Debates of October 30, 2024 (day 35)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the first early days of the Norman Wells oil field, a crew composed of six drillers and one oxen named Tommy began a six-week, 1900-kilometer journey northward by rail, river boat, and foot, to a site now known as Norman Wells.

Mr. Speaker, the drilling crew encountered many hardships with permafrost. By this time, river ice had frozen. A decision was made to wait out the winter. Mr. Speaker, they survived but Tommy did not but, heroically, supplied many a meal. And, Mr. Speaker, drilling resumed in the following spring. A relief crew arrived, and oil was struck August of 1920.

Mr. Speaker, unique to history is the realization of oil field stakeholders' profits and royalties.

Mr. Speaker, I understand our government is aggressively pursuing federal emergency funding to alleviate the high fuel costs in Norman Wells. These oil field benefits certainly create a loud argument for relief aid.

Mr. Speaker, within the last 24 hours, I have received notice from one of many business owners and is closing their doors. Within those doors, our government is a tenant. Mr. Speaker, I cannot stress enough the stress this crisis has created. I recommend as last week the Government of the Northwest Territories must cover this lower than original cost with the position on federal reimbursement. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from the Sahtu. Members' statements. Member from Mackenzie Delta.