Mr. Speaker, when we meet here in the Legislative Assembly we often talk about the opportunities for our communities and residents provided through the GNWT’s infrastructure programs. However, today I would like to bring your attention to work that the Department of Public Works and Services is doing as part of the GNWT’s environmental remediation program, and the opportunities that this work is creating for our smaller communities.
Mr. Speaker, later today at the appropriate time, I will table a public discussion paper entitled,, “A Vision for Energy in the Northwest Territories: Developing the 2013 Northwest Territories Energy Plan”. . This paper is the first component of a multi-step process that will lead to the development the 2013 Energy Plan.
Mr. Speaker, November is National Adoptions Awareness Month. It’s an opportunity to recognize families in the Northwest Territories who provide a remarkable service to children.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud that the NWT has been a world leader in recognizing aboriginal customs and culture when children need a family. Our legislation recognizes that our people take care of our children within their families, extended families and the community.
Mr. Speaker, over the last few sessions I have been reporting on work the Northwest Territories Power Corporation has been doing to ensure that its structure and operations are aligned with government’s goal to keep electricity costs as low as possible. As owners of NTPC, Northerners have a vested interest in making sure the Corporation achieves this objective. I believe NTPC is up to the job.
Mr. Speaker, in my travels across the Northwest Territories, meeting with communities, attending assemblies and numerous board meetings, I have heard one constant theme. Addictions are destroying our families and communities.
This government spends millions of dollars on addictions services. But our people are still drinking in large numbers.
Mr. Speaker, the oil and gas industry has been at the heart of our economy for many years. As one of our enduring industries, we have always recognized the need to work not only with the companies that want to tap into our vast resources, but also with those who live and work in the regions so that the economic benefits remain exactly where they should – in the North.
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment is dedicated to providing relevant curricula and improving educational outcomes for all students of the Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, on September 12th, negotiations towards a Délįnę Final Self-government Agreement reached a significant milestone. After many years, the negotiators have agreed on the draft text of a Final Self-government Agreement and financial agreement. This achievement is important as it lays the basis for the Parties to ratify the Final Agreement. As Mr. Yakeleya noted when this was announced last month, the move towards self-government complements the Sahtu Comprehensive Dene and Metis Land Claim and gives Délįnę the opportunity to make their own history.
Mr. Speaker, the anthrax outbreak this summer in the Mackenzie Bison Range was the largest we have experienced in Northern Canada.
At least one-third of the Mackenzie wood bison herd was lost and included bulls, cows and calves.
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment continues improving its programming to ensure adult learners have the tools they require for fulfilled, prosperous lives.
The Department has been developing a process for adults to receive their high school diploma, called the Adult Recognition Model, or ARM. Through ARM, adults enrolled in Adult Literacy and Basic Education programs may receive high school credits for a combination of academic course work and knowledge or skills they have gained through life experience.
