Debates of August 17, 2007 (day 12)

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in August of 2007, there was an advertisement in a native journal. The Kitikmeot Corporation wants to build a port, a road to Bathurst Inlet. The port will be capable of handling 25,000 tons of ice class vessels. A 211 kilometre all-weather road is south of some of the richest minerals in the territory and Canada. Nunavut is moving forward, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, it is time that we did something positive in our jurisdiction here in the Northwest Territories. There are three diamond mines in our backyard. We currently have jurisdiction over them. Diavik Diamond Mines has already been quoted as saying trucking supplies down an all-weather road will be much cheaper than flying them in, and a port is one of several options the diamond mines are considering.

Mr. Speaker, the areas of the diamond mines is situated on the Tlicho traditional territory, Wekeezhii lands and the Monfwi Gogha De Niitlee traditional territory. The mining companies and the GNWT must respect the Tlicho land claims and self-government agreement. We are currently in discussion with the Minister of Transportation and senior staff on a proposal of an all-weather road from Behchoko and connecting Whati, Gameti, Wekweeti and continuing on to BHP and Diavik Diamond Mines and other mines. Fortune Minerals that is in our Tlicho territory, the gold mine will also be on route.

Mr. Speaker, the diamond mines need to leave behind a lasting legacy after they have shut down. They have always talked about leaving something positive behind. This is one avenue that they should consider. A permanent all-weather road access will certainly benefit the Tlicho communities in the long run. The mines need to work with the stakeholders; rightfully, the Tlicho Government.

Mr. Speaker, we want an all-weather road built connecting the Tlicho communities on route to the diamond mines now before we miss the boat. Mahsi.

---Applause