Thank you, Mr. Chair. On February 28, 2017, the Standing Committee on Rules and Procedures presented its report on review of Member's conduct guidelines titled "You Are Standing for Your People." The report contained six recommendations to strengthen the standards of conduct for both candidates and Members of the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly and increase Members' accountability to the public.
The committee advises changes to the Elections and Plebiscites Act, changes to the Executive Council and Legislative Assembly Act, a new oath of office, a more enforceable code of conduct, expansion of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner's duties to include matters of conduct and ethics, and a public review of the conflict of interest provisions in the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act.
Our in-depth review has taken over a year to complete. It included research on the strengths and weaknesses of our current system of government and elections by comparison with other jurisdictions in light of our history and social conditions. We canvassed relevant national, territorial, and municipal legislation. Much of this work was discussed in the committee's interim report tabled in October 2016.
A public discussion paper was released before public hearings were held in Hay River, Inuvik, and Yellowknife in November and December 2016. The committee benefited from very insightful public input. This stimulated additional research the committee required to fully consider public submissions and options for improving our standards of conduct and accountability. Of course, the committee worked closely with the law clerk to ensure that recommended changes to the legislation are feasible and practical from a legal perspective.
The committee believes that, by adopting its six recommendations, our Assembly will strengthen our system of consensus government and set enforceable standards of conduct as good or better than any in Canada. Most importantly, these recommendations are truly made-in-the-North and inspired by the needs and aspirations of our territory.
We have before us today a tremendous opportunity for positive change. Committee members thank everyone who participated in its public hearings on this matter and all who submitted written comments. Your advice was vital in guiding the report we will discuss today. Mahsi, Mr. Chair.