This is page numbers of the Hansard for the 20th Assembly, 1st Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library. The word of the day was know.

Topics

Members Present

Hon. Caitlin Cleveland, Mr. Edjericon, Mr. Hawkins, Hon. Lucy Kuptana, Hon. Jay Macdonald, Hon. Vince McKay, Mr. McNeely, Ms. Morgan, Mr. Morse, Mr. Nerysoo, Ms. Reid, Mr. Rodgers, Hon. Lesa Semmler, Hon R.J. Simpson, Mr. Testart, Hon. Shane Thompson, Hon. Caroline Wawzonek, Mrs. Weyallon Armstrong, Mrs. Yakeleya

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

---Prayer

Prayer
Prayer

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Colleagues, I'd like to thank Lillian Elias, the elder, for the opening blessing. As well, I'd like to thank our sergeant-at-arms for the last time bringing us in. So thank you very much, Floyd, for your great service to us.

Ministers' statements. Minister from Municipal and Community Affairs.

Minister's Statement 71-20(1): Northwest Territories Business Licence eServices
Ministers' Statements

Vince McKay

Vince McKay Hay River South

Mr. Speaker, I had an opportunity to provide opening remarks this week at the 2024 NWT recreation and Parks Association Conference, and I wanted to recognize the program coordinators, youth representatives, and recreational professionals who have all gathered here in Yellowknife this week.
This year's conference theme, Resilience in recreation, is both timely and relevant. Recreation plays a key role in supporting resilience, in equipping participants with valuable life skills, in creating a sense of belonging, and in nurturing physical and mental wellbeing.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank everyone who has dedicated their time and efforts to promoting recreation and wellness across the Northwest Territories. I would particularly like to recognize the NWT recreation and Parks Association for their dedication to the promotion and delivery of recreation programs. Finally, I want to recognize the How I Survived podcast that officially launched Tuesday through a collaboration between the NWT recreation and Parks Association and the University of Alberta. I look forward to hearing firsthand stories of how recreation gave survivors of residential and day schools strength while they were institutionalized.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I hope that all participants have a wonderful conference and bring back valuable insight to their communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Minister's Statement 71-20(1): Northwest Territories Business Licence eServices
Ministers' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

A Minister's statement dear to my heart. Ministers' statements. Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Minister's Statement 72-20(1): Collaborative Work on Land Administration and Management
Ministers' Statements

Jay MacDonald

Jay MacDonald Thebacha

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to working collaboratively with Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations on land administration and management, specifically around traditional use cabins on public land. Our ongoing efforts reflect our shared priorities to develop respectful, transparent, and effective land use policies that support traditional land use, harvesting rights, and community wellbeing. To achieve this, the Department of Environment and Climate Change is engaging with Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations to develop a new approach to the administration and management of traditional use camps and cabins on public land.

This work is focused on establishing appropriate long-term policies that respect completed land, resources, and self-government agreements, while also considering ongoing negotiations. We are working to develop land management practices that reflect the realities of today's Northwest Territories and its diverse land users. Our government recognizes the deep cultural and historical connection Indigenous peoples have with the land, Mr. Speaker.

The work to develop a new approach will take time and must be done collaboratively with Indigenous partners. In the interim, the department has been working to implement short-term solutions to address a number of concerns, including issues around lease rent and lease rent arrears. Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories will pause the collections of outstanding arrears for recreational leases held by Indigenous persons with asserted or established Aboriginal and/or treaty rights to harvest in the area where their lease is located. This pause will remain in effect while the work to develop a new approach is underway. We are in the process of notifying all recreational leaseholders about this program and are ensuring Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations have the information they need to support their Members. It is important to note that a pause in collections does not delete or forgive lease rent arrears. Mr. Speaker, any decision to forgive arrears for Indigenous land users with recreational leases will be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific circumstances of each lessee. This program does not include property taxes or associated fees.

The department has also invited Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations, through the Intergovernmental Council Secretariat, to participate in a collaborative process to reduce lease rents for recreational leases held by Indigenous persons with asserted or established Aboriginal and/or treaty rights in the area where their lease is located. We are hopeful that discussions will begin this fall, and that work could result in an amendment to the Northwest Territories land regulations.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, collaboration is key to this process. We will continue to engage with Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations as we move forward, recognizing their vital role in land management decisions. This work is part of our broader commitment to reconciliation, fostering partnerships, and ensuring that the interests of Indigenous communities are respected and supported in all aspects of land management and administration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Minister's Statement 72-20(1): Collaborative Work on Land Administration and Management
Ministers' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Thank you, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Ministers' statements. Minister for Infrastructure.

Minister's Statement 73-20(1): Update on the Mackenzie Valley Highway
Ministers' Statements

Caroline Wawzonek

Caroline Wawzonek Yellowknife South

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to provide an update on the Mackenzie Valley Highway project, an ambitious initiative that reflects our continued commitment to fostering sustainable development in the North.

The Mackenzie Valley Highway project dates back several decades, with discussions starting as early as the 1970s. Over the years, extensive planning and consultation have taken place to ensure that this project respects the land and the communities it will serve. Earlier this year, we strengthened our partnership with the Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated, or SSI, by signing an amended and restated memorandum of understanding. This agreement builds on our shared commitment to planning, promoting, and seeking funding for the Mackenzie Valley Highway. Their insights and knowledge have been integral in shaping a project that is not only economically beneficial but also culturally sensitive and environmentally responsible.

A year ago, we reached a significant milestone by submitting the developer's assessment report. I am pleased to report that the environmental assessment remains on track for completion by mid-2025. Pending the outcome of the assessment by the review board, we anticipate an additional 12 to 18 months will be necessary to secure regulatory authorizations, address outstanding land tenure requirements, and advance procurement for construction. As you know, we do not currently have funding secured for construction activities. While we do not yet have the construction funding in place, I want to reassure residents that we are actively working to update construction cost estimates and engage with Canada on potential funding opportunities. As you know, the GNWT does not have the financial capacity to undertake this project alone.

Mr. Speaker, while we have not broken ground on the Mackenzie Valley Highway yet, I want to highlight the work that was successfully completed on the Prohibition Creek Access Road. This 6.7 kilometer stretch of new all-season highway from Canyon Creek to Christina Creek, south of Norman Wells, opened to the public last month. Combined with the previously built Canyon Creek All-Season Access Road, there is now a total of 20.7 kilometers of the seasonal Mackenzie Valley Winter Road accessible all year-round, improving the safety, reliability and resilience of the Northwest Territories transportation system in the face of climate change.

This not only supports the ongoing improvement of the key transportation corridor through the Mackenzie Valley, it is also a capacity-building project to help prepare businesses, workers and residents, for greater involvement in future construction of the Mackenzie Valley Highway.

Mr. Speaker, the benefits of the Mackenzie Valley Highway are many. It will improve transportation connectivity, improve safety and more reliable access for residents, businesses, and emergency services. Enhanced access will unlock new economic opportunities for local business, stimulate investment, and strengthen the regional economy, particularly important given the recent challenges posed by low water levels, rising fuel costs, and the growing cost of living.

Mr. Speaker, as we move forward I assure you we remain committed to working collaboratively with all parties to ensure the successful completion of the Mackenzie Valley Highway, and together we can build a future that supports economic growth and enhances the well-being of all residents in the Mackenzie Valley. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Minister's Statement 73-20(1): Update on the Mackenzie Valley Highway
Ministers' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

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

Minister's Statement 74-20(1): The Signing of the Inuvialuit Coordination Agreement
Ministers' Statements

Lesa Semmler

Lesa Semmler Inuvik Twin Lakes

Mr. Speaker, on September 30th, 2024, Canada's national Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Government of the Northwest Territories, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, the Government of Canada, and Inuvialuit Qitunrariit Inuuniarnikkun Maligaksat made history by signing the Inuvialuit Coordination Agreement and Fiscal Agreement.

This historic agreement identifies how the implementation of the Inuvialuit Qitunrariit Inuuniarnikkun Maligaksat, also referred to as the Inuvialuit Family Way of Living Law, will be supported in the Northwest Territories. This is the first coordination agreement implemented under the federal Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families in the territory, and the first for Inuit in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, as part of this agreement, Maligaksat will administer child well-being and advocacy programs for Inuvialuit children, youth, and families across the territory, including voluntary child and family support services and agreements. This means the GNWT's community social services workers will no longer provide voluntary support services and agreements to Inuvialuit in the territory. Instead, Maligaksat will provide these services.

While the GNWT maintains responsibility for protection services to Inuvialuit in the Northwest Territories, our government and Maligaksat will collaborate in areas of protection services like investigations, cultural continuity, and housing continuity planning. The GNWT will also maintain responsibility for prevention, including voluntary support and protection services for First Nations, Metis, other Inuit such as the Nunavummiut, and non-Indigenous children, youth, and families.

Mr. Speaker, we understand the successful implementation of the Inuvialuit Coordination Agreement requires collaboration and a shared vision. To that end, the Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to working with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Maligaksat, Canada, and all frontline staff to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

For a long time, Indigenous communities have voiced concerns about the delivery of child and family services, both past and present, often highlighting the overrepresentation of Indigenous children and youth in the system. In response to these concerns, the Department of Health and Social Services continues to work to fundamentally shift child and family services to a culturally-safe system. We have a standing offer with all Indigenous governments in the Northwest Territories to meet and discuss the GNWT's implementation of the federal Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families, and to share information and opportunities for exercising jurisdiction related to child and family services outside of self-government agreements. I encourage all Indigenous governments to reach out to my office to continue this conversation.

Once again, Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation on this historic achievement and thank them, the Maligaksat and Canada, for working with us to finalize this agreement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Minister's Statement 74-20(1): The Signing of the Inuvialuit Coordination Agreement
Ministers' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

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

Before we go any further, colleagues, I'd like to recognize Sheila Bassett-Kellett for being here. She's a former deputy minister. She was my boss at one point in time way back when, and she was a city manager. So welcome to our House. Thank you.

Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

Robert Hawkins

Robert Hawkins Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Northerners really care about their health care. It matters. And a lot of people are saying this, Mr. Speaker, many people. As a matter of fact, they also believe and acknowledge the Minister of health may mean well but they really feel deeply down inside that the Minister is out of touch. Many people are telling me this, Mr. Speaker, good people, such as the workers, the employees, the staff, Mr. Speaker. But they say to themselves, why isn't the Minister in touch with the primary care health doctors, staffing levels, and their issues. It should be top of mind. I know it would be top of mind if it was my choice. Why, Mr. Speaker? Because when you're the health Minister, you should know what matters to the people, family, and Northerners. That's why I know I would know the numbers.

The Minister can't keep hiding between NTHSSA and say oh no, it's their problem. She either realizes that she's in on the problem or not in the problem. I worry that she might have quietly quit and keeps downloading this to the patient experience or the other boards to manage these problems.

Mr. Speaker, staffing at the hospital and in our system should be absolutely top of mind. Every day she should be getting reading and results of what's happening over there. I know this because people are telling me, Mr. Speaker, people who know better.

Mr. Speaker, the solution of this government may be trying to get -- to solve some of these problems by hiring more deputy ministers but, Mr. Speaker, I can tell you right now nurses and doctors and admin staff don't need more deputy ministers; we need smart people, Mr. Speaker. Again, the government's solution is getting a Russian -- sorry, a Russian nesting --

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

R.J. Simpson

R.J. Simpson Hay River North

-- point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Thank you. Government Leader.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

R.J. Simpson

R.J. Simpson Hay River North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Member is speaking about individuals who are not on the floor of this House, not here to defend themselves, referencing that the hiring of deputy ministers and said we don't need deputy ministers; we need smart people. I think that's clearly out of line. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Thank you, Government Leader. Member from Range Lake -- or sorry, Yellowknife Centre.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

Robert Hawkins

Robert Hawkins Yellowknife Centre

It seems that we're always both to blame.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

(audio).

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

Robert Hawkins

Robert Hawkins Yellowknife Centre

I think -- (audio) Mr. Speaker, I didn't characterize they're bad people. As a matter of fact, if two more seconds the Minister would have said we'd hire a Jane Philipott, a health czar, Mr. Speaker. The intent was not to hurt individuals or single the single individual out, Mr. Speaker.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Thank you. Thank you for your time. Member, your comments about the Minister is my area of questioning. Do you wish to withdraw those comments about the Minister at this time?

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

Robert Hawkins

Robert Hawkins Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Speaker, I'm actually -- I can't actually -- seriously, I'm not wasting time. I can't actually hear what I'm asking to withdraw to be clear. And to be absolutely clear, Mr. Speaker, I was referring to an entity, not an individual.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Thank you. We'll just take a brief second here. Thank you.

---BRIEF RECESS

Member, so I guess I should be clear what I'm asking. You were very close to the line talking about the deputy ministers and about smart people, but saying the Minister's quietly speaking is of concern to me -- quitting, sorry, quietly speaking, quietly quitting. Member from Yellowknife Centre.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

Robert Hawkins

Robert Hawkins Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I -- specifically to the quiet quitting comment, I certainly withdraw it, and I apologize for that and to the House. Thank you very much for recognizing the differences. Thank you.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Shane Thompson

Colleagues, remember when we were talking about the public service, we have to make sure that these hard-working people, we don't cross the line. And we were getting pretty close yesterday and today. So I will start calling it if it continues. Thank you.

Member from Yellowknife Centre, you may conclude your statement.

Member's Statement 374-20(1): Healthcare
Members' Statements

Robert Hawkins

Robert Hawkins Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I thought I had about two minutes on the clock. I plan not to abuse the time; don't worry, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, where I was going with this is -- and, again, I recognize and I appreciate your Whitford guidance on that particular initiative, and I do recognize in my Member's -- I'm going to pause and say I thank the Premier for pointing that out. I do think good order does come with drama, but I do respect why he did that.

Mr. Speaker, to get back right on point, I think we should go so far as rather than finding new people in the system to solve the same problems, we need to hire a health care czar like Jane Philipott, someone who knows health care issues down to her DNA, she knows them from the top to the bottom, only someone of that type of skill to see how our system works together because it's so important to know the full integration. So we can hire all our people or reshuffle the deck no matter what we get. At the end of the day, unless we're willing to think big and be big, we're never -- we're going to just keep getting the same results, Mr. Speaker.

So to wrap this up, Mr. Speaker, if the department again wants -- sorry, if the government wants to think big about health, maybe it should start asking the question why do we have health and social services tied together? Maybe we should allow them to go independently separate -- their ways. That way we can allow the health Minister to focus in on health and the system allowed to do what it needs to do. And my recommendation is we hire someone who -- like, an old fashioned hospital administrator who knows how to run these systems because that's what they're trained for, skilled for, and they certainly know all the ins and outs that make the very difference to making staff happy and the public's needs served. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.