Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I'd like to talk about the recent agreement between Yellowknife City Council and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation to change a boundary between the city and the YKDFN land. I would like to compliment both the city and the Yellowknives Dene on this agreement. With respect to both parties, it is a solid achievement. It is good to see the positive engagement and collaboration between the city and YKDFN to serve their people's best interests.
It also raised questions, Mr. Speaker, and constituents of Yellowknife North are looking for answers. How will this agreement affect residents of Yellowknife North? What kind of impacts will there be for houseboaters in Yellowknife Bay? What effect will there be on the negotiation of the Akaitcho land rights agreement? Is there any potential downside?
Mr. Speaker, it is important that the people affected by this agreement are consulted. Residents deserve the opportunity to review, consider, and contribute to the discussion about the impact the changes may have on their lives. They want to know who will make sure that there is an effective and thorough conversation among everyone who will be affected.
Over the years, there has been vigorous discussion about the management and access to the harbour front of Yellowknife Bay. Residents and visitors alike use the lake for boating, fishing, sightseeing, business, and pleasure. Considerable work was put into developing a waterfront plan through a city-led harbour planning committee. How will that plan inform the new agreement? Is it time for a harbour commission?
We will also certainly have to consider the effect this agreement might have on the Akaitcho land rights negotiation, as well as the Yellowknife periphery recreational land use plan. It is important to consider the impact it may have on the city's general plan. All of these plans will describe the future of the lands and waters where we all live and where many of us work. It is essential that everyone's interests are fully discussed and considered when creating new boundaries that may affect land use in the future.
I recognize that the consultation and final decisions on this agreement may ultimately fall to the 19th Assembly. However, on this important initiative, robust public engagement and discussions is essential. That is why I am raising it today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.