Debates of Feb. 25th, 2019

This is page numbers 4981 - 5026 of the Hansard for the 18th Assembly, 3rd Session. The original version can be accessed on the Legislative Assembly's website or by contacting the Legislative Assembly Library.

The word of the day was going . View the webstream of the day's session.

Topics

Oral Questions

Members Present

Prayer

Progress in Post-secondary Education

Community Government Elections

Recognition of Inspire Award Winner Mary Effie Snowshoe

Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Strategic Infrastructure Investment

Ministerial Appointments

Child and Youth Advocate

Winter Road Safety

Cost of Living

Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Junior Kindergarten Program

Elders' Healthcare

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Elders' Healthcare

Junior Kindergarten Program

Child and Youth Advocate

Ministerial Appointments

Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Reducing the Cost of Living

Yellowknife Adult Day Programming

Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Rate Structure

Seniors' Aging-in-Place Retrofit Program

Tabled Document 354-18(3): Letter from The Council of Canadians NWT

Chapter to Members of the NWT Legislative Assembly regarding Ensuring that NWT Post-Devolution Legislation Recognizes UNDRIP, dated February 15, 2019

Bill 40: Smoking Control and Reduction Act

Bill 41: Tobacco and Vapor Products Control Act

Bill 38: Protected Areas Act

Bill 39: Environmental Rights Act

Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters

Report Of Committee Of The Whole

Orders Of The Day

Members Present

Hon. Glen Abernethy , Mr. Beaulieu , Mr. Blake , Hon. Caroline Cochrane , Ms. Green , Hon. Bob McLeod , Hon. Robert McLeod , Mr. McNeely , Hon. Alfred Moses , Mr. Nadli , Mr. Nakimayak , Mr. O'Reilly , Hon. Wally Schumann , Hon. Louis Sebert , Mr. Simpson , Mr. Testart , Mr. Thompson , Mr. Vanthuyne

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

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---Prayer

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Prayer

Prayer

Page 4981

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Welcome back, everyone. Item 2, Ministers' statements. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment .

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Minister's Statement 152-18(3): Progress in Post-secondary Education

Ministers' Statements

Page 4981

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Mr. Speaker, we are making significant progress in meeting this government's mandate commitments to strengthen the Northwest Territories post-secondary education system.

I am pleased to advise that the drafting of legislation to govern post-secondary education in the Northwest Territories is nearing completion. The proposed legislation will create, for the very first time, a process to ensure the effective governance and quality assurance of all post-secondary institutions operating in the territory.

This fulfills our mandate commitment to develop legislation ensuring a quality assurance system by which post-secondary institutions will be recognized in the Northwest Territories. This also contributes to our mandate commitment to develop and foster our knowledge economy. The Department of Education, Culture and Employment continues to work with our post-secondary partners to support the development and growth of post-secondary institutions and programs in the Northwest Territories. The proposed legislation will also support Aurora College's transformation into a polytechnic university, including the creation of a new governance model and its own degree-level programs.

Mr. Speaker, we have a great opportunity to transform post-secondary education for the long term. This will provide opportunities here in the territory for residents to get the skills and training they need for NWT jobs today and in the future.

A polytechnic university combines the practical approach of a college education and the depth of study usually associated with a university program. Polytechnic programs are skills-intensive, technology-based, and hands-on, providing students with practical training for in-demand jobs. Program and curriculum decisions at polytechnic universities are also made in close collaboration with representatives from industry, ensuring graduates achieve skills that are relevant to the current job market.

Since tabling the Government Response to the Aurora College Foundational Review, I have travelled to the three campus communities of Inuvik, Fort Smith, and Yellowknife. I have met with Indigenous and community leaders, Aurora College staff, more than 100 college students, and more than 200 members of the public in the three communities.

Mr. Speaker, there is overall excitement for the transformation of Aurora College. The mayors of all three campus communities have sent a joint letter confirming their collective support of the polytechnic university and recognizing the academic, social, and economic advantages it will provide for all Northerners.

A polytechnic university with three vibrant campuses and 21 community learning centres will give residents access to more educational options closer to home. It will improve employment success for residents, help close skill gaps for in-demand jobs, and better respond to employer, industry, and community needs in the Northwest Territories. It creates a platform to grow our knowledge economy, including increased retention of research funding and increased influence over Northern research priorities.

The new $10-million Aurora College Centre for Mine and Industry Training in Fort Smith and the planned Arts, Crafts and Technology Centre in Inuvik are two examples of what we can achieve through strategic partnerships with governments and industry. The Government of the Northwest Territories has been and remains committed to investing in post-secondary education for Northerners, but we must be making strategic and informed decisions as we move forward.

Mr. Speaker, we know the next steps for 2019, and we remain on track to meet our long-term goal of a polytechnic university. It is critical that we get this right by making decisions in the right order and at the right time. The strengthening and growth of our post-secondary education system must begin with a clear vision and a strong associate deputy minister to lead Aurora College and oversee the design and implementation of changes over the coming months and years. I am pleased to welcome, starting on March 4, Dr. Tom Weegar as our new associate deputy minister of post-secondary education renewal.

That vision will be informed by the people of the Northwest Territories. All residents will have the opportunity to provide their thoughts and ideas on the strengths, challenges, and opportunities in our post-secondary education system. This input will be used to define the territorial vision and goals for the future and guide the development of a post-secondary education framework. The framework will provide a clear picture on what we will achieve and how we will work together with our stakeholders and partners.

Our next step is to establish the advisory committee and academic advisory council to bring together experts from across the territory and the country to ensure we follow national standards and best practices in all areas.

Mr. Speaker, there is a great deal of work ahead, but the opportunities we create will generate wide-ranging social and economic benefits and greatly advance what we can achieve as a territory. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 152-18(3): Progress in Post-secondary Education

Ministers' Statements

Page 4981

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Masi. Ministers' statements. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs .

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Minister's Statement 153-18(3): Community Government Elections

Ministers' Statements

Page 4981

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, municipal elections were held in nine hamlet communities in the Northwest Territories on December 10, 2018. There were 71 candidates in total vying for 46 available seats. I am pleased with the large number of candidates as this indicates there is keen interest in local government and that individuals want to serve as leaders and decision-makers for their communities.

I am also pleased to report that through the elections held on December 10 th , our territory continues to benefit from near gender parity at the local government level with 21 female candidates successfully securing their seats. In total, 41 percent of the 71 candidates for municipal office were female, and 46 percent of those candidates were successful in their bid for a seat.

The voter turnout rate was between 44 percent and 54 percent across the Territories. Thirty-nine percent of candidates for councillor positions were acclaimed. Acclamations occurred in the hamlets of Aklavik, Enterprise, Sachs Harbour, and Tuktoyaktuk.

Mr. Speaker, local elections remain important to community residents. Being an elected official is one of the best ways that an individual can support their community in providing a safe, sustainable, and healthy environment for their residents.

In addition to those elected in the October Municipal Taxation Authority elections acknowledged in this House in the fall, I congratulate all who were elected on December 10 th . In particular, I wish to congratulate Mayor William Koe in Fort McPherson, Mayor Ray Ruben in Paulatuk, Mayor Floyd Lennie in Sachs Harbour, Mayor Danny Beaulieu in Fort Providence, and Mayor Laverna Klengenberg in Ulukhaktok. I look forward to working closely with each of these community leaders in their new capacity.

Many thanks to all the candidates who ran in the nine community elections. People's willingness to serve is a critical component of democracy at all levels of government.

I would also like to thank the staff and volunteers who led the election process on behalf of their municipalities. It takes dedication and significant effort by many people to support this process behind the scenes so that residents can exercise their right to vote in elections.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, we will see 11 municipal elections held in 2019. There will be five mayor positions and 46 councillor positions available. This will be an opportunity for aspiring candidates in those communities to run for community leadership positions and for residents to choose their decision-makers. I encourage all qualified residents to put their names forward and, especially, to get out and vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Minister's Statement 153-18(3): Community Government Elections

Ministers' Statements

Page 4981

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Masi. Ministers' statements. Item 3, Members' statements. Member for Mackenzie Delta .

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Recognition of Inspire Award Winner Mary Effie Snowshoe

Members' Statements

Page 4981

Frederick Blake Jr.

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge Elder Mary Effie Snowshoe from Fort McPherson. Mary Effie was recently in Calgary to accept the Indspire Award for Culture, Heritage, and Spirituality.

Mr. Speaker, Indspire is a national Indigenous charity that focuses on the education of Indigenous people. Their vision is to enrich Canada through Indigenous education and by inspiring achievement.

Each year, Indspire presents the Indspire Awards, honouring success and achievement by Indigenous people. Indspire celebrates and recognizes First Nations, Inuit, and Metis individuals who contribute for the long-term benefit towards their family, community, and Canada.

Mr. Speaker, at 81 years old, Mary Effie Snowshoe grew up being taught the Gwich'in traditional way of life from her parents; hunting, fishing, trapping, preparing food, and tanning moose skin. Mary Effie continues to pass on her knowledge to family as well as to visitors to the community and visitors to her fish camp.

Up until 2003, Jijjuu Mary Effie taught the Gwich'in language for 24 years until she retired. "Retired" is not in her vocabulary, as she continues to help with traditional activities in the community and school, as well as play host to numerous traditional teachings at her fish camp.

Mr. Speaker, Mary Effie has a wealth of stories to share, each with a spiritual meaning. She is eager to take you by the hand to teach you on-the-land survival skills.

We are fortunate to have elders such as Mary Effie in our community. We have so much to learn, and we should take advantage and learn from our elders, such as a wise woman. Congratulations, Jijuu Mary Effie Snowshoe. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition of Inspire Award Winner Mary Effie Snowshoe

Members' Statements

Page 4982

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Members' Statements

Page 4982

Cory Vanthuyne

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What if I told you the next big business movement in the NWT, and it's already happening, is that Indigenous organizations are going to become actual owners of mineral resource projects?

Mr. Speaker, relations between Indigenous Peoples and resource developers have been difficult in the past. A lack of respect for treaties and an often inconsiderate industry attitude toward First Peoples have strained relations, so it's easy to understand the degree of mistrust about mineral resource projects.

However, in recent years, there has been an obvious change. Since the start of the diamond mines and the execution of impact benefit agreements, both sides increasingly understand that the real collaboration can be very profitable. Indigenous governments have formed economic development corporations that provide a multitude of services to the mines; human resources, catering, and camp services, to name a few. The Dene Nation took it a step further when the Denendeh Development Corporation created its own exploration and development company.

These past 20 years of doing business together has revealed a change in mindset. Reconciliation is the current priority between Indigenous Peoples and Canada, and that involves greater recognition of Indigenous rights and the abandonment of harmful policies. It will only truly be achieved, however, when Indigenous Peoples have the power to create their own economic freedom and decrease their dependence on government support.

Mr. Speaker, I believe the Indigenous people of the NWT have found the solution through building partnerships in resource development, but we're about to see this go one step further to ownership.

Mr. Speaker, a key discussion at roundup this year was how Indigenous groups want to become involved in resource development, and what benefits they will derive. Equity ownership is the new partnership. The resulting wealth creation and prosperity will lead to economic empowerment and self-determination.

Mr. Speaker, it is time to acknowledge that Indigenous people want to improve their living standards and provide a better future for their children. Their socio-economic situation may remain difficult, but the NWT proves that Indigenous communities are reconciling economic development and empowerment while continuing to be respectful stewards of the land and the environment. There are many reasons to be optimistic about our economic future, Mr. Speaker, and Indigenous ownership in mineral resource development is one of them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Members' Statements

Page 4982

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Member for Sahtu .

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Strategic Infrastructure Investment

Members' Statements

Page 4982

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The NWT tourism is very much a thriving industry. This can be measured by the current surveys reflecting over the past several years on the incoming visitors and public and private sector investments.

Mr. Speaker, our continued support is needed in broadening our horizons to further provide destination options through infrastructure investments while reducing our living costs through affordable travel on expanding our all season road systems. These strategic infrastructure investments enhance affordable connections by providing travellers with options in collaboration to sustaining our future's non-Territorial Formula Funding, or TFF, revenues

Mr. Speaker, this sector contributes 32 percent of our income. It is incumbent upon us as legislators of this government to demonstrate our mandate and obligations on affordable access, modernizing our regulatory regimes, and local Indigenous partnerships. This approach is political development for economic growth and positive returns. These strategic initiatives are essential to creating an environment for investment certainty, affordability, meaningful employment, and training opportunities. Mr. Speaker, to deny this in our current position and decision making authority for responsible resource development would be to deny the next generation's abilities for sustainability.

Mr. Speaker, in recognition of over half the population outside our capital when formulating the TFF outcomes, let us recognize the challenges of our smaller communities and expectations for equality and meaningful services.

Mr. Speaker, with these principles, I look forward to our fiscal budget deliberations in our remaining sitting. Mahsi.

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Strategic Infrastructure Investment

Members' Statements

Page 4982

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statement. Member for Frame Lake .

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Ministerial Appointments

Members' Statements

Page 4982

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. Last week, concerns were raised in this House, and have been raised in the media and by the general public, regarding the process used to appoint the workers' advisor. The authority of the Minister responsible for the Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission to make such an appointment is not in doubt. What is in question is the process used and the judgment exercised in making that appointment. The previous appointment was made following a public call for expressions of interest. The previous individual who served in that office has said publicly that he provided three months' notice that he did not wish to continue.

I have searched high and low for any Cabinet or ministerial policy regarding appointments. The closest I could find was an August 3, 2017 Boards' Policy signed by the Premier as chair of the Executive Council. That policy sets out a number of principles to "encourage and support good governance." The fourth principle states "the process for appointments to GNWT boards should be timely, consistent and transparent."

The Premier is accountable to the Executive Council for the implementation of this policy. Further guidance on appointments to boards include the following direction to "ensure that gender equity and local expertise in relation to mandate are considered when persons are appointed, nominated, or confirmed." Lastly, the board policy states that the Cabinet may: "establish appointment guidelines and procedures for the selection and appointment of board members."

In some cases, opportunities for board appointments or nominations are even made known to Regular MLAs. I am also of the view that the Premier must exercise some oversight on ministerial appointments, including those to boards and other appointments authorized by statutes. It is now time for Cabinet to develop a policy for ministerial appointments given the public concerns raised by the recent appointment of the Workers' Advisor. I will have questions later today for the Premier . Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Ministerial Appointments

Members' Statements

Page 4982

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statement. Member for Yellowknife Centre .

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Child and Youth Advocate

Members' Statements

Page 4982

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to revive a discussion started in the 14 th Assembly about creating a child and youth advocate for the Northwest Territories. Children and youth need our special attention and support, particularly when they are being cared for by people other than their immediate families. Since the NWT started discussing this issue in 2003, Yukon has created an advocate office, and so has Nunavut. In fact, we are one of the only two jurisdictions in Canada without an office dedicated to protecting the rights of children on both an individual and systemic basis, as well as providing public awareness about those rights.

Mr. Speaker, Yukon has had a child and youth advocate office since 2010. The mission of the advocate in Yukon is to provide services to children and youth up to 18 years of age by protecting and asserting their rights and ensuring their voices are heard in a safe and supportive way. The office advocates for children who are receiving, or who are eligible to receive, government services, including help with mental health and addictions, education, and justice. The advocate is also involved in all aspects of child and family services. A total of 154 children accessed services in Yukon last year.

In Nunavut, the Representative for Children and Youth was appointed in 2014. The office supports young Nunavummiut by giving voice to their concerns and ensuring the government protects and advances their rights and interests. An elders' council helps guide the work. In their last annual report, the office reported opening 83 files.

Mr. Speaker, it is time for the NWT to offer this same service to children and youth here. First, there is a big population of children accessing government services, an average of 1,000 children per year in each of the last 10 years. Second, the work of the Office of the Auditor General revealed that health authorities have not maintained regular contact with many of the children they have removed from homes and placed in foster care or other places. We know that contact with children and youth out of the territory was also lacking.

This is obviously a very vulnerable group, ranging in age from six months to 18 years, who have rights, including the right to be heard and to be treated fairly. The child advocate can provide the linkage between different players in the child's life to further his or her interests. Mr. Speaker, I'm going to seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

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Child and Youth Advocate

Members' Statements

Page 4983

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Mr. Speaker, it's time for the GNWT to provide better services to children and youth. Creating a child and youth advocate is the place to start. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services . Mahsi.

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Child and Youth Advocate

Members' Statements

Page 4983

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Member for Nahendeh .

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Winter Road Safety

Members' Statements

Page 4983

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is that time of year when we see a number of individuals end up in the ditch. I have done that myself a few times in my life.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Department of Infrastructure for offering advice for winter driving. Even expert drivers must benefit from a refresher and, if you know anyone who's planning to drive up to the Northwest Territories, I hope you pass these tips along. I would like to share a couple of those tips here today:

make sure every individual in the vehicle has warm winter clothing available;

prepare a winter survival kit with warm clothing, candles, flashlight, matches, sleeping bags, first aid kits, pocket knife, nuts, energy bars, a brightly coloured cloth, a small shovel, sand, and a tow strap; and

tell everyone your travel plans, when you're leaving, what route you'll be taking, and when you plan on arriving, before you leave.

Mr. Speaker, Northerners are used to helping out when others are in need. I see this all the time, not only in our communities but on our own highways and winter roads, whether it's a clear, dry night; under the midnight sun; or snowy, icy conditions at minus 40.

Personally, I've been grateful when people stopped to help me on the highway, and I've tried to pay it forward when I see others in need. Earlier this year I heard about two Sahtu residents helping out a stranded Alberta traveler on the Colville Lake winter road, one of the many stories out there.

Mr. Speaker, this past Friday evening a couple of ladies ended up in the ditch, and I would like to quote the lady: "A beautiful thing about being from and living in the North is the kindness and generosity of true Northerners. It can't be beat. Big shout-out to George and Anna Tsetso; Chris Hewitt; Tow Williams; Dave Crawford, who works for Sharps Trucking Company from Edmonton, for helping me and my mom out and getting us home safely. Thanks to Jenn Kraus for checking on us and calling for backup, and others who stopped to check on us. We are very grateful." I would like to thank those people, as well, Mr. Speaker.

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Winter Road Safety

Members' Statements

Page 4983

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Thank you, and we wish everyone safe travels in this winter season. Members' statements. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Cost of Living

Members' Statements

Page 4983

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there has been a lot of discussion about our government doing what it can to reduce the cost of living for our citizens. In fact, it's a mandate of our government to do just that. However, Mr. Speaker, the opposite is occurring because, over the years, we've seen cost increases to our citizens in various ways, some through taxes, leases, fees, and inflation. This has in effect increased the cost of living.

Mr. Speaker, I've risen many times in the House, offering ideas on how to decrease costs to our people and our government, which for the most part have been ignored. I've talked about fixing up homes for seniors, to make them more efficient to operate; I've spoken about daycares, where people can go to work, both of which are viable options and help decrease our social spending.

Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, I have spoken about investing in homecare and early childhood development as areas which offer potential for great long-term savings. I've also discussed the idea of converting the old Stanton hospital into a school for homecare workers and nurses, as well as the idea of our government expanding into the conservation economy through investments in initiatives such as Indigenous guardians and ecotourism.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, there are other jobs to get families off income support, jobs like youth workers, working in environmental clean-ups, and jobs in the field of wellness at the community level. Increasing employment rates in small communities will benefit all communities, including Yellowknife and the regional centres.

Mr. Speaker, I have used the term "all boats shall rise" many times in this House because, if people work in our small communities, they will spend their money in Yellowknife and the regional centres, creating another level of the economy. Thank you.

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Cost of Living

Members' Statements

Page 4983

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Member for Deh Cho .

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Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Members' Statements

Page 4983

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last February, I had an exchange in this Chamber with the Minister responsible for Industry, Tourism and Investment , as well as Infrastructure. I pointed out that the sign by the highway that identifies the mighty Deh Cho as the Mackenzie River is a very tiny sign. I mentioned that, for visiting tourists, there is no information about the river and its rich history. Even its proper name, Deh Cho, meaning "big river," is neglected. I suggested that there should be a larger sign, a roadside exhibit, and maybe a picnic spot.

The Minister was very supportive of this idea. His response, from Hansard, included this comment: "The Member's point is well taken [...]. The Mackenzie River is important, not just to his region but to the whole NWT. It is how people travelled in this country for years and years. I think it is a good idea to celebrate this type of feature."

Mr. Speaker, I wholeheartedly agree with the Minister, who went on to say, "We'll take a serious look at it [...]. lt is not something that will happen overnight." Since we spoke, about 350 nights have gone by and I am still dreaming of the great big, beautiful sign to mark the Deh Cho for travelers on the road. I am growing concerned that marking the second-longest river in North America might be winding through a long and tedious bureaucratic process.

Tourism is a growing sector of our economy, and we are seeing the road traffic in my home community of Fort Providence. We would like to take advantage of this potential. We would like to see a better tourism experience for people who come this way. This begins with roadside attractions that slow people down a little and encourage them to look around.

I fear that our government forgets these local attractions, distracted as it has been by huge projects and combining departments.

I realize that even a project as modest as a sign for the Mackenzie River takes time to plan, but getting it done within the life of this 18 th Assembly seemed like an attainable goal. Later, I will ask the Minister of Infrastructure to signpost the way forward on this project. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Members' Statements

Page 4983

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Member for Kam Lake .

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Junior Kindergarten Program

Members' Statements

Page 4983

Kieron Testart

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it has been brought to my attention by several constituents that the implementation of junior kindergarten has left more than a few gaps.

These concerns were brought to me by parents and northern teachers who are concerned with the implications of several of the shortfalls of the junior kindergarten program. Currently, there is still no provision for signing-in and signing-out of children. So far, we have been lucky, but I am curious as to why, when I pick my own son up from his privately run after-school program, I must sign him out, while there is no provision for this in government-mandated junior kindergarten.

It has also been brought to my attention that there is only "recommended" health screening for students entering into JK. Mr. Speaker, I'm sure this is on the minds of many parents in recent days, due to the confirmed case of the measles here in the NWT. I am alarmed, as are many, that health screening, that is to say testing on hearing, vision and immunizations, are not required prior to entry into the junior kindergarten program. This could put our children, our families, and our communities at great risk of the possibility of outbreak.

Mr. Speaker, adult to child ratios are high under the Day Care Act. Yes, this was done to minimize the increased costs of implementing the JK program, but where once there was a ratio of either 1:8 or 1:9, there is now an allowance of a ratio of 1:25. This has left staff stretched too thin. Bathroom breaks, recess, fire drills, evacuations, all of these test the limits of teaching staff's focus. Under the current process, there are gaps in the supervision of children.

This often requires that administrative staff fill these gaps should a child need to go to the bathroom while the rest of the students are suiting up or dressing down for recess, let alone if one of the children has an accident. If all goes to plan and no child needs to use the bathroom or there are no other complicating factors, getting ready to go outside for recess can be a 30-40 minute endeavour.

The implementation of junior kindergarten received a lot of attention earlier in this Assembly. Though we have moved to other pressing matters, it is clear that this area continues to demand our attention as these problems must be resolved to ensure the future success of students and teachers alike. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will have questions for the Minister later today.

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Junior Kindergarten Program

Members' Statements

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Member for Nunakput .

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Elders' Healthcare

Members' Statements

Page 4984

Herbert Nakimayak

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I wanted to raise a few issues affecting elders' healthcare that have been brought to my attention by Nunakput residents.

The people of Nunakput are concerned that elders' healthcare in the region is not all it could be or even all it should be. In some cases, language is a barrier, and the lack of available translators makes it even harder, Mr. Speaker. In others, there are issues with homecare workers. Some Nunakput communities have no homecare workers, thanks to the cuts in the past that affected those positions. Elders are concerned that, without homecare workers, there is no one available to help them on a daily basis, especially elders who live alone. Mr.

Speaker, the aging in place initiative leaves out the elders who live in the smaller communities across the territory, mind you, ones that are most isolated.

Mr. Speaker, we also have social workers, but they are taking on a lot of work, often including travel to multiple communities. This means that visits are far too often and far too brief. More generally, constituents have also told me that they are troubled by the lack of engagement from the health centres. Many are given Tylenol and sent home.

Mr. Speaker, we know that our population is aging and that it has consequences for all kinds of government planning. The Department of Health and Social Services has done a lot of work in assessing long-term care and needs, and the Housing Corporation is figuring out the kinds of supports, services, and infrastructure our elders will need to age in place in their home communities.

Mr. Speaker, this is not just a matter of support for elders; it is a matter of cultural safety. The government's duty is to provide culturally safe, culturally appropriate care to Indigenous people, particularly vulnerable populations like our elders. This applies to the full spectrum of healthcare, from check-ups at the health centre to routine procedures like cancer screenings to emergency care and where it is needed most.

Mr. Speaker, we need to take care of our elders, and when we plan, we need to incorporate local perspectives from our small communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker

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Elders' Healthcare

Members' Statements

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Members' statements. Item 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of visitors in the gallery. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to recognize our NWT Language Board members who decided to join us today. I am really glad to see you up there. We have Tammy Steinwand-Deschambeault, who is the chair. Excuse me if I get the names wrong. Jonas Landry, Emily Kudlak, Vance Sanderson, the vice-chair, Angie Lantz, Bella T'seleie, Betty Elias, Eleanor Mitchell-Firth, Linda Bussey, and Dr. Angela James is with them today. Welcome to everyone. It is important work you do. I am looking forward to meeting you this week.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Cory Vanthuyne

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, from William McDonald School, we have two Pages from the riding of Yellowknife North. I would like to recognize and welcome Kaatje Fulford and Teresa Martin. Thank you to all the Pages for the great work they do on our behalf. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Thank you. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Thebacha .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Louis Sebert

Thebacha

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Vance Sanderson from Thebacha.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Deh Cho .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize Jonas Landry, a constituent. A friend and relative, Jonas serves on the Northwest Territories Language Board for the Deh Cho, and also he is from Fort Providence. Mahsi.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Nunakput .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Herbert Nakimayak

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize a couple of constituents, Ms. Betty Elias from Tuktoyaktuk and my cousin Emily Kudlak from Ulukhaktok. Mr. Speaker, I spoke earlier a couple of times about language and how important it is. It is good to see that we have strong representatives from Nunakput. I would like to welcome both guests and everybody else. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Honourable Premier .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to recognize some guests in the Chamber, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Prince. Ray is a long-term colleague from a previous government, and they are here visiting family here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Mackenzie Delta .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Frederick Blake Jr.

Mackenzie Delta

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize one of my constituents, Eleanor Mitchell Firth, who does a lot of work with the Gwich'in language, and also a lot of great arts and crafts. She does a lot of good sewing. I actually have to get a pair of slippers one of these days, but I would like to recognize her. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Sahtu .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Daniel McNeely

Sahtu

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize our young Page here from Deline, Taylor Schear. This is her first trial. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member for Yellowknife Centre .

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to welcome my constituent Linda Bussey who is continuing her public service, this time on the languages board. Merci beaucoup, Linda.

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Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Recognition Of Visitors In The Gallery

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Recognition of visitors in the gallery. We would like to thank everyone who joined us today in the gallery. If we forgot anyone, we apologize. I also want to say welcome to everyone watching on the Internet and on satellite, in the Northwest Territories and around the world. Welcome. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Item 6, acknowledgments. Item 7, oral questions. Member for Nunakput .

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4984

Herbert Nakimayak

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Earlier, I spoke about elders' healthcare. My questions are for the Minister of Health and Social Services . Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health and Social Services is waiting for the results of a homecare review to help them decide how to allocate future resources. My question is: what is the status of this work, and when will the department be ready to act on the findings? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4984

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4984

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As a government, our mandate is to support the elders to live in their own houses for as long as possible while ensuring that adequate supports are available for those who can no longer live within their own homes. We have taken a number of actions to meet that mandate, which are within the Continuing Care Services Action Plan, which has already been released. We will be compiling the home and community care review. That is currently under way.

The purpose of that review is to document existing home and community care resources, programs, and services offered by each region and community to identify any gaps that may exist, future requirements, and, obviously, opportunities for improvement. This will ensure that the services are available, that they are accessible, and that they are effective in meeting the nursing care needs and support needs of elders to stay in their communities.

Mr. Speaker, we also hope that this will help identify program options that better match the needs for elders and seniors with funding available through the GNWT. The interim report will be available on March 31, 201,9 with the final report, we hope, out in May of 2019. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4984

Herbert Nakimayak

Nunakput

It is good to hear that from the Minister. The needs specifically for communities seem different in different regions. The department has been trying to improve homecare service for a couple of years now, including $2.5 million in the 2017-2018 budget. Can the Minister tell us whether all these findings were used and how they were used?

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Significant new funding has been available to homecare beginning in 2017-2018. $2.5 million annually was included as an investment within the Government of the Northwest Territories. We also have $7.4 million for homecare over a 10-year period that we got from the federal government. This new funding is helping health and social services system enhance home and community care programs and services for clients across the Northwest Territories.

Some of the ways that we have been able to do that is the establishment of 14 new homecare positions, as well as training for them, equipment, supplies, and other things that would have been available across the authorities. We have also created five new positions at the department to support the work that we have identified in the Continuing Care Services Action Plan.

Having said that, Mr. Speaker, we recognize that, in the past two years, we have the challenge to spend the $2.5 million investment from the Government of the Northwest Territories. Much of it has been due to the fact that funding, which was needed and appreciated, thanks to the Members for championing it, was not necessarily expected. It has taken the system a little bit longer than we had hoped to put the programs and services in place. It took longer to fill and create those 14 positions than anticipated.

In 2017-2018, the first year we got the money, we did lapse around $900,000. In the 2018-2019 year, we have probably around $500,000 that has been lapsed. I do need to make it clear, Mr. Speaker, and it is important to note, the defunding reallocation or this lapse does not and has not resulted in the reduction of any services in homecare. These were new dollars, and we have spent most of them.

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Herbert Nakimayak

Nunakput

I appreciate the response from the Minister. Mr. Speaker, from the way it sounds, it sounds like government-administered programs that span across the 33 communities of the territory seem to run quite successfully, and I think the homecare workers is one of those ones in the making to refine to become more specifically to help elders. Mr. Speaker, the department has also done some great work on cultural safety, including a new action plan. How does that action plan speak to the need for health centre staff to engage with the communities, including language translation services?

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

I am pleased to inform the Member that tomorrow I'll be tabling "Caring For Our People: Cultural Safety Action Plan 2018-2020." Tomorrow I will also be hosting a public launch here in the Assembly at 11:00 a.m., and I hope that all Members are able to attend.

Regarding the Member's concerns about cultural safety for Indigenous residents and elders, work is already under way. First, I'd like to highlight the 2018-2020 Inuinnaqtun pilot program at the Enegak Health and Social Services Centre in Ulukhaktok funded by the department. The pilot project will support the language needs of the Inuinnaqtun speakers receiving health and social services care in the community, as well as those on medical travel, so we're trying to make progress in that area.

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Nunakput .

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Herbert Nakimayak

Nunakput

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thanks to the Minister for the invitation, as well. Mr. Speaker, pilots like that such the Minister spoke of could become something very useful across the territory, with the technology we have today. I have one more question about cultural safety, and the question is: how does the department's new action plan speak to regular engagement between the department and communities on new healthcare policies and initiatives? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

I, like Members in this House, have heard time and time again that the NWT health and social services system is not safe for Indigenous residents, nor does it account for Indigenous culture or healing needs. That is why, for the past 16 months, staff at the department have worked with Indigenous Northerners to hear their experiences, concerns, and aspirations for the NWT health and social services system. This included meeting with regional wellness councils, including the Beaufort-Delta, where council members had the opportunity to voice their community concerns about the health and wellbeing of their residents and the delivery of those services.

What we heard clearly echoed some of your constituents' concerns that Indigenous residents experience language barriers, that meaningful discussion with staff and healthcare systems can be and often is a challenge. We are releasing the cultural safety action plan tomorrow, and I'll be providing more details on that tomorrow, so there will be an opportunity to hear about some more of the things we're doing then. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 604-18(3): Elders' Healthcare

Oral Questions

Page 4985

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake .

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Kieron Testart

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to ask the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment what assessment, if any, has been done on the operations of the junior kindergarten program? Thank you.

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Minister of Education, Culture and Employment .

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The junior kindergarten program was piloted in some communities for a couple of years, and then this last year it was implemented across the Northwest Territories. There hasn't been a full assessment done on the total implementation, but we will be looking at it over the summer months, once the school year is finished, to find out what worked, what didn't work, and what we need to improve on. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Kieron Testart

Kam Lake

I mentioned a number of concerns in my Member's statement, so I'll go through each one of them, but does ECE through the Minister currently have a plan to address the medical screening, or lack thereof, for children who are coming into these programs?

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

I will have to look into that. My assumption was that all children who access either licensed childcare centres or junior kindergarten and school are recommended to have up-to-date immunizations, but I will look into that and get back to the Member on that.

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Kieron Testart

Kam Lake

I can tell the Minister that a recommendation and a requirement are different. Those are the concerns that have been brought forward to me. Further to that, with the teacher to children ratio, it seems 1:25 is putting a lot of stress on these classrooms and the learning environment that these children are supposed to be benefitting from. Is the Minister open to re-evaluating that while this review takes place in the summer?

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

As one of my colleagues said the other day, I will do better than that. In fact, they are funded at 1:12, so if they are doing 1:25, Mr. Speaker, we have a bit problem. I'm going to be looking into that right away, because they are funded at 1:12.

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake .

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Kieron Testart

Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the Minister. I very much appreciate that. If the results of this survey confirmed these concerns that have been brought forward today, is the Minister willing to go that extra distance and commit to at least exploring a possibility of adding more money into the program to address these shortfalls? Thank you.

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Caroline Cochrane

Range Lake

The schools are actually funded for 1:12. They're not funded 1:25, they're funded 1:12. I will look into the other things. Like I say, we'll do a review at the end of the year. I'm not going to be quick to say we'll throw money at things if it's not needed. What I am working on currently, though, is looking at, because we have a curriculum for JK, junior kindergarten, but I'm looking at strengthening the curriculum for childcare centres, licensed childcare centres, as well. I believe in equality and I believe in equity, and so we need to make sure that the services for children are similar right across.

One thing I picked out from Member's statement today, though, Mr. Speaker, already is we're doing a bad job of communication. I've said that a few times, in our departments, that we need to work on our communication. If the MLAs are thinking that we're getting funded for 1:25, I can imagine what the general public thinks, so we need to do better on our communications. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 605-18(3): Junior Kindergarten Program

Oral Questions

Page 4985

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Health and Social Services . During his almost eight years in his portfolio, has the Minister had any discussions about developing an office for child and youth advocacy in the NWT? Mahsi.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4985

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Minister of Health and Social Services .

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4985

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the 16 th Legislative Assembly I participated on a committee that did a review of the implementation and delivery of child and family services in the Northwest Territories. With the chair, who at the time was the honourable Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh , we travelled throughout the Northwest Territories. We also travelled to many other jurisdictions and we talked to professionals about these services. One of the things that came up on a regular basis was the child advocate. We met with the child advocate in Alberta and we talked about the role of an advocate.

At that time the committee, based on their discussions, did not recommend an advocate, but rather in recommendation 25 of the report they recommended some changes to the legislation that would allow a child to have some representation, and that could have been a legal professional, extended family, a member of the parents' band council. There was also a second recommendation, recommendation 26, to establish a mechanism to ensure that every child's voice is heard and that the child understands what is happening to them at every level of the child welfare system. Those recommendations were accepted and enacted.

There were changes to the Child and Family Services Act that allowed individuals to be there as an advocate for them. It wasn't a child advocate as the Member is describing, but we also moved forward in the Department of Justice and established the Office of the Children's Lawyer in 2011-2012 to allow for children to be appointed a lawyer in certain child protection issues.

I recognize that a children's lawyer is not a child's advocate, but when it comes to a child who has access to the legal system, they provide those types of services. So it doesn't get every child, as the Member is describing, but it certainly touches those who are engaged in the court system. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

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Page 4986

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

I appreciate the fulsome answer from the Minister. He said that he wants to make sure every voice is heard. I am wondering what the mechanism for that is without someone in a formal advocacy position.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

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Page 4986

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

The Child and Family Services Act, after it was amended, actually allows for a child and each parent of the child to choose and be accompanied by an adult who may assist them in the expression of his or her views when engaging the courts and when engaging the system. It doesn't necessarily allow or support the child advocate as the Member is describing, but it does allow for advocacy.

The Office of the Children's Lawyer began serving clients in 2011. I understand, once again, that that is not a child advocate, but it does provide those services once a child has access to the court system through Child and Family Services. We are doing some of those things. The legislation allows us to have other people advocate on their behalf.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

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Page 4986

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Given the two reports from the Office of the Auditor General which both feature concerns about children not being heard and not being in regular contact with authorities, I am wondering if the Minister is ready to revisit this discussion about having an independent, arms-length agency that is an advocate for children and youth?

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

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Page 4986

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

These were conversations that occurred both in the 16 th and the 17 th Legislative Assemblies. At that time, we did not move forward with the child's advocate. Neither the committee recommended nor the government of the day moved forward with it. The child's advocate is not a children's lawyer, as I have already indicated, but they are more comparable to an ombud with a focus or a specialization in children and youth.

If this Assembly were interested in pursuing that, it would require legislative changes or legislative drafting. It would require budgeting. It would require a number of things. We didn't contemplate that in the remainder of this Assembly. Instead, we are looking at other types of positions that can support families and children, like family support workers under the Child and Family Services Act and Building Stronger Families. We didn't contemplate that as a result of discussions in previous Assemblies, and we are focusing more on other types of positions that could provide those types of supports.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4986

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre .

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Julie Green

Yellowknife Centre

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I think it is worth revisiting this conversation because of the number of things that have changed in the last one or two terms since the Minister was a Regular Member around having a child and youth advocate. As I indicated in my statement, there is considerable uptake in both the Yukon and Nunavut in having these services available to children. Given that interest, how can I, as a Member of the Standing Committee on Social Development, move this initiative forward so that we can engage in conversation with the Minister and his department? Mahsi.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Glen Abernethy

Great Slave

I appreciate the role of a child advocate. I did have opportunities to meet with child advocates in other jurisdictions and learn about the importance of them. I am not saying the Northwest Territories will never have a child advocate, nor should we never have a child advocate. The bottom line is, for the remainder of this term, we are already looking at our last O and M budget before us. It would take legislative drafting. Given the legislative agenda that is in front of us, it probably is not something we are going to be able to accomplish.

However, that doesn't mean we can't start looking at it. If this is something that committee would like us to put some attention on, at least do some research around the concept, what it would take, we are happy to look at those things. I don't believe we are going to be in a position to write legislation, pass legislation, or get it funded within the life of this government. We are certainly open to input from committee. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 606-18(3): Child and Youth Advocate

Oral Questions

Page 4986

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake .

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. My questions are for the Premier . Earlier today I raised the issue of public concern around the appointment of the workers' advisor by the responsible Minister. Can the Premier tell us whether he had knowledge of the appointment before it was formally made or announced? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Honourable Premier .

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. No.

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

I want to thank the Premier for that quick reply. Presumably, the Premier , as the chair of the Executive Council, exercises some oversight on ministerial performance and actions, including appointments. Can the Premier confirm whether he does exercise oversight on ministerial appointments and explain how he carries out that responsibility?

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

The appointment the Member refers to is a ministerial appointment. The position for which the appointment was made is consistent with

section 107, subsection 3, of the Workers' Compensation Act.

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

I want to thank the Premier for reciting the famous

section 107 of the act. He didn't actually answer my question, but I am going to go on. In the statement I made, I discussed the Cabinet-approved Boards Policy that states, "The process for appointments to GNWT boards should be timely, consistent, and transparent." Does the Premier agree that all ministerial appointments should be timely, consistent, and transparent, and that the recent workers' advisor appointment met those tests?

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

We track board appointments. Where Ministers have the responsibility for making direct appointments, we leave that to the Ministers. I am not in the practice of reviewing all decisions in hindsight.

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Frame Lake .

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Kevin O'Reilly

Frame Lake

Merci, Monsieur le President. Thanks to the Premier for that, and I agree. Let's look forward, now. Lastly, there doesn't appear to be any policy or guidance around ministerial appointments for positions not on boards. Given the public concern around the recent appointment of the workers' advisor, can the Premier tell us whether he is now prepared to develop and implement a policy framework for all ministerial appointments? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

I guess, first of all, we will have to determine: this may be the one and only ministerial appointment in the Government of the Northwest Territories. I guess that would be my first step, to determine whether that is the case or not. If there is more than one ministerial appointment, then we would determine whether there are enough ministerial appointments that would warrant to have more oversight. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 607-18(3): Ministerial Appointments

Oral Questions

Page 4986

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Deh Cho .

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the community of Fort Providence is very interested in the increasing amount of tourism that we are seeing in terms of small-community travel. My questions are to the Minister of ITI and Infrastructure : what actions have been taken in the last year toward getting a big sign erected to alert travellers that they are approaching the mighty Deh Cho? Mahsi.

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment .

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Member has brought this to my attention today. Upon follow-up, the short answer is: none. The ITI staff has met regularly with the tri-council organization in his community. There are a number of discussions that have taken place there. Upon further follow-up, we have not had any discussions on what we talked about in the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

What are the steps to getting a sign placed along the highway?

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

To get a sign along the side of the highway, that is through the Department of Infrastructure. There are both guidelines and a formal process that is in place to approve all sign applications for signage along our highway network in the Northwest Territories. Signs need to meet a technical requirement. Any person or organization who wants to put up a sign must apply through an application process.

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4986

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

As I have said in previous questions from the Member and the House, I think that this is a great idea. On the second part of the question, I don't know if we need to be the initiator of it. I am going to talk to my superintendent in the region about having a conversation with the local community groups that need to be involved, but I think that this needs to be pushed as well from the local group, and maybe with some input from our MLA from the riding, to get some input from him, as well.

I think that this needs to be collaborative approach, not just a one-sided approach, but we certainly need to work together on this. I know that I made a commitment in this House to have this discussion with his community, and we will do that.

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Deh Cho .

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Michael Nadli

Deh Cho

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have reached out to talk to Members of the Deh Gah Bridge Society and DIGAA Enterprises, and they are willing and very interested in making this a possible reality. When will the Minister instruct the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment to develop a program for this sign project and seek input on the content from local governments? Mahsi.

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

As I said, I will get our superintendent to go in there to have a discussion with the tri-council group in the community. I know that there has been a lot of conversation with that group, particularly around the old landing site for the ferry landing, about turning that into a park, which would be a long-term project that we are trying to work on and have discussions with them. I know that there needs to be some restoration work, if I remember from my briefing with DFO on that, but I will be sure that our superintendent, when we goes there and meets with the tri-council again, initiates the conversation about this signage project along the highway. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 608-18(3): Deh Cho/Mackenzie River Signage

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Nahendeh .

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have been approached by a number of businesspeople asking why their WSCC rates are going up. Unfortunately, I cannot answer their questions with certainty. Therefore, I have some questions for the Minister responsible for WSCC . Can the Minister explain why the rates are going up annually? Is this due to increased costs for administration of programs, a need for more staff, or is this cost related to injured workers? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Minister responsible for the Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The mandate and the work that the WSCC does is to continue to promote workplace health and safety, as all Members know, and I think all Members can attest to and support the work that we do within WSCC. The increase in 2019 provisional rates, which is the rate used in deriving detailed employer rates, is attributed to the increased cost, as all Members would be aware, of the treatment and care of our injured workers, and we will continue to provide those services and work with our employees, as I mentioned, focusing on promoting workplace health and safety.

The increase is attributed to the increased costs for the treatment and care of injured workers across the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

It is my understanding that the Government of the Northwest Territories pays 88 cents per $100 on their payroll. It seems to be very low, especially when we look at departments such as Infrastructure, Health and Social Services, and Justice, in other words, Corrections. Can the Minister confirm that the departments are broken down into their own industry codes, or is the GNWT as a whole classified as one code?

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

As the government, the GNWT has one employer for all of our workers and people who do work on our behalf. It is classified under a single industry code, that code being class 81. Being an employer, GNWT as one employer, we are just focusing on that class 81.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

That gives me a bit of a concern, when we have such a variety of people working for the Government of the Northwest Territories. If we did break down each department into their own code, similar to what we do with businesses, would we see businesses rates go down?

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

The employer base across the territory funds the system for anyone who needs treatment or care under our class 81. Changing the allocation of how that system works would obviously, for one thing, probably have a lot of administrative work that would need to go into that. If the Member is asking specifically on each department, some probably would go up. Some would probably go down.

As you know, we have employees who do different types of work, and it would really be based on each department. Some would probably go up; some would go down. That is why, with the GNWT being the sole employer, we follow the industry code, being class 81.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Nahendeh .

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Shane Thompson

Nahendeh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, thank you very much to the Minister for giving information and clarity to some of these questions. I still have some concerns, though. I can't see our rates going down too low for our secretaries and that, but with hospitals and corrections, I could see it going up. My last question, Mr. Speaker, is: is my understanding that the Minister's role is to ensure that everybody pays their own fair share, including the GNWT? Can the Minister explain what his role is with WSCC? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

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Page 4987

Alfred Moses

Inuvik Boot Lake

The Minister has an arm's-length role working with the WSCC. As I mentioned, and as he said in his recent comments, with each department, and he mentioned a couple in terms of Justice, Corrections, Health and Social Services, compared to, you know, administration, the costs would be up and down. My role, like I said, is at arm's length, but we also have a governance council that does oversee the conduct of business and management of the WSCC. That is my current role, at an arm's length, but also working with the governance council to make sure that workplace health and safety for our employees is administered. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 609-18(3): Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission Fees

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Cory Vanthuyne

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In my Member's statement today I was talking about Indigenous ownership of mining and resource development projects. My questions are for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment . In recent years, we have seen positive partnerships between Indigenous organizations, and the diamond mines in particular. They have provided a number of services to the diamond mines, but now the talk is about actually starting to hold some equity ownership in potential projects. I would like to ask the Minister: can the Minister speak about how the government can help encourage Indigenous partnership at a high level in resource projects? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment .

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our role would be as partners and supporters of Indigenous governments to do this. We are very interested in working closely with Indigenous governments and their development corporations, our federal partners, the federal government, to achieve the shared goals of economic empowerment, for sure. It is a conversation that has already started rolling out. We had an economic summit in Inuvik last fall. The Premier had one. Myself and the Minister of Finance were there. We are committed to continuing these types of conversations.

I think the summit was a good starting point to have these discussions, and we are very interested in helping Indigenous governments who want to go down this road to be able to participate in this manner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Cory Vanthuyne

Yellowknife North

Thank you to the Minister for that reply. That is good information to start to get an understanding and a handle on sort of the direction that we are going and some of the first steps that could be understood from a number of interested parties. I would like to maybe expand upon that a little bit and just ask the Minister: many Indigenous companies, as I have mentioned, provide services to the mines. What ways can the government support them as they prepare to take next steps towards equity ownership?

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

I will give you a few examples of what we are doing already. As many people in this House know, we have our regional mineral development strategies that we are working with the regions on this, developing them, for those who want to participate in that manner. We are doing two, I think, in this budget cycle again. Our government is already bringing Indigenous governments into the fold as we reach out to the investors of the Global Resource Conference. That is another good example, but we also have funding available from our government to support capacity-building in these areas. We believe that these have proven out to be effective to help the Indigenous governments that want to participate.

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Cory Vanthuyne

Yellowknife North

Thank you to the Minister for his reply. This is good information. I would like to take it another step further and ask the Minister if the government is working on any kinds of strategies at all in terms of what strategies can the government use to encourage to possibly even incubate communications and partnerships between Indigenous companies and the resource industry?

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

As I said, we have our regional strategies. Those are good over the long term, I think, to help the Indigenous governments on where they want to go on this. Our own mineral development and petroleum strategies lay out concrete actions to support Indigenous governments. They are clearly laid out in that. Ultimately, it really comes down to engagement. It is something that we have proven that we are very good at encouraging. We have seen that at Round Up already, the last two times that we have been down there.

We have a defined structure that is already in place with the public and Indigenous governments and industry to work together, and we will continue to work on that. That is a solid foundation that puts us head and shoulders above the rest of the country, I believe. With our competitors around resource development, we will continue to encourage that and work with the Indigenous governments that want to pursue this.

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4987

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife North .

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Cory Vanthuyne

Yellowknife North

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the Minister for his rely. This all seems to be very positive information. In the past, we have set some degree of precedent in this regard. This is not new to the Northwest Territories. Many will recall that the Mackenzie Valley pipeline was also one third Indigenous-owned, and so I would just like to ask the Minister: how can this government continue to work toward developing these types of Indigenous equity partnerships in the future? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Wally Schumann

Hay River South

I think we have clearly laid out that we know, to encourage development in the Northwest Territories, that we have to work with all our partners and all our residents across the Northwest Territories in collaboration. I think, with just a quick thought in my head when we are talking about this, it goes back to the announcement we just made with the federal government around the Taltson project. It is quite clear that this government is focused on bringing Indigenous governments into the fold on how we want these projects to move forward.

This gives you a very good example of how it laid out the financial support that is going to be laid there to see how they want to be able to participate in these things going forward.

Darrell Beaulieu and his group have had a couple of economic symposiums. There were some great speakers who also took place there. You know the First Nation Major Project Coalition was there. Dr. Ken Coltson talked about how these projects, right across the country, how Indigenous governments can be able to participate and how they could help support all the Indigenous governments together on how they can figure out how to do this.

Equity is a big challenge on some of these things, but there are a number of things going on on a number of fronts on trying to figure out Indigenous participation and resource development can take place in this country. We will certainly keep our ear to the ground and figure out we can do this for the groups that want to do it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 610-18(3): Indigenous Equity in Minerals Industry

Oral Questions

Page 4988

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Marsi cho, Mr. Speaker. In my Member's statement I talked about the cost of living mandate. I have questions for the Premier . I would like to ask the Premier if he agrees that retrofitting homes for energy efficiency would reduce the cost of living for people. Thank you.

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

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Page 4988

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Honourable Premier .

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Certainly, I agree with the Member's statement. The Government of the Northwest Territories released its 2030 Energy Strategy in 2018, and that will help address the cost of living by increasing support for energy efficiency and conservation, including a goal of increasing residential energy efficiency by 15 percent. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Another item for cost of living, according to me, anyway, is affordable daycare. Does the Premier support all efforts of creating affordable daycare?

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

Affordable childcare is important for families. I support responsible policy and program development that supports the Government of the Northwest Territories' mandate item of making childcare available and affordable for families.

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

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Page 4988

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Staying with daycare, can the Premier tell the House what progress has been made from the beginning of this government until now on moving toward affordable daycare?

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

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Page 4988

Bob McLeod

Yellowknife South

I think our government has done a lot in this area, especially with junior kindergarten. I think it has certainly made it a lot better for a lot of families, and other initiatives that have been undertaken by this government. We all recognize that, with daycare, more people can work and also make it easier for the family. Also, we are increasing training for licensees that provide daycare as well.

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

Oral Questions

Page 4988

The Deputy Speaker

R.J. Simpson

Oral questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh .

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Question 611-18(3): Reducing the Cost of Living

Oral Questions

Page 4988

Tom Beaulieu

Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Affordable daycare would give an opportunity for people to find work, and there are not many jobs in the small communities. Does the Premier agree that job creation should be one