Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a new chief and council of Lutselk’e. Chief Antoine Michel and a new council were officially sworn into office on May 7, 2010. Mr. Speaker, I had an opportunity to speak with Chief Michel about various issues and projects in Lutselk’e. We talked about many things we want to see for Lutselk’e. It was especially good to hear that he wants to improve programs and services for the people of Lutselk’e.
Mr. Speaker, Chief Michel has been the Lutselk’e First Nation chief in the past and more recently a councillor at Lutselk’e First Nation. He has a strong background in local politics, and is also a lifelong resident of Lutselk’e and has seen the community through many changes. During our discussion, Chief Michel mentioned that he wanted to see a new productive relationship with the GNWT and would like to see the Lutselk’e First Nation become more involved with delivery of GNWT programs and services.
Mr. Speaker, in Lutselk’e, the First Nation is a local government and the only government. In addition to overseeing programs and services in Lutselk’e, they must also be involved with equally important issues outside the community within the Akaitcho Territory Government. One can say they are doing double duty. Often many people don’t realize that of the chiefs.
With respect to a new band council, the community elected Gilbert Abel, Ron Desjarlais, Terri Enzoe, Ron Fatte, James Marlowe and Emily Saunders. Of the six council members elected, only Terri Enzoe was an incumbent.
Mr. Speaker, the new chief and council represents a new direction and leadership for the community. However, at the same time, they acknowledge the work of the previous chief and council. They look forward to continuing the good work that they have done.
Mr. Speaker, Chief Michel would welcome the opportunity to foster a positive working relationship with the GNWT for addressing the various community issues and concerns. I look forward to working with Chief Michel and his new council. I am travelling there next week to meet with them. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Chief Michel and the Lutselk’e Dene First Nation Council. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu. The honourable Member for Nahendeh, Mr. Menicoche.
