Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, many times in the House I spoke about the lack of employment in small NWT communities. Currently most communities have Canadian Rangers. I think they should and could play a greater role in our communities. Speaker, I intend to discuss the needs with the communities I represent that have Rangers. My thought right now is to change five or six Canadian Rangers into part-time or seasonal jobs in these communities. The Rangers can fill many important roles at the community level. They can be responsible for environmental clean-ups, search and rescue, while continuing their current roles as Rangers. In addition, there are many other important community-based tasks, like helping with community functions such as setting up for community meetings or events, on-the-land healing, and spiritual and cultural gatherings, just to mention a few.
I've often said in the House over the years we need jobs in our small communities. These are jobs that can be done by community members and will help communities and their members to see positive role models who can lead good traditional lifestyles and display their Ranger skills. There are also Junior Canadian Rangers, who are taught about addictions, good nutrition, staying in school, and promote structural life activities. Once people have employment, we’ll all see the benefits at schools with the children attending, fewer addiction and health issues, and having families with income support their families. We need to start discussions with the federal government to see what's possible in creating good positions in the small communities of the NWT. There are about 4500 Canadian Rangers across our country, many of them in the NWT. I intend to talk to the Rangers in the communities I represent. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members' statements. Member for Mackenzie Delta.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, during my last constituency tour I held in the communities, one of my constituents wanted me to bring forward the need for more on-the-land healing programs in our region. I know a couple years back there was some programs held in Beaufort-Delta, but my constituents would like to see more happening within our riding. With the report that was done, I believe it was about a year and a half ago, under the Mental Health Act, our residents wanted more on-the-land healing programs. I know the department has been working with the Gwich’in Tribal Council. He gave an update to us a couple weeks back, but later today I'll have some questions for the Minister. Thank you.
