Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the devolution of lands and resources from the federal government to the Government of the Northwest Territories was a historic step in strengthening our ability to manage our own land and chart our own economic future. However, the work is not yet complete. Now is the time to take the next step in devolution, one that brings land management decisions closer to the people most affected by them.
Mr. Speaker, our communities are the backbone of the North. They are where families grow, where businesses develop, and where our culture thrives, yet many communities still lack the authority to fully manage the lands within their municipal boundaries. This must change, Mr. Speaker. We need to empower communities with the ability to tax, manage, and plan for the future of all territorial and Commissioner's lands within their community boundaries.
Mr. Speaker, decentralizing decision-making will allow communities to take control of their own land use planning, enable them to prepare for housing development, economic growth, and responsible land management. Local governments know their needs best, and by transferring these powers we will provide them with the tools to build stronger, more resilient communities.
Mr. Speaker, this is about fairness, empowerment, and ensuring that decisions about land are made at the level closest to the people. It is time to complete the process of devolution and ensure that our communities have the authority they need to shape their own futures. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this next phase of devolution. Let's bring land management decisions in community boundaries where they belong, into the hands of our communities across the North, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
Thank you, Member from Inuvik Boot Lake. Members' statements. Member from the Sahtu.
