Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. [English translation not provided.]
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to talk about the mini-hydro project on the Snowdrift River near Lutselk'e. Mr. Speaker, this project has many positive implications. The completion of the mini-hydro project will have positive impacts for the cost of living for the Lutselk'e residents and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
I know the government is taking the environmental impact very seriously and the people of Lutselk'e realize the economic benefits of paying less for power and other opportunities of the project such as short-term construction employment and ongoing operational employment.
Mr. Speaker, in order for this project to move ahead as planned, the GNWT must ensure its responsibility to conduct proper and effective consultation for the people of Lutselk'e. In fact, the project planning on the mini-hydro should be well underway now. Mr. Speaker, according to the leadership of Lutselk'e, this project seems to be proceeding along at a very slow pace and they are wondering why.
It is imperative that a consultation process is started immediately. The construction of an all-winter road to the mini-hydro site must start this summer. The project looks like it can be a real win-win project for all parties, with all kinds of favourable outlook for the project. The GNWT should do everything in its power to expedite the project.
Mr. Speaker, concerns were expressed by the community of Lutselk'e on how slow the process is and a fear that when the time for construction comes, the money may not be there. According to the community, this project has been in discussion for years and it’s time the government sits down with the community and get on the same page as when the community can celebrate the transmission power to the community of Lutselk'e. Late today I will have questions for the Minister of ITI. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu. The honourable Member for Tu Nedhe, Mr. Bromley.
