Debates of March 2, 2006 (day 40)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, a band called the Bare Naked Ladies sings a song called If I Had a Million Dollars. Mr. Speaker, I always liked the song. Again, I have my own version to share with the House. I performed a version of this song during last year’s budget session. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, the rules of this House still do not allow guitars or keyboards or even backup singers to be with me, so you have to bear with me as I read my Sahtu version.

Can we hum along?

Mr. Speaker, if I had a billion dollars, I will establish a territorial one-stop shop elders’ secretariat. Listen to the elders’ concerns. You are born to do that.

If I had a billion dollars, I will build a road to connect the Sahtu. Then we connect to the south and show them a thing or two. Would the Tuk people help, too?

If I had a billion dollars on the winter road, I would build a Tim’s just to drive through. It’s such a smooth trip. We won’t even have to stop in or spill my double double, too.

If I had a billion dollars, I will enhance and develop the wilderness camp because you just can’t separate the people from the land. That’s cruel.

If I had a billion dollars, I will hire the elders to count the caribou, female and male, too. They know what’s going on, so much more than me and you, and that’s no bull.

If I had a million dollars, the regional superintendent will take a Sahtu regional forum. Finally as a region, the Sahtu will stand alone.

If I had a million dollars, more resources towards the housing core needs. I will have all the Sahtu houses with the utmost speed. It will leave some for the other communities, too.

If I had a billion dollars to support the traditional economies, hunters and trappers would fall under the most sought after choice of our snow activities.

If I had a million dollars, I wouldn’t forget the forgotten people. I will fund the Metis Nation too from the university or college entry program and to end their frustration.

If I had a billion dollars, I will hold the Stanley Cup in a little town called Deline. It is the birthplace of the game. Then playoffs will happen there someday, too.

If I had a billion dollars, my colleagues will certainly get a day’s funding plus per capita. We will be on equal footing to access health care.

If I had a billion dollars, Mr. Speaker, we would all be rich. Thank you.

---Applause