Debates of May 27, 2004 (day 14)

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Statements

Written Question 20-15(3): Income Support Clients

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a written question to the Minister of Justice and Education, Culture and Employment, in reference to an article in the Inuvik Drum on May 20th. A constituent of Inuvik Twin Lakes was profiled showing a $5 cheque. This incident cannot go unnoticed as the recipient has been diagnosed with a terminal illness by the Inuvik health authorities.

My written question to the Minister, in his dual role as the Minister of both departments of Justice and ECE, is will he provide a detailed written legal summary as to whether the indemnification clause in the Public Service Act gives statutory powers to all officers of this government, including the income support workers?

If so, what powers does an office have to deny a client the level of services and entitlement that is constitutionally entrenched in the Dominion of Canada?

Will the Minister provide a detailed report to this assembly on what action he took to remedy this situation, i.e. a formal apology to this client?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: MR. SPEAKER

Item 8, written questions. Mr. Braden.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to return to item number 7 on the order paper. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.