Debates of May 19, 2011 (day 11)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On October 3rd residents of the Northwest Territories will be going back to the polls to elect the 17th Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories. As an Assembly we only have seven sitting days remaining for us, which will come in mid-August just prior to dissolution of the 16th Legislative Assembly, scheduled for September 5th. I’d like to formally announce today my intention to seek re-election in the riding of Kam Lake, of which I’ve had the opportunity, honour and privilege to represent since 2003 when I was first elected MLA for Kam Lake.

I enjoy working for my constituents, speaking out in this House about issues that are important to them, and trying my best to get things accomplished. In my time here, constituents have seen me consistently speak to much needed capital projects in the city of Yellowknife and in my riding, such as the city of Yellowknife bypass road, which connects Kam Lake Industrial Park to Highway No. 3, and the retrofit of Ecole St. Joseph’s School, which was made much more urgent when the school was badly damaged by fire.

Mr. Speaker, there will be much to focus on for this next government coming in this fall. Critical files will need to be moved forward: negotiating a final agreement on devolution, the Mackenzie Gas Project, the Tuk-Inuvik road, the Mackenzie Valley Highway, the northern extension of a seasonal overland route to Gordon Lake, the expansion of the Taltson hydro facility, and ensuring that major capital projects around the Northwest Territories are concluded to the best of our ability.

Mr. Speaker, elections give us all an opportunity and a chance to get out and meet with our constituents to discuss the issues that face us. It’s a great opportunity to set the marching orders for the next government. Mr. Speaker, I’m very excited about all the possibilities and opportunities that await this territory. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Ramsay. The honourable Member for Deh Cho, Mr. Michael McLeod.