It has been almost five years since the 18^th Assembly Minister responsible for the NTPC replaced the public board of governors with a board made up of GNWT deputy ministers. At the time, the public was told that this was done to save $1 million. The GNWT also committed to undertake a review of governance structure. Members on this side of the House have pointed out that this is not best practice according to the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat. Its report reviewing governance frameworks for Crown corporations pointed out that board of directors in Crown corporations should function independently of management. It has now been one year since asked the former Minister responsible in this Assembly to update the House on a plan for the NTPC board. Minister Thompson advised this House that the board of DMs had been instructed to come back with a governance model and that he would share with Members any progress made since 2016.

Mr. Speaker, I'm trying to be patient, but the GNWT is showing absolutely no progress on this work in five years. This makes me doubt their commitment in getting it done. I am also concerned that the deputy ministers may not have the necessary skills or technical expertise to tackle the governance of a highly specialized public utility. I am also concerned that they are doing this on the sides of their desk which we know that the government did not want that for those who are providing the work of the now COVID secretariat. The Power Corporation plays a vital role in the lives of all NWT residents. How it is governed and managed is something I care about on behalf of my constituents as it could help in lowering the cost of living. I am going to continue to press this government and the current Minister responsible to make progress on this important work with no further delays. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.