Thank you, Madam Speaker. On behalf of the people in my region, I want to say welcome to Kakisa. Kakisa was founded in 1962 when the Slavey people living near Tathlina Lake moved closer to the Mackenzie Highway. It is now home to 54 NWT residents. Close to 80 percent of the residents can speak in their own Aboriginal language.
Kakisa is a progressive, independent mining community we can be proud of. People recognize that the community can become more self-sustaining much more easily than a city. Leaders have expressed an interest in alternative energy in the central heating system and are willing to work with the GNWT to make that possible.
Traditional activities are very important for the residents of Kakisa. Many people take part in traditional harvesting activities and almost all residents regularly eat foods harvested from the land. They are advancing the protected area from the community to where the Kakisa River empties into the Beaver Lake. The GNWT should be prepared to do all they can to support this initiative.
Most people in Kakisa own their own homes. According to the most recent survey, core need has dropped to 6 percent. However, that is no reason to have brand new houses sitting unoccupied in the community.
Leaders have also expressed the need for a larger gathering centre. As we all know, communities’ ties will strengthen the important decisions that can be make when people can meet in a comfortable, central location.
Kakisa is only a short distance from a beautiful campground and the spectacular Alexandra and Louise Falls. These attractions are a great opportunity for tourism and economic development. Leaders want to ensure management of tourism within their traditional land use area. There’s an ongoing need for meaningful, open dialogue between the community and the GNWT. Real progress must be made toward finalizing land use plans and solid government agreements.
Madam Speaker, Kakisa and other small communities in the NWT should be highly valued for the strong people who live there and care about what happens to the place they live. Kakisa is an example of a small community that can do great things when we offer the support they need to reach their goals. Kakisa is just not a stop on the highway, but a real place in the Northwest Territories. Mahsi, Madam Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Nadli. The Member for Tu Nedhe, Mr. Beaulieu.
