Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

What We Heard on the Draft Code of Conduct

Statement of Commitment

Several presenters felt that the language of the statement of commitment should be changed. It was felt that the use of language such as "our people" and "our land" implied a sense of ownership by Members or set Members on different level than residents of the Northwest Territories. Other presenters felt that the Indigenous cultures of the Northwest Territories should be better reflected in the statement of commitment. Committee accepted these recommendations and has proposed that the statement of commitment be adopted as follows:

As Members of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories, we acknowledge that we have accepted a responsibility to serve the people of the Northwest Territories. We seek wisdom, strength, courage, honesty, and compassion from the people of the North, both from those who have built our past and from those who are shaping our future. As legislators elected to govern the Northwest Territories, we will do our utmost to:

• Hear the voices of all that live in the Northwest Territories;
• Preserve Indigenous traditional knowledge, languages, and the traditions of the various cultures and bridge them with new ways to build a better future for people in the Northwest Territories;
• Provide legislation, policies, and services for the good of the people as individuals, families, and communities;
• Promote the equality and equity of all people in the Northwest Territories;
• Distribute resources fairly and justly; and
• Respect and honour the land and all its inhabitants.

Application of Code of Conduct to Members

Committee heard some concern that the Code of Conduct was no longer written in a way that was personalized; for example using "we" instead of "I." Committee noted this concern, but also noted that where the Members' Conduct Guidelines were voluntary, and a Member agreed to be bound by them, the Code of Conduct will apply to all Members. However, in light of these concerns, the committee made the following recommendation:

Recommendation 2

The Standing Committee on Rules and Procedures recommends that the 19^th Assembly have a public ceremony where each Member agrees to and signs the Code of Conduct.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would like to turn the reading back over to the honourable Member for Frame Lake. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.