Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, here in this Assembly, we are under no illusions that we face some tough problems in the territory, from homelessness to addictions to gendered violence and poverty. Thankfully, though, our government does not need to work toward the solutions alone. The Northwest Territories is home to a vast network of vital non-government organizations, and they have done incredible work on their respective issues. Each NGO fulfills a crucial role in the North and let me tell you they are all led by some incredible advocates who are taking action to make our territory a better place to live every day. Unfortunately, while these NGOs present the GNWT with a wealth of knowledge and dedication to tap into, they remain unsupported and unheard by decision-makers. They struggle with year to year funding that prevents them from planning their operations in the long term. The support they do get is often only enough to keep the lights on. I've heard time and time again that non-profit red tape is over-incumbering, wasting time and resources that could be better spent towards the services they provide. Most of all, they feel frustrated because they care so deeply about their communities but are held back from reaching their true potential. They just want to get to work but poor relations with the government that funds them has stretched them thin. This government needs to support NGOs, Mr. Speaker. It's not just enough to recognize and celebrate their work. The government must create stronger working relationships with them. That means treating them fairly, accepting their knowledge, and providing them with the resources they need. This kind of partnership is what they are lacking. Only through cooperation with civil society can the government achieve all that it is set out to accomplish in its ambitious priorities. This is how we get the North moving together in the same direction of positive change and meaningful progress. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Kieron Testart on Member's Statement 105-20(1): Working with Non-Government Organizations
In the Legislative Assembly on February 26th, 2024. See this statement in context.
Member's Statement 105-20(1): Working with Non-Government Organizations
Members' Statements
February 26th, 2024
Page 234
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