Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. [English translation not provided.]
Mr. Speaker, the NTPC general rate increase for 2008, I’d like to address this burning issue for Nahendeh residents: a proposed increase in power rates to the NWT smaller communities. I have long been a champion of a standard flat rate system. That’s right: a one rate power zone. This, I believe, brings fairness and equality to all NWT residents in regard to having an essential service, electricity, in all our homes, the same access and the same benefits no matter where you live in our NWT.
One year ago I asked the Public Utilities Board and the NTPC to have the general rate hearing for their general rate application in our small communities to hear and see for themselves the concerns from the community based residents. But they did not. Now we see that the most impacted residents in this general rate application are the small communities. I feel they still do not have a voice. I object to the increased rates.
Why does this Crown corporation go straight to the people who have the highest cost of living to have them pay more? I think the current process, the proposed general rate increase, should be delayed and deferred. Above all, I ask that the NTPC first review their operation costs and their bonus clauses before coming to the people’s pocketbooks.
We MLAs are asking the same from this government. Make sure that the House is in order, and demonstrate to the people that you can do more for them, not the people do more for government. Mahsi cho.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe, Mr. Beaulieu.
