Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A couple of weeks ago the Premier told us yet again that the signing of the Devolution Agreement is just days away, but useful context is still missing in the information he provides. Yes, the public has had access to a very complicated agreement-in-principle, and we have seen media relations centred on milestones rather than content. There is a website people can go to for information, but it’s mostly information going out with no invitation for debate. Opportunities for public engagement have been limited or nil. The Land Use Sustainability Framework consultation came and went, I think; a profile that was so ephemeral that it scarcely bears mention.
When does the full public review and debate take place on the quality of the agreement being unveiled? What will the process for public comment be and how will the Premier ensure a meaningful way to take citizens’ concerns into account as we move to set up our own resource management apparatus? Will this House have an opportunity to vote on the agreement? Incredibly, this has never been made clear.
The Members’ general support for devolution has been pretty clear. Doesn’t the government want formal and democratic endorsement providing for debate and the imprint of consent and validation upon this historic step?
I’m hearing growing calls for a plebiscite. Support for devolution appears strong. The real benefit of a vote would be in the exploration of issues. Nothing would focus public interest and attention so much as an opportunity to take part in a historic decision. If the government really thinks this is a great deal, and it clearly does, a plebiscite would be an ultimate demonstration of that faith.
The devolution of resource management is the biggest last stage in political development short of provincehood. Although the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act, a substantial part of resource management, is apparently missing from the draft agreement, we still have here a monumental historic step. Government leads, but as we move to the next level of political responsibility, wouldn’t it be good to take our people along with us?
As we approach a draft final agreement, I will have questions for the Premier on the immediate plans for bringing devolution home.
Thank you, Mr. Bromley. The honourable Member for Hay River South, Mrs. Groenewegen.
