Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Premier. It gets back to my Member’s statement.
It was over three years ago that I first raised the issue of tax exemption of the GST for the three northern territories with the previous government. I know some Cabinet Ministers were around and remember that discussion I had with then-Premier Handley.
I’d like to begin by saying that early last month the Yukon government passed a motion in the House by unanimous vote that their government would lobby the federal government to remove the GST on home-heating fuel, power generation and on the transportation of essential goods north of 60 degrees.
I’m just wondering where our government is at, considering that we’re talking about the cost of living and that it’s going to be one of the biggest issues, especially come winter when people are paying exorbitant prices for home-heating fuel. I’m wondering where that is on the government’s agenda. Mahsi.
Thank you, Mr. Ramsay. The Hon. Premier, Mr. Roland.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ve had discussions with Premier Fentie of the Yukon, looking at this initiative. In fact, at the time I attended the Western Premiers’ Conference, he attended the Finance Ministers’ meeting in Ottawa. We had discussions about carrying the message from both parts. We are engaged with the Yukon government, through our staff, to look at options that could be available to us. I’m aware, from the meeting in Ottawa with Finance Ministers, that other jurisdictions are, as well, interested in looking at what options may be available to them around the GST.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Maybe the Premier is familiar with the situation. He has had a discussion with Premier Fentie. As I mentioned, we’re here for another two days. Would his government be willing to come forward with a motion similar to the one passed by the Yukon government so that we, the Members of the 16th Legislative Assembly, can lend our support to the efforts of the Premier and Premier Fentie and Premier Okalik? I think that adds to their arsenal when they do go to Ottawa and try to fight for tax exemption on those important issues. Mahsi.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If this Assembly feels a motion is needed in this area, we would be glad to work with Members to come up with a joint initiative. We are at the table working with the Yukon, looking at how we can work jointly with them in advancing this. As well, at the Northern Premiers’ Conference we will once again be having discussions with northern Premiers. I’m sure Premier Fentie will be looking to address this as well.
Thank you, Mr. Roland. Oral questions. The honourable Member for Nahendeh, Mr. Menicoche.
