Please be seated. I'd like to thank elder Sarah Cleary for our opening blessing. Ministers' statements. Minister of Health and Social Services.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight our ongoing work to strengthen the recovery supports available across the Northwest Territories for those struggling with mental wellness, substance use, and addictions. In recent years, that work has evolved to offer more relevant and flexible support to residents. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, more than five million Canadians have faced serious mental health issues. Many people say their mental health has gotten worse, with national data showing increased anxiety and feelings of depression. Suicide remains the second-leading cause of death among youth and young adults across the country. In small, close-knit northern communities, we are directly and profoundly impacted by these experiences as family, friends, and community members.

Mr. Speaker, we know that no single solution or pathway can fully address the unique and evolving needs of the Northwest Territories residents. To provide relevant and sustainable supports that truly respond to these needs, we continue to work with our partners to offer a wide range of formal, informal, and community-led supports while working to reduce barriers to access.

In 2020, a transformation within the community counselling program saw more support tailored towards individual needs. In partnership with the Mental Health Commission of Canada, Stepped Care Solutions, as well as individuals with lived and living experience, and the three health and social services authorities, we have expanded our services to greatly reduce wait times and improve the accessibility of these services. Several eMental health initiatives have also been made available providing additional options and flexibility to clients. These virtual options, which include distance-based aftercare programming, range from individual supports to supports for children, youth, and their families. The Department of Health and Social Services also funds and promotes a facility-based addictions treatment program, which has recently seen a significant increase in applications from individuals seeking inpatient treatment for substance-related disorders. This is encouraging because it tells us that residents are aware of this resource and are actively pursuing recovery and well-being.

Mr. Speaker, we are also excited to share that two transitional housing programs for addictions recovery are expected to open in Yellowknife and Inuvik within the next year. These programs provide another layer of recovery support and access to sober social networks that are not always available in home communities of those needing these services. While not everyone will need transitional housing as a part of their recovery or aftercare plan, these programs further expand supports for people who do need it.
Two community-based funding sources are also available and provide support for mental wellness and addiction recovery through local programs. The Community Suicide Prevention Fund has been fully subscribed for this fiscal year, with over $760,000 committed to multiple NWT communities; and, the Community Wellness and Addictions Recovery Fund has committed over $2.5 million to multiple communities. There has been significant interest in accessing these funds to date, and communities are encouraged to continue to apply while funds remain available.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, the range of mental wellness, substance use, and addictions recovery supports available to residents demonstrates our commitment to ensuring their needs are being met in a meaningful and sustainable way. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Minister of Health and Social Services. Ministers' statements. Minister of Infrastructure.

Mr. Speaker, the high cost of energy remains one of the greatest challenges for residents and businesses across the Northwest Territories. The realities of our northern environment only amplify these burdens. However, the GNWT is committed to alleviating these pressures through immediate relief and sustainable long-term solutions, paving the way for a more stable and affordable future for all Northerners. As we approach winter many communities, especially in our northernmost regions, face significant financial difficulties in heating their homes and paying their electricity bills. Most residents have little choice but to rely on fossil fuels, which are expensive and have security issues such as price volatility and supply chain disruptions, adding to their financial burden during the coldest months of the year.

The NWT's energy systems are uniquely challenging. Our remoteness, low population density, harsh winters, and limited interconnectivity contribute to high energy costs. In recent years, these costs have been exacerbated by inflation, energy price volatility, and the impacts of climate change. Northwest Territories residents pay the highest electricity rates in Canada, ranging from 25 to 34 cents per kilowatt-hour, which is two to three times more than the national average of 12.9 cents per kilowatt-hour. The cost of gasoline and diesel has also sharply increased, particularly in remote communities, where it is often higher than what the rest of Canada experiences. Many Northerners have shared with me that with this rising cost, living is becoming unsustainable.

Mr. Speaker, I want to explain the steps the GNWT is taking to stabilize energy costs for Northerners and help address this alarming trend. In the past year, the GNWT and its partners spent $31.7 million to advance the Energy Strategy's vision of providing secure, affordable, and sustainable energy for Northerners. Affordability is a key driver of the initiatives under the Energy Strategy.
Energy efficiency plays a major role in affordability. The GNWT funds the Arctic Energy Alliance, helping residents improve their energy efficiency, adopt more cost-effective technologies, and combat energy poverty. In 2023-2024, the GNWT provided $6.5 million for these programs, resulting in over 3,000 rebates that helped Northerners reduce heating oil consumption by 365,000 liters annually. This equates to more than $500,000 in savings for residents across the NWT each year. The majority of these rebates are distributed outside of Yellowknife, particularly in the Beaufort Delta and Sahtu regions, areas that have been impacted the most in recent years due to climate related resupply challenges.

Our aging energy infrastructure is increasingly inadequate to meet the needs of residents and businesses. To address this, the GNWT is advancing several projects to ensure a reliable and affordable energy supply for years to come. For example, transmission line projects continue to be advanced to connect Fort Providence, Kakisa, and Whati to existing hydropower resources, moving these communities away from fossil fuel-based generation and the cost volatility that comes with it. In Inuvik, the recently commissioned wind turbine will displace up to three million liters of diesel each year, helping to stabilize electricity rates. Additionally, the $4 million fast-charging station corridor being developed around Great Slave Lake will allow Northerners to travel between hydro electric-powered communities using electric vehicles, which are significantly cheaper to operate than traditional cars.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT is actively supporting residents facing high energy costs or at risk of energy poverty through programs like the territorial power support program, the GNWT rate equalization program, and the senior home heating subsidy. These three programs collectively provided $10.4 million in direct subsidies to residents in 2023-2024.

The government also supports electricity rates by paying up to 20 percent more for its electricity bill than residents do, a contribution that amounted to $6.9 million last year. Additionally, these one-time subsidies have been provided, such as the $30 million in the 2024 budget, to help the Northwest Territories Power Corporation purchase fuel during a time of low water levels, costs that would otherwise have been recovered from ratepayers. Despite these efforts, energy affordability remains an ongoing issue in the Northwest Territories. The $47 million spent in 2023-2024 helped to alleviate the pressure of rising energy prices, but it is clear that further action is needed. Even with substantial financial support, rate adjustments will be required to maintain system sustainability. Our energy supply and infrastructure are under pressure from factors such as inflation, energy price volatility, and climate change. That is why I have asked the Department of Infrastructure to develop a renewed approach to energy in the NWT, to be released by the end of 2025-2026. This approach will focus on addressing our energy infrastructure deficit, improving energy affordability, reducing exposure to volatile markets, increasing local energy production, and positioning the NWT as a prime location for resource extraction investment. The new strategy will aim for a net-zero emissions energy system by 2050, delivering long-term benefits for all Northerners.

One of the most promising projects on the horizon is the Taltson Hydro Expansion project, which will increase energy security by interconnecting grids and extending hydroelectric power to industry. The combined grids will provide drought resilience using multiple watersheds with greater hydro capacity and reduce the need to rely on diesel generation during periods of low water on the Snare River system. It will also help meet the growing demand for electrified loads such as electric vehicles. It is expected to reduce emissions, stabilize electricity rates, and provide a more reliable and sustainable energy future for the Northwest Territories. Significant progress has been made on the Taltson expansion, including the selection of a preferred transmission alignment, examination of construction access routes, the completion of a business case, and work on defining commercial aspects of the project. We will continue to collaborate with Indigenous partners to define and support a resolution of legacy issues arising from the construction of the original Taltson facility, finalize the transmission alignment, conduct environmental assessments, and secure federal funding for construction. Indigenous engagement remains a priority throughout this process, ensuring that their knowledge and perspectives are incorporated to minimize the impacts of this project.

In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, the high cost of energy in the Northwest Territories is a significant burden on residents and businesses, especially in our most remote communities. The GNWT is taking steps to mitigate this burden through a variety of short and long-term initiatives, from energy efficiency programs and direct subsidies, to major infrastructure projects like the Taltson Hydro Expansion. By addressing energy infrastructure deficits, reducing reliance on volatile markets, and increasing the use of locally-produced energy, the GNWT is working to secure a sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy future for Northerners. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Minister of Infrastructure. Ministers' statements. Minister for Housing NWT.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, providing suitable, accessible, and affordable housing is a top priority for this government. Housing NWT is dedicated to delivering quality solutions that address the evolving housing needs of the Northwest Territories' communities and residents. Housing NWT continues to deliver a significant capital plan, including 512 housing units. This will result in 148 new and replacement public housing units, as well as the modernization and improvement of 364 housing assets currently operating throughout the territory.

Housing NWT's large multi-year capital program is currently valued at over $100 million. These capital projects are primarily funded by significant upfront contributions from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and the Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. By planning strategically, establishing important partnerships, and focusing on operational and environmental sustainability, Housing NWT is implementing these projects to address housing challenges while also creating opportunities for economic growth, capacity development, and local employment.

Mr. Speaker I want to highlight four projects underway:

• The modernization of Aspen Apartments;
• The construction of a mixed-use 50-plex in Yellowknife;
• As well as a biomass heat plant in Fort Simpson; and,
• The completion of five duplexes in multiple communities to support seniors aging in place.

The modernization project for Aspen Apartments, a 36-unit building in Yellowknife, was recently awarded to a local contractor and is expected to be completed by Fall 2025. Housing NWT acquired these apartments in partnership with the city of Yellowknife and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation under their federal lands and Rapid Housing Initiatives. This project focuses on modernization, key building components such as ventilation and life safety systems and increasing operational efficiency. The project also includes a new biomass heat plant, which is expected to offset approximately 80 percent of the fuel oil historically used to heat the building and produce hot water. This will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs, aligning with the objectives of the Housing NWT's energy management strategy. These 36 units will replace units currently leased for the public housing program through a third party, making those units available for others in the private market.

Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to announce that progress is being made on Housing NWT's new 50-unit multiplex project. Site remediation is scheduled to begin shortly followed by construction scheduled to be completed by Fall 2026. This project, funded through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Rapid Housing Initiative, contributes to the significant expansion of Housing NWT-owned public housing assets within Yellowknife. This project includes 25 barrier-free studio units for seniors, people with mobility challenges, and singles as well as 25 two-bedroom units for small families. This building will have an innovative and efficient mechanical system using a combination of biomass and heat pumps for space heating and cooling with no fossil fuels being used in the heating system. Additionally, the ground floor will include Housing NWT's North Slave district office and the Yellowknife Housing Authority, providing improved client-centered services at a public-facing accessible location.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, with the funding provided from Canada's Low Carbon Economy Fund, Housing NWT is completing a 20-unit biomass project at the Stanley Isaiah Centre in Fort Simpson. This will provide renewable space heat for 20 senior home units and a health facility offsetting 80 percent of the heating requirements currently being provided by fuel oil and reducing fuel oil consumption by nearly 50,000 litres annually.

Mr. Speaker, as a part of housing innovation, five new seniors' duplexes are under construction in Fort McPherson, Tulita, Fort Simpson, Fort Resolution, and Behchoko. Funded with support from Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, these energy-efficient housing units are nearing completion and have been designed with input from a seniors' advisory committee. These units include features that support aging in place such as accessible kitchens, washrooms, entryways, and spaces to support traditional food preparation. Units will enable seniors to age in place in their communities, helping to sustain important community and family networks.

Collaboration with Indigenous governments remains a top priority for Housing NWT. We continue to meet regularly with community leadership to plan and deliver projects, ensuring alignment with their housing plans. This includes opportunities to coordinate delivery schedules, supporting apprenticeship development, and designing energy efficient resilient units. Housing NWT continues to utilize a range of construction methods including building modular units with northern manufacturers.
Finally, Housing NWT is developing a territorial housing needs assessment to clearly define the housing needs of communities. This assessment will combine data and community input to provide a clear picture of housing challenges, helping to secure much-needed funding support.

As we adapt to changes in the housing landscape, Housing NWT remains committed to collaborating with our various housing partners to address the housing needs of all residents across the territory. Quyananni, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Minister of Housing NWT. Ministers' statements. Members' statements. Member from Range Lake.

Mr. Speaker, when paramedics are on the job, every second counts because in emergency situations their work can be the deciding factor between a patient's life or death. They stand vigilantly on call to provide vital care and immediate transportation to medical facilities when the need arises, often in complex and traumatic circumstances both in the heart of our communities or on far away remote highways.

Unfortunately, here in the North their job is only made more difficult due to the vast geography of our territory and the limited resources available in the small communities that are spread out across it. Yet regardless of these factors, all Northerners deserve access to these vital emergency services that they need when they need them. Likewise, our indispensable paramedics are always eager to offer their best efforts to support Northerners because they are passionate about keeping our communities healthy and safe. That is why we need to listen to paramedics when they call on us to create more efficient, dedicated, advanced care paramedic services for highways separate from community care paramedic services. A paramedic working on our highways needs more advanced skills and resources than community paramedics because responding to emergency calls in remote regions means a patient could be hours away from medical care or from hospital staff. When highways taken care of by advanced care paramedics, communities with highways taken care of by advanced care paramedics, community care paramedics could focus only specializing on lower acuity illnesses and injuries and working closer with continuing care staff and physicians to provide additional support for patients in their homes. The benefits of more available specialized care from community care paramedics would result in less pressure on 9-1-1 and emergency room services because illnesses or injuries would be cared for appropriately before they increase in severity and become emergencies.

Northerners know establishing dedicated paramedic services in communities and on our highways should be a priority for this government. It would greatly increase public safety in our remote regions and support health care in all of our communities. It's up to us to make the NWT a safer place no matter where our constituents happen to live, work, or travel. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Range Lake. Members' statements. Member from Great Slave.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, a week ago I was pleased to host the Premier in his role as the Minister of Justice and the Minister of housing on a tour of my constituency, specifically paying a visit to the encampment and two rental accommodations where single mothers spoke to their concerns around the drug trade and guns in their buildings. I am grateful that the Ministers took the time to see the reality of trying to provide a safe home for families to grow and thrive is very difficult in our capital. Both of these mothers are trying their best to protect their children and seek alternative living arrangements where they hope that they will feel safer.

I know issues like this are top of mind both for us in this House but especially for the Premier who spoke at length at the beginning of our term on his desire to bring forward safer communities and neighbourhoods or SCAN legislation, as well as civil forfeiture and other tools that can provide more avenues to reduce crime in our communities. I appreciate that he considers this more than just a public safety issue but also one of public health and well-being.

A news article I read shared an excellent definition. SCAN legislation aims to improve community safety by allowing neighbours to make complaints to territorial authorities that can then target and shut down properties where illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, habitually occur. It's separate from criminal law and police enforcement which require a higher standard of proof. Earlier this fall, however, the Yukon Supreme Court chief justice struck down a section of that territory's SCAN legislation as unconstitutional. It has to provide five day's notice for landlord assisted evictions of tenants who are suspected to be engaged in illegal activities. The chief justice noted that the section could cause, quote, "extraordinary psychological suffering and risk to a person's health", unquote, as well as lead to housing instability or homelessness. It could also impact residents in a unit such as children or roommates.

We have heard our colleagues speak many times of drug dealers that are praying on our elders and living in their residencies. It's clear that careful consideration of this sort of legislation is required. I am hoping that the Minister of Justice will be able to provide much more detail at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Great Slave. Members' statements. Member from Inuvik Boot Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the town of Inuvik had their annual -- had their annual -- had their municipal election. We don't do it every year, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to offer my congratulations to the new mayor and council. Certainly mayor-elect Peter Clarkson is no stranger to our community, to our region, and likely to many Members of this House. Peter has long been an advocate for the town of Inuvik. He is a former councillor, a former mayor, and former regional superintendent for the Department of the Executive and Indigenous Affairs, Mr. Speaker.

I'd also like to congratulate our new slate of town councillors:

• Mr. Steve Baryluk,
• Mr. Kendall McDonald,
• Mr. Kurt Wainman,
• Mr. Mario Lemieux,
• Ms. Melinda Gillis,
• Ms. Alana Mero,
• Mr. Ned Day, and
• Ms. Jen Parrott.

Mr. Speaker, we know municipal politics is one of the purist forms of politics, and every issue is an issue that certainly hits close to home. I congratulate both the mayor and council. I wish them the best in their upcoming term. I look forward to working closely with them on the issues that affect our community and certainly my riding and, again, I want to offer my congratulations to them, Mr. Speaker.

I'd also like to thank outgoing member Clarence Wood. Clarence was a long serving member. As you know, he's received awards for his length of service, municipal service, as a long-time town councillor and mayor. Certainly appreciate the work he's done.

I'd like to thank, Mr. Speaker, the councillors who ran for the first time and weren't successful this time around but I'm sure will be back. And thank the incumbent councillors, Mr. Speaker, that weren't as successful this term. Thank you to everyone who puts their name forward for service in their community. It's a difficult job, but we really appreciate them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Inuvik Boot Lake. Members' statements. Member from the Sahtu.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to firstly take this opportunity to thank the colleagues in this House here for the support, and the staff, during the recent accomplishment on an immediate reduction to the fuel prices in Norman Wells. So mahsi cho.

Mr. Speaker, we all agree that, what's been said numerous times, the mining sector is the NWT economic backbone, an industry that is in question with statements of closures and reclamation in the planning phases.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada, more specifically the federal Department of Natural Resources Canada in 2022, initiated the regional energy resource tables, a strategy in transitioning to a green economy. Mr. Speaker, as quoted by federal Minister Wilkinson, this initiative will enable provinces, territories, and the Government of Canada and key Indigenous partnerships to collectively accelerate economic activity and position Canada as an economic leader in the global shifts towards a low carbon future.

Mr. Speaker, I note that the regional energy and resource tables mentioned, and the federal release helped advance the Yukon and BC exciting developments. Despite being created in October 2022, there has been little to in public news or engagement with stakeholders under the NWT's RERT. Later, Mr. Speaker, I'll have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure. Mahsi.

Thank you, Member from the Sahtu. Members' statements. Member from Mackenzie Delta.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In 1921, Chief Julian Yendo, a great chief of the Teetl'it Gwich'in, signed Treaty 11 in hopes of securing a bright future for his people of Teetl'it Zheh. Chief Yendo had a great admiration for his people, especially the children. When he signed Treaty 11, one of the clauses that he wanted entrenched in to the document was for the government to build a school within his community and to ensure that the children of the community received the best education that is available to them for many years to come. Today, the vision of this great Chief and the treaties are not being obligated to meet the needs of the students of the community.

Mr. Speaker, we have junior high school students who are incapable of reading or writing at the grade level they are in. The students do not want to learn because they know they will be promoted no matter if they attend only 50 percent of their class time. I believe this trend is happening throughout the Northwest Territories within our smaller communities. I personally know a few parents who are sending their children to different jurisdictions just to get a higher quality of education and a brighter future. This should not be an option. We should be giving our children the best education that they deserve and to look forward to a prosperous future within their communities.

Mr. Speaker, there are a small percentage of students who have the ability to pursue a post-secondary education but, again, they are placed in the same age group as their peers, and they are distracted because the majority of the students do not meet the requirements of their grade. Maybe we should be targeting these select few and giving them the opportunity to pursue a higher level of education and a successful future. These gifted students should be separated and given an instructor who is passionate about seeing positive results. They should at least be given the chance at life.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to say that I sympathize with the students of our smaller communities because their immediate future does not look too bright. I also feel for the teachers who have taken on the task of trying to secure -- Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you, colleagues. I also feel for the teachers who have taken on the task of trying to secure a future for these students but the damage is done, and now they have to work with students who do not want to learn because the education is literally failing them in life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will have questions for the Minister of education at the appropriate time.

Thank you, Member from Mackenzie Delta. Members' statements. Member from Monfwi.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about how climate change is impacting our ability to get fuel and other resources to our small communities. We have heard from the Member for the Sahtu about the emergency situation air freighting fuel has caused Norman Wells. In Gameti, the winter road system we currently use is vulnerable as well. Typically, Mr. Speaker, people can go back and forth to Gameti from January to March by driving the 213 kilometers winter road from Highway No. 3 near Behchoko. But last year with the short ice road season, optimal conditions on winter roads lasted less than two weeks. Residents need a solution.

Mr. Speaker, the short season makes it difficult to move heavy equipment and discouraging industry. Looking at the five-year average, the opening has been occurring later and later, usually by February 16th. In 2019, the opening date was March 4th. Mr. Speaker, we need to invest in all-weather access roads because small communities are at risk of being further isolated. This problem will drive up the cost of living beyond what is already unaffordable.

Yesterday, the Premier spoke about climate adaptations and isolation in the North. He said that during his recent trip to Ottawa with the Council of Leaders, the development of critical infrastructure, strengthening climate resilience, and creating economic opportunity through resource development were identified as key issues. An all-season road into Gameti will not only help address the impact of climate change but will also lower the cost of living for the community. It will make economic growth possible.

Mr. Speaker, Gameti lacks transportation infrastructure. With an increasing shorter winter road season and without marine resupply ability, the airport will be the only option left for residents.

Member from Monfwi --

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Mr. Speaker, we need to be forward-looking. The effects of climate change will continue, and planning for all-weather access roads now will benefit residents and industry in the long-term. I will have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Monfwi. Members' statements. Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife North.

Thank you. Mr. Speaker, one of this Assembly's key mandate commitments is equitable access to sustainable primary care in the NWT. I do believe that this is a sincere commitment. So we should all be alarmed that the primary care system here in Yellowknife, which also serves as an anchor point to many other communities, is on the verge of collapse. I'm hearing from constituents that there is such extreme frustration amongst frontline health care practitioners that a significant number have left their jobs over the past six months and we are in danger of losing the rest. So that's physicians, nurses, NPs, LPNs, and even program assistants.

Over the past year, a major overhaul of primary care was carried out at the same time as a major physical relocation was happening to the Liwego'ati building and not enough care was taken to understand how these changes would impact the day-to-day functioning of primary care practitioners and their patients. As a result, we have taken some major steps backwards in terms of continuity of care and patients' access to doctors. This doesn't seem to have been a temporary blip. It has resulted in lasting chaos, inefficiency, and burnout, not to mention moral distress when physicians are prevented from adequately caring for their patients.

Primary care physicians are telling me that since the overhaul, they've had 50 percent less time in their schedules to see patients. This time must now be spent on paperwork directly caused by the overhaul. The primary care teams were rearranged without meaningful involvement from the practitioners on those teams, resulting in all of the previous physician partner teams being unnecessarily split up. That means that the long-term relationships physicians developed with their partners' patients due to regular coverage was lost. Larger teams also mean that the program assistants and LPNs must take on bigger burdens which can lead to burnout, and it makes the teams less efficient overall.

This is not just a Yellowknife issue as many primary care practitioners regularly serve communities outside Yellowknife, and it goes far beyond a few grumpy staff who simply don't like change or don't want to be team players. Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent for my last sentence in the statement. Thank you.

---Unanimous consent granted

Thank you to my colleagues. So we have nurses and doctors with decades of experience who have passionately devoted their entire careers and lives to this territory who now feel so defeated that they're ready to quit. So that means we're in trouble until we start listening to them carefully. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife North. Members' statements. Member from the Deh Cho.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about the very important piece of infrastructure in our territory which is in my riding, the Deh Cho Bridge. The Deh Cho Bridge is probably one of the territory's largest pieces of infrastructure and the only bridge crossing the Mackenzie River.

Mr. Speaker, in the summer of 2023, the Government of the Northwest Territories discovered that the bridge was damaged. The damage included a broken cable. As a result, traffic is reduced to one lane and there are often line-ups.

Mr. Speaker, constituents in my riding frequently use the Deh Cho Bridge, and they are concerned about the traffic delays and worried about potential safety issues. My constituents aren't the only ones impacted. The bridge is important for many residents of the NWT and for tourism and other industries as this is a year-round highway linking Yellowknife to the south.

Initially, the repair work was supposed to take place this summer; however, this work has not been completed. I made inquiries on the status of the repairs and each time I am told that it will be done soon; however, the work keeps getting pushed back, Mr. Speaker. The government has been aware of this issue for over a year. I will have questions for the Minister of Infrastructure later. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from the Deh Cho. Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This July an email was sent to the Department of Health and Social Services. Seven GNWT employees were included on that email. One of them in particular, Mr. Speaker, was the CEO of NT Health and Social Services so I know the department has it at the toppest -- sorry, at the top of the highest officials we have.

Mr. Speaker, I won't name the particular facility, but it was highlighting something very serious. The subject matter in part reads: Urgent, child and youth safety concerns at... I won't fill in the rest. And the email then begins, Mr. Speaker -- and I take a small excerpt out of it. It says, I am writing to you today with a serious concern, safety risk to children and youth that are occurring.

Mr. Speaker, now when it comes to our most vulnerable, whether it's our youth, whether it's our elderly, or those who require special supports, I think it's fair to say all hands-on deck is the right approach. It's not only warranted; it's demanded, Mr. Speaker. So I know this email was received by the CEO, Mr. Speaker, and it highlights in the email that there may be human rights issues, abuse, and neglect. Mr. Speaker, I repeat myself. There may be human rights issues, abuse, and neglect. In that email, it had several items attached that the concerned citizen brought forward and citing as this is information you may need.

Mr. Speaker, this is quite distressing for someone like myself because thinking about our most vulnerable may be trapped in a particular situation and, more so, it bothers me that the department may be taking a lackadaisical approach on how to investigate this and furthermore demonstrates some level of transparency to these concerns. I don't know if they're facts, but they're concerned enough to put them in writing to the department, Mr. Speaker. That should be a minimum standard, a standard of saying maybe we should look into this. At the same time, this also provides those in the system to clarify any concerns. They may be a misunderstanding but I'm not the person to judge.

Now this narrative, Mr. Speaker, I highlight does cause further concerns. I go back, human rights, abuse, and neglect.

There is disclosure rules under the Child and Family Services Act, Mr. Speaker, but it does seem to read pretty silent when it comes to reporting these to the RCMP. So, Mr. Speaker, to help us avoid lifelong -- the lifelong journey of despair and trauma of individuals, I'll be asking the Minister about when the RCMP should be playing a role on this particular concern highlighted. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre. Members' statements.

Good afternoon, colleagues. Today, I would like to celebrate the life of Stephanie "Sweet Pea" Squirrel. She was born on September 15th, 1988, to Loretta and Steve Squirrel. She was the youngest of five children.

Stephanie attended school in Fort Simpson. I can remember the first time I met her. It was in Grade 1, and she attended school with my daughter. It is interesting what you remember of youth when they are young. What struck me about Stephanie was her smile, energy, and willingness to always want to help her classmates. As she grew up, this was what people saw. She was always there looking after others, especially young children.

I can tell you, three of my grandchildren were always excited to see her, whether it was on the street or at daycare. They spoke about how nice she was, and I witnessed her pure kindness and care she would give to them. Unfortunately, she passed away on August 3rd, 2024, at the young age of 35.

On Monday, August 19th, the family had a Celebration of Life. Two of her best friends, Jocelyn Kierstead and Brittany Hardisty-Isaiah did her eulogy. I have attached them at the end of this speech and would like them deemed as read and printed in Hansard.

What I can tell you, they both spoke about how full of life she was. Always thinking of others, especially the young children, whether they were her nieces, nephews, friends' children, or ones from the daycare. She wanted them to enjoy life and make the most of things. The other that that jumped out at me from their eulogy, the first being, live in the moment. Sometimes you don't do what you plan on doing, like going out but end up in bed watching movies, chatting and dancing with your best friend into all hours of the night, and it being the best time.

The second thing was family time and the willingness to go on adventures with them and loved ones. Whether it was done with trips to Edmonton, Vegas, Mexico, or at the snye or visiting friends or family at home. You can always have fun and enjoy the company you are with regardless of where you are. This was who Stephanie was.

Her family and her boyfriend would like to thank all the people who were able to come to her Celebration of Life and all the condolences from people who were not able to attend. My condolences go out to the family. She will be sadly missed by us all.

Eulogy for Stephanie M. Squirrel (Jocelyn Kierstead and Brittany Hardisty Isaiah):

Stephanie (sweet pea) was a kind, loving, funny, selfless, beautiful soul. This isn't even a fraction of what I can say of who she was as a person, if anyone knew her, she was so much more than words can describe. She was an amazing at everything and an amazing friend, always there to have a shoulder to cry on, made you feel so comfortable and warm. She could always brighten up any room with her contagious smile and incredibly wicked humour but can also smack the Band-Aid off someone if you needed her to. I'll always remember the days we would make plans and end up staying in bed watching movies and singing and laughing all night.

Stephanie had a place in her heart for all children in her care as if they were her own. She was passionate about providing a safe, nurturing space for them. From the kids at the daycare to her many nieces, nephews, and little cousins. Steph had an abundance of love and patience for children.

As the youngest of 5 siblings, she earned her nickname of sweet pea and baby and was adored by those who knew her. Stephanie looked up to her big sisters, was protected by her older brothers, adored her father, and was devoted to loving and caring for her mother. Like most of us in a small community, Steph had a lot of cousins she grew up with that were like siblings. Family time and values are things Stephanie treasured. From trips to Edmonton, to birthdays, holidays, and weddings, she could always be found at the family gatherings.

Steph was never one to miss out on an opportunity to have fun and adventure whether it was a Las Vega trip with her sisters and Aunt, to a wedding vacation in Mexico, or a trip down to the snye floating bridge with her pops.

Steph's interest in astrology and her own zodiac sign reflected in her personality; humble, grounded, self-sufficient. She even has a tattoo of the Virgo constellation. I'd like to thank you for joining us to celebrate her life here on Earth, now she is our own STAR in the sky full of constellations.

Members' statements. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member from the Sahtu.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to welcome two pages from the community of Deline, Ehtseo Ayha School. Their names are Matthew Bond and Evelyn Gaudet. Welcome to the Assembly. Mahsi.

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. If we missed anyone in the gallery today, welcome to your chamber. I hope you're enjoying the proceedings. It is always nice to see people in the gallery. Oh, Member from Yellowknife North.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to recognize Yellowknife North constituent Yuma McEachern who is helping us out as a page this week. So thanks so much, Yuma, for all your help.

Recognition of visitors in had the gallery. Reports of committees on the review of bills. Reports of standing and special committees. Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's going to be another marathon for Standing Committee on Government Operations. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 10-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner be deemed read and printed in Hansard in its entirety. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. Reports on standing and special committees -- oh, sorry. Motion is in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion is passed.

---Carried

Report Link

Reports on standing and special committees. Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 10-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. The motion is in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Reports on standing and special committees. Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Great Slave, that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days. Thank you.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. Motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees. Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations would like to Report on its Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Equal Pay Commissioner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, and commends it to the House.

Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, which will be referred to from now as the "annual report."

The committee thanks Ms. Renée Caron, recently appointed Equal Pay Commissioner, for her appearance before committee on August 29th, 2024. In the Northwest Territories, the right to equal pay for work of equal value is established by Section 40 of the Public Service Act and applies to public service employees. The Act requires the Equal Pay Commissioner to prepare an annual report. The 2023-2024 Annual Report highlights the context for the Commissioner's work and her activities over the year. Committee wishes to express our heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Bronwyn Watters, the former Equal Pay Commissioner, who passed away unexpectedly in the summer of 2023.

ABOUT THE NWT EQUAL PAY COMMISSIONER:

Section 40 of the Public Service Act requires that there be no difference in the rate of pay between male and female employees who perform work of equal value in the same establishment. Under the Act, three separate establishments exist:

• The government,
• The NWT power corporation, and
• Teachers.

The Equal Pay Commissioner is responsible for:

• Investigating complaints from employees who believe that their right to equal pay for work of equal value has been violated.
• Promoting awareness and understanding of equal pay for work of equal value.

OBSERVATIONS

The Northwest Territories stands as a leader in minimizing pay inequity. According to the most recent Statistics Canada census (2021), in the Northwest Territories:

• The median wage for tax filers identifying as male was $65,300.
• The median wage for tax filers identifying as female was $59,610.

These wages represent one of the smallest gender pay gaps in Canada, which the average of which is 74 percent behind only Nunavut. However, committee urges the government to avoid complacency.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion discussions often focus on traditionally marginalized groups in isolation. For example, the GNWT has policies that promote mentorship opportunities for Indigenous peoples and training to improve 2SLGBTQQIA+ workplace awareness. These efforts are important; however, committee argues they are overly simplistic.

AN INTERSECTIONAL APPROACH TO PAY EQUITY

Intersectionality is critical to understanding pay equity because it allows us to delve deeper into the multiple factors or demographics that impact compensation rather than focusing on individual factors in isolation. By design, focusing on the average wages across all women may mask disparities that exist when individual experiences or demographics are not incorporated. The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission noted that "pay inequity is not solely an issue of sex discrimination, but an intersectional issue that cuts across race, colour, national origin, and other protected classes." An intersectional approach to pay equity necessarily goes beyond comparing the average earnings of men and women.

A Statistics Canada study, Intersectional Perspective on the Canadian Gender Wage Gap, found that in 2022, compared to the average hourly wage for Canadian-born men:

• • Women who immigrated to Canada as children earn 10.5 percent less;
  • Women who immigrated to Canada as adults earned 20.9 percent less;

The comparison of average earnings at the intersection of gender and Indigenous status shows that Indigenous women and men earn less than non- Indigenous men and women;

• • Women who identify with a racialized group earn significantly less than the average male;
  • Persons with disabilities have lower wages and are more likely to work part-time leading to lower average weekly earnings;
  • Neurodivergent individuals are more likely to be underemployed, with lower potential earnings versus their neurotypical peers.

Committee believes that the GNWT's current one-dimension approach, based on just gender, misses the full picture. Intersectionality is key to achieving pay equity because it recognizes that individuals experience discrimination and inequality based on the intersection of multiple identities and demographic markers such as race, gender, and age.

During the life of this Assembly, the Government of the Northwest Territories plans to bring forward amendments to the Public Service Act making now an ideal time for the government to consider intersectionality issues surrounding pay equity and propose changes to the legislation. Therefore:

Recommendation 1:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories, in collaboration with the Pay Equity Commissioner, review the pay equity provisions of the Public Service Act and bring forward amendments to address how intersectionality impacts pay equity.

PROACTIVE PAY EQUITY

Collective bargaining and job evaluation systems support pay equity. The GNWT uses the Hay Method of job evaluation as a gender-neutral evaluation system that assesses jobs based on skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions. However, committee learned that collective bargaining and job evaluation cannot be the sole mechanisms to ensure pay equity.

The 2023-2024 Annual Report points out that "equal pay for work of equal value must be demonstrably established and maintained over time... Maintenance requires a systemic review every few years."

In August 2021, the federal government brought the federal Pay Equity Act into force. The federal Act establishes a proactive pay equity regime for federally regulated workplaces with ten or more employees. Under this regime, employers must proactively examine their compensation practices. The central feature of proactive pay equity is that it requires employers to establish and periodically update a pay equity plan rather than relying on reactive complaints to address and resolve issues.

Recommendation 2:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories, in collaboration with the Pay Equity Commissioner, review the pay equity provisions of the Public Service Act and bring forward amendments to require regular maintenance reviews or proactive pay equity plans.

CONCLUSION

This concludes the Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner.

Recommendation 3:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a response to the recommendations contained in this report within 120 days.

So, Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 11-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Equal Pay Commissioner, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. To the motion. Motion's order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 12-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, be deemed read and printed in Hansard in its entirety. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Those opposed? Absences? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Report link

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 12-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. Motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Absences? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a), the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days.

Thank you, Member for Frame Lake. The motion is in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has passed.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner and commends it to the House.

The Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner. The committee thanks Ms. Brenda Gauthier, NWT Languages Commissioner, for her appearance before the committee on August 29, 2024.

The Official Languages Act requires the Languages Commissioner to prepare an annual report.

The 2023-2024 report highlights the Commissioner's focus on community outreach, investigating complaints and inquiries, and continued advocacy for the Government of the Northwest Territories Indigenous Languages and Education Secretariat to mirror the services provided by the Francophone Affairs Secretariat.

ABOUT THE OFFICE OF THE LANGUAGES COMMISSIONER

The Commissioner has a narrow scope to investigate complaints that violate the Act and to promote the Office of the Languages Commissioner. The Northwest Territories has eleven official languages:

• English,
• French,
• Chipewyan,
• South Slavey,
• North Slavey,
• Gwich'in,
• Inuinnaqtun,
• Inuktitut,
• Inuvialuktun,
• Cree, and
• Tlicho.

OBSERVATIONS

Review Indigenous Languages Service Offerings

The Commissioner put forward two recommendations in the 2023-2024 Annual Report. The first recommendation is repeated from last year and called on the Government of the Northwest Territories to mirror the Indigenous Languages and Education Secretariat to the Francophone Affairs Secretariat. Committee agreed with this recommendation and submitted it for the GNWT's consideration in Committee Report 4-20(1), Report on the Review of the 2022-2023 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner. Committee anticipates the government's response to this recommendation in the Fall 2024 session of the Legislative Assembly.

Providing Services in All Official Languages

The second recommendation of the Commissioner is that the GNWT do more to provide services in all official languages in government institutions in all communities. One way to accomplish this is to collaborate with Indigenous regional governments.

The Official Languages Act, 11(2), states that any member of the public in the Northwest Territories has the right to communicate with and to receive services from any regional, area, or community office of a government institution in an official language other than English or French spoken in that region or community, where

1. There is a significant demand for communications and services from the office in that language; or
2. It is reasonable, given the nature of the office, that communications with and services from it be available in that language.

However, committee notes that there is no definition of "significant demand," nor are any communities identified as having "significant demand" for Indigenous languages in the Official Languages Act Government Institutions Regulations. Therefore:

Recommendation 1:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories define the term "significant demand." Appendix A of the Official Languages Guidelines Manual, published in 1997, outlines designated geographic areas for the use of official languages by the GNWT. While updating these guidelines is an action identified in the current NWT Indigenous Languages Action Plan, committee is not aware of the GNWT delivering services to the public in any official Indigenous languages in designated areas at this time.

Recommendation 2:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories prioritize Action 2.1 of the Indigenous Languages Action Plan to update official languages regulations, policies, and guidelines as soon as possible. According to the 2021 Statistics Canada census, 5,385 people in the NWT (which is 13.2 percent of the population) reported speaking an Indigenous language. In comparison, just over 1 in 10 people (or 10.8 percent) could conduct a conversation in French in 2021. The municipalities with a population of more than 500 that had the highest proportion of people who spoke French were in Yellowknife, Hay River, and Norman Wells. Meanwhile, the Government Institution Regulations identify Fort Smith, Hay River, Inuvik, and Yellowknife as having significant demand for communications with and services to the public in both English and French.

Recommendation 3:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories update the Government Institution Regulations to accurately reflect the requirements of Section 11 of the Official Languages Act by specifying:

1. Which head or central offices in which communities are required to communicate with and provide services in English and French
2. Which regional area or community offices in which communities are required to communicate with and provide services in which Indigenous languages.

In 1984, the Government of Canada partnered with the GNWT to fund Indigenous languages programming and services in the territory. Since 2017, the GNWT has received $5.9 million each year under the Canada-NWT Cooperation Language Agreement to support Indigenous languages programs and initiatives. Of that funding, $4.9 million goes directly to Indigenous governments to support the development of Indigenous languages plans and community-based revitalization programs. The GNWT uses the remaining portion of the funding to deliver the Mentor-Apprenticeship Program, Indigenous Language Revitalization Scholarships, and to administer the funding agreement.

Committee recognizes the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 14.4 which states that the preservation, revitalization, and strengthening of Aboriginal languages and cultures are best managed by Indigenous people and communities. However, committee also strongly believes that active reconciliation requires ongoing support and engagement. As such, simply passing along funding to Indigenous governments does not allow the GNWT to abdicate its responsibility to actively provide services and programming to our residents in the official languages of the NWT.

As stated in the 2017 NWT Indigenous Languages Framework, Every NWT resident has the right to access the same high-quality public services. In the NWT, there are nine official Indigenous languages alongside English and French. Currently, speakers of the NWT's official Indigenous languages do not have equitable access to services in their language. The goal of language access speaks to the need for all people to be able to use and benefit from high-quality public services in all official languages, including Aboriginal languages. Public services include things like health care, justice, legislative proceedings, education, and public hearings. Yet seven years later, 41 percent (7/17) of the deliverables in the NWT Indigenous Languages Action Plan to improve access to public services in all official languages remain incomplete

Committee recognizes that offering frontline services in Indigenous languages comes with significant challenges such as training staff, developing resources, and the availability of language speakers. Committee is concerned that:

1. There is insufficient funding and capacity for the GNWT to successfully champion improving the public's access to government programs and services in all official languages; and,
2. The Premier did not identify a Minister responsible for Official Languages, and yet the Official Languages Act requires a Minister be held responsible. By default, the responsibility for official languages seems to have fallen on the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. However, the ECE Minister does not have the authority to direct other departments on the use of official languages in their program delivery, nor do they possess the authority to hold other departments accountable for poor performance.

Therefore:

Recommendation 4:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories implement the funding and resources necessary to ensure speakers of the NWT's official Indigenous languages have access to government services in their language.

Recommendation 5:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Premier of the Northwest Territories clarify the roles and responsibilities held by the various departments and Ministers regarding official languages to ensure that all eleven of the Northwest Territories languages are treated equitably.

Languages Commissioner

The Official Languages Act was amended in 1990 to create the position of Languages Commissioner to act as a linguistic ombud for people who have complaints that their linguistic rights are not being upheld - the first ombud-like position in the NWT. Interestingly, the first Annual Report of the Languages Commissioner for the Year 1992-1993 states that: The Official Languages Act simply provides a framework for choice - those people who cannot communicate in English, or who prefer to communicate in a language other than English, now have certain guarantees from their government that they can communicate in their own language. It is about respect for minorities, about breaking down systemic barriers that have existed for years, and about fairness. It is about equal opportunity for linguistic minorities to participate in the affairs of government. Thirty-two years later, the Languages Commissioner is still advocating for fundamental improvements in language provision in government services while the GNWT has not yet to make meaningful advancements in providing government services in Indigenous languages.

Ms. Brenda Gauthier, the 8th Languages Commissioner, stated that she will leave the office at the end of her four-year term in January 2025. She is concerned that the scope of the Languages Commissioner, as laid out in the Act, is too narrow compared to other statutory officers of the Legislative Assembly.

In addition to investigating complaints received and promoting public education, most statutory officers provide an assessment of the effectiveness of their respective legislation. Within the Official Languages Act, that responsibility falls on the official language boards with recommendations made to the Minister, not the Legislative Assembly. As such:

Recommendation 6:

The Standing Committee on Government Operations recommends that the Legislative Assembly review the duties and mandate of the Languages Commissioner before the recruitment and appointment of a new Commissioner to ensure that the next Commissioner has the resources to successfully act as the guardian of languages rights in the NWT.

CONCLUSION

This concludes the Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Languages Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. Committee eagerly awaits the government's response to committee's recommendations in Committee Report 4-20(1), Report on the Review of the 2022-2023 Annual Report of the Languages Commissioner, and respectfully recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories provide a response to the recommendations contained within this report within 120 days.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 13-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Official Languages Commissioner, be received and adopted by this Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. The motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a) that the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. The motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? The motion has carried.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Standing Committee on Government Operations is pleased to report its Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Ombud.

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 14-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories ombud, be deemed read and printed in Hansard in its entirety. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. The motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has carried.

---Carried

Report Link

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that Committee Report 14-20(1), Standing Committee on Government Operations Report on the Review of the 2023-2024 Annual Report of the Northwest Territories Ombud, be received and adopted by the Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. The motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has been carried.

---Carried

Member from Frame Lake.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Great Slave, that pursuant to Rule 9.4(5)(a) that the Government of the Northwest Territories table a comprehensive response to this report, including all recommendations, within 120 days or at the earliest opportunity subsequent to the passage of 120 days. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Frame Lake. Motion's in order. To the motion.

Question has been called. All those in favour? Opposed? Abstentions? Motion has carried.

---Carried

Reports of Standing and Special Committees. Returns to oral questions. Acknowledgements.

Colleagues, I'm going to call a ten-minute break to give our translators a bit of a break, and we will come back as soon as we can. Thank you very much.

---SHORT RECESS

Colleagues, oral questions. Member from Great Slave.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Justice. The 15th Assembly ultimately killed the previous attempt at SCAN legislation in 2007. So my question is has the department revisited this legislative concept between that time in 2007 and now prior to the 20th Assembly, or are we just starting from square one? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Great Slave. Minister of Justice.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I believe it was 2007 is when this was first brought forward, and in the interim period the department hasn't done a lot of work looking at SCAN. A lot of work was done back then and so there's a bit of a base that we can start from but as with anything, a lot changes in 16, 17, 18 years. So there's still a lot of work to be done but it will be informed by other pieces of legislation from around the country that have been operating for an additional, you know, 15, 16 years since then as well as court challenges that have been brought against those pieces of legislation. So we're not starting from scratch, but there's a significant amount of work to do and consultation to do as well. Thank you.

Yeah, thank you for that, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the Minister. Sounds like there's some interjurisdictional scan -- no pun intended -- being done there. Can the Minister be specific about what preliminary work his legal staff is conducting with regards to SCAN legislation so that it will, in effect, be a scalpel instead of an unconstitutional hammer? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And as the Member alluded to, there is cross-jurisdictional scans that will be required. There's examination of the Charter challenges that have been brought forward. There's going to have to be discussions, obviously engagement, throughout the territory on this, engagement with other jurisdictions who have had the legislation. So there's a lot of work, and I don't plan on making this an unconstitutional hammer. There was a challenge in the Yukon recently. There was a decision rendered that one minor section -- or one section -- I won't say minor, of that SCAN Act was unconstitutional. From what I understand, it was a rarely used section of that Act, and there is not -- there's not an appeal that's being pursued by the Yukon government so that's essentially a settled matter. And we're going to learn from that and ensure that the legislation that we do enact is tailored to the territory, is fair to residents, and achieves its goals in a constitutional way. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So I'm hearing that the Minister of Justice is wanting to tailor it to the territories, so I'm just going to build a little on that.

We've heard many times in this House from smaller community MLAs that folks in smaller communities have resorted to vigilantism to scare out dealers. So what kinds of considerations is the Minister instructing his staff to make this legislation do to make sure that it works well for both the needs of the capital and the needs of our smaller communities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, we're a little early in the process to start giving direction on how to proceed. I want to see those jurisdictional scans, I want to see the research that is done, and then we can figure out how to move forward. But to the Member's point, I do want to ensure that this -- there's differences between a small community perhaps with no RCMP and somewhere like Yellowknife. And so it's going to -- you know, it won't be easy to find that balance, but I'm confident that we can do that. So the Member can rest assured that we will be taking into consideration the needs of the different sizes and types of communities in the Northwest Territories. Thank you.

Minister of Justice. Final supplementary. Member from Great Slave.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the Minister for that. In my brief reviewing of this issue, I'm curious about some other tools. Will the Minister also consider looking at community safety orders or amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act that will provide fair and thorough processes that would lead to the eviction of suspected drug dealers. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And yes, the Residential Tenancies Act, it will be reviewed by this upcoming summer. That is stipulated. And we'll see what we can do in there. I want to look at every avenue that we have to ensure that we're protecting communities, not supporting drug dealers and drug houses, and finding every way to give communities and the RCMP the tools they need to protect communities. Thank you.

Minister of Justice. Oral questions. Member from Yellowknife Centre.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions will be to the Minister of health. I highlighted an email the CEO of NTHSSA has received, amongst many other GNWT employees, regarding concern brought forward of what someone perceives as human rights issues, abuse, and neglect on youth at a particular facility.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to hear about by what way of process is going on at this current time to investigate or get to the bottom of these particular issues to ensure that there's a fulsome investigation and assessment of these concerns highlighted? Thank you.

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre. Minister of Health and Social Services.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the Member is referring to a current investigation, I cannot, you know, discuss any investigations publicly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, in the Child and Family Services Act, it relatively seems silent on the area of when it's duty to report to the RCMP. There's been serious concerns brought up with respect to human rights, abuse, and neglect of youth. What threshold does it take to engage the RCMP on these particular matters of urgency? Thank you.

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre. Minister of Health and Social Services.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, within investigations when child and family services is involved, if there are any legal implications within the investigation then they will, you know, report to RCMP or to whomever that needs to happen. And sometimes RCMP are part of investigations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Minister brought it up, so I'm going to ask, have the RCMP been engaged early to ensure that there's been a fulsome study of this particular issue so there's been -- there will be no delay, if any? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Member from Yellowknife Centre, I think the Minister has made it very clear there's a criminal investigation going on and she can't talk specifically about this investigation. So if you could reword the question so it doesn't involve the investigation, if it's process and policies, that would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, or I should say Mr. Speaker Whitford on the side, the way to massage, give the Member another chance.

Mr. Speaker, the issue here is that I want to make sure that -- is there any -- are there any barriers, policy barriers, Mr. Speaker, stopping the department from engaging the RCMP to join any potential investigation that she foresees? Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I said previously, any investigation that child and family services does, if there is found that there may be criminal findings during their investigation, they will report to the appropriate -- and if it's -- it would be RCMP in that case. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.