(February 25, 2013) - Good evening ladies and gentlemen. I'll try to keep my remarks brief. After all, it's said that most speakers need no introduction. What they need is a conclusion. This event is always one of my favourites and I’m happy to see everyone is enjoying the spirit of entrepreneurism to the fullest here this evening!
(February 25, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, oil and gas development has the potential to grow and diversify the Northwest Territories economy, a key priority of this Government. Nowhere has this reality been more apparent than in the Sahtu Region. Today I would like to give this Assembly an update on the activity in the Sahtu over the past few months and the plans for moving forward.
(February 25, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on plans for supported housing for seniors. One of the priorities of the NWT Housing Corporation’s strategic plan, Building for the Future, was to develop infrastructure based on community needs including approaches to support housing for seniors and aging in place.
(February 25, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, last week, we learned of the tragic loss of two truck drivers and serious injuries to a third person as a result of a collision between two commercial vehicles. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the families and friends of those who perished and to the survivor who is now recovering from the injuries sustained in the collision. This is a tragedy that has had a devastating effect on the families and loved ones involved. Our condolences go out to those affected by this terrible event.
(February 25, 2013) - Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a distinct honour for me to be here tonight among this exceptional community of northerners as part of this premiere signature event - and to celebrate everything that is so exciting about the Northern business community.
(February 22, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, it is a priority of this government that children get the best possible start in life so they can reach their full potential. It is important that we continue investment in Early Childhood Development as this is an investment in the future of our children.
In January of this year, in partnership with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, we hosted a roundtable to identify priorities for a renewed Early Childhood Development framework. I am pleased to report that the roundtable was a success.
(February 22, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to speak about the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs’ upcoming Good Governance Conference. This year’s conference theme is “Community Ownership.” The conference will take place at the Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife from February 26 to 28, and 165 participants representing all 33 communities are expected to attend.
(February 22, 2013) - The construction of an all-weather highway down the Mackenzie Valley to the Arctic Coast is vital to connect our communities and to access a wealth of natural resources that are critical for growing the NWT economy and ensuring Canada remains prosperous within the global economy.
(February 21, 2013) – Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to confirm that the Government of the Northwest Territories has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Union of Northern Workers on procedures for employees to safely disclose allegations of wrongdoing.
(February 21, 2013) - Mr. Speaker, consistently investing in parks infrastructure is essential to strengthen and diversify our economy. Parks improvements ensure more people visit our communities, spend money at our local businesses, and spread the word about our spectacular territory. The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment maintains 33 Territorial Parks, and today I am pleased to share the highlights of an online survey conducted this past summer that show our investments are paying off.
