Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are significant hydro opportunities here in the Northwest Territories. Given the rapidly increasing fuel rates and the environmental impacts of our reliance on diesel fuel for power and heat throughout the Northwest Territories, we must remain focused on building upon and maintaining our hydro potential.
Earlier this year the Northwest Territories Power Corporation decided to put more time into development of the business case for the Taltson Hydroelectric Expansion Project. I believe it was the right and most responsible decision. If previous assumptions about customer usage are not proven out, the basis for the project needs to be re-examined.
Today, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to talk about another NCPC project. In the fall of 2009, the replacement of the Bluefish dam was deemed to be an emergency. The Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board granted an emergency exemption for preliminary screening for the required permits for the replacement of this dam. Construction materials were to be brought to site during the winter of 2009, but unfortunately the project is now slated to be in service in the fall of 2012.
Mr. Speaker, the cost of the replacement dam is a concern. I was very surprised to read in the media in late April that the cost of the project had increased to over $33 million. Constituents came to me after reading the same article. They are concerned about the impact of the higher cost of the Bluefish replacement on their families. They are worried the increased costs will be passed on to them. Many of them are having a hard time making ends meet now.
As a Member of this Legislature, I was only aware that the cost of the project was going to be less than $20 million. I think it’s important that the public of Yellowknife be aware of the increased costs for the project, and potential implications for their household and businesses. Gas prices have already increased for our residents, going from $1.16 a litre before Christmas to over $1.30 now. According to our Bureau of Statistics, consumer prices for water, fuel and electricity in Yellowknife have risen by over 10 percent between March 2010 and March 2011.
I think we’re in danger of pricing many people out of our capital and out of our territory. They won’t have the means to cope with an ever-increasing cost of living. This could have serious implications for the GNWT programs and services available to our residents.
I will have questions at the appropriate time for the Minister responsible for the NTPC regarding the impact of the Bluefish dam replacement on power rates in Yellowknife and the Northwest Territories as a whole.
Thank you, Mr. Abernethy. The honourable Member for Nahendeh, Mr. Menicoche.
