Rocky Simpson

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I thank the Minister for that. It's interesting that, you know, we have eight people really on the ground looking after $200 million roughly, which is probably bigger than some departments. So either we're going to have to reassess how we're managing things internally.

Mr. Speaker, what restrictions have been I'd like to ask the Minister what restrictions have been placed on disbursement of funding under the DAP program by the federal government? Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I MOVE that this Assembly recommends that the MLAs be advised as to when they are approaching 60 days within being sworn in so they have time to decide about whether to access the supplementary plan to ensure they do not inadvertently miss the deadline. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I support this motion. It makes it clear that all Regular Members are expected to share the workloads of standing and special committees equally. I should note that membership on the Board of Management will be considered as membership on a committee for the purposes of this recommendation.

The next motion I will introduce will add financial penalties for Members who choose not to sit on at least two committees other than the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight. Thank you.

Madam Chair, as MLAs we have to be accessible to our constituents; therefore, I think the Members' handbook should be amended to allow the Board of Management to consider such requests on a casebycase basis. I support this recommendation.

Madam Chair, I support this motion.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Disaster Assistance Policy was established for a reason; that being, to provide financial support to those impacted by natural disasters that may not be covered through standard insurance policies. The flooding in Hay River is one of those occurrences where that financial support was required, and that support has been well received and appreciated by residents and business owners.

Mr. Speaker, it has now been several months since flooding occurred in Hay River. As we know, many residents have been displaced from their homes, with many continuing to live...

Thank you, Madam Chair. Recommendations 14 and 15 are about the Members of the Legislative Assembly's pension plans. I move that this Assembly recommends that a reciprocal agreement with other registered pension plans, including Public Service Superannuation and Northern Employee Benefits Services, NEBS, be negotiated so pension amounts can be transferred. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. This recommendation is related to the last, and I support it.

Madam Chair, Members' constituency expense allowances are increased annually by the Canadian consumer price index. So funding available to extend this increase to constituency assistants already exists and it is at the discretion of the Member. I recommend that this recommendation be defeated. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Madam Chair, I support this motion. I understand that the Legislative Assembly has started a major overhaul of its website. A redesign project will help improve users experience through an easier searchable platform, navigation, and enhanced administrative capabilities. This will allow the public to have easier access to detailed and accurate information about their MLA's compensation and benefits. Thank you, Madam Chair.