Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have questions for the Minister of Lands. I would like to ask the Minister if he can briefly explain the equity lease. Thank you.
Masi. Minister of Lands.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Equity leases were leases that were entered into between the Government of Northwest Territories and individual residents on Commissioner's land. Essentially the lease set out a program of payment which enabled the lessees, the individuals, to make up-front larger payments of the lease amount and then a nominal amount through the term of the lease. I must say that there are many interpretations as to what rights that gave the lessor and lessees. Thank you.
What can the Minister do to create more certainty around the equity lease or leasing in general? I think it was indicated there is something to whether or not the rights issue was considered or contemplated. The simple question is: what can he do to create more certainty?
One of the things I can do is ensure that no more equity leases are granted because of the very confusion that the Member opposite has mentioned. As I say, there were many different interpretations as to the rights of the lessees at the end of the lease, and the obligations of the government also. There will not be any more equity leases granted.
I would like to ask the Minister if Regular Members will have an opportunity or a chance to have input in the land leasing policy that is in place now.
Yes, of course, Mr. Speaker, and in fact, in January of this year I appeared before committee to discuss this very issue and correspondence was exchanged with respect to the very issue raised by the Member.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I indicated in my Member's statement, the leasing policy seems to be a counterproductive policy. I was wondering if the Minister can commit to the House that he will meet with his colleagues, the Ministers responsible for Housing, MACA, and Finance, to see if a more appropriate and lower leasing rate can be attained from meeting with his colleagues to ensure that individuals are able to apply for programs in those areas. Thank you.
I do realize the importance of this matter, and I certainly will just be discussing this matter further with the Minister for MACA. I cannot guarantee what the result of those conversations will be, but I agree to undertake them. Thank you.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake.
