HANSARD NORTHWEST TERRITORIES LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY - Monday, March 6, 2017 - Legislative Assembly of The ...
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NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
2nd Session Day 64 18th Assembly
HANSARD
Monday, March 6, 2017
Pages 2191 – 2232
The Honourable Jackson Lafferty, SpeakerLegislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories
Members of the Legislative Assembly
Speaker
Hon. Jackson Lafferty
(Monfwi)
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hon. Glen Abernethy Hon. Bob McLeod Mr. Kevin O’Reilly
(Great Slave) (Yellowknife South) (Frame Lake)
Government House Leader Premier
Minister of Health and Social Services Minister of Executive
Minister Responsible for the Workers’ Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and
Hon. Wally Schumann
Safety and Compensation Intergovernmental Relations (Hay River South)
Commission Minister of Industry, Tourism and
Minister Responsible for Seniors Investment
Minister Responsible for Persons with
Hon. Robert McLeod Minister of Public Works and Services
Disabilities (Inuvik Twin Lakes) Minister of Transportation
Minister Responsible for the Public Deputy Premier
Utilities Board Minister of Finance
Minister of Environment and Natural Hon. Louis Sebert
Resources (Thebacha)
Mr. Tom Beaulieu Minister of Human Resources Minister of Justice
(Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh) Lead Responsibility for Infrastructure Minister of Lands
Minister Responsible for the Northwest
Territories Power Corporation
Mr. Frederick Blake Mr. Daniel McNeely Minister Responsible for Public
(Mackenzie Delta) (Sahtu) Engagement and Transparency
Hon. Caroline Cochrane Hon. Alfred Moses Mr. R.J. Simpson
(Range Lake) (Inuvik Boot Lake) (Hay River North)
Minister of Municipal and Community Minister of Education, Culture and
Affairs Employment
Minister Responsible for Northwest Minister Responsible for Youth Mr. Kieron Testart
Territories Housing Corporation (Kam Lake)
Minister Responsible for the Status of Mr. Michael Nadli
Women Mr. Shane Thompson
Lead Responsibility for Addressing (Deh Cho)
(Nahendeh)
Homelessness
Mr. Herbert Nakimayak
Ms. Julie Green (Nunakput) Mr. Cory Vanthuyne
(Yellowknife North)
(Yellowknife Centre)
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Officers
Clerk of the Legislative Assembly
Mr. Tim Mercer
Deputy Clerk Committee Clerk Committee Clerk
Law Clerks
Mr. Doug Schauerte Mr. Michael Ball Ms. Cayley Thomas (Acting)
Ms. Sheila MacPherson
Mr. Glen Rutland
Ms. Alyssa Holland
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Box 1320
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 767-9010 Fax: (867) 920-4735 Toll-Free: 1-800-661-0784
http://www.assembly.gov.nt.ca
Published under the authority of the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest TerritoriesTABLE OF CONTENTS
PRAYER ........................................................................................................................................................... 2191
MINISTERS’ STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................................ 2191
158-18(2) – Progress on Implementing the Mandate of the Government of the
Northwest Territories, 2016-2019 (B. McLeod) .......................................................................................... 2191
159-18(2) – Federal Investment in NWT Highways (Schumann) ............................................................... 2193
160-18(2) – Aurora College Next Steps (Moses) ....................................................................................... 2193
MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................................. 2194
Traditional, Indigenous and Local Knowledge (Nakimayak) ...................................................................... 2194
Public Safety on the Ingraham Trail (Vanthuyne) ...................................................................................... 2195
Training for Child and Family Services Workers (Beaulieu) ....................................................................... 2195
Classroom Instructional Hours (Green)...................................................................................................... 2196
Deh Cho Economic Readiness Forum (Thompson) .................................................................................. 2197
Department of Infrastructure Regional Offices (McNeely).......................................................................... 2197
Territorial Carbon Pricing Regime (O'Reilly) .............................................................................................. 2198
Consultation on Commercial Fishing Strategy (Nadli) ............................................................................... 2198
Support for Bill 16: An Act to Amend the Education Act (Testart) .............................................................. 2199
Health System Patient Advocate Proposal (Blake) .................................................................................... 2199
Soaring Eagle Friendship Centre Employment Training Programs (Simpson) .......................................... 2200
RECOGNITION OF VISITORS IN THE GALLERY .......................................................................................... 2200
ORAL QUESTIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 2201
RETURNS TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS ........................................................................................................... 2210
TABLING OF DOCUMENTS ............................................................................................................................ 2211
FIRST READING OF BILLS ............................................................................................................................. 2211
Bill 19 – Appropriations Act (Operations Expenditures), 2017-2018 .......................................................... 2211
SECOND READING OF BILLS ........................................................................................................................ 2212
Bill 19 – Appropriations Act (Operations Expenditures), 2017-2018 .......................................................... 2212
CONSIDERATION IN COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE OF BILLS AND OTHER MATTERS ........................... 2220
REPORT OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE .................................................................................................. 2229
THIRD READING OF BILLS ............................................................................................................................ 2229
Bill 19 – Appropriations Act (Operations Expenditures), 2017-2018 .......................................................... 2229ASSENT TO BILLS .......................................................................................................................................... 2230 ORDERS OF THE DAY .................................................................................................................................... 2230
March 6, 2017 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD Page 2191
YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
Monday, March 6, 2017
Members Present
Hon. Glen Abernethy, Mr. Beaulieu, Mr. Blake, Hon. Caroline Cochrane, Ms. Green, Hon. Jackson Lafferty, 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 1:32 p.m.
of the highlights of the Government of the
Northwest Territories' achievements in
Prayer
implementing our commitments.
---Prayer Mr. Speaker, in the past year, we have been
actively working to diversify our economy and
SPEAKER (Hon. Jackson Lafferty): Good ensure that our residents have the skills and
afternoon, colleagues. Item 2, Ministers' experience to take advantage of new economic
statements. Honourable Premier. opportunities. In these pursuits, we are investing in
transportation infrastructure projects to open new
Ministers' Statements business development opportunities, such as
opportunities for increased tourism. We have
MINISTER'S STATEMENT 158-18(2): developed an agriculture strategy and a commercial
PROGRESS ON IMPLEMENTING THE MANDATE fishery revitalization strategy, and we continue to
OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE NORTHWEST implement the film strategy and a new tourism plan,
TERRITORIES, 2016-2019 all in an effort to build local markets, export goods,
and expand the number of tourists. Our Skills 4
HON. BOB MCLEOD: Mr. Speaker, Northwest Success Action Plan will ensure our education and
Territories' residents want a government that is training system keeps up with the changing labour
transparent and accountable. On March 3, 2016, for market. We are also attracting new skilled labour
the first time in the Northwest Territories, Members from abroad and investing in broadband
of the Legislative Assembly unanimously adopted a infrastructure to further modernize the Northwest
mandate for the Government of the Northwest Territories' economy.
Territories. The purpose of the mandate is to guide
the work of the Government of the Northwest Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest
Territories over its four-year term. Territories is working to achieve a sustainable
environment that contributes to the economic well-
Mr. Speaker, the mandate enhances the being and quality of life of our residents. We are
transparency of the Government of the Northwest carefully working to modernize our laws for
Territories by clearly stating what the government regulating land tenure, water use, and mineral
th
commits to do to advance the priorities of the 18 development, as well as environmental
Legislative Assembly. The mandate enhances conservation. The Government of the Northwest
accountability by ensuring that voters and Members Territories is protecting biodiversity and ecosystem
of the Legislative Assembly can hold the integrity through partnerships that reflect the vision
government to account in fulfilling these set out in the Government of the Northwest
commitments. Territories' Land Use and Sustainability Framework.
As part of the Government of the Northwest
Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories' commitment to addressing climate
Territories is required to report annually on the change and improving the affordability, reliability,
progress it has made to implement the mandate. In and sustainability of energy, we have been
accordance with the Process Convention on Priority conducting extensive public engagement to inform
Setting and Reporting, later today, at the the development of an NWT energy strategy and an
appropriate time, I will table the first annual report NWT climate change strategic framework.
on the mandate.
Mr. Speaker, education is a key element to
In the year since the mandate was adopted, the achieving our overall goals for a strong and
Government of the Northwest Territories has made sustainable territory. As such, we have made
progress on a number of commitments in the areas changes to the funding model for the Early
of economy; environment and climate change; Childhood Program; advanced measures to fully
education, training, and youth development; cost of fund the cost of implementing junior kindergarten in
living; community wellness and safety; and all communities, including the 13 communities that
governance. I am pleased to share with you some do not currently offer the program; andPage 2192 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD March 6, 2017
strengthened French language education, as well system will improve access, consistency, and
as cultural, heritage, and Aboriginal language cultural appropriateness of care and services, as
programming. Additional efforts are being made well as improve accountability and performance.
outside of the school system to support youth in
their communities. Mr. Speaker, our government also made a
commitment to focus on mental health and
Mr. Speaker, our climate, population distribution, addictions, to ensure access to culturally
and distance from major markets result in a high appropriate programs and services, address gaps
cost of living and high costs of operating in services, and enhance treatment options. We
businesses in the Northwest Territories. In addition brought forward the strategic framework Mind and
to constructing the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway, Spirit: Promoting Mental Health and Addictions
we have secured federal investment for the Tlicho Recovery to set the foundation for systematic
All-Season Road project, projects that will help to improvements and are now focused on areas
lower the cost of living for residents. requiring specific approaches, children and youth
mental wellness, addictions recovery, and mental
The Government of the Northwest Territories is health services.
working on programs and services for those who
are homeless and to alleviate barriers to accessing Mr. Speaker, as I said at the outset, one of our
existing government programs and services. The priorities is to improve accountability, transparency,
Government of the Northwest Territories has and collaboration. In the first year of this
formed partnerships to find solutions to address government's mandate, we have been doing
homelessness and northern housing issues, business differently, increasing public engagement
including the City of Yellowknife's Housing First and further embracing the principles of open
initiative and similar solutions in other communities. government. The Minister responsible for Public
We have established additional local housing Engagement and Transparency is undertaking
organizations and are participating in the public engagement across the Northwest Territories
development of a national housing strategy. to ensure that the development of an open
Working nationally, we already secured an increase government policy reflects territorial priorities.
of 33 per cent to the northern residents tax Cabinet has engaged directly with residents in
deduction, and a federal commitment of $64.5 several communities and listened to their concerns
million over five years to expand Nutrition North. through well-attended open houses. Our
government has also gone beyond the requirement
Mr. Speaker, we are committed to working with of publishing an annual report on our mandate, to
families, community groups, police, courts, and developing and maintaining a public website
schools to ensure the wellness and safety of our dedicated to tracking the Government of the
communities. We are making progress on our Northwest Territories' fulfillment of its commitments
commitments to strengthen initiatives and in the mandate. We have made progress toward
partnerships to reduce family violence. One of making information from government more
these initiatives is the Domestic Violence Treatment available and more easily accessible.
Options Court, an option that is now available to
offenders not only in Yellowknife and Hay River but Mr. Speaker, to understand how to better share and
also to those from Behchoko, Enterprise, and the protect information, the government has conducted
K'atlodeeche First Nation. We continue to invest in public engagement on updating the Access to
five family violence shelters across the territory, in Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Public
programming for children exposed to family engagement has also taken place on other
violence, and in the development of family violence initiatives, including the Recreational Land
protocols and response teams for regions without Management Framework and the modernization of
shelters. the Fire Prevention Act.
Progress has been demonstrated in a number of A major priority of the Government of the Northwest
areas to reduce the burden of chronic disease, for Territories is to take further steps towards the
example, through Healthy Living fairs, the Let's Talk recognition and respect of Aboriginal governments,
about Cancer website, and facilitating the and we have made a commitment in our mandate
establishment of a territorial diabetes registry to to work to resolve outstanding land, resource, and
monitor and measure related trends. One of the self-government agreements.
Government of the Northwest Territories' most
th Alongside the federal government, we have
significant accomplishments so far during the 18
Assembly is the creation of a single Northwest appointed ministerial special representatives to talk
Territories Health and Social Services Authority and to all parties involved in negotiations in the Deh
regional wellness councils to give each region a say Cho and South Slave regions, including the Dehcho
in how care and services are delivered. This First Nations, Akaitcho, and Northwest Territory
transformation of the health and social services Metis Nation, in order to facilitate the settlement ofMarch 6, 2017 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD Page 2193
claims in these regions. The government has been Nahanni Butte access roads and the replacement
implementing more flexible and adaptive of the James Creek highway maintenance camp.
approaches to negotiations with a view towards
finding compromise and reaching agreements. We Going forward, a third bundle of projects is being
are achieving positive results from these efforts, as developed and will focus on the second phase of
evidenced at final agreement negotiations with the work on NWT highways and major roads in 2018
Acho Dene First Nation of Fort Liard, where the and 2019. Planning for the third bundle will be done
parties have reached a point where key decisions as part of the capital planning process.
involving land and governance lay before them. We
Mr. Speaker, these important investments in our
are assisting with implementation of the Deline self-
transportation infrastructure help us connect
government agreement and are working with other
communities to new social and employment
Aboriginal governments on building administrative
opportunities, reduce the cost of living in the
capacity.
territory, improve the resiliency of our transportation
Mr. Speaker, this represents just some of the system to climate change, and increase access to
progress we have made to date in implementing the natural resources.
commitments made in the mandate of the
In addition to improving the existing highway
Government of the Northwest Territories. The
system, the Government of the Northwest
mandate will continue to be an important tool for
Territories has identified three new NWT
measuring the success of the government and the
transportation corridor projects with strategic
Legislative Assembly, and I look forward to
significance in its 25-year transportation strategy
reporting additional progress in the future. Thank
and mandate: the Mackenzie Valley highway, the
you, Mr. Speaker.
Tlicho all-season road, and the Slave Geological
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Ministers' statements. Province access corridor. That is why I am proud to
Minister of Transportation. say that, last month, two federal funding
announcements were made supporting the
MINISTER'S STATEMENT 159-18(2): development of new highway infrastructure in the
FEDERAL INVESTMENT IN NWT HIGHWAYS NWT.
HON. WALLY SCHUMANN: Mr. Speaker, the The first is for the construction of the Canyon Creek
Department of Infrastructure is committed to access road in the Sahtu Region, which represents
working in partnership with Canada to make another step toward replacing the existing
strategic investments in highway infrastructure. Mackenzie Valley winter road with an all-weather
Today, I am pleased to provide an update on our corridor. The project will provide access to granular
efforts to secure funding for various highway resources and traditional Sahtu lands, which may
projects across the territory. be used for recreation, tourism, and business
development.
In 2015, the Government of the Northwest
Territories received federal approval for its first Mr. Speaker, another important milestone was
bundle of highway capacity improvement projects realized earlier this year when the federal
submitted under the New Building Canada Plan. government announced conditional funding for the
The bundle was cost-shared with the federal Tlicho all-season road to Whati. The 97 kilometre
government, who provided $72 million, or 75 per road will provide year-round access to residents of
cent, while the Government of the Northwest that community and will also benefit nearby
Territories provided the remaining $24 million, or 25 communities by significantly increasing the length
per cent of the total $96 million investment. As a of operation of the winter roads to Wekweeti and
result, significant upgrades to every highway across Gameti and helping to address a key impact of
the territory and to the Detah access road were climate change in this region. The all-season road
achieved. will also help reduce the cost of living for residents
and support economic development in the region by
A second bundle of highway capacity increasing access to mineral resources and
improvements projects was approved last June. boosting investor confidence.
This time, the federal government provided $60.7
million while the Government of the Northwest The Department of Infrastructure will continue to
Territories provided $20.2 million. The total look for new opportunities to increase investment in
investment of $80.9 million in funding will allow the the NWT transportation system in collaboration with
Department of Infrastructure to enhance several our federal counterparts. We expect additional
access roads and bridges that are critical details regarding funding opportunities for trade and
components to the NWT highway system. Projects transportation corridors may become available with
include upgrades to the Jean Marie River and the upcoming federal budget. We are prepared to
make the most of these opportunities to addressPage 2194 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD March 6, 2017
our infrastructure deficit and improve transportation provided with multiple opportunities to contribute to
services in every region of our territory. the foundational review, including providing
feedback on the terms of reference.
Transportation infrastructure improvements result in
a variety of economic and social benefits for I am also pleased to confirm that the budget
Northerners and all Canadians. Ensuring proper reductions related to the Social Work Diploma and
maintenance and upgrades to our highway system Bachelor of Education Programs identified for
increases driver safety and improves our resiliency Aurora College will be held in abeyance until the
to climate change. Enhanced intercommunity next fiscal year; however, there will be no new
mobility means new business, employment, intakes for these programs.
educational, and health care opportunities for
residents. Finally, improved road access will enable The department and Aurora College continue to
us to unlock the North's full economic potential by have an ambitious agenda ahead in fulfilling the
th
providing better access to natural resources. current and new direction of the 18 Legislative
Assembly. This direction now includes ensuring
The Government of the Northwest Territories has both the foundational review and the strategic plan
made a commitment in its mandate to capture are completed and ready for implementation
opportunities for investment in transportation beginning in Aurora College’s 2018-19 academic
infrastructure. We are working to secure funding to year. Informed by these two initiatives, we will also
advance the Mackenzie Valley Highway, and we jointly develop new innovative funding and
continue to undertake work to prove up the accountability frameworks to ensure we receive
business case to advance a project that would see value for money in our significant public investment
improved access into the Slave Geological in post-secondary education.
Province. Our government will stay engaged with
Canada on the status of our submissions and on Additionally, the Legislative Assembly will be
any new developments in funding programs. Thank introducing overarching post-secondary legislation
you, Mr. Speaker. during the term of this Assembly, which will create a
process of accreditation that ensures the effective
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Ministers' statements. governance and quality assurance of any existing
Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. and future post-secondary institutions in the NWT.
This includes Dechinta Centre for Research and
MINISTER'S STATEMENT 160-18(2): Learning and College nordique.
AURORA COLLEGE NEXT STEPS
I look forward to working with all Members as we
HON. ALFRED MOSES: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. embark on this change agenda to ensure that
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to announce that I have residents have access to quality and expanded
directed that a foundational review of Aurora post-secondary education that prepares them for
College be undertaken. the employment opportunities of tomorrow. Mahsi
cho, Mr. Speaker.
The foundational review will help inform the
government's long-term vision for Aurora College MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Ministers' statements. Item
and position it to provide the necessary skills and 3, Members' statements. Member for Nunakput.
knowledge our residents require to participate in
and contribute to the social and economic fabric of Members' Statements
the NWT for decades to come.
MEMBER'S STATEMENT ON
I am confident that this is the right time to undertake
TRADITIONAL, INDIGENOUS AND LOCAL
this review in light of our Skills 4 Success initiative
KNOWLEDGE
and our detailed understanding of the future needs
of the NWT labour market. MR. NAKIMAYAK: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.
Speaker, we often hear the terms "traditional
The timeline for completion of this review is fall
knowledge," "Indigenous knowledge," and "local
2017, with an implementation target of the 2018-19
knowledge" used interchangeably, without really
academic year. The current strategic planning
stopping to think what they really mean.
process under way at Aurora College will be folded
into the foundational review. The strategic review Local knowledge is everywhere, Mr. Speaker, even
will inform the foundational review. Valuable input here at the Legislative Assembly. Every community
has been received as part of this strategic planning in the Northwest Territories has local knowledge.
process which will be utilized in the review process. Local knowledge comes out of what our daily
practice is and is specific to the place and time that
Mr. Speaker, I would like to assure this House that
we live in. It is shared by a group of individuals who
Members of the Legislative Assembly will be
are united by the similar experience of living orMarch 6, 2017 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD Page 2195
spending time in a particular locale and is not public safety. The Ingraham Trail is used not only
specific to a certain culture or ethnicity. by truckers, Mr. Speaker. Residents of Detah,
people who live further down the trail, and people
Traditional or Indigenous knowledge, on the other who travel for aurora viewing, recreation, or hunting
hand, is a subset of local knowledge. It is based on are also regular users of the trail. For these people,
practices and is specific to a place, but it is the in case of emergency, the trail is their only way in or
result of the sustained interaction of Indigenous out, and their only access to assistance.
people with their environment over generations.
Traditional or Indigenous knowledge exists beyond These people need to know that their safety is a
an individual's lifetime. It is used by a specific priority of this government, Mr. Speaker. These
community with a distinct cultural identity that is incidents raise issues such as road maintenance,
separate from the larger society. Unlike local vehicle safety and driver training. All of these issues
knowledge, traditional knowledge or Indigenous could affect any user of the Ingraham Trail.
knowledge is historical, culturally enriched and
persistent over time. Mr. Speaker, communication is key to ensuring
public safety, and to reassuring people that, in
It seems that the Government of the Northwest cases of emergency, they will be protected and
Territories has adopted the use of the term looked after. They need to be able to count on the
"traditional knowledge" or TK to refer to the authorities to have accurate information about the
specialized knowledge of Indigenous Aboriginal situation, and to share that information with
communities in the Northwest Territories. Mr. residents who need it in a timely manner in order to
Speaker, I would like to encourage the GNWT to make decisions.
use the term "Indigenous knowledge" instead, as
this is consistent with what is being used at the Regarding the truck fire on the weekend, when a
United Nations and it also more accurately reflects Twitter follower inquired with DOT whether the
what the GNWT is really referring to, which is the driver of the vehicle was okay, the DOT response
specialized knowledge of its Indigenous Aboriginal was, "The firefighting department investigates these
peoples. issues, not us." Surely as a government we owe
residents better responses than that, Mr. Speaker,
When talking about the use of Indigenous and local and better reassurance that their lives and safety
knowledge, I also want to stress the importance of are being protected.
scientific research working in tandem with both
sources of knowledge. The best way to protect the I'll have questions for the Minister of Transportation
wildlife that sustains our northern people, for at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
example, is for scientific research to be combined
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
with the Indigenous knowledge of local harvesters.
Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.
Mr. Speaker, the use of Indigenous knowledge,
supported by other data and information, is the best
way to improve the quality of outcomes for each MEMBER'S STATEMENT ON
region across the NWT. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. TRAINING FOR CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES
WORKERS
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
Member for Yellowknife North. MR. BEAULIEU: Marci cho, Mr. Speaker.
[Translation] Last week, Mr. Speaker, CBC Radio --
Health and Social Services had wanted to work with
MEMBER'S STATEMENT ON
the children and the children who are taken away
PUBLIC SAFETY ON THE INGRAHAM TRAIL
from their home the way they had first starting
MR. VANTHUYNE: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Mr. working on there when they first came up here to
Speaker I want to talk about an important matter in work with the people and the kids that were taken
the Yellowknife North riding. On Saturday the away from their home and taken to the residential
Ingraham Trail was closed again for about an hour schools the way -- up to 2014 the federal
because a haul-truck, on its way to resupplying the government had a look at it and made a report.
mines, caught fire near the Yellowknife River. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Translation ends]
That was the fifth incident involving big rigs in just a CBC Radio reported that the Department of Health
couple of weeks. One was a roll-over, one truck and Social Services will start requiring NWT Child
went off the road, and three actually involved trucks and Family Services workers to take mandatory
catching fire. Thankfully, no injuries were involved training on colonization and the impacts of
in any of the incidents. residential schools.
Mr. Speaker, when this many incidents occur This change is something we've been waiting for for
involving trucks on our roads, it raises questions of a long time. It is one of the changes in businessPage 2196 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD March 6, 2017
practices that is finally coming out of the Auditor MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON
General's 2014 Audit of Child and Family Services. CLASSROOM INSTRUCTIONAL HOURS
Less than 3 per cent of children in the Child and MS. GREEN: Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker,
Family Services system come from backgrounds with just one week left in this sitting, I want to look
other than First Nations, Inuit, or Metis. First ahead to some important work Regular MLAs will
Nations children make up a full 71 per cent. be doing during the break. The Standing Committee
on Social Development will be reviewing Bill 16, An
It is our reality, Mr. Speaker, this training is vital. In Act to Amend the Education Act. Specifically, the
fact, it is well overdue. We've been waiting for a members of this committee, including myself, will
long time. be looking at the proposed changes to instructional
hours.
When the social development committee pressed
the department for details on its response to the It has taken close questioning by my colleagues on
Auditor General, Members struggled to get good this side, both in the House and at a public briefing,
answers and indications of practical progress. to understand the rationale for these changes and,
specifically, to allay parents’ and students’ concerns
In its last annual report, Child and Family Services
about instructional hours in high school. It is my
went as far as to call the Auditor General's findings
understanding now that students will continue to
into question, and told Members about data
receive the same number of hours that Alberta
collection problems and "broken" audit tools. I
students receive, and the content of the curriculum
understand that foster home "home studies" is one
will remain the same.
area where we're still failing.
That is important because NWT students are taught
The introduction of these new training requirements
the Alberta curriculum and write the same
and long-needed updates to foster parent screening
departmental exams. What is not clear to me is why
go a short way to easing my mind, Mr. Speaker.
the department didn't come out with a plan that
Meaningful decolonization and awareness training
stated high school instructional hours would be
is definitely a step in the right direction. Still, this is
maintained on par? It would have saved parents
a problem area, and it impacts our most vulnerable
and the department a lot of grief.
residents.
In 2015-16, the need for financial assistance made There are still some significant loose ends in this
up 8 per cent of all Child and Family Services initiative. First, why are reduced instructional hours
referrals. This means that the reason those being piloted in every single NWT school, and why
children's files ended up on a social worker's desk is the change in instructional hours being legislated
didn't fall under the other categories we track: before the pilot begins? Make no mistake, this
abuse, family violence, alcohol, and drugs. It was a change is not a pilot project, but an across-the-
lack of income. It was money. Mr. Speaker, I seek board change. Usually, a pilot project is a trial.
unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Strengths and weaknesses are identified, and then
the program is rolled out everywhere. That is not
---Unanimous consent granted what is happening here. Is the department prepared
to reverse this change, if the three-year test period
MR. BEAULIEU: Marci cho, Mr. Speaker. It is my isn't successful?
belief that a family's household income directly
affects many cases beyond that 8 per cent. Another important question is: what is success in
this context? How will this change be evaluated, in
Mr. Speaker, it is violence, too: violence that is not terms of student outcomes? The department's
within the family or within the home, but instead, information shows that graduation rates have
violence that is done to Northerners, when their improved since 2010-11. Looking at the data from
government isn't prepared to step to the plate and other Canadian jurisdictions reveals there isn't a
make it a top priority to alleviate brutal poverty. consistent cause and effect between instructional
hours and graduation rates. Will graduation rates
I will have questions on the impact of household be the sole measure, or are there others that make
income on families engaged with child and family sense, such as attendance or Alberta achievement
services at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. test scores?
Speaker.
Another reason given for this change is to improve
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements. teacher well-being. Teachers measured their
Member for Yellowknife Centre. wellness by reporting on how many hours they
work. They said they worked 52 hours a week, but
the sample size is very small, because only 15 per
cent of teachers took part in the survey. Mr.March 6, 2017 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD Page 2197
Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my The Grand Chief hopes that, by being able to hold
statement. roundtable discussions with business leaders,
people will have a chance to hear each other out,
---Unanimous consent granted and where they want to go, with the potential here
in the Deh Cho.
MS. GREEN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank
you, colleagues. As I was saying, the teachers said Mr. Speaker, this forum is built on the past success
they work 52 hours a week, but the sample size is of similar conferences held by the Dehcho First
very small, because only 15 per cent of teachers Nations, including the Dehcho Means Business
took part in the survey. Surely there are more conference and the Dehcho business conference.
effective ways to measure teacher wellness,
including their sick days, long-term disability, and The theme of the conference will be "powering
retention in the profession. It would also be useful growth, shaping the future." The great thing about
to see data on these points from jurisdictions with this conference is that it will include youth. One of
fewer instructional hours. the goals is to give young people an opportunity to
see how economic development unfold, from the
Mr. Speaker, the Minister has yet to produce a solid ground up.
evidence-based rationale for these changes to
instructional hours. I am challenging him to go back Mr. Speaker, the Grand Chief attended the Mineral
and do his homework before we start reviewing Bill Roundup in Vancouver with his executive assistant,
16. Mahsi. and Sambaa K'e Dene Band’s Chief. It was a great
opportunity to educate the movers and shakers of
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements. the mining industry, as the Dehcho Land Use Plan
Member for Nahendeh. is nearing completion.
MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON As the Grand Chief said to the Deh Cho Drum, "The
DEH CHO ECONOMIC READINESS FORUM ground rules are being laid down and it is a way of
how we can establish rules of engagement with the
MR. THOMPSON: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In an industry. For them, it is really important that they
effort to promote discussion about the economic have certainty, because they want to know who the
future of the Deh Cho region, Dehcho First Nations landowners are, and what areas are going to be
and the Dehcho Economic Corporation have joined open for development."
forces to hold a conference in Fort Simpson.
Mr. Speaker, I have seen the agenda, and it looks
Dubbed the Dehcho Economic Readiness Forum, like a great event. I wish them all the best, and
the conference will run from March 27 to 30, and hope to attend part of the first day. Mahsi cho, Mr.
aims to bring together community leaders, youth, Speaker.
and Aboriginal businesses.
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
The goal of the Dehcho Readiness Forum is to Member for Sahtu.
evaluate, educate, and strengthen our
communities, and the Dehcho region's business MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON
knowledge, for current and future economic DEPARTMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE
opportunities and growth. Development of the REGIONAL OFFICES
forum’s agenda is almost completed, and will
provide opportunities for participants to hear MR. MCNEELY: Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. The
presentations related to the Deh Cho's state of the Government of the Northwest Territories is working
economy, and to explore prospects for community- on organizational restructuring proposals, as part of
driven economic development. As well, there will be the ongoing efforts, to ensure it remains on a
business training workshops held at the forum that fiscally-sustainable path for the future. Proposals
will teach practical skills and knowledge required for include the amalgamation of the department of
successful business development. Public Works and Services and the Department of
Transportation into a single infrastructure
According to the Dehcho First Nations Grand Chief, department. The other merging of corporate
Herb Norwegian, the forum is a way to look forward services functions is currently carried out by the
to the future of the region, and was promoted by Departments of Executive, Finance, Human
community leaders wanting to "get ready for the Resources, and Aboriginal Affairs and
inevitable." Intergovernmental Relations.
He said once the Dehcho process comes to a The GNWT previously announced plans on
close, there will be opportunities for communities reducing expenditures and increasing revenue
and businesses to actively move toward developing measures as part of its fiscal strategy.
an economy for the region.Page 2198 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD March 6, 2017
Given the concluding chapter of our physical direct rebates, and look at the other GHG
budget recently, later I will have questions for the reductions that could come about if we invest some
appropriate Minister on preliminary start-up revenues in other green projects.
practices and policies. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
This work should have been well underway by now.
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements. Our standing committees also need to step up to
Member for Frame Lake. the plate and take a leadership role in development
of an NWT carbon pricing scheme given the lack of
MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON progress to date. I will have questions for the
TERRITORIAL CARBON PRICING REGIME Premier, as the Chair of the Ministerial Energy and
Climate Change Committee of Cabinet. Masi, Mr.
MR. O’REILLY: Merci, Monsieur le President. Last Speaker.
Wednesday, the Premier gave the economic
development and environment committee a briefing MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
on progress towards an Energy Plan and Climate Member for Deh Cho.
Change Strategic Framework. An update was
provided on public engagement, and work on the MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON
Pan-Canadian Framework, that will form the CONSULTATION ON COMMERCIAL FISHING
national plan for climate change action. STRATEGY
The Premier and committee witnesses had very MR. NADLI: Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. [Translation not
little to say about carbon pricing, as no one seems provided.] Mr. Speaker, some First Nations that live
to have the clear lead. I had to pry for facts on around Great Slave Lake are stating that they were
cross-departmental collaboration, both there and in not consulted in the development of the GNWT
the Committee of the Whole review of the ENR fishing strategy.
budget last week. There is no sense of urgency or
leadership on carbon pricing that I can see. It The ITI Minister tabled the Strategy for Revitalizing
seems like we are simply waiting for the federal the Great Slave Lake Commercial Fishery in the
government to tell us what to do. House last week. A ceremony was held in Hay
River to celebrate this milestone of the 70-year-old
We need to kick start this work now, if we are to get industry.
a made-in-the-NWT carbon price and take best
advantage of funding that is available from the Mr. Speaker, in developing the Commercial Fishing
federal government. So here are a few suggestions Strategy, the question of whether true meaningful
to get things under way. consultations were carried out in engaging all
parties, including First Nations, to provide the basis
First, the departments need to cooperatively for support or consent remains unclear.
determine our strategic interests, with input from
the Regular Members' committees. This will include The important question is: does the GNWT have
clear analysis of our fossil fuel use patterns, responsibility of Great Slave Lake and the fishing
greenhouse gas emissions, the costs of displacing resources or is it the Department of Fisheries and
fossil fuels and its effect on cost of living, Oceans?
opportunities to tap into federal support funding,
Mr. Speaker, the K'atlodeeche First Nations hosted
and a look at local employment and business
a conference on the Hay River Reserve along with
opportunities.
several First Nation groups that live along Great
Next, we need to determine the pros and cons of Slave Lake. A major discussion item was the
different methods of carbon pricing; compare and fisheries management of Great Slave Lake. ITI
contrast a carbon tax versus cap and trade, or any officials were invited but did not attend.
other mechanism.
Mr. Speaker the last time I checked, the
Then, we need to construct some carbon pricing Government of the Northwest Territories is a public
options for the two approaches. For a carbon tax, government, and working with all people in the
we need to know the extent of coverage, the price NWT is an absolute necessity. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
per tonne, for various fuel types and economic
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
sectors. For cap and trade, we need to look at how
Member for Kam Lake.
the NWT could be linked to national and
international schemes.
Finally, we analyze the scenarios to determine
economic and financial impacts, look at tools to
address issues including tax rate reductions andMarch 6, 2017 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD Page 2199
MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON Centre, spoke of her concerns. I do think we need
SUPPORT FOR BILL 16: AN ACT TO AMEND to resolve these before moving forth. Thank you,
THE EDUCATION ACT Mr. Speaker.
MR. TESTART: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
Speaker, today I rise to publicly state my support Member for Mackenzie Delta.
for Bill 16: An Act to Amend the Education Act.
MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON
First off, as a parent, I feel very privileged that my HEALTH SYSTEM PATIENT ADVOCATE
son is enrolled in a first-class school here in the PROPOSAL
Northwest Territories where his unique learning
needs and education challenges are met by very MR. BLAKE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.
skilled educators whose standard of teaching and Speaker, last August, the community of Aklavik lost
professionalism is second to none in Canada and one of our Inuvialuit elders to a stroke. This elder's
the world. access to proper and timely medical care was
delayed. A critical incident review was started soon
That being said, I have asked some tough after, led by Cree doctor Marlyn Cook. That was
questions of the department along with my almost seven months ago, Mr. Speaker.
colleagues who are full-time members of the
Standing Committee of Social Development. Not Last week, the Minister of Health and Social
everything that we are hearing from the department Services updated this House on that critical incident
makes sense at this point. However, the principles review. It made 16 recommendations to the
that the bill stands for, which are enabling more government. These recommendations ranged from
flexible hours for students and also allowing junior making sure staff review and understand current
kindergarten to roll out, these are good policy rules to proposing a specialized stroke centre at the
objectives. How we roll out the policy that is up for Stanton Hospital here in Yellowknife.
later debate and questioning.
I want to talk about one of the recommendations in
Just for example, Mr. Speaker, quality education, particular. Recommendation 12 suggests "that the
not quantity, is really the issue. GNWT implements a process to respond to patient
and family concerns related to the care that they
More and more, we are seeing education systems receive within the healthcare system."
adapt to different system that use less time. For
example, Mr. Speaker, in Finland, one of our sister I suspect that the Minister may say that we have a
circumpolar nations, formal schooling starts at the complaints system in place already, though maybe
age of seven, followed by only nine years of we could work on improving it. During my
compulsory school. Students there typically start constituency meeting in Aklavik, a constituent
school between 9:00 and 9:45, and the school day brought a different idea to the table: a patient
usual ends at 2:00 or 2:45. Most importantly, an advocate. Small community residents often feel that
average Finnish teacher teaches only 600 hours they can't express how they really feel to healthcare
annually, or about four or fewer lessons daily. The workers.
result, Mr. Speaker, looks like this: 93 per cent of
Finns graduate from academic or vocational high A patient advocate, working out of a local health
schools and 66 per cent go on to higher education, centre, could help bridge those gaps between those
the highest rate in the European Union. Yet Finland workers and residents. That could mean someone
spends only about 30 per cent less per student than to tackle language or culture gaps, help coordinate
the U.S. medical escorts, help nurses with patients' family
history, or even just help workers new to town get
By contrast, in the NWT, only 67 per cent of to know the community.
students graduate from high school. The
comparison between the regional centres and This could also tie in with the review's other
smaller communities is drastic. recommendations, including the incorporation of
traditional practices into care when Aboriginal
Mr. Speaker, I do support the objectives and patients ask for them. This idea for a patient
intentions of this bill. The teachers have been very advocate could be piloted in Aklavik, Mr. Speaker. I
clear in their advocacy to me on a personal level think we could learn a lot from it and effect some
and also through their representatives at the real positive changes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I
NWTTA and their work on the bill with the will have questions later today.
government. I think it is the right thing to do but we
need to make sure that it is done right which is why MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements.
we have a very strong standing committee. My Member for Hay River North.
honourable friend, the Member from YellowknifePage 2200 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD March 6, 2017
MEMBER’S STATEMENT ON they run, putting on seniors programs, and hosting
SOARING EAGLE FRIENDSHIP CENTRE a number of community events.
EMPLOYMENT TRAINING PROGRAMS
Mr. Speaker, I was going to talk about how
MR. SIMPSON: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. friendship centres in the NWT are underfunded and
Speaker, when I was growing up, I would attend the have to piece together monies to provide
day camp at the Soaring Eagle Friendship Centre programming while deferred maintenance costs
every summer. That is where I learned how to add up; this is despite the fact that for every dollar
make a bed with pine boughs, cook bannock over invested in the Friendship Centre they can use that
an open fire, and snare rabbits. to leverage seven additional dollars from other
sources.
I am happy to say that after all these years, the
friendship centre's tradition of educating youth is as Mr. Speaker, I wanted to focus instead on the good
strong as ever, but now, it is focused on delivering work being done, and to personally thank the
programs to develop job skills and provide work Soaring Eagle Friendship Centre for what it does
experience. Just this past Friday, our Member of for our youth, our community, and the NWT. Thank
Parliament was in Hay River where he announced you, Mr. Speaker.
that the friendship centre is receiving a federal
grant of nearly $1.3 million to support projects that MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Members' statements. Item
provide hands-on work experience, job search 4, returns to oral questions. Item 5, recognition of
assistance, and skills upgrading. This money will visitors in the gallery. Member for Range Lake.
help train 60 youth over the next three years.
Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery
Mr. Speaker, the feds don’t usually just hand you
seven figures without proof that you can put it to HON. CAROLINE COCHRANE: Thank you, Mr.
good use. Speaker. I want to begin by recognizing the
When it was time to tear down the arena in Hay students who are in the House today and stating
River, the friendship centre recognized an that you are our future, and one day we hope to see
opportunity and partnered with industry to train 23 you sitting here. Then I want to move to talk about
youth in asbestos abatement. Twenty-two of those some of the NHL alumni who are visiting our gallery
youth received their certification, and 80 per cent of today. We have Shaun Van Allen, who has played
them went on to work on the arena project. with the Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa
Senators, Dallas Stars, and the Montreal
Recognizing the growing manufacturing sector in Canadiens.
Hay River, the Friendship Centre has again
partnered with industry and will soon begin running We have John Chabot, who played with the
a carpentry program that will develop essential Pittsburgh Penguins, the Montreal Canadiens, the
essential industry skills, and provide work Detroit Red Wings. We have Dan Frawley, who
experience. played with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Chicago
Blackhawks. Tyler Kennedy, who played with the
They are also adapting a youth and elder catering Pittsburgh Penguins, the New York Islanders, the
program that has been proven effective in other San Jose Sharks and the New Jersey Devils. Ally
regions of the territory. Charlette, the daughter of John Chabot, who
provided support for the tour.
Just yesterday there was an article on CBC North
about the commercial fishing training program the Also accompanying the alumni is the band
centre is running. In the fall, the centre will offer a Algonquin Avenue from Ottawa, who provided the
much more robust version of the program in entertainment. We want to welcome you to the
association with the NWT Fishermen’s Federation Legislative Assembly in the Northwest Territories.
and the British Columbia Institute of Technology. It It's wonderful that you could attend the event in
will include intensive hands-on training and Deline and we hope to see you again in the future.
Transport Canada marine industry accreditation.
This will prepare youth to work in the fishery as well ---Applause
as the shipping industry and the Coast Guard. MR. SPEAKER: I would also like to say welcome to
The centre also runs an entrepreneurial training our proceedings. It's always great to have special
program for youth who have multiple barriers to guests as part of our proceedings and witnessing
employment, and four youth are now employed as our actions. Masi. Recognition of visitors in the
a direct result of this program. gallery. Member for Nunakput.
All of these programs are in addition to the MR. NAKIMAYAK: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.
numerous community services, the youth centre Speaker, I'd to welcome two Pages fromMarch 6, 2017 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES HANSARD Page 2201
Inualthuyak School in Sachs Harbour: Rosanne Minister expand on the curriculum and its
Lennie and Agnes Amos, as well as their requirements such as duration of the training
chaperone, Margaret Noksana. Welcome to the completion requirements, like pass and fail, what
Legislative Assembly, and I look forward to working would happen, and if there are any plans for
with you all this week and hope you can put up with refresher requirements? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
us.
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Minister of Health and Social
Also, Mr. Speaker, the Senior Cager basketball Services.
tournament was held here in Yellowknife over the
weekend, and we have a team from Helen Kalvak HON. GLEN ABERNETHY: Thank you, Mr.
School, the under 15 boys' team, who are in the Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the culture awareness
gallery, and their teacher. I'm going to give you their training that the Member is speaking about is for
names: Kolten Inuktalik, Mitchell Inuktalik, Kyran Child and Family Services statutory appointed child
Alikamik, Teegan Taptuna, Christopher Hoagak, protection workers and adoption workers. It
Alexandria Banksland, Lucy Ann Okheena and their includes a mix of infield community Indigenous
teacher/coach Nicolas Kopot. They were the only engagement orientation followed up by in-person
team that had two girls participate in a boys' classroom-based core training with elders and
tournament, and they also won the sportsmanship educators, and then follow-up and an after-
banner this weekend for the Cager Tournament. engagement infield engagement which is usually or
is intended to be evaluated by the regional
Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to say that the Pages as supervisor and supported by the department's
well as the students have travelled from the furthest practice specialist.
north to come and be here with us. I appreciate you
making the time to come and sit down and listen to Mr. Speaker, there is some upfront work that we
us for a bit. After I'm done, you can go now, but require our staff to do; a number of reading
welcome. The sportsmanship shows that the little modules that they are expected to complete before
schools sometimes don't come to compete, but they they go to the in-class orientation and training
also come in the spirit of team play. You're sitting session, and then there's also some after training
across from some very good people in this room, so which is 30 to 60 days. There are a number of
thank you all, and welcome everybody into the follow-ups every year, training sessions, three to
gallery. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. four training sessions held in the Northwest
Territories every year that individuals can attend for
MR. SPEAKER: Again, just welcoming those refreshers if needed. Thanks, Mr. Speaker.
individuals who travelled from afar to participate in
our tournament this weekend. Thanks for coming. MR. BEAULIEU: If we know the commonalities
Masi. Recognition of visitors in the gallery. Member between the families with children in care we can
for Sahtu. act on addressing them. I'd like to ask the Minister:
what information, such as household income, does
MR. MCNEELY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, Health and Social Services collect on the families of
would like to echo my colleague, the Minister, on children in care?
recognizing the Algonquin band members from
Quebec; I hope you had an enjoyable weekend in HON. GLEN ABERNETHY: Income is assessed on
Deline. Also I'd like to recognize the three members a case-by-case basis and it is not something that is
from the alumni NHL who also participated in the currently collected within the Child and Family
celebrations in Deline; Dan Frawley, Shaun Van Services information system. A Child and Family
Allen, and John Chabot. Thank you very much for Services file may contain information on a family's
coming to see our proceedings. financial situation only if that information is shared
by the family for the purpose of care planning and
MR. SPEAKER: Masi. Recognition of visitors in the assessment of the family needs.
gallery. Item 6, acknowledgements. Item 7, oral
questions. Member for Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh. For example, Mr. Speaker, if a family identifies that
they are an income assistance recipient, then this
information can be documented and may help in
Oral Questions
planning. There are situations, Mr. Speaker, where
the incumbent would formally collect information on
QUESTION 691-18(2): the family's income, and that would be in a case
TRAINING FOR AND DATA COLLECTED BY where a family is coming in for a voluntary services
CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES WORKERS agreement and it's identified that one of the
MR. BEAULIEU: Marci cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. challenges they're facing is income or inability to
pay some of their bills.
Speaker, in my Member's statement I talked about
Child and Family Services training. I'd like to ask
the Minister a few questions on that. Can theYou can also read
