Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My Member’s statement today is in regard to the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline Project. Recently the Government of the Northwest Territories Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment filed comments with the National Energy Board on recommendations by the Joint Review Panel. Because the National Energy Board ultimately has the final decision on making further developments to the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline Project, these comments are very important and must be given the highest priority.
Many businesses along the corridor and northern regions have invested with hope that this would have shovels in the ground by now. That is why the government must continue to work with local governments and aboriginal governments, and especially the federal government, to make this project happen. Considering it is the most important project to the Northwest Territories, this government must be front and centre while promoting this project as well as timelines and deliverables with all parties including the applicants and stakeholders and companies.
We cannot allow another four years to pass. This government must work with the federal government and the ministerial offices such as Tony Clement, Minister Chuck Strahl of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, and the Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency to ensure the project is getting the prioritization that it deserves. These offices must be doing more with this government. They must work with them to ensure this project happens. Surely if we sit another four years, that would not only be a shame but an international embarrassment.
In addition, I urge this government to involve MLAs up and down the valley, community leaders and corporate leaders to push forward. This group needs to truly be inclusive. This government must devote the resources and the attention of this megaproject that it deserves. Without a commitment, we just don’t look very serious.
Local regional governments are passionate about this project. They are most knowledgeable about the issues and can generate the community-based support. I will have questions for the Minister of ITI at the appropriate time.
Thank you, Mr. Jacobson. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre, Mr. Hawkins.
