Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the leadership in the Tlicho region have been advocating for years to establish cell phone service along Highway No. 3 to improve safety along the route Tlicho people travel to access goods and services from the capital city.
Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, it is well known that many people have lost their life on this road. It is a very busy road with heavy traffic between Yellowknife and Behchoko. As road users, we know there are many curves and dips in this road, and it can be especially dangerous in winter months when the road is icy, the sky is dark, and large trucks come often. Cell phone service is needed to prevent emergency situations where help cannot be reached due to the lack of cell phone service.
The Minister of Finance recognized previously in this House that the lack of cell coverage is a safety risk. Mr. Speaker, Northwestel, with much support from the Tlicho government, received federal funding to build the required cell service tower improvements and provide the service to all residents using this NWT highway. In a letter of support for the cell phone service for the cell service from Yellowknife to Behchoko project from March 11, 2021, the deputy minister of Finance stated the Government of the Northwest Territories appreciated, quote, "The potential for increase wireless coverage," end quote, along Highway No. 3 and on the North Arm of Great Slave Lake and are, quote, "committed to working with the Tlicho government and Northwestel to cover the annual operating cost of these assets," end quote.
Mr. Speaker, the capital funding is approved. The Tlicho and Northwestel did their part. Will the Government of the Northwest Territories keep its word on assisting with the cell service operating cost for the benefit of all residents who use this highway? The Minister of Finance also confirmed that an expression of interest was issued earlier in 2021 regarding lack of cell phone service on Highway 3. Mr. Speaker, can I have unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
Unanimous consent granted
What has become of this work, Mr. Speaker? Does the Government of the Northwest Territories have a plan to implement cell towers between Yellowknife and Behchoko, and when will it be implemented? I will have questions for the Minister of Finance. Thank you.
Thank you, Member for Monfwi. Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North.
