[English translation not provided.]
During the 15th Assembly I introduced a motion requesting the government to establish a policy that would spend up to 1 per cent of the budget on each G.N.W.T. building or major renovation on Northern arts creations displayed or integrated into the design of that building.
This motion passed, supported by the government of the day. Premier Handley at that time promised an arts enhancement policy that was supposedly already in the works at that time.
I approached the Minister of Public Works and Services about the government’s plans to include arts and crafts in the new Deh Cho Hall. I was very saddened to hear that there is no budget at all for these arts and crafts. Several constituents have urged me to address this issue and urge government to move forward with this important initiative.
Artists and artisans of Nahendeh and the N.W.T. have been recognized for their outstanding arts and crafts. This should be on public display in all our government buildings. One of the goals of the 16th Assembly….
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
The Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement.
Unanimous consent granted.
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and colleagues.
One of the goals of the 16th Assembly is to create a diversified economy that provides all communities and regions with opportunities and choices. This priority specifically includes the arts sector.
There are many ways to improve the cost of living and reduce costs, and the other side is to provide income through sales of products. Such was the intent of this motion and the consequential arts enhancement policy.
Let’s put action to these words. Let’s integrate arts and crafts in the new Deh Cho complex and all government buildings and call it the beginning of the N.W.T. arts enhancement policy.
Mahsi cho.
