Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We have a number of Crown and quasi-Crown corporations that utilize board of directors appointed by this government. This House has debated and voiced concern over the need to replace those current boards made up of senior bureaucrats with persons from the private sector or the general public. Mr. Speaker, we cannot expect and should not expect our senior bureaucrats to accept additional obligations and responsibilities that take away from their departmental responsibilities. If this government does not see that, then it is not fulfilling its responsibility to the residents of the Northwest Territories. The reason Crown corporations exist is to achieve a public policy objective set by this government, while being insulated and allowed to operate at arm's length. This can be a daunting task at best, and expecting to achieve it by placing senior bureaucrats to oversee such a corporation is make-believe and a fantasy.

Mr. Speaker, we have the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, a body that provides an essential service to the residents and businesses of the NWT. In 2016, the independent board was replaced based on cost-saving initiatives. The corporation is now in the process of possibly becoming a provider of electrical power to the community of Hay River. The reason that is about to happen is because of a promise by the NWT Power Corporation of cheaper power to Hay River residents and businesses. The cost of power is one cost that inherently impacts our residents and, if not controlled, can result in our residents choosing between feeding their children and paying their utility bill. It is therefore important that Crown corporations such as the Northwest Territories Power Corporation be provided the tools that will work to lower costs to its consumers. An experienced board of directors is part of the tools required to ensure efficiency while meeting this government's strategic objectives.

Mr. Speaker, in 2016, this government identified cost as a deterrent to using independent directors. I see the use of independent boards as an opportunity to provide oversight in operations and efficiency, which will result in cost savings. With respect to the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, I would envision a board of directors made up of those with credentials in finance, human resources, engineering, law, green power, private business, Aboriginal knowledge, and other disciplines. Within a corporation, the duties and responsibilities of directors are important to ensuring management is kept in check and services provided are cost effective. It is time to choose the right path when it comes to Crown corporations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.