[Translation begins] I am here to do an opening prayer. I ask the Creator to guide you through all your discussions. Will you ask the Creator for something that will help us as he is the one who guides everyone in their lives? May he guide you throughout your discussions to make all the good decisions and I pray for you. [Translation ends.]
Mr. Speaker, Members of the Legislative Assembly, honoured guests, people of the Northwest Territories, it is with great joy and optimism that I welcome you back today into the Legislature. The tasks at hand may seem at times insurmountable and daunting. However, through your cooperation and commitment, there can be success and achievement. This year holds great promise that more positive results will bring about measureable change for the betterment of all Northerners. We look forward to hearing your thoughtful dialogue during this brief and important sitting, and I wish you well in your deliberations.
This is the first Assembly to take office since the transfer of responsibility for land and resources marked the most significant step in the continued political evolution of the Northwest Territories. It is also the first Assembly to be called to sit since the passing of former Commissioner Stuart Hodgson, the man who first brought this government home from Ottawa and worked tirelessly to make it a government of Northerners for Northerners. It is an Assembly marked by a majority of first-time Members, bringing fresh ideas and new energy with them to this House. At the same time, it is the first Assembly in the history of the Northwest Territories to elect a premier to a second term as its leader. It is, at one and the same time, an Assembly of change and an Assembly of experience. An Assembly that, like the territory it serves, continues to evolve and develop while staying rooted in the traditions of its past and the wisdom of those who have gone before.
This Assembly will also mark the first time that the Government of the Northwest Territories will publicly set out its mandate and table it in the House for consideration and debate. This is yet another step in the ongoing development and maturation of the Government of the Northwest Territories and represents a new commitment to public transparency and accountability. The mandate the Premier will table today was developed as a formal response to priorities set by all Members of this Assembly in December. It identifies the actions and initiatives the Government of the Northwest Territories will undertake to advance those priorities. It is meant to be a common sense plan that will guide government decisions and actions over the coming four years. Like any plan, it depends on strategic choices and has been shaped by a careful analysis of the current territorial, national, and international environment; available resources; and the priorities identified by all Members on behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories. A plan that cannot be paid for is a plan that cannot succeed. The economy of the territory, and of the country, is in a precarious position. Commodity prices and demand for natural resources, a traditional mainstay of this nation’s economic wealth, have dropped further and faster than anyone expected.
Governments around the world and across the country are being faced with hard choices about the way forward in the face of lowered revenues and continued demands to spend on infrastructure investments, public programs, and services. Some governments have made the choice to take a gamble on the future and run deficits while hoping for economic recovery. Some governments have made a more prudent choice to reduce their expenditures; they are reluctant to mortgage their children’s future. The Northwest Territories is not immune from the economic forces affecting other governments. Declining resource revenues and federal transfer payments will put pressure on the GNWT, and Members will be called on in coming months to decide how best to respond to that pressure when this House meets again in May and June to consider the budget. The Government of the Northwest Territories believes the choice is clear and that it must reflect the traditional values of thrift and self-reliance that Northerners have always displayed. Planning to live beyond our means is not a responsible choice. The government believes that the people of the Northwest Territories expect it to do the responsible thing, that fiscal responsibility is a crucial measure of accountability. The plan to be presented today reflects this belief and reflects this government’s public commitment to responsibility and fiscal discipline.
The government serves the people, and the people deserve the best government possible. People want to see a government that reflects their values and their priorities. People want to see government that works, and Members that work together. People want to see collaboration and collective decision-making aimed at addressing the pressing challenges affecting them and their territory. People want to see a government that works with other levels of government, including the federal government, and especially Aboriginal and community governments, to achieve shared objectives that all citizens can benefit from. The Government of the Northwest Territories believes that better governance starts with the GNWT being a better government.
The GNWT’s plan for being a better government starts with a commitment to accountability, transparency, and collaboration. As part of that plan, the GNWT has named a Minister of Public Engagement and Transparency to be an advocate for principles of openness and transparency at the highest levels. As one of his first tasks, the Minister will lead the development of an open government policy to enhance civic participation, increase the availability of information about government activities and explore new technologies for openness and accountability. Settled land, resource, and self-government claims enshrining Aboriginal rights and establishing clear ownership of land and resources are fundamental to good government of the Northwest Territories. During this term of government, the GNWT will focus on settling outstanding agreements with the Akaitcho, Dehcho, NWT Metis Nation, Acho Dene Koe, and Government of Canada. Our approach will include new offers on land quantum and a renewed approach aimed at reaching agreement, not at holding onto cookie-cutter positions established in the past century. The GNWT will continue to acknowledge and address the legacy of colonialism and residential schooling by implementing the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that fall within the jurisdiction of the territorial government. Recognizing that strong and capable governments at all levels make for a strong territory, the GNWT will work in partnership with Aboriginal governments to explore the design and launch of a training program for First Nations governments with municipal-like responsibilities.
To better serve citizens, the GNWT will do a better job of making sure NWT residents, especially those in smaller communities, know about available programs and services and how to access them, through Single Window Service Centres and Government Service Officers. A strong territory is one where people are financially secure and able to afford the cost of shelter, food, utilities, and clothing for themselves and their families. The Government of the Northwest Territories recognizes that many people struggle to afford the basic necessities of life in all regions of the NWT. Without a stable foundation and financial security, they are less able to participate in jobs or training and be active, contributing members of their communities. The GNWT believes that lowering the cost of living is essential to improving the quality of life for our residents, for attracting more people to the NWT, and for expanding economic opportunities. To do this, the GNWT will focus on cost drivers that directly affect families so people are secure in their shelter, food, and childcare, while expanding and modernizing territory-wide energy, transportation, and housing infrastructure.
Addressing housing needs will continue to be a priority for the GNWT, increasing the availability of safe, affordable housing, and creating solutions to address homelessness. The government will continue to implement northern solutions for northern housing, working with community and Aboriginal governments to support their housing goals and exploring approaches like Housing First. We will examine how we manage housing units and land within communities to better support delivery of housing programs that meet local needs. We will improve food security by increasing the availability of local food through better wildlife management, country food programs, support for local fisheries, and an agriculture strategy to increase domestic food production. We will address energy costs by supporting greater use of energy efficiency technologies and increasing the production and transmission of renewable and alternative energy. Our plan will include incentives for consumers to invest in energy-efficient products and help for businesses and community governments to adopt measures aimed at conservation and more efficient energy use. We will work with the federal government to pursue investments in transportation and energy infrastructure, and continue to press for an increase to the federal Northern Residents Tax Deduction.
Education and training provide a solid foundation for healthy, successful people and allow them to pursue their own dreams and aspirations. People with the right education and training have better employment opportunities, and there are strong links between employment, education, and housing, and reduced issues related to health and crime. Ensuring NWT residents are positioned for success means a multi-faceted approach to education and development that begins even before they are born and continues throughout their youth through to post-secondary or other training and employment. It requires strong linkages between each phase of a person’s educational career and addressing the differences in outcomes between small and large communities and Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
The GNWT’s plan for supporting the lifelong success of the territory’s residents includes continuing to implement the Right From the Start framework by working with stakeholders and communities to explore options for free play-based care for four-year-olds, improving supports for early childhood programs and workers, and improving access to early intervention services. The GNWT’s plan will continue with increased support for K to 12 education that improves educational outcomes through the Education Renewal and Innovation initiative. The government will take steps to ensure our young people have improved opportunities to acquire the skills they need to succeed by working with Aurora College, refocusing support for post-secondary institutions in the NWT, and improving outcomes from community learning centres. We will get more 18- to 24-year-olds into the labour market by using a better mix of improved educational attainment and skill development matched to employer needs through improved career development supports. We will implement youth resiliency programs in schools to improve outcomes and lower dropout rates, support youth development programs like the Youth Corps and Youth Ambassadors, and promote and improve student financial assistance.
Where people live has profound effects on their personal health and wellness, grounded in social, cultural and historical forces. Fostering healthy, safe communities in the context of those forces is essential to ensuring that NWT residents are able to achieve personal success and wellness. Community wellness begins with supports to encourage individuals and families to be and stay healthy. Promoting physical activity, volunteering, positive relationships within families and time on the land promotes healthy lifestyles and mental health. These are things the GNWT believes help to prevent chronic disease, domestic abuse, and feelings of helplessness. Prevention needs to be complemented by effective programs and services to address social ills and mental health challenges, and treat diseases in ways that are appropriate to community and cultural contexts. The GNWT’s plan to support healthy communities and healthy people will include the development of a comprehensive mental health and addictions framework incorporating land-based healing programs, modeling a mobile addictions treatment team, addressing gaps in community-based services, and enhancing local and regional treatment options, including aftercare. The government will look at ways to prevent and reduce crime and take mental health and addictions into account, such as integrated case management, Wellness Courts, Domestic Violence Treatment Option Court, and culturally appropriate correctional programs. Community wellness will include supports to elders to ensure they can live in their homes, their own homes, for as long as possible, as well as supports for those who are no longer able to live on their own. Programs like the Healthy Family Collective Kitchen Program and Drop the Pop and healthy living fairs in communities will help reduce the burden of chronic disease by promoting healthy lifestyles, as will increased screening and management supports. The government will continue with health system transformation to deliver best health, best care to all residents of the Northwest Territories through an integrated health and social services system supported by regional wellness councils and a new leadership council.
A strong, diversified and environmentally sustainable economy is the foundation for a strong territory that provides its residents with opportunities to prosper and succeed and funds public programs and services. Historically, non-renewable resource production has been the source of the NWT’s economic strength, enabling investments into other sectors of the economy, into energy systems, and lowering the cost of living. While this development has created great benefits for the NWT, those benefits have not always been felt equally by all communities and regions, and dependence on one or two major sectors is inherently risky. To ensure a stable economic future for ourselves, our children, and grandchildren, we need strategic investment, diversification, and modernization towards a high-tech and lower-carbon future, while continuing to support the industries that have helped build this territory. The GNWT’s plan includes working with our partners to secure funding for strategic infrastructure investment that will help grow and support the NWT economy, including projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway, an all-weather road to Whati, and improved road access to the Slave Geological Province, as well as work to improve rail and marine transportation.
The GNWT will support mineral exploration and the mining sector by implementing the Mineral Development Strategy, closing the skills gap in the mining sector, implementing the Mining Incentive Program, proposing a Mineral Resources Act, and supporting Aboriginal governments to build capacity to deal with mining related activities. The government will continue to improve the climate for responsible development in the Northwest Territories by working with Aboriginal governments and the Government of Canada to settle outstanding land, resources, and self-government claims and to finalize land use plans in all regions of the NWT. Implementing devolved responsibilities and providing for responsible, sustainable management of NWT land and resources is an important part of the GNWT’s plan. That plan will include improving the NWT regulatory system so it operates effectively and predictably, while ensuring the priorities and values of NWT residents are respected.
At the same time, the GNWT will develop a territorial climate change strategy that will take northern costs and energy demands into account, while reflecting national and international commitments to lower emissions. We will continue to examine a full range of alternative energy options, including wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal, to identify the best way to meet the energy needs of all regions and improve energy resiliency. Finally, a sound plan for the economy takes into account the advantages the NWT already enjoys, such as tourism, furs, and minerals, and looks for ways to capitalize on them. Developing the private sector in all regions and communities by promoting the NWT’s natural advantages and encouraging foreign and domestic investment will be an important part of diversifying the NWT economy and taking advantage of local and regional strengths.
Good government is about good choices, and about the ideas and priorities those choices are based upon. The mandate described today will form the heart of the government’s program for the next four years, a plan it will follow for advancing the priorities of the Legislative Assembly and people of the Northwest Territories. It is a significant plan with implications for every resident of the Northwest Territories, and deserves full scrutiny and debate over the coming days. The Government of the Northwest Territories believes it is a solid and achievable plan that will improve the lives of all Northerners, in which everyone can see their priorities and aspirations, and looks forward to putting it into action following its adoption. During this session, the Government of the Northwest Territories will be introducing the following bills for consideration by the House:
Interim Appropriation Act (Operations Expenditures), 2016-2017;
Supplementary Appropriation Act (Infrastructure Expenditures), No. 4, 2015-2016; and
Supplementary Appropriation Act (Operations Expenditures), No. 3, 2015-2016.
The government considers these bills essential to the good conduct of government business and as such, I recommend their passage. As Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, I now declare open the Second Session of the 18th Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, merci beaucoup, mahsi cho, quanani, koana.
---Applause
Please let me begin by welcoming everyone to the opening of the Second Session of the 18th Legislative Assembly. I would like to thank the choir, Falcon Voices, from Ecole Sir John Franklin High School for your beautiful rendition of our national anthem. I'd just like to say thank you to the Elder for the wise words, and also for the prayer of the day. I extend a special welcome back to the Chamber, my colleagues. I know it has been a busy time since our election. You have spent many hours together working on the mandate which will guide the 18th Assembly. I sense your energy and resolve as you work together on behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories. I look forward to working with each and every one of you for the next four years.
On a sadder note, colleagues, I wish to join with the voices of many, many other Northerners in sending the condolences of this House to the family of the late Stuart Hodgson. Mr. Hodgson served as Commissioner of the Northwest Territories from 1967 to 1979. He will always be remembered for the special connections that he had to the North and will always be an integral part of our history. I invite everyone to join me tomorrow, Friday, February 19 at 3:00 p.m. in the Great Hall, for a memorial service to honour the remarkable life of Stuart Hodgson. Mr. Hodgson’s son, Eugene, and grandson, Evan, will be in attendance as well. A reception will follow.
Marsi cho. [English translation not provided.] Mr. Speaker, today I would like to send my deepest condolences to the King-Boucher family of the late Henry King, who sadly passed away January 20, 2016. He was born on the Rat River on August 28, 1925. Henry was one of 13 children who drew up on the Taltson River and eventually moved to Fort Resolution. Henry was a very dependable man who worked to provide for his family. He used a traditional lifestyle of hunting and trapping as a means of survival, and he was a very wise and humble man. He may have lived a hard life, but he did it with a smile on his face. Henry is survived by his sister, Vitaline Lafferty from Ndilo, and his children Emelda, Dora, Freddy, Ronald, Nancy, Catherine, Maurice, Paul, Laura, Kenneth, Kevin, and Suzanne. Mr. King has 45 grandchildren, 81 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.
Also from Lutselk’e today I would like to send my condolences to the Michel-Catholic family of the late Mary Jane Michel. She passed away on January 25, 2016, at age 58. She was born in Lutselk’e on January 16, 1958. Mary Jane was a very kind-hearted lady who loved her family deeply and worked hard and lived a traditional lifestyle. She and her husband Antoine Michel lived off the land in a house they shared with family and friends in Lutselk’e. As a mother, grandmother, and wife, she dedicated her time to her family and taught in the traditional life style. She wanted to see her children and grandchildren succeed in life. Mary Jane is predeceased by her parents Judith and Pierre Catholic; sister, Marina; brothers Lawrence and Frankie. My condolences go out to Mary Jane's husband Antoine and daughters Delores and Laura; Jane's sons Henry, Jason, Jessie; her brothers Herman and Joseph; all of her grandchildren, friends, and family.
Today I would also like to send my deepest condolences to the family of the late Ann Biscaye. She passed away on February 7, 2016, at age 62. Ann was a hard-working woman and was well known through her translation duties. She shared her knowledge with anyone who wanted them. Ann was predeceased by her father, Paul Biscaye; daughter Sarah Ann; brothers, Louis, Noel, Edward, Joseph, Samuel, Raymond, and Fred John; her sisters, Mary, Mavis, and Georgina. My condolences go out to Ann's daughter, Gloria, Chief Balsillie’s wife; her grandchildren, Troy, Theresa, Kayden, Chase, Jeremy; mother, Theresa; sisters, Sabet Biscaye, Julia, Violet; and her partner Joseph Beaulieu; and all of her nieces and nephews. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Welcome back, Members. My statement today is in recognition of the Arctic Inspiration Prize. My colleagues and I were fortunate to hear a presentation on the important initiative, yesterday. I know the Premier and some of the MLAs were at a public reception here last evening. The Arctic Inspiration Prize is sometimes known as the Nobel of the North. It awards at least $1 million annually to northern teams with a knowledge-to-action plan in the areas of education, health, social and cultural issues, the environment, or the economy. The Arctic Inspiration Prize was founded in 2012 by philanthropist Arnold Witzig and his partner Sima Sharifi. They have made a gift of their own personal fortune in this unique initiative to benefit northern families and communities. You will recall, last year, the entire $1 million Arctic Inspiration Prize was awarded to the NWT-based group Fostering Open eXpression Among Youth, also known as FOXY. FOXY was founded by Candice Lys, of Fort Smith, and Nancy McNeill, of Yellowknife. FOXY uses drama, music, visual arts, public speaking, and games to help young women learn about sexual health, self-empowerment, positive life choices, and healthy relationships. Since 2012, FOXY workshops, in almost every NWT community, have reached hundreds of young women. Another 80 young women in FOXY's peer leader program develop leadership and networking skills and create community projects that benefit their home, communities, and earn them high school credits. FOXY is currently developing plans to include young men in its program and to reach more communities including in Nunavut and Yukon.
This year, another Northwest Territories group will participate in the Arctic Inspiration Prize. The tri-territorial training project, with NWT Parks and Recreation as one of the partners, was awarded $600,000 for their plan to support northern communities with a specialized community recreation leadership training program in remote communities across the three territories. Knowledge to action, unique and innovative ideas, developed by teams of Northerners to enhance and improve northern life. I would like to recognize and congratulate the members of the tri-territorial training project and wish them the best as they develop their program. I would like to congratulate all the leaders and participants of FOXY for their important work and wish them the best on their expansion. I would like to, of course, recognize and thank Arnold Witzig and Sima Sharifi for their broad vision and selfless contribution to a healthy environment, northern families and communities, through the establishment of the Arctic Inspiration Prize. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Through conversation with other Members, I have come to realize the economic realities we’re facing in Hay River, the territory's second largest community, aren't well known outside of the town. Even though this Assembly is in its infancy, the decisions we make in the coming months will have both immediate and lasting effects. Because we need to make informed decisions, I want to provide all of my colleagues with some context regarding the fragile state of Hay River's economy. The economic downturn is evident all over the territory. However, there are certain communities that are more insulated from market forces because of a large government presence. For those places, the slow economy may be somewhat of an abstract idea. In Hay River, the downturn is palpable, and at the forefront of many residents' minds. Whether it is during the week or it is a Saturday night, there is a noticeable lack of people in stores and restaurants and nightclubs or out enjoying the nightlife, especially when compared with the bustle of somewhere like Yellowknife. There are multiple retailers and distributors that I have talked to that are fixtures in the communities whose sales are down 30 to 40 per cent from last year. I have lost track of how many businesses have closed down in the past few years and haven't been replaced. Major employers in town are scaling back hours, cutting shifts, and sending employees home early on a regular basis.
Every time I have come to Yellowknife since being elected, I have returned home to learn about more layoffs. I don't mean two or three layoffs, I mean ten jobs lost, 30 jobs lost, 40 jobs lost. We can't continue to absorb those kinds of numbers. I hate to say this, but a statement I hear more and more from residents is that Hay River is dying. I can assure everyone that Hay River is not dying. However, we are at a critical juncture, where our fortunes could swing either way based on the decisions made in this House. I am optimistic about the future of Hay River's economy. I see the potential. There are projects on the horizon that will do great things for the town. We are in the process of revitalizing the fishing sector and there are emerging sectors like renewable energy, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture that hold great promise for the territory and Hay River.
I also see the entrepreneurial spirit shining through. Because of the lack of traditional business opportunities, entrepreneurs are exploring new and exciting opportunities. In order to capitalize on this potential, it is imperative that we invest in the community, keep people working, and get people working. The people of Hay River are not naive. We understand the fiscal reality and know that difficult decisions need to be made. However, I want to ensure that my colleagues recognize the fragile state of Hay River's economy and consider that when making decisions that will impact the town. I invite all my colleagues to discuss it further with me if they wish. I look forward to working with Cabinet and the Regular Members in the coming months that will develop a plan to benefit both Hay River and the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, It is no secret that governments across Canada are facing significant fiscal challenges with the current state of the economy. The Northwest Territories is no different with low commodity prices limiting our resource-driven economy and a shortfall of government revenue that challenges our government's ability to provide the services and programs that Northerners have come to rely on. Our economic reality is felt first and foremost by our people, especially those who have lost jobs or business opportunities as a result of this downturn.
Northerners are now looking to us as their elected leaders to provide a clear plan for our future with concrete commitments that will create jobs and prosperity. It is beholden on us, as leaders, to build confidence in our territory as the best place to live, work, and invest in the North and to deliver a plan that strengthens our economy and supports the needs of our people. Northerners need to hear less from this government on the challenges we face and more about the opportunities our government will create through new economic initiatives, infrastructure spending, and lowering the cost of living and doing business in the NWT.
The Government of Canada has made commitments that place high expectations on the Prime Minister's shoulders. Our government now optimistically looks to these commitments as a way to support the aspirations of our people: a 33 per cent increase in the Northern Residents Tax Deduction, a $40 million increase to Nutrition North, and billions in infrastructure dollars. These ambitious commitments create hope for our future and a concrete path forward for a stronger economy. I encourage our government to do the same. Let us show the leadership our people deserve and give Northerners an ambitious and optimistic plan for our future instead of the doom-and-gloom fiscal mantra that continues to create uncertainty in our communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When I was campaigning for the position I now hold, voters told me more about homelessness than any other issue. Their concern is for people who are visibly homeless. People who sleep in tents around this building, stairwells, bank foyers, and emergency shelters at night and who wander the streets by day. This is a group of people who need homes. There is some debate about how many people are homeless in Yellowknife today. The last time the emergency shelters publicly reported on the number of unique visitors they had, the number was 936. That was in 2008. This number included men, women, youth, and families. Most stayed in shelters for less than a month, but some stayed year-round.
What has changed in the last eight years? There is a new emergency shelter for youth, and there is transitional housing for women. Yet I believe, and frontline staff tell me, that the number of homeless people in Yellowknife continues to increase. They are all ages. They come from communities around the NWT. Some of them are homeless because of relationships that broke up, poverty, and bad luck, while others may also have addictions and mental health issues that make them hard to house.
This population draws huge emergency response resources from government. Ambulances pick them up and take them to hospital with alarming frequency. The RCMP pick them up for criminal activity, and they end up in court and sometimes in jail. This group is small relative to the whole population of the downtown, but they are disproportionate users of government services. This is a lose-lose situation. Homeless people remain without homes and stability. Government services are provided frequently and with no long-term benefit. It is a cycle that just repeats and repeats. There is a better way. Cities across the country have implemented a solution called Housing First. All the players come to the table: government, business, front-line staff, advocates, and even the homeless people themselves. Together, they create an organization that finds and manages housing units and then invites homeless people to live in them. This is the important part. Front-line staff provide a range of supports to people who are newly housed, including administering medications, troubleshooting problems as they come up, and mentoring people who need some additional skills to be successful as tenants. I would like to seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted.
Mahsi. This explanation as simplistic, but the solution is simple because it provides a direct response to a well-documented problem. The good news is that the community advisory board on homelessness in Yellowknife is developing a plan to implement Housing First. There is a group of dedicated people who want to make this program work. The challenge is that the money available for this program is inadequate for the number of clients who need it. I will have questions today for the Minister responsible for Housing about how the territorial government can assist in setting up Housing First in Yellowknife. It is time for the government to make an investment in ending homelessness so that healing can begin. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Tsiigehtchic is scheduled to receive two new public housing units. These units are much needed in the community as always. We are glad to see investments in adequate, affordable housing in our region. But community members are asking, where are these houses? There are only a couple of crates and blocking, and no one in the community has been offered a chance to work on these units. In recent years, the housing corporation has shifted away from stick-built homes to modular housing units that are constructed in the south and trucked or barged into our northern communities. Maybe there are some advantages to this. But in this situation, the modular units were built in Alberta, I believe, put on a truck, and sent towards Tsiigehtchic, only to turn back somewhere in B.C. The trailers were too wide to be allowed to go any farther. Now, my understanding is that the modular units will be barged into Tsiigehtchic later this year.
This mistake has delayed the project and has increased its overall costs significantly. It could have easily been avoided. It also raises some important questions. How much are we really saving? Trucking modular homes into communities may seem efficient, but is it always that much more cost effective than bringing in supplies, hiring local companies to build these houses, bringing in much-needed business to the region, and providing opportunities for local journeymen and apprentices? Are southern-built modular homes ready to withstand the harsh weather conditions in our remote communities? This recent issue causes concern that we are not making the most of our opportunities to bring business north or getting the best value for money, especially when we are paying to ship these units twice.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll have questions later for the Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, people in the gallery. Mr. Speaker, here today, I speak on the area of the Sahtu that I represent and the potential I think we can contribute to the economy. It’s been heard many a time since our working in this northern environment, in this building in particular, over the last nine weeks. I feel in my Member’s statement I can highlight some of the principles that the Sahtu region may contribute to the growing economy to create a kick-start to that area. In particular, I am glad that we have this wide-range of list of priorities which focuses on all departments affecting our region. We also realize that there is a high social problem in our area and limited resources and physical positions that we continue facing over the decision-making efforts of our four-year term. In doing so, we should recognize the principles of our priorities that would capitalize and inject towards the projects that are identified. I look forward to our diverse knowledge of experience of the leadership in this territorial government. I think, collaboratively, we can really make a positive difference within four years and look at our progress and measure it doing our midterm review. Later on in the day, I will have questions on a particular project, the famous Canol cleanup, for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
[English translation not provided]. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the popularity and salute the success of a course promoting greater use and understanding of aboriginal language and culture here in Yellowknife. The six-week Wiiliideh language and culture course is delivered to about 15 students from classrooms in Detah and Ndilo. Wiiliideh language instructor par excellence Mary Rose Sundberg is the teacher. Now in its third year, the popularity of this course has grown to the point where organizers are getting about four times as many applications as there are seats available. Enrolment is open to all students, including government workers, business employees, and even Yellowknife's Dene First Nation citizens who want to learn more about their own culture and take part in a high-quality community event. The course was developed in collaboration with Arctic College instructor Hugh Moloney. Returning from a year in New Zealand with his family several years ago, Mr. Moloney was impressed with a course he witnessed there that went beyond mere language instruction to explore the roots of language and culture and traditions. The course was based on the concept that, through learning language, a student will be better equipped to understand the culture. A language course is far more than the words learned. It is a window into the landscapes, the experience, and the people who speak the language. Through the process of learning the language, students gain an appreciation of the culture and the ability to understand why people think and act the way they do. Language acquisition enables a learner to build new relationships and strengthen cross-cultural ties.
Judging by the popularity of this course, Yellowknife students are thirsty for cultural knowledge. So far, the course has been offered free of charge. While a similar course is available in Fort Smith, the course here has served to pilot the approach of cultural exploration as the basis of language instruction. We are seeing what has worked here, and we should build on this experience. I want to congratulate Mary Rose Sundberg who is a well-known Yellowknives Dene First Nation citizen and linguist for her work as the instructor for this course and Hugh Moloney who has helped deliver the course through Aurora College. I commend this course to the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment for a possible development of similar offerings for other languages and regions. This government spends a lot of money and effort on promoting the preservation and growth of official languages and rightly so. The Wiiliideh language and cultural course is a model that is working. Let's invest in this initiative and not just to spread language use but to build bridges of cultural knowledge and understanding. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to be back in the House as a Member of the18th Assembly. I am looking forward to working with both my new colleagues and returning Members over the next four years. As I have done in the past, I would like to update this House about some of the noteworthy activities taking place in my beautiful Deh Cho constituency. In December, municipal elections were held across NWT. I would like to congratulate the new Mayor of Enterprise Craig McMaster and the new Mayor of Fort Providence Sam Gargan, along with their new hamlet councils. Our number one job as a government is to make life better for the residents in our communities. With the right support and encouragement, every person can make a contribution. When you look at the numbers, clearly there is room for improvement. The 2014 unemployment rate in the NWT was 10.6 per cent. In the Deh Cho, the unemployment rate is almost double the NWT average at 19 per cent. It bothers me to hear reports that my constituents qualify for mining jobs but cannot get hired because of Impact Benefit Agreement provisions that are too restrictive.
I also hear that some of our aging and most experienced forest fire workers are challenged by national standards for physical strength tests. This makes no sense to me. Here, where the needs are great and jobs are short in supply, these people should be working if they feel they are willing and able. I am also disturbed by the GNWT's growing trend of bringing in modular capital projects instead of ones that are locally built and provide much needed jobs in our communities. If the government is saving money, but putting our own people out of work, are we really doing our job?
Education is another area where Deh Cho communities face challenges. The percentage of NWT residents with a high school diploma is 74 per cent. In the Deh Cho, it is 47 per cent. Why does this matter? Because in the NWT, the employment rate for people who have a high school diploma or greater is 76 per cent. Without that diploma, the rate drops to 38 per cent. People who get an education have almost a double chance of getting a better paying job. The number of Deh Cho families with a total income of less than $30,000 is 32 per cent, double the NWT average.
Our people who are struggling just to feed and shelter their families need more help than they are getting. When people don't have work, educational opportunities, or adequate housing, they lose hope. I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. When people don't work, educational opportunities or adequate housing, they lose hope. That is when social problems increase. In Fort Providence, my home community, the violent crime rate is two-and-a-half times greater than the NWT as a whole. This needs to change.
But the news is not all that bad. There are some bright spots I want to highlight. In Kakisa, the new community hall is set to open in the spring. Planning for this new facility has been underway by community residents and the Ka'a'gee Tu First Nation since 2009. The people of Kakisa, especially the youngsters, are anxiously awaiting the opening. As well, a $2 million renovation of the seniors’ home in Fort Providence is close to completion, which will provide elders in the community with improved living quarters and increased security. Wood biomass an alternative energy industry, is moving closer to becoming a reality in the Deh Cho. In late 2014, the community of Fort Providence became the second to sign a Forest Management Agreement with the territorial government. This allowed joint venture Digaa Enterprises to secure access and tenure for enough timber to sustain a viable forestry industry in the Deh Cho. Aurora Wood Pellets is building on a $12 million wood pellet plant north of Enterprise that is expected to employ more than 40 people and create an annual demand for 125,000 cubic metres of wood serving both Canada and overseas markets. This project is an example of innovation and cooperation and what it can do to improve the local economy.
Finally, I would be remiss if I did not emphasize the importance of all parties making their best efforts to move the Deh Cho Process forward. With the new negotiation sessions scheduled to begin next week, I am encouraged by the news that Garth Wallbridge, a respected Metis lawyer, has signed on as chief negotiator for the Dehcho First Nations. It has been a very long road, but I continue to have hope that it will reach an agreement that will open up a new world of possibilities for the people of the Deh Cho. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I welcome colleagues to the start of the Second Session.
Today I would like to commend Nellie Cournoyea on her long political career as a leader of the Inuvialuit. Nellie is recently retired, back in Inuvik. I just want to note a few accomplishments of Nellie's during her career. I am going to note a few. Otherwise, we would be here all night. Nellie was elected into the Legislative Assembly representing Nunakput in 1979 and appointed to Cabinet in 1993. She also held office of Premier from 1991 to 1995. Nellie was a first female premier of a Canadian territory, and the second in Canadian history. Nellie also held the chair and was CEO of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation since 1996. Nellie co-founded the Committee of Original People's Entitlement, a group in pursuit of a comprehensive land claim settlement between the federal government and that Inuvialuit officially reached in 1984. She was also the implementation coordinator for the Inuvialuit Final Agreement. Nellie was also a member of the board of directors of the Inuvialuit Petroleum Corporation. Nellie is the founding chair of the Aboriginal Pipeline Group, an organization that successfully negotiated meaningful, equitable, Aboriginal participation in the proposed Mackenzie Valley Pipeline.
She has received honourary degrees from the universities of Lakehead, Carleton, Toronto, Lethbridge, and Alberta. In 2008, she was named to the Order of Canada for her active involvement in promoting social and economic development for Aboriginal people in her long political career. Nellie is a remarkable woman who has shaped the Inuvialuit Settlement Region and the Northwest Territories for the lasting good of Canadian people. Today, I am grateful and privileged to have served on the Board of ICC Canada with Nellie as she paved the way for women in the workforce and political arenas. Her dedication to Canada and attitude of "be a good person, but don't waste time proving it" is what I remember Nellie by.
I wish Nellie a restful retirement, and I also want to congratulate Mr. Dwayne Smith as the new chair and CEO of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation. I look forward to working and building a lasting, successful relationship. Also, Nellie being retired, she may be watching. I have a question: Nellie, if you are not too busy, maybe you can come to Yellowknife and be my CA?
---Laughter
That concludes my statement. Mahsi.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I have the great honour to speak about a soccer tournament that was recently held in Fort Simpson, May 12 to 14. It is called the Paul Stipdonk Memorial. This is the third year this tournament was held in his name and the fourth year since it was developed. It is in the honour of this individual for his very active involvement in the community, region, and the Territories. Many who have known this individual has known him as a coach, teacher, volunteer, or recently before he passed away, as a bus driver. I am lucky to say that I have known this man and his family since moving to Fort Simpson until the day he passed away. He is sadly missed, but I know that he would be greatly honoured to have this tournament named after him. As a friend of mine recently, this Saturday, Michael Botterman, as we were talking, three grumpy men wind up in heaven and two are on the ground, we talked, and he said it is great to see Paul up there, watching us, encouraging the kids, and saying what a great tournament this is.
This tournament is very unique in the Northwest Territories. It is about partnerships. It is about the Mackenzie Rec Association, Municipal and Community Affairs using the regional youth sporting events, Thomas Simpson School, the village of Fort Simpson, Bompas and their staff. Also, what is unique about this tournament is that they do not keep track of scores or results. It gives the youth an opportunity to participate and interact with other youths from across the region. It is about playing the sport, developing new skills, and most importantly, having fun. As well, what is unique about this is it is all co-ed. It is U6, U8, U10, U12. It is about girls and boys playing together, having fun and enjoying the sport. The other unique thing is it is about capacity. As everybody has heard, I have talked about capacity of youth, the importance of it. This program, this tournament, is all about youth capacity. It is about young people coaching, young people refereeing, and young people chaperoning with mentors. I would like to ask unanimous consent to finish my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
Thank you. It was actually February 12 to 14, not May. I got excited. The communities that were involved were Fort Res, Fort Providence, Behchoko, Fort Liard, and Fort Simpson. But I would be remiss not to recognize these young individuals who helped out: Jordanna Snider, Tyler Lafferty, Jade Tesou, Faith Sibbetson, Nathan Rabesca, Charlene Brown, Newmoon Buggins, Nathanial Tetsu, Emily Hardisty, Akesha Hardisty-Norwegian, Michelle Yendo, Kayra Sanguez, Sahaznay Waugh, Marshal Nahanni-Kwansey, Mikala McLeod, Chase Berreault, Taeresha Berreault, and Arlene Wright. These people are great, involved people that are involved in the community. I would like to thank them very much. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Members, I would like to draw your attention to those present in our Chamber and also in the gallery. First and foremost, it gives me great pleasure to recognize the Consul General of Korea, Mr. Kie Cheon Lee is here with us. Welcome. I would also like to recognize former Commissioner, former Speaker, former Minister, former Member, former Sergeant-at-Arms, honourary clerk, and honourary Captain, Royal Canadian Navy, Mr. Anthony J. Whitford. I would also like to recognize another former Member that is here with us today. Welcome, Lena Pederson, first woman Member of the Legislative Assembly. Masi for being here. Members, I would like to recognize Chief Ernest Betsina of the Yellowknives Dene First Nations.
If we have missed anyone in the gallery, I would like to welcome everyone for being here with us to witness our first opening of our 18th Legislative Assembly. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Yellowknife South.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to recognize the following visitors in the gallery: Paul Rowley, De Beers' executive vice-president of global sightholder sales; Kevin Goodrem, De Beers vice-president of beneficiation, global sightholder sales; and Simon O'Brien, diamond integrity manager, De Beers Canada Incorporated.
Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Great Slave, Mr. Abernethy.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Minister responsible for Seniors, I would like to recognize a couple of individuals in the gallery who represent different seniors' organizations here in the Northwest Territories: Ms. Barb Hood, who is the executive director of the NWT Seniors’ Society; Merlyn Williams, who is a member of the NWT Seniors’ Society; Stephen Jackson, who is the CEO of Avens; as well as Kim Doyle, the executive director of the Yellowknife Seniors’ Society. As a note, Ms. Hood and Mr. Williams and Mr. Jackson are also residents of the Great Slave riding, so welcome. I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize a friend, a passionate ambassador of the Northwest Territories and all people of the Northwest Territories, the first female Member of this Legislature, as well as a friend of mine, Ms. Lena Pederson. So great to see you again.
Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.
Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize two members of the Wiilideh riding: Mr. Darrell Beaulieu, who was my official agent, and also Chief Ernest Betsina.
Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Frame Lake.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Chief Ernest Betsina, who I have had the pleasure of playing hockey with once in a while. I would also like to recognize Lyda Fuller, who is the executive director for the Yellowknife YWCA, and she is also a constituent, and any other Frame Lake residents that I can’t see that might be seated up there.
Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Range Lake.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize David Wasylciw who has run for MLA a couple of times. He is an avid politician and an asset to have in our riding.
Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Inuvik Boot Lake.
I would like to take the opportunity to welcome Mr. William Greenland, a man of many talents and also my cousin.
---Laughter
Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Yellowknife Centre.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize today Ms. Lydia Bardak. She is a constituent in Yellowknife Centre and a tireless worker with the population of homeless people that I spoke about in my Member’s statement. I commend her for all the work that she does on behalf of those that need it, and I'd also like to introduce my partner and recognize my partner, Janice McKenna, and my mom, Ann Little.
Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Mackenzie Delta.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, a friend of mine, Blake Noksana asked me to recognize his daughter here in the House today, Laila Noksana, who is one of the Pages. Also, I'd like to thank all the Pages for helping us through our session.
Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Nahendeh.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to recognize Mr. Michaud, former mayor in Fort Simpson; now he's retired. As well, Alyssa Carpenter who's one of my soccer daughters, I welcome her, and a couple of former colleagues Geoff Ray and Sheena Tremblay, and as well, Ms. Doyle, my favourite soccer mom.
