by mineral exploration. In addition, there has been no temporary or permanent protection of important caribou habitat on the GNWT side of the border. There are no thresholds for disturbance that have been established for the herd. No legally binding land use plans for Crown land exist for the herd's range on the NWT side of the border. Can we afford to wait for the Bathurst range planning exercise to be completed before our government finally starts to act to protect habitat?

I have raised the issue of who bears the burden of management responses in our efforts to save the Bathurst caribou herd. I will have questions for the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources later today.

Masi. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Deh Cho.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, northern agriculture is a success story waiting to happen, and residents of the Deh Cho want to be part of the local-food movement that is enhancing the health and sustainability of our communities.

Mr. Speaker, [English translation not provided].

Mr. Speaker, an enterprising resident of Fort Providence wants to put locally produced food on the shelves at northern grocery stores. He is trying to spearhead an initiative that would eventually see locally grown produce in our stores all year. With support from the Northern Farm Training Institute and community members, he is now developing a proposal to launch a greenhouse pilot project to grow produce year round. The concept could eventually be expanded to become a commercial operation in the future.

Mr. Speaker, greenhouse technology is advancing all the time. The Yukon Research Centre's Agridomes grow upwards of 600 plants throughout the winter months in 32 square feet of space, using as little as 1.9 kilowatts per hour. The University of Guelph is working with NASA in experimenting with the idea of growing food on Mars. They have taken interest in Fort Providence and want to build a prototype greenhouse in the NWT that could be monitored remotely from Guelph while local residents assist with day-to-day operations.

Mr. Speaker, northern food production is nothing new. It is only since southern foods became more easily and cheaply imported that the local sector declined. Now, as food prices continue to climb and people are beginning to understand the benefits of local food production for the community and the planet, we are experiencing a resurgence of interest and enthusiasm for northern agriculture. Dollars are available for greenhouse projects like the one we want to see in the Deh Cho.

Mr. Speaker, action on the NWT Agriculture Strategy is long overdue. Northerners want to produce, process, sell, and enjoy locally grown food on their own plates. As the expression goes, the time is ripe. Let's make strategic investments in northern agriculture right away and reap the benefits in all of our communities. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife Centre.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, an application to the Office of the Public Guardian is the last resort for people who don't have the capacity to make decisions about their own health and wellbeing because of disability or disease. The Public Guardian provides this vital service of monitoring the care and wellbeing of its wards. Most of us will never have to call on the Public Guardian, but young adults who have aged out of permanent foster care, people with mental illness or intellectual disabilities, and older adults with Alzheimer's or dementia are potential candidates for guardianship.

Not to put too fine a point on it, the NWT Public Guardian's office is swamped. There are 50 applications pending, and the waiting time is a year. To make an order of guardianship, an assessment by a psychologist or psychiatrist is needed to establish the applicant's capacity. Once complete, the applicant goes to court for a guardianship order. The Public Guardian contracts out the assessment, but there is a shortage of health professionals to complete them.

The first thing we must do is better resource the Office of the Public Guardian. They need to be able to contract psychologists who can clear up the backlog. The people waiting are vulnerable. A year is too long to wait for someone who has no one to help them make life-changing decisions. A second problem after wait lists is the size of the case load. The Public Guardian and her assistant now have 68 people on their case load, and that number will become bigger once the 50 pending applications have been sorted out.

The Public Guardian's job is to monitor the care and wellbeing of her clients. How much monitoring can she do with such a large case load? How long does it take to get a response when one of her clients has a health crisis: an accident or a new diagnosis? This is not motor vehicle licensing, Mr. Speaker, where people can take a number.

In the meantime, there's an ounce of prevention any of us can take to assist those who might care for us when we are unable to do so, ourselves, and that is to create a power of attorney and have it signed and ready to go. It will set out who your decision maker is so that you don't need to go through the Public Guardian's office. This document can then be updated as needed. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, colleagues. Taking care of vulnerable people is at the core of government services to residents. These services need to be delivered in a professional, timely manner. It's time for GNWT to better resource the Office of the Public Guardian so they are part of the solution rather than the problem. I'll have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause

Masi. Item 3, Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, we held the 7thAnnual Education Hall of Fame celebrating individuals for their hard work and dedication through education, across the Northwest Territories. We have a bunch of inductees here today, role models, mentors, and very respected elders. I would like to recognize our Beaufort Delta recipient from Inuvik, Ms. Sarah Jerome; our Deh Cho recipient from Fort Simpson, Valerie Gendron; our Sahtu recipient from Tulita, Vivian Pellissey; South Slave recipient from Fort Smith, Ms. Jane Dragon; our North Slave recipient from Yellowknife, Ms. Rita Mueller. And, unfortunately, Mr. Jim Martin from Behchoko and Ms. Muriel Tolley from Yellowknife, who is also the recipient of the Minister's Choice Award, were not able to be in attendance today. I also would like to welcome their spouses and their family members who are able to join in the celebrations and join us in the gallery today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Thebacha.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize educator Jane Dragon of Fort Smith. Thank you.

Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to use this opportunity to recognize two constituents from Inuvik Twin Lakes: Sarah Jerome, who we've spoken about numerous times already today; I appreciate the work you've done. With her is her husband, Freddy Jerome. So welcome to the gallery. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Nahendeh.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to congratulate all the inductees, specifically starting with Valerie Gendron, who actually taught five of my children and she survived. I thank her for that. Her husband, Roger Pilling who is a good friend and a good volunteer for the fire department. I'd like to welcome and thank him for coming here. And Rita Mueller, a dear friend, it's well deserved, and she's very humble, as is Val. And then, of course, Ms. Jane Dragon, who I've had the opportunity to speak with numerous times, and her daughter, Joyce. Welcome to the Assembly. Thank you.

Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Mackenzie Delta.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to recognize Sarah and Freddy Jerome, who spent a lot of time within my riding visiting family and friends. Also I recall when they used to live 12 miles north of Tsiigehtchic. I still remember those days. Welcome to the House. Mahsi cho.

Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Sahtu.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Vivian Pellissey from Tulita for her huge contribution as one of the inductees, and the rest of the group as well for this huge personal contribution to the whole environment of education capitalization. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. I, too, would like to welcome all the inductees, all the award winners of the NWT Education Hall of Fame. Welcome and thank you for making a huge difference in our children's lives and for the Northwest Territories. Masi. Those who we may have missed in the gallery, welcome to the Chambers. It's always great to have an audience in the gallery. Masi. Item 6, acknowledgements. Item 7, oral questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Health and Social Services. What can the Minister do now with discretionary reserves and funds to hire more resources to clear the backlog of applications to the Public Guardian? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Minister of Health and Social Services.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Member has indicated, the current wait list for the Public Guardian is unacceptable in all ways, and I have already directed the Department of Health and Social Services to review the business processes to make sure that the business processes make sense and we're getting the most efficiencies and utilizing our money in the best way. As part of this business process review, I have asked them to analyze how applications flow, assessments, referrals, and also do some trend analysis on the increased demand that we're having on the Public Guardian Office. This review won't be done until the end of the calendar year and we do have a significant backlog at this point in time, so the department is actually looking to do some in-house training to train more assessors, whether they are in the Northwest Territories or outside the Northwest Territories, so that we can move on the number of assessments that need to be done so that we can start reducing that list while this review is taking place. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you to the Minister for that answer. He referred to the assessor, and my question is whether that assessor training will happen in this fiscal year and whether there are intake resources at the regional health authority level for the Public Guardian?

Under the Act, any person assigned the responsibility to prepare such a report by the Public Guardian can become an assessor. This could be a nurse, it could be a psychiatrist, it could be medical practitioners, it could also be clinical social workers. So these are individuals that exist across the Northwest Territories, and we're looking at training people across the Northwest Territories to be assessors as one of our initial steps. But also we are looking at individuals outside the Northwest Territories, so it's both.

Thank you to the Minister for that answer. So if I'm one of the 50 people who is now waiting for the Public Guardian to adjudicate my application, how much longer should I expect to wait?

It's 72 outstanding referrals, actually. The number continues to climb. There is a number of reasons that accessing the applications can take longer than would be desirable. Some of the challenges that we face are actually tracking down some of the individuals who have actually filed the applications. It's a transient territory; people are moving around. We've also had our challenge with the number of assessors, which we are addressing currently. There are individual situations where we have found members that are disputing who should actually be the public guardian or the private guardian. So there are multiple reasons why some of these applications take a long time. We are looking to expedite the process and clear off as much of this backlog as we can, but there are some additional challenges far outside just the number of assessors we have. I can't give a definitive time, because every application is unique and every application will take a different amount of time depending on the challenges faced.

Masi. Oral Questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. As I said in my Member's statement, clearing the backlog will also result in a greater case load for the current Public Guardian staff, which is, as I understand it, one person and one assistant, which is beyond the capacity of the resources currently allocated. So I would like to hear the Minister's plan to not only clear up the backlog but to better staff the Public Guardian's office? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As the Member indicated, there are currently 68 individuals in the Northwest Territories under a public guardianship, and there are about 80 individuals that are under private guardianship that had to go through the full assessment process. The Member is right; the numbers are increasing, with the 72 referrals in front of us that will likely result in some additional individuals requiring either public or private guardianship.

The first step that we're taking, Mr. Speaker, is doing the review of the program to make sure that it's efficient, that it's meeting the needs, what changes we can make with existing resources. From there, we will be able to clearly assess future demand and ongoing demand, which may require some additional investment in this area, additional positions. I won't commit to adding positions at this point in time. We have to finish the assessment to determine what the true workload in that unit is, and whether or not additional positions are required. But, given the demand, it may be necessary to add some positions. We'll know by the end of the calendar year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Nahendeh.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As you heard from my Member's statement, the Youth Ambassador Program is very important for our youth. As part of the promise I made to the youth, I will have some questions for the Minister for Municipal and Community Affairs. Mr. Speaker, you always hear that youth are important. However, sometimes governments -- local, regional, or territorial -- do not follow up on that action. Can the Minster please tell us what the department is doing to enhance programs like the Youth Ambassador Program? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Youth Ambassador Program is, in my opinion, one of the most important programs that we run within the Government of the Northwest Territories, and I think we will see some long-term benefits of the program. We've retained a consultant to complete an evaluation of the Youth Ambassador Program to provide suggestions on how we can improve this program in future years. The review is actually going to cover all ten years of the program's operations, and once the evaluation has been completed, the department will be in a position to consider program enhancements.

Mahsi cho to the Minister for his answer, and I know the youth will appreciate hearing it, such as I do. Mr. Speaker, part of the Youth Ambassador Program is the promotion and showcasing of traditional games and knowledge. Can the Minister please advise this House how the department is looking at new training events to get more youth involved and preparing them to be able to showcase our traditional games and knowledge in future events, as our older performers -- or as our performers are now getting older?

The department really has some good training programs when they are preparing youth to go off to some of the events that they attend. A training event will be held in March of 2017 to prepare the Youth Ambassador Project at the Canada Summer Games, and discussions are still under way with the Host Society in Winnipeg to gauge our interests related to our Youth Ambassadors, but no decisions have been made on the traditional games component of the -- at the March event. The Aboriginal Sports Circle continues to do some community clinics and hosting the traditional game championships. So my experience has been in the past that we've seen a number of events where our youth have been there, at NWT Days in Ottawa especially I think was a very successful event and it was well-attended and well-received by all the people that attended the event. We continue to train our youth, and we know some of our youth workers are going into communities, promoting traditional games. So it's one that's high on the radar, and we will continue to promote.

I thank the Minister for that answer. The Minister, in his previous answer -- not this one here, but the previous one -- talked about the evaluators and doing a 10-year evaluation of the program. Can the Minister confirm that he will be talking to all candidates that were part of the program, all the alumni, and get their stories and their challenges and how that has had an impact on their life presently?

An evaluation is currently under way and the report will be provided to MLAs, and I can say from personal experience, having the MACA file and dealing with the Youth Ambassador Program since 2008, I've seen first-hand the benefits and a lot of the Youth Ambassador alumni that are actually doing quite well. We actually had some at the NWT Association of Communities AGM that was held a couple of months ago, and the feedback that we got from them, that they were so interested in municipal politics that they may consider a run for municipal politics in the future, or as early as this fall. We're looking forward to that, but I see first-hand the benefits of the Youth Ambassador Program and it's one that's going to be continuously supported by this government.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Nahendeh.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and I thank the Minister for his great answer. Yes, some of us who have been involved with this program understand the importance of it. Now, we've talked about the challenges of making this program successful. Can the Minister commit the department will look at increasing funding for this program, or add a coordinator position that will lead to more success for this program, not this year but for the next business plan? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

We are always looking at ways that we can increase our funding, especially for the youth. I mean, I can tell this House that we've had five events, I think, in the last year or so and we spent close to $650,000 at these events, and some of this is O and M funding for staff time and such. So it is a program that, you know, we will look at ways to enhance once the evaluation has been completed, and we will work with committee members to see how we can incorporate into our business plans and main estimates going forward. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to a Member's guest in the gallery. We have a former Member of the Legislative Assembly for Wiilideh, also former Premier and former Minister. Welcome to the Chamber. We also have His Worship, the Mayor of Hay River, Brad Mapes. Welcome. Oral questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.

Marci cho, Mr. Speaker. As per my Member's statement, I'd like to ask the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment some questions. Will the Minister have the Department of Education, Culture and Employment work with YK Dene First Nation on implementing components of Skills 4 Success? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes. the department will be continuing the work with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. In the past, we have worked in partnerships with CanNor as well as with the Department of Tourism, Industry and Investment in the development of an Economic Development Strategy, as well as a Labour Force Strategy. Our goal is in the next few months to table an action plan on the Skills 4 Success document in this House, and we want to make sure that YKDFN is part of that and that we listen to their advice, listen to the direction that they want to go, and yes, we will be continuing that work with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to thank the Minister for that response. Will the department commit to working in partnership with YKDFN on the development of the skill development in the two communities of Detah and Ndilo?

The department is committed to working with all our partners throughout the Northwest Territories. The Yellowknives Dene First Nations is a key stakeholder; obviously they are involved in a lot of the socio-economic agreements that we have with the mines. We're working with all partners that are involved in adult post-secondary education and skills training to support NWT residents. With the skills knowledge and attitudes for employment success we are committed to continuing working with Yellowknives Dene First Nation in how we can focus on developing the skills as well as the education, post-secondary education needed to get into the labour force or else meet some of our in-demand job needs, not only here in the region but right across the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to ask the Minister if his department is able to commit funding to YK Dene First Nation for their skill development program.

Any program funding that the department does have is based on program eligibility, and funding applications must be submitted to the Department of Education, Culture and Employment in order for funding considerations to be explored. Our department is working with partners or interested organizations to help them develop those proposals and applications moving forward. And, like I said, it's based on program eligibility and whether or not they do meet the criteria, but we are interested in receiving applications from the Yellowknives Dene First Nations and moving forward from there.

Masi. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, the YK Dene First Nations are interested in, of course, making all the appropriate applications; the deadline for those are on July 5th. They feel that they want to have a meeting with the Minister, this is scheduled for June 30thbecause of Session, but the community is asking if the Minister would be prepared to meet with them a couple of days earlier than what it scheduled on June 30th. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I'm losing my voice here. I was back home doing a lot of talking over the last few days, and a lot of speeches the last couple of days as well. Unfortunately, during session time we are-- there's a lot of meetings that go on here in the House as well as session and going through our budget process. However, my schedule doesn't really confirm that I'd be able to meet before the 30th, although I will commit that officials in my department are available to meet before the 30th. Should a time open up that I might have some time, I will also look forward to trying to meet ahead of time. I know there is a short timeline to get the applications through. Pending availability I will keep in touch with our officials and I know our officials are talking with members of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation and should a time come up I'd be happy to meet with them earlier than later.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment about the draft Agriculture Strategy the government shared with Committee earlier in the week. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the Minister and his department for the work that they have done in both the consultations that have been conducted as well as the current draft.

Mr. Speaker, can the Minister share how the strategy will integrate the work of the Northern Farm Training Institute, the Aurora Research Institute, and the in-house work of the department to make the most effective use of our resources and knowledge base? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Agriculture is a very important sector to our government and part of the Mandate of the 18thLegislative Assembly. We have provided the Standing Committee on Economic Development and Environment with a draft Agriculture Strategy for review and look forward to hearing back from the committee. A key recommendation of the proposed strategy is that various organizations need to work together, including departmental collaboration to ensure that we all use our resources efficiently and effectively.

Another recommendation is the creation of a central repository or a common public point of information sharing. This portal will assist community advocates as multiple agencies will be contributing to shared data program. And I should also point out that we've worked very closely with all of the agencies that the Member referred to and they've played a very large part of developing our draft Agriculture Strategy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you to the Minister for his reply. I'm happy to hear about the portal and shared data; I'm sure that will be very useful. Mr. Speaker, what steps are included in the strategy to identify and make more land accessible for agriculture?

To date we haven't had any requests for very large areas of land for agriculture purposes but we do anticipate that happening in the future. And so the strategy does speak to potential land use within municipal boundaries and authorities. Part of the implementation will be guided by the land use and sustainability framework which serves as the underpinning of all decisions in respect to land, including the development of land for the agriculture sector in the Northwest Territories.

The issue of access to land for agriculture will be reviewed through collaborative processes with municipalities and Aboriginal governments and land use planning boards and committees, and as land claims are settlement there will certainly be more certainty in this area.

Certainly certainty is what most are looking for and that would be appreciated. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister share what steps are outlined in the strategy to develop and support education, knowledge and best practices about food production at the community level?

The draft Agriculture Strategy has many recommendations on how to develop and support educational programs and educational resource development for agriculture. We will encourage and support the development and delivery of courses for community and regional trainers. The goal with the strategy is to improve overall capacity by having more people involved in northern agriculture, and we will develop foundational safe agriculture and food production, education resources including community and private sharing agriculture and harvesting of non-animal products. And the draft Agriculture Strategy is built on five pillars, including planning, knowledge, leadership, marketing channels and access to productive resources.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the Minister for his reply. My last question, Mr. Speaker: what evaluation measures are included in the strategy to evaluate the effectiveness of our investments in agriculture, both in terms of dollars and with regard to new programs and initiatives launched under the new strategy? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As Stompin' Tom would say the best test is right at the table.

---Laughter

But I agree it's important to make sure our programs are effective. We have seen increased interest in our agriculture program as more and more people are growing their own food. We're still in early days as the strategy has not been released; however, we will review the effectiveness of this strategy as we move forward into implementation.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Deh Cho.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment. Look, it's pretty clear in terms of agriculture, we know what we want to do, it's the question of how, and critically, of course, is when. So I understand that the draft Agriculture Strategy has gone to the appropriate standing committee, it's under review as the Minister indicated, can the Minister give us a timeline on the target implementation for some of the strategy's immediate and short-term actions? Mahsi.

Masi. Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When the Member in his Member's Statement referred to food from Mars I thought he had talked to my grandson who-- I was talking to him yesterday or the other day and he said he had a project that he was working on and I asked him what it was. He said he and his friend were planning a trip to Mars and he lamented that he had the hard part of the job because he had to find a way to get to Mars; his friend had the easy job, he just had to figure out how to grow food on Mars, so.

---Laughter

In regards to your specific question, our department has been working with the Zhahti Koe Friendship Centre since late 2015 on developing a community garden. They secured a land lot recently and fencing has been ordered. Twenty raised garden boxes, a tool shed and compost bins are ready and will be shipped to the community. The department has not received any applications specific to commercial gardening or greenhouses at this point. We also run the Take a Kid Gardening Program in the schools. We have a regional office that's very ready and willing and prepared to work with anybody that's interested to getting more into the agriculture commercial side. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I think the Minister outlined in general that no applications have been received in terms of providing assistance for community members at the local level. Can he explain how can residents and communities access funding for greenhouse projects and other local initiatives under the Northern Food Development Program?

I'd like to reassure the Member that we're not waiting until the Northwest Territories Agriculture Strategy becomes the strategy. Right now as we go forward we certainly encourage Northwest Territories residents to become involved in agriculture. Our ITI regional offices are the contacts for anyone interested in learning more about agriculture, including the development of greenhouses, and the department will be pleased to work with all communities to make progress on this front.

I'd like to thank the Minister for his reply. It's very encouraging that we're not-- we need to develop a strategy but those programs and services could be readily available for people at the local level. How is agriculture being incorporated into the GNWT science agenda?

The Growing Forward 2 Agreement provides up to $1.2 million annually in cost-shared investment to the Northwest Territories agricultural sector to increase resource capacity to grow food in all NWT communities. The Small Scale Foods Program is delivered in all 33 Northwest Territories communities through ITI's regional offices primarily in support of community gardens. We have seen much success with the insulation of community greenhouses in communities on the Beaufort Sea. Many of the initiatives are community led and the department is pleased to provide insight, support and expertise.

As the Member knows, we have the Northern Farmers Training Institute, and certainly I see that as being a very excellent program that would help deliver to our science agenda. We know that research into agriculture and development of agriculture products is very much done in the south, and certainly with this institute we believe we can tap into these funding sources as well.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Deh Cho.

Mr. Speaker, I don't know if the Minister is familiar with the Yukon Gold, but it's a customized-- or basically a tailored potato that was seeded in part of the Yukon. I'm kind of looking forward to maybe coming up with a unique northern spud.

---Laughter

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Are we looking for partnership opportunities with the universities and other northern jurisdictions to advance local food production in the NWT? Mahsi.

We are always looking for opportunities to maximize the funding reach of our scarce resources and certainly we've been approached by other bodies including I guess different non-government organizations I guess is the best way to call them that and we also have very good connections with universities, so we certainly want to get the best bang for our buck and we look at all of the different sources of funding.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Core funding for Dechinta Bush University will create 156 jobs in their business proposal. The vast majority of these jobs will be in the smaller communities and regional centres. Will the Minister of Education, Culture, and Employment commit to providing additional funding in the next departmental business plan? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Masi. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The department has been a supporter of Dechinta for the past several years in providing some funding. We're always working with them and just having ongoing discussions with the Dechinta executive. Most recently our current discussions is that we're waiting for this current budget process to finish before we start allocating funding. We continue to speak with Dechinta executive and supporters to see where we move forward next, and that will be at discussions at the next business plan cycle which will be commencing in about three months' time. I really appreciate the Members continuing to bring up the concerns of funding for Dechinta. We have a lot of champions within this House and appreciate the efforts and continued questions and bringing up the awareness for the program and the work that they do. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

This year we've actually had an increase in graduation rates in the high school, but also in Aurora College system. This summer the Aurora College is actually going through new strategic plan for the next ten years. It's going to be reflective on our Skills 4 Success Action Plan which we are developing this summer as well. And I understand that Dechinta's also working on a proposal, maybe a revised proposal reflecting our Skills 4 Success Action Plan. The details, I can get the details in terms of success, in terms of how many graduates we had in Aurora College compared to Dechinta. I could get those specific details and I can get it to the Member if he likes.

es, I would appreciate if the Minister could provide that information to me. Ms. Speaker, the recent Labour Market Study that the Minister referenced showed a real need for more post-secondary educated workers here the Northwest Territories. Dechinta does not have the ability to grant credentials despite its high success rates. Will the Minister commit to bringing forward legislative changes by the next sitting of this House?

In the 17thLegislative Assembly there was a motion that was brought forth actually I believe in November of 2015. The department is looking at that. Most recently Nunavut did do a feasibility study of the same information that the Member's asking for. We did get a copy of that feasibility study from Nunavut. We are looking at the recommendations and the possibilities moving forward and what we as a territory are going to be doing in terms of the legislation or the granting of degrees, but we've got to take a look at that feasibility study and see whether or not it will reflect whether our financial situation as well our capacity in the Northwest Territories to be able to do that.

Masi. Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, Dechinta's not an idea, it's a real institution. It's producing graduates; it's doing very good work. It isn’t an untested project. This is something that's clear and measurable. They have a business case, it's very well thought out. I think it's time to act on these issues and stop speculating through action plans and strategies. Will the Minister make those commitments to bring forward funding by the next business plan and bring forward legislative changes the next sitting of this House? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

At this moment, I can't commit to bringing the legislative changes until we've done the review of the feasibility study, looked to what other jurisdictions are doing and still have those discussions with Dechinta moving forward. I know Nunavut has that feasibility study. They spend a lot of money into that feasibility study. It was in the news just recently and we're going to look at those moving forward, but at this time I cannot commit to bringing more funding or a legislation before the next business plan review which is about three months away.

Oral questions. Member for Sahtu.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Today my question is addressed to the Minister responsible for OROGO on the activities to date in that area with regard to the expiration licence acquired by the Sahtu Explorer's Group here several years ago, particularly in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. I ask the Minister to date what is the status of the significant discovery licenses that have recently been issued if any? If I could get an update on that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.