Colleagues, thank you for being here today. We were scheduled for an extended adjournment on Friday of last week, and I know that we were all looking forward to returning to our constituencies over the weekend.
On Friday, I took the unusual step of recalling the House to sit today. This was not a decision that I made hastily, but with careful consideration following my discussions with the Executive Council and Members of the Legislative Assembly.
The situation we are currently facing with the COVID-19 virus is very fluid. Each and every day we learn more about this virus.
Colleagues, following the passage of an interim appropriation bill today, this House will adjourn until May 26th, or an earlier date to be determined later, to complete the review of the government's proposed budget and continue the work of this House. This recess will free up government resources and personnel to focus on preparing for and responding to the potential spread of COVID-19 to the Northwest Territories. It will also help ensure that we do not expose Members, staff, Pages, and interpreters to unnecessary risk. I remain steadfast in my belief that this is in the best interest of all residents of the Northwest Territories.
Now, Colleagues, it is my duty to advise the House that I have received the following message from the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. It reads:
Dear Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise that I recommend to the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories the passage of:
- Interim Appropriation Act (Operations Expenditures) 2020-2021
During the 2nd Session of the 19th Legislative Assembly. Yours Truly, Margaret M. Thom, Commissioner.
Thank you, colleagues. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Honourable Premier.