Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister responsible for Public Engagement and Transparency. Mr. Speaker, in our mandate, we outline that we will establish an open government policy to enhance public participation in governance. Can the Minister inform the House what steps have been taken to date to establish the open government policy? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Minister responsible for Public Engagement and Transparency.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As part of our mandate to have a more open and transparent government, we have taken several steps. Cabinet has had informal meetings with the public in Norman Wells and in Inuvik. At the summer Caucus retreat, we will be looking at various models for the ombudsman role, so that’s another step we have taken towards a more open and transparent government. In addition, the rules committee has been looking at various models to have the scope of the midterm review that will take place in 2017, and that also will be discussed at the caucus meeting this summer. Steps have been taken.
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the Minister’s reply in terms of the efforts that have taken to date in terms of being more open, but it doesn’t speak directly to the development of an open government policy. However, my next question, Mr. Speaker, is: if we are truly committed to improving transparency and fully intend to have improved public participation, it will surely take more time and government resources. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister advise Members what government resources he intends to use to make sure we don’t fall short of our commitment to engage?
This government is, Mr. Speaker, committed to a more open and transparent government, and, apart from the efforts I have already mentioned, there is, of course, the comprehensive review of the ATIPP Act which is being conducted at this very time. The original act came into force in 1996, and we have gone out for public consultation. The original closing date, if I can put it that way, for that was June 15, 2016, but I understand that has been extended to July 15th. We are making efforts in changing the act. This is a very important piece of legislation that will lead to a more open and transparent government.
Mr. Speaker, inclusive public engagement requires a plan as well as help from those who understand and have relationships with those communities and constituents with whom we want to have included. Those who have an interest typically find a way to be involved, Mr. Speaker. But, Mr. Speaker, what does the Minister have planned to engage the lessinvolved populations?
Mr. Speaker, of course the going out for public engagement on the ATIPP Act is an important aspect which allows the general public to become engaged in the making of this very important piece of legislation, or the updating of this very important piece of legislation.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my final question. Not only is it important for this government to develop a strong engagement plan and actively roll it out and make it a part of our daily business, but it is important to learn from our experiences. Mr. Speaker, how does the government intend to capture what we have learned and incorporate the lessons into our delivery of programs and services? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, I believe we can capture what we have learned in various ways. First of all, as I mentioned several times previously in answers, the ATIPP Act, we are seeking the involvement of the general public in that. Also, of course, as I mentioned, at the Caucus meeting we are discussing several issues that are very important for public engagement and openness of the government. I believe we can capture what we have learned. We can hear from the public, and we can move forward in this very important area.
Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake.
