Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Earlier I spoke about the status of the electrical transmission that is affecting my riding. My questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation. What is the status of NTPC's takeover of the Hay River power franchise, and how will it impact power rates in Fort Providence, Kakisa, Enterprise, and the Hay River Reserve? Mahsi.
Masi. Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As this House well knows, the Town of Hay River has decided several years ago to seek other providers for the franchise in Hay River. Currently, that matter has gone to arbitration to determine the price. So evaluators are being hired and, ultimately, the arbitrator will make a decision as to price.
That, of course, is only for the Hay River franchise. My understanding is that the other franchise arrangements that ATCO and Northland has will not be affected by that, but we believe that, assuming a reasonable valuation of the assets comes in and is provided to the arbitrator, that ultimately the price of power in Hay River will decline. Thank you.
In the meantime, communities remain uncertain in terms of the fate of the assets that perhaps could affect the price of electricity that is delivered into the homes, so communities are asking what resources are available to help community governments understand their power franchise agreements and how they work?
If there are other franchise agreements, as I understand there are, they are subject to negotiation between the parties. I am assuming the municipal governments that entered into these arrangements did the proper research. Of course, ultimately, decisions are made by the Public Utilities Board.
Thank you to the Minister for his reply. Can the Minister describe the Government of the Northwest Territories' working relationship with Northland Utilities?
The Government of the Northwest Territories does recognize that Northland Utilities is a good corporate citizen. I can advise that the Premier and I did have the opportunity of meeting with senior management of Northland and ATCO, I think it was a couple of months ago. It was an amicable meeting, and we have a good relationship with them.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Deh Cho.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My final question is: what role does the government envision for Northland Utilities in the future of power supply in the NWT? Mahsi.
Yes, Mr. Speaker. Northland was involved in the energy strategy. I understand they made submissions and had meetings with the government. As to what will take place in the future, that is to be determined. We do recognize that they are a good corporate citizen. We value their participation in the energy industry.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake.
