Debates of May 19, 2011 (day 11)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As we close out another sitting of the Legislative Assembly, I think that we’ve all come to realize that the work we do here is quite important. We all have some challenges in that, but usually at the end of the day I like to think we come to a common conclusion and that we’re here to do the best for the people of the Northwest Territories.

We heard yesterday Mr. Roland saying that he was not intending to run again and I just wanted to use this opportunity to thank him for his mentorship. I remember when I first came in, in 2004, Floyd was the Finance Minister. At our first meeting, Floyd said one of the first things you have to realize is Finance Minister and Cabinet are always right. He said, “Every time I put up my hand, you put up your hand.”

---Laughter

So it took me seven years, but I’ve finally figured that out, and that’s pretty much how it works.

Mr. Krutko, you know, he’s put in 16 years, Floyd’s put in 16 years, and David and I, we’ve never always agreed on everything. Actually, I don’t think we ever agreed on anything.

---Laughter

But that was part of the enjoyment. I mean, David and I have butted heads on a number of occasions and part of it I think we were just trying to see who could get madder, him or me. I want to tell you, David, you won that hands down.

---Laughter

But I’ve enjoyed my time working with him.

There are a couple of things I want to point out, Mr. Speaker. In Inuvik this summer we’re having the Truth and Reconciliation national event and we’re expecting over 1,000 people to come to Inuvik. It’s going to be a huge, huge event. I remember saying in the past that as a town boy we didn’t realize the challenges that those staying in the hostel were having to go through. We’re looking forward to this as an opportunity to show some genuine Inuvik hospitality, and we look forward to having all the visitors come to Inuvik.

Mr. Speaker, as I close out my Member’s statement, we’ve had a few people say that they’re not running again; we’ve had a few say that they are running; and I think in the seven years I’ve been here I’ve gained some valuable experience, which I think would allow me to contribute to Inuvik Twin Lakes. So it would be my intention to seek re-election and I just wanted to have that come out today. So, thank you very much, I hope you all have a great summer, and everybody out there, please be safe. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. The honourable Member for Monfwi, Mr. Lafferty.