Nunavut Canada
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT
2nd Session 3rd Assembly
HANSARD
Official Report
DAY 14
Friday, November 27, 2009
Pages 676 – 709
Iqaluit
Speaker: The Honourable James Arreak, M.L.A.
Legislative Assembly of Nunavut
Speaker Hon. James Arreak (Uqqummiut)
Hon. Eva Aariak Hon. Lorne Kusugak Allan Rumbolt (Iqaluit East) (Rankin Inlet South – Whale Cove) (Hudson Bay) Premier; Minister of Executive Minister of Community and and Intergovernmental Affairs; Government Services; Minister of Fred Schell Minister responsible for the Status Energy (South Baffin) of Women; Minister responsible Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole for Immigration John Ningark (Akulliq) Hon. Daniel Shewchuk James Arvaluk (Arviat) (Tununiq) Johnny Ningeongan Minister of Environment; Minister of (Nanulik) Human Resources; Minister responsible Moses Aupaluktuq Deputy Speaker, Chair of the for Nunavut Arctic College (Baker Lake) Committee of the Whole Hon. Louis Tapardjuk Hon. Tagak Curley Paul Okalik (Amittuq) (Rankin Inlet North) (Iqaluit West) Government House Leader; Minister of Minister of Health and Social Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Education; Minister of Culture, Services; Minister responsible for Language, Elders and Youth; Minister the Workers’ Safety and Enuk Pauloosie of Languages; Minister of Aboriginal Compensation Commission; (Nattilik) Affairs Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council Hon. Keith Peterson Hon. Peter Taptuna (Cambridge Bay) (Kugluktuk) Ron Elliott Minister of Finance, Chair, Financial Deputy Premier; Minister of Economic (Quttiktuq) Management Board; Minister of Justice Development and Transportation
Adamee Komoartok Hon. Hunter Tootoo
(Pangnirtung) (Iqaluit Centre) Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation; Minister responsible for Homelessness
Officers Clerk John Quirke
Deputy Clerk Clerk Assistant Law Clerk Sergeant-at-Arms Hansard Production Nancy Tupik Stephen Innuksuk Susan Cooper Simanek Kilabuk Innirvik Support Services
Box 1200 Iqaluit, Nunavut, X0A 0H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Website: www.assembly.nu.ca
Table of Contents
Opening Prayer ...... 676
Ministers’ Statements ...... 676
Members’ Statements ...... 679
Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ...... 687
Oral Questions ...... 687
Tabled Documents ...... 703
Notices of Motions ...... 703
Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills ...... 704
Motions ...... 704
First Reading of Bills ...... 705
Second Reading of Bills ...... 705
Orders of the Day ...... 708
A. Daily References
Friday, November 27, 2009 ...... 676
B. Ministers’ Statements
051 – 3(2): Changes to the Nunavut Food Allowance Table (Tapardjuk) ...... 676
052 – 3(2): Honouring Thomasie Alikatuktuk (Aariak) ...... 677
053 – 3(2): Municipal Training Organization Wins an Award (Kusugak) ...... 677
054 – 3(2): Sealskin Fur Pricing Program to Continue (Shewchuk) ...... 678
055 – 3(2): Fur Design and Production Graduates Represent Canada at International Student
Design Competition in Milan, Italy (Shewchuk) ...... 678
C. Members’ Statements
081 – 3(2): Congratulations to Baker Lake Basketball Team (Aupaluktuq) ...... 679
082 – 3(2): Support Our Northern Airlines (Pauloosie) ...... 680
083 – 3(2): Kugluktuk Soccer Tournament (Taptuna) ...... 681
084 – 3(2): Congratulations to the Mitiq Co-op of Sanikiluaq (Rumbolt) ...... 681
085 – 3(2): Reflections on Multi-Tier Health Care Delivery (Elliott)...... 682
086 – 3(2): Member’s Apology for Inappropriate Conduct (Komoartok) ...... 684
087 – 3(2): Cape Dorset Studio Celebrates 50 Years of Success (Schell) ...... 685
088 – 3(2): Montreal Canadiens (Okalik)...... 685
089 – 3(2): Order of Arctic Adventurers, North of 60 Chapter (Ningark) ...... 686
090 – 3(2): Thanks to the Pond Inlet Co-op Manager (Arvaluk) ...... 686
D. Oral Questions
115 – 3(2): Inuit Employment Plan (Okalik)...... 688
116 – 3(2): Support for Northern Airlines (Pauloosie) ...... 690
117 – 3(2): Status of the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s Marshalling Contract (Schell) ...... 691
118 – 3(2): Landfill Site in Repulse Bay (Ningark) ...... 692
119 – 3(2): Multi-Tier Health Care Delivery (Elliott) ...... 694
120 – 3(2): Nunavut Housing Survey (Arvaluk) ...... 698
121 – 3(2): New Fuel Prices in Nunavut (Okalik)...... 700
122 – 3(2): Swimming Pool for Repulse Bay (Ningark) ...... 701
E. Tabling of Documents
061 – 3(2): Nunavut Housing Corporation’s Response to the Standing Committee on Oversight of
Government Operations and Accountability (Tootoo) ...... 703
F. Motions
010 – 3(2): Censure of the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pangnirtung – Notice
(Ningark) ...... 703
011 – 3(2): Acceptance of the Report of the Integrity Commissioner to the Legislative Assembly
Regarding Mr. Paul Okalik – Notice (Tootoo) ...... 703
010 – 3(2): Censure of the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pangnirtung (Ningark) .... 704
012 – 3(2): Early Adjournment (Schell) ...... 708
G. Bills
Bill 11 – An Act to Establish the Order of Nunavut – Notice ...... 704
Bill 12 – Northern Employee Benefits Services Pension Plan Protection Act – First Reading .. 705
Bill 14 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 2009, No. 2 – First Reading ...... 705
Bill 18 – Language Statutes Amendment Act – First Reading ...... 705
Bill 21 – An Act to Amend the Utility Rates Review Council Act – First Reading ...... 705
Bill 12 – Northern Employee Benefits Services Pension Plan Protection Act – Second Reading
...... 706
Bill 13 – An Act to Amend the Retirement Plan Beneficiaries Act – Second Reading ...... 706
Bill 14 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 2009, No.2 – Second Reading ...... 706
Bill 18 – Language Statutes Amendment Act – Second Reading ...... 707
Bill 21 – An Act to Amend the Utility Rates Review Council Act – Second Reading ...... 707
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 676
Iqaluit, Nunavut in Schedule A of the regulations under Friday, November 27, 2009 the Social Assistance Act. Members Present: Honourable Eva Aariak, Honourable The Nunavut Food Allowance Table sets James Arreak, Mr. James Arvaluk, Mr. out the amounts income support Moses Aupaluktuq, Honourable Tagak applicants may be eligible for to help Curley, Mr. Ron Elliott, Mr. Adamee with the cost of food and other Komoartok, Honourable Lorne Kusugak, household items needed for day-to-day Mr. John Ningark, Mr. Johnny living. Ningeongan, Mr. Paul Okalik, Mr. Enuk Pauloosie, Honourable Keith Peterson, Mr. Speaker, the regulation amendment Mr. Allan Rumbolt, Mr. Fred Schell, removed zone 1 from the food allowance Honourable Daniel Shewchuk, table and moved Bathurst Inlet, Honourable Louis Tapardjuk, Sanikiluaq, and Umingmaktok into zone Honourable Peter Taptuna, Honourable 2. As a result of this zone change, I am Hunter Tootoo. happy to announce that eligible income support recipients residing in Bathurst Item 1: Opening Prayer Inlet, Sanikiluaq, and Umingmaktok will receive a modest increase to their Speaker (Hon. James Arreak) monthly benefit amounts beginning (interpretation): Thank you. Before we December 1, 2009. For example, a single proceed, I would like to ask Mr. person will receive a $19 increase to Shewchuk to say the opening prayer. their monthly food benefit amount, a family of two will receive a $35 >>Prayer increase, a family of three will receive a $50 increase, and a family of four will Speaker (interpretation): A wonderful receive a $60 increase. morning, Premier, Ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly, and all The food allowance table divides Nunavummiut. Nunavut communities into zones and is based on the total number of people in Going to the orders of the day. the household and the community in Ministers’ Statements. (interpretation which the household resides. ends) Hon. Louis Tapardjuk. Since division, benefit amounts have Item 2: Ministers’ Statements increased by 10 percent in June 2004 and 5 percent in April 2005. Mr. Minister’s Statement 051 – 3(2): Speaker, this change represents a first Changes to the Nunavut Food step towards undertaking a more Allowance Table (Tapardjuk) comprehensive review of the social assistance rates. The department Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): recognizes that a review of the social A wonderful morning to you, Mr. assistance rates is needed to ensure that Speaker. I rise today to inform my benefits are adequate in all Nunavut colleagues of recent changes made to the communities. Nunavut Food Allowance Table outlined
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 677
The Department of Education provides sure this number will only increase in assistance to eligible Nunavummiut who the future. are unable to meet the basic needs of themselves and their dependants. The Not too long ago, Thomasie and I had a Income Support Program is meant to discussion before he passed away and provide temporary relief from financial when he was leaving me, he told me to hardship to help ease the transition to be strong and I will try to remain strong self-reliance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. for Thomasie and also for Nunavummiut. >>Applause My deepest sympathy goes out to Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Thomasie’s family during this difficult Minister. Ministers’ Statements. Premier time. Mr. Speaker, Thomasie has left Eva Aariak. Nunavummiut a great legacy and his memory will live on. Thank you. Minister’s Statement 052 – 3(2): Honouring Thomasie Alikatuktuk >>Applause (Aariak) Hon. Eva Aariak (interpretation): Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today Premier Aariak. Ministers’ Statements. with a heavy heart. Thomasie Minister Lorne Kusugak. Alikatuktuk, who was President of Qikiqtani Inuit Association until he Minister’s Statement 053 – 3(2): recently stepped down due to illness, Municipal Training Organization passed away on November 24. Wins an Award (Kusugak)
Mr. Speaker, Thomasie contributed Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): much to our territory. An active Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to community member, Thomasie sat on make a statement in regard to the boards, including the hamlet council, the Municipal Training Organization. Pangnirtung Recreation Committee, the youth council, the Qikiqtaaluk (interpretation ends) It is my pleasure Corporation, and the Kakivak today to advise the Members of this Association. He was also a community House that the Municipal Training director representing Pangnirtung with Organization and Nunavut Association the Qikiqtani Inuit Association. of Municipal Administrators are Thomasie was elected president for the recipients of an award of excellence for Qikiqtani Inuit Association in the 2002, municipal workplace literacy and 2005, and 2008 presidential elections. learning achievements. The Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators Mr. Speaker, something that people may in Whistler, British Columbia presented not know about Thomasie is that he the award for the development of started the fish plant in Pangnirtung with effective and successful partnerships a staff of four. Today, there are 55 directed towards workplace learning. employees and about 100 fishermen. I’m
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 678
Mr. Speaker, this award is largely a necessary fuel and supplies to continue result of continued support received by harvesting, thereby ensuring continued the Municipal Training Organization access to the bountiful renewable from their various partners, especially resource. from the mayors and councils of the municipalities across Nunavut. In a time when much negative publicity surrounds the Canadian seal hunt, it is I would like to thank the Members of the encouraging that our government has Legislative Assembly for your continued taken action to ensure the continuation support as the Municipal Training of this vital and sustainable part of Organization continues to strive to meet Nunavut’s traditional economy. the professional development, Although we still have much work to do educational and skills based training in rebuilding the market for sealskins needs of Nunavut’s hard-working abroad, this decision should be welcome municipal staff. Thank you, Mr. news to all Nunavutmiut. Ma’na, Mr. Speaker. Speaker.
>>Applause >>Applause
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Ministers’ Statements. (interpretation Minister. Ministers’ Statements. ends) Hon. Daniel Shewchuk (interpretation ends) Hon. Daniel Shewchuk. Minister’s Statement 054 – 3(2): Sealskin Fur Pricing Program to Minister’s Statement 055 – 3(2): Fur Continue (Shewchuk) Design and Production Graduates Represent Canada at International Hon. Daniel Shewchuk: Thank you, Student Design Competition in Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to inform Milan, Italy (Shewchuk) members of a recent government decision which will have a significant Hon. Daniel Shewchuk: Thank you, positive impact on Nunavutmiut. The Mr. Speaker. I rise today to inform this Department of Environment has been House of a very special contest two advised to continue purchasing sealskins talented Nunavut Arctic College students in support of Nunavut harvesters. This will be participating in next year. will allow the department to continue purchasing ringed sealskins from Fur design and production graduates harvesters at an average price of $50. Meeka Kilabuk and Karliin Aariak have been chosen by the Fur Council of This decision clearly demonstrates the Canada to represent our country at the Government of Nunavut’s recognition of International Student Design the importance of seal harvesting to Inuit Competition, REMIX, next March in culture and to the health and socio- Milan, Italy. Both Karliin and Meeka economic well-being of our have already won awards and communities. Income from the sale of international attention for their sealskin sealskins allows hunters to purchase the design work at the North American Fur
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 679
Fashion Expo held earlier this year. >>Applause They are the first Nunavut designers who will be featured at REMIX. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Minister. Ministers’ Statements. If there Mr. Speaker, the REMIX competition are no more, Members’ Statements. was introduced in 2003 by the Member for Baker Lake, Mr. International Fur Trade Federation in Aupaluktuq. collaboration with the Milan based International Fur and Leather Exhibition. Item 3: Members’ Statements Now in its sixth year, more than 300 students from 22 countries have taken Member’s Statement 081 – 3(2): part in this annual event. Congratulations to Baker Lake Basketball Team (Aupaluktuq) REMIX aims to encourage, inspire, and support young designers as they develop Mr. Aupaluktuq (interpretation): Thank and explore their relationship with fur, you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to as well as give them an opportunity to recognize Boris Pukirnak, who is my showcase their innovative designs to an nephew. He is now 13 years old. During international audience. the summer, he would follow his grandmother, my mother, Nancy Mr. Speaker, we are pleased to see our Pukirnak. I am very proud of them. Puki, talented fur and fashion designers being I love you and have a wonderful day. provided with the opportunity to represent Nunavut and Canada at such a (interpretation ends) As well, last week, prestigious international fashion event. the Baker Lake Blizzard basketball boys This honour highlights the success of the 19 and under won the territorial Nunavut Arctic College Fur Design and basketball tournament held here in Production Program, a program Iqaluit last weekend. developed with the support of the Department of Environment. I would like to acknowledge the Baker Lake Blizzards: Harry Aupaluktuq, Supporting the participation of local Arnold Arngna’naaq, Anthyme Kadjuk, designers in international fur fashion and Derek Mikkinguak, Kyle Owingayak, design events is an important part of our Troy Owingayak, Eric Perkison, Trent government’s commitment to the fur Aksawnee, Kent Depeuter, Bobby Jr. industry in Nunavut. Such international Uluqsiq Tagoona, and their coaches, recognition contributes to the sealskin Shane Niego and Lazarus Attungalaa. market and showcases Nunavut’s proud traditions of seal hunting and sustainable It’s a great achievement for our use of seal to the world. community and it demonstrates the ability of our youth across Nunavut, and Please join me in expressing our recreation instils a lot of pride and congratulations and best of luck to competition also develops a worthwhile Meeka and Karliin as they prepare for approach for our youth to set higher this international competition in March goals. 2010. Ma’na, Mr. Speaker.
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 680
So with this, I would like to congratulate We are starting to see the negative everybody who took part, but most impacts of WestJet and Air Canada in particularly the Baker Lake Blizzards. the Northwest Territories: routes are (interpretation) Thank you very much. being cut; food services are no longer being offered; increase in airfares in >>Applause various NWT and Nunavut routes to make up the lost revenue between Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Yellowknife and Edmonton taken by Members’ Statements. Member for WestJet and Air Canada. I am deeply Nattilik, Mr. Pauloosie. concerned this will be what we will see more of with this most recent Member’s Statement 082 – 3(2): announcement. Support Our Northern Airlines (Pauloosie) In the worst case scenario, we may lose Mr. Pauloosie (interpretation): Thank an airline, perhaps both. This would be you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, I send my devastating to the north. We depend on greetings to Taloyoak and Gjoa Haven Canadian North and First Air. They are residents who are watching the our lifeline to our communities to do our proceedings. business for medical, food orders, and mail delivery, to list a few, but I think (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. you get my point. Speaker. This is in support of my colleague Mr. Schell’s Member’s Mr. Speaker, (interpretation) I seek Statement yesterday. Mr. Speaker, I am unanimous consent to conclude my very concerned by the recent statement. Thank you. announcement made by Air Canada that they will now be flying to Iqaluit from Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Ottawa. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are Mr. Speaker, as all members are well there any nays? There are no nays. You aware, we have two Inuit owned may conclude your statement, Mr. northern carriers that provide service to Pauloosie. all Nunavut communities. These two airlines have invested years of Mr. Pauloosie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. developing infrastructure and capacity to provide great service to all Nunavut It might be nice to see a reduced fare communities. They employ over 400 from Iqaluit to Ottawa, but we all know people, support our communities that true northern airlines depend on this through in-kind contributions, and route to offset the cost of travel to the provide donations to organizations, such remaining Nunavut communities. as women’s shelters, food banks, trade shows, and various sporting events. In Air Canada has no interest in supporting fact, one of the airlines is owned by the and developing the north. All they are Inuit of Nunavut and the Northwest interested in is our money. I urge the Territories. territorial government to take a strong stance against Air Canada.
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 681
I urge the government to support our under 17 boys won the gold, with northern businesses and promote our Qikiqtani taking home the silver medal. current transportation systems in all For the under 17 girls team, the Nunavut communities. I urge the Kitikmeot took gold, with Kivalliq government to take immediate action to taking silver. protect our northern airlines. Mr. Speaker, all the players in these two Mr. Speaker, I will be asking questions soccer tournaments enjoyed the on this matter later today. Thank you. opportunity to play on a new artificial turf surface that was laid down recently Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, in Kugluktuk’s arena. This allowed for Mr. Pauloosie. Members’ Statements. more fans to watch the action of the Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Taptuna. games that was not possible in a previous setting of a gymnasium. Member’s Statement 083 – 3(2): Kugluktuk Soccer Tournament Mr. Speaker, we can see the results of (Taptuna) the time and dedication that parents and Hon. Peter Taptuna: Thank you, Mr. coaches put into the players by all the Speaker. Good morning to all gold and silver medals that have been Nunavummiut and Kuglukturmiut. won over the years. So it is fitting and important to recognize all the volunteers Mr. Speaker, recently, my community of and parents who put their time into Kugluktuk hosted two soccer developing sports competition skills in tournaments. From October 23 to 25, the Nunavut. Under 17 Boys and Girls Kitikmeot Regional Soccer Tournament took place Once again my congratulations go out to in Kugluktuk with other participating all the teams that participated in the communities consisting of Gjoa Haven, soccer tournaments and I hope the Cambridge Bay, Kugaaruk, and community of Kugluktuk will be able to Taloyoak. sponsor many more events such as this. Qujannamiik, Mr. Speaker. For the under 17 boys team, I am pleased to announce that the gold medal >>Applause went to my home community of Kugluktuk, with the silver medal going Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Taptuna. to Gjoa Haven. For the girls under 17 Members’ Statements. Member for team, the gold once again went to Hudson Bay, Mr. Rumbolt. Kugluktuk, with the silver medal going to Kugaaruk. Member’s Statement 084 – 3(2): Congratulations to the Mitiq Co- Mr. Speaker, the second tournament op of Sanikiluaq (Rumbolt) took place shortly after the first. From October 30 to November 1, the Under 17 Mr. Rumbolt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Boys and Girls Territorial Tournament First, I would like to thank the Minister took place again in Kugluktuk. In this responsible for Education for conducting tournament, Mr. Speaker, the Kivalliq
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 682 a review on the food allowance table in Member’s Statement 085 – 3(2): Sanikiluaq. Reflections on Multi-Tier Health Care Delivery (Elliott) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Mitiq Co-op of Sanikiluaq. Mr. Mr. Elliott: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I Speaker, the Mitiq Co-op was rise today to address an issue that has incorporated in 1968. On November 17, become a public concern across it held a very successful 41st annual Nunavut, from Kugluktuk to Pond Inlet, general meeting in the community. from Arctic Bay to Iqaluit.
As Members of this House are aware, Mr. Speaker, the national debate about there are almost two dozen co-ops the dual role of the public delivery of operating in Nunavut today. Over 800 health care and the role of the private people are employed in the Co-op sector in the delivery of health care is network. In 2008, local co-ops reported often characterized as two-tiered. In total revenue of $164 million and over Nunavut, it has become clear that we $8.1 million in patronage refunds was face a set of circumstances that leads me returned to members. In Sanikiluaq, co- to describe our situation as multi-tiered op members received approximately health care. $250,000 in patronage refunds. Mr. Speaker, as you and many of my Arctic Co-operatives Ltd. believes that colleagues will be aware from recent co-operatives are based on the values of news coverage in circumstances where a self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, Nunavut resident did not have the equality, equity, and solidarity. In the appropriate insurance coverage, they can tradition of their founders, co-op be required to pay for their own travel members believe the ethical values and and accommodation before they access honesty, openness, social health services that are provided outside responsibilities, and caring for others. of their home community. In some cases, Mr. Speaker, residents faced with these Mr. Speaker, I have been a proud co-op additional costs simply do not travel member for many years. I want to because they cannot afford it. This not congratulate the Co-op’s board of only puts their own health and safety at directors, management, and staff for risk but can also increase the burden of their hard work. Working together with responsibility on the frontline health care the community, the Co-ops play a key professionals in their home community. role in its economic development. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think that it is fair to say that most Canadians believe that the An Hon. Member: Bravo! federal Canada Health Act guarantees universal access to health care for all >>Applause Canadian citizens and that such access should not be impeded by financial or Speaker: Thank you. Members’ other barriers. It appears that in Nunavut, Statements. Member for High Arctic, we have many tiers of health care Mr. Elliott. delivery, whereby health services are not
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 683 equally accessible to all Nunavut who are not federal or GN employees, residents. This is often due to the simple and who are not yet old enough to be geographic fact that medical travel is classified as senior citizens. If they do necessary to get a medical client to the not have the appropriate health insurance place of service delivery. Access to coverage and cannot afford to pay for health care is limited by whether or not a their own travel and accommodation, client has the means to pay for those then they may not be able to access the travel costs. health services they need. Mr. Speaker, as far as I have been able to determine, Mr. Speaker, if a Nunavut resident is an the Government of Nunavut does not Inuk, their medical travel and have anything in place to clearly inform accommodation would be covered and assist these individuals in arranging through the Non-Insured Health Benefits insurance coverage for medical travel Program funded by the federal and accommodations if they need to government. If the resident is an access a health service that is not employee of the federal or territorial available in their home community. government, the majority of their medical travel and accommodation costs Mr. Speaker, I do not wish my would be covered under the insurance comments to be taken out of context. I plan which is included in their want to make it absolutely clear that I employment benefits. If a Nunavut fully support measures which seek to resident is a senior citizen, some of their ensure substantive equality for groups medical travel and accommodation costs which have been systemically would be covered under the territorial disadvantaged in the past. Mr. Speaker, government’s Extended Health Benefits the GN takes this approach in a number Policy. of areas, including student financial support, access to training programs and Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would like to support services, as well as its request unanimous consent to continue employment and hiring policies. As you with my Member’s Statement. Thank know, Mr. Speaker, I have been a strong you. supporter of additional services for vulnerable groups within our society, Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. such as children and youth. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are Mr. Speaker, I appreciate and support there any nays? There are no nays. You the reasons for affirmative action as they may conclude your statement, Mr. relate to the employment of Elliott. beneficiaries, women, and individuals with disabilities. In fact, I believe that Mr. Elliott: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I certain policies in Nunavut should also thank my colleagues. be extended to include long-term residents of Nunavut who have However, Mr. Speaker, it is clear that demonstrated a commitment and loyalty some of our residents are falling through to their home community of choice. the cracks. There are a number of However, Mr. Speaker, it is not clear to Nunavut residents who are not Inuit, me that this approach should be applied
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 684 to one of the most basic rights as welcoming environment when they Canadian citizens, which is universal travel out of Nunavut for medical care. access to health care. These are Being a patient thousands of kilometres questions of life and death. from home is stressful at the best of times. I sincerely apologize for adding to Mr. Speaker, I encourage our their stress. The hard-working staff at government to review this area and make the boarding home are entitled to a safe efforts to assist Nunavut residents who workplace where they can serve do not have the necessary health Nunavummiut without fear. I sincerely insurance coverage to acquire it. I apologize to them. believe that a public government has an obligation to make sure that all of its Mr. Speaker, you and all of the Members citizens have the necessary information of this House deserve an apology. The to enable them to access health service actions of any one of us reflects on the when they need it. Thank you, Mr. institution as a whole. We need to Speaker. uphold the highest standards of personal conduct and I have not met that test. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, I wish to take this Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, opportunity to advise you and the House Mr. Elliott. Members’ Statements. that I am resigning as Chairperson of the Member for Pangnirtung, Mr. Legislative Assembly’s Standing Komoartok. Committee on Community and Economic Development effective Member’s Statement 086 – 3(2): immediately. Although I will continue to Member’s Apology for participate fully in the committee’s Inappropriate Conduct important work on behalf of my (Komoartok) constituents, I believe that it is the right Mr. Komoartok (interpretation): Thank thing to do. you, Mr. Speaker. I rise with a heavy heart. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, my constituents in I rise today with a heavy heart and to Pangnirtung deserve an apology and I apologize to you, my colleagues, my will be working very hard to ensure that constituents, and the staff and patients at I earn their trust during my service in the Larga Baffin Medical Boarding this House. Home. Earlier this month, during a private visit to the facility, I engaged in Mr. Speaker, I anticipate that the House inappropriate and inexcusable behaviour. may wish to formally express its Although my behaviour was a result of displeasure with my conduct. I take full intoxication, there is no excuse for what responsibility for my actions, and you I did. and all members can be assured that I will accept the judgment of my Mr. Speaker, the staff and the patients at colleagues in this matter without the Larga Baffin Medical Boarding reservation. (interpretation) Thank you, Home deserve an apology. Our Mr. Speaker. constituents are entitled to a safe and
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 685
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, understand that the current studio is Mr. Komoartok. Thank you for taking housed in a building that is over 50 years this courageous action. old.
(interpretation ends) Members’ I ask all members to join me in Statements. Member for South Baffin, congratulating the Kinngait Studio on its Mr. Schell. half century of success. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Member’s Statement 087 – 3(2): Cape Dorset Studio Celebrates 50 Years >>Applause of Success (Schell) Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Schell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I Mr. Schell. Members’ Statements. rise today to congratulate Cape Dorset’s Member for Iqaluit West, Mr. Okalik. Kinngait Studio on the occasion of its recent celebration of its 50th Member’s Statement 088 – 3(2): anniversary. Montreal Canadiens (Okalik)
The Kinngait Studio Co-operative is Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, considered to be the longest community Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Today running printmaking centre in Canada. It is a Friday and I would like to carry on was founded by the West Baffin Co-op the tradition of it being a Funny Friday, in 1959. Kinngait Studio is now a world- and everybody knows that I’m a devoted famous printmaking centre and has been Montreal Canadiens fan. a key contributing factor towards establishing Cape Dorset as the Inuit art >>Laughter capital of the world. Unfortunately, this year, we’re not faring I send my warmest congratulations to all too well. So I made a commitment that I of the Inuit artists, and it is my hope and do not want to spend any of my hard- expectation that Inuit art will thrive for earned dollars on them for the time many more years to come. I would like being until they do better, even to extend my best wishes to the Kinngait depriving my own son, who has been Studio for another 50 years of excellent asking for Montreal Canadiens printmaking. paraphernalia for Christmas. I said, “Look, I expect better of my team. So At the present time, there are maybe perhaps next year, we will do approximately 150,000 prints stored better.” down south due to the fact that they don’t have a proper building in Cape I’m talking to my colleague next to me, Dorset to store it. I would like to take who is a devoted Toronto Maple Leafs this opportunity to urge the Government fan, and he has already gone to one of Nunavut to look at assisting the studio Montreal Canadiens game this year at in accessing funds for a new building in his own expense, so he is spending more Cape Dorset which would bring tourism money on my Montreal Canadiens than to Cape Dorset and Nunavut, as I me.
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He advises me that he is bringing his son Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, this weekend to another Montreal Mr. Ningark. Members’ Statements. Canadiens game, so I thank him for at Member for Tununiq, Mr. Arvaluk. least supporting my Habs during this difficult time. So I thank you, Mr. Member’s Statement 090 – 3(2): Rumbolt, and I hope your son becomes a Thanks to the Pond Inlet Co-op devoted Montreal Canadiens fan, like the Manager (Arvaluk) rest of my family. (interpretation) Thank you. Mr. Arvaluk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also wish to express (interpretation ends) And I hope my my appreciation in my statement. Our Habs fare better and will have better “buddy” up in our community stated that days, I’m sure. At least we’re doing he would be leaving his position as the better than the Toronto Maple Leafs. I co-op manager. Allan Hawkes is his hope we can improve our record. name and his wife is Joan. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Apparently, due to their living in Pond >>Laughter Inlet, their grandchildren no longer recognize them whenever they leave for >>Applause their holidays. In order to spend more time with their growing grandchildren, Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Hawkes will be leaving us, Mr. Okalik. Members’ Statements. unfortunately. The residents of Pond Member for Akulliq, Mr. Ningark. Inlet are very appreciative. So on behalf of my constituents in Pond Inlet, I would Member’s Statement 089 – 3(2): like to thank him. Order of Arctic Adventurers, North of 60 Chapter (Ningark) Mr. Hawkes arrived when our co-op was in a bad financial position and although Mr. Ningark: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. he hasn’t been there that long, perhaps a On September 16, 2009, in Yellowknife, little over three years now, he was I was given the Order of Arctic instrumental in returning it to Adventurers, North of 60 Chapter profitability. However, with the Certificate by the Northern Frontier assistance of the board of directors and Visitors Centre. I received this certificate his staff, the Co-op has raised itself back with mixed feelings, Mr. Speaker, up. Currently, they finished the because I was born right on the Arctic construction of a new hotel and based on Circle in Repulse Bay. I think it’s a long this year’s AGM report, their employees time coming. Thank you. now number approximately 100.
>>Laughter Further, the income generated by the Co- op has approached the $10 million range >>Applause and they have been successful in garnering contracts, as they are currently constructing the multi-plex apartments for the housing corporation. They have a
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 687 garage and a small restaurant that they Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. own and operate. Additionally, the Speaker. I was going to recognize two employees are almost 100 percent local people, but I’ve got to cross one off the Inuit. list because he left.
An Hon. Member: Hear, hear! Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize a constituent of mine who is here in the Mr. Arvaluk (interpretation): I wanted Gallery and it is Mr. Joe Sageatook, who to highlight some of the work that Mr. is sitting over there behind where I used Hawkes has accomplished and I wanted to sit. I would like to welcome him to the people to know how hard he has worked Gallery and also just inform members to complete them. that not only is he a constituent of mine but he’s an employee of the Qulliq Further, all the residents of Pond Inlet Energy Corporation whose hard work, treat him as a friend, not just as their dedication, and input has always been employer. Many people go hunting with greatly appreciated. him in the spring and summer and I have gone fishing with him, as he loves to be Mr. Sageatook is also an individual who outdoors. Just like most Pond Inlet believes very strongly in his views and residents, he has the equipment, such as has taken opportunities to be able to a snowmobile and an ATV, and he voice those concerns for people to hear. doesn’t just sit back on his time off. He has run in territorial elections in the past and he is currently running as a On behalf of the Co-op employees, I candidate in the QIA elections. make this statement that Mr. Hawkes will be almost irreplaceable when he I encourage him to continue doing what leaves. I doubt that I will have time to he is doing, raising his concerns and make another statement regarding this bringing forward his issues for people to person as he may be gone by the next hear, and encourage other people also to session. On behalf of the people of Pond follow in the footsteps that he has of not Inlet, I would like to state my gratitude being afraid to say what they have to say and hope that he has a pleasant future for people to hear. Thank you, Mr. down south. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker.
>>Applause >>Applause
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Arvaluk. Members’ Statements. If Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. there are no more, going back to the Item 6. Oral Questions. Mr. Okalik. orders of the day. (interpretation ends) Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Item Item 6: Oral Questions 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Mr. Tootoo.
Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery
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Question 115 – 3(2): Inuit on our Intranet for employees to review Employment Plan (Okalik) and provide feedback on. The intent of the corporation to circulate or put out Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, their draft plan was to get feedback on Mr. Speaker. My question is for the from employees. We did receive Minister responsible for the Qulliq valuable input from employees on that Energy Corporation. draft.
A few days prior, on November 25, he Since then, like I said, on the bottom, it stated that the Qulliq Energy had revision 4. That was sent out as an Corporation did not have an Inuit internal document in draft form. If it was employment plan to implement so that meant for public consumption, it they could hire more Inuit employees. would’ve had “draft” written on it. But the understanding that I have is that the (interpretation ends) Let me quote, Mr. intent behind that was this is a draft for Speaker. “As of right now, the our employees to have a look at so that corporation does not have an Inuit they could provide feedback on it. Thank employment plan.” you, Mr. Speaker.
I go to an email that I tabled yesterday Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your and it’s dated November 3, 2009, where first supplementary, Mr. Okalik. Mr. Sageatook asked, “Once again, Catherine,” referring to the Director of Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, Human Resources of the Qulliq Energy Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I Corporation, “I’m asking you for the wouldn’t be pursuing this if the director Inuit Employment Implementation of human resources for the corporation Plan.” The response, “It is on our wasn’t saying that it was a plan. If it was Intranet for every one of our employees clearly stated that it was a draft, then we to review.” could work on it further.
So if there’s a plan on November 3 of But according to her email, “Please go this year, which I tabled earlier, how into the site under strategic plan and you come the minister is saying there’s no will find a 22-page document that plan? Which is it, Mr. Speaker? outlines all of the initiatives, activities, (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. and hard work of the QEC.” So if there is a plan according to her on November Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Okalik. 3, what are we supposed to work on? Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Hon. Hunter The minister is saying there is no plan, Tootoo. but his own director is saying that there is such a plan. (interpretation ends) Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker. I believe I answered that question the other day when the member Speaker: Thank you, Member. Minister posed his question and I made it clear Tootoo. that this is an internal document that was
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Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker. As I have said on numerous Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) occasions already and just a few According to this email, the current moments ago, I said the same thing, this director is defending the document that was sent out as an internal document in was tabled, which is quite offensive to draft form to get feedback from me as an Inuk, as I always encourage employees towards developing a final young Inuit to pursue their dreams, that strategy. That hasn’t happened yet; it is they can do whatever they want. The still a working document in progress. document that I tabled stipulates that we have some barriers to overcome and that Once a final document has been brought we don’t have the confidence to do forward, I’m sure that the management certain things. I try and tell young people will bring it to the board of directors and that they can do whatever they want and to me for approval and the approval by that they shouldn’t put any barriers cabinet once that’s done. At this point in within themselves. time, that hasn’t happened. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So I ask again. The director claims that this is a good document. I see otherwise. Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your It should not be defended, it’s second supplementary, Mr. Okalik. indefensible. The current director who claims that this is an Inuit employment Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, plan… . I just want it clarified. What is Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Is the it? Is the director saying that this is a minister saying that the current director plan or is the minister saying that it’s not of human resources was incorrect in a plan? I just want an answer. saying that there is a plan? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Okalik. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Tootoo. Minister Tootoo.
Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. No, I’m not saying that. I’m Speaker. As I have said before, one of saying that taken in isolation, in context, the things and directions that the staff I know there were emails before and was given in the past was in developing after this particular email that was a strategy to identify some of the barriers indicating that this is a draft plan they that the corporation has actually want feedback from employees on. So encountered in being able to attract, I’m saying that the plan that was out retain, and promote Inuit within the there for people to look at is the plan that organization. Again, this is something she was referring to, which is in no way, that the corporation is very committed shape, or form saying that that’s the final to. As I said the other day, it also has one plan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. of the highest Inuit employment rates within the GN overall, they’re at 56 Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your percent, and that it continues to try and final supplementary, Mr. Okalik. move forward in doing that.
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Having said that, Mr. Speaker, and like I intentions to begin a daily schedule from said the other day, if we don’t identify Montreal and Ottawa into Iqaluit. the challenges that we are facing, if we ignore them, we won’t be able to come Iqaluit, at this time, is currently the 30th up with ways to address them and busiest airport in Canada and in terms of remove those barriers for Inuit. The wide-bodied jet aircrafts, it’s the 10th member is referring to certain little busiest. Obviously Air Canada has seen segments of a document that is 22 pages. potential economic advances for their There are a lot of great things in that company. draft document. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I understand In response to his last question, Mr. that the three airlines are talking and this Speaker, I just encourage the member to government is not part of the discussions review the Hansard because I answered at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. that question already. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Minister. Your first supplementary, Mr. Minister. Oral Questions. Member for Pauloosie. Nattilik, Mr. Pauloosie. Mr. Pauloosie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Question 116 – 3(2): Support for Will the minister meet with the airlines Northern Airlines (Pauloosie) in the near future to discuss the impacts of the northern communities that will be Mr. Pauloosie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. taking place in the future? Thank you. As I mentioned earlier in my Member’s Statement, I was going to be asking Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. questions about the airlines up here in Minister Taptuna. the north. Hon. Peter Taptuna: Thank you, Mr. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister of Speaker. We are in the process of doing Transportation or the Premier tell me that. It’s a complicated and hugely what they are doing to ensure that the complex issue, especially for the smaller two current northern airlines are not communities and the Inuit owned negatively impacted by this recent airlines. At this time, we don’t have all announcement? Thank you, Mr. of the facts. We are not going to base Speaker. any kind of decision on fears and incomplete information. We are not Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Pauloosie. making a decision until we have all of Minister of Economic Development and the facts in front of us. Thank you, Mr. Transportation, Hon. Peter Taptuna. Speaker.
Hon. Peter Taptuna: Thank you, Mr. Speaker: Thank you. Your second Speaker. I thank the member for that supplementary, Mr. Pauloosie. question. On November 9, Air Canada made an announcement of their Mr. Pauloosie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When will this government act? We
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 691 cannot afford to sit back and wait. The Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Oral government needs to protect northerners. Questions. Member for South Baffin, What are they going to be doing? Thank Mr. Schell. you, Mr. Speaker. Question 117 – 3(2): Status of the Speaker: Thank you. Minister Taptuna. Nunavut Housing Corporation’s Marshalling Contract (Schell) Hon. Peter Taptuna: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I had mentioned previously, Mr. Schell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. we are waiting until we get all of the Seeing it is Friday, it wouldn’t be proper facts and all of the information, and we if I didn’t have a question for the are not going to make a decision based housing minister. My question is for the on fears and emotions. We will look at Minister responsible for the Nunavut all of the potential impacts and come up Housing Corporation. As usual, the with a decision then. focus is on the corporation’s contracting practices. At this time, we are waiting to actually see what comes out of these discussions In 2008, the former Minister responsible between the three airlines. Again, I’ve for the NHC announced that the got to remind the member that we are corporation had entered into a two-year not part of those discussions. Thank you, contract with Illamar Marshalling Mr. Speaker. Incorporated of Chesterville, Ontario, to handle the delivery of building materials Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your for Nunavut Housing Trust projects. final supplementary, Mr. Pauloosie. As we all know, the federal government Mr. Pauloosie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. is providing $100 million to Nunavut for I would like to ask the minister or the the construction of 285 new units Premier to take a stand and put in a between 2009 and 2011. Illamar’s initial policy to ban all Government of Nunavut two-year contract is coming to an end. employees from flying on Air Canada to How will the NHC decide whether or the south to support our northern not to renew it or to issue a new request airlines. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. for proposals? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Speaker: Thank you, Mr. [Pauloosie]. Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Schell. Minister Taptuna. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Hon. Hunter Hon. Peter Taptuna: Thank you, Mr. Tootoo. Speaker. At this point in time, as I mentioned previously, we are awaiting Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. more information and facts. There are a Speaker. It is my understanding that that lot of impacts, a lot of unknowns, and a contract does have one-year renewal lot of variables that we don’t know at options in it. The corporation, after this time. Until such time, this looking at everything as far as timing government is not making any decisions. goes and getting everything set up to Thank you, Mr. Speaker. renew the contract for one more year, at
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 692 that time, it will give us a chance to look Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Schell. at whether or not we renew it again or go Minister Tootoo. out to a tender call or a proposal call after that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The member talks about a Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your favourite friend of his, the former first supplementary, Mr. Schell. president, Mr. Scott. Mr. Speaker, as far as I’m aware, Mr. Scott is retired. I’m Mr. Schell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As not aware of any contract or anything in the House is aware, we have rules in place in regard to that. I know that, as far place that ensure that when ministers as the corporation is concerned, the leave office, there is a cooling-off period corporation hasn’t looked at contracting before the government can enter into him for anything. contracts with them. This is an issue that he seems to have Can the minister indicate to the House and I don’t know where he’s getting his what policies or rules NHC has in place information from as far as what former with respect to entering into contracts employees of the corporation are doing. with former senior executives of a As far as I’m aware, Mr. Speaker, there Crown corporation? Thank you, Mr. is nothing in place between the Speaker. corporation and Mr. Scott. Thank you.
Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Schell. Speaker: Thank you. (interpretation) Minister Tootoo. Oral Questions. Member for Akulliq, Mr. Ningark. Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would assume that, like Question 118 – 3(2): Landfill Site in anything, there are policies in place and Repulse Bay (Ningark) that those policies are followed. If, in any case, there are any exemptions from Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank that, there are approvals that are sought you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, I after and required. Thank you, Mr. questioned the Minister of Community Speaker. and Government Services about dumps in the communities and he responded Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your appropriately to my questions. second supplementary, Mr. Schell. A further issue was with respect to Mr. Schell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. fencing material and he stated that the My next question requires the minister to fencing material for the dump is already answer just a simple yes or no. Has the in the community, for which I am very former president of the NHC, who grateful. Furthermore, I ran out of my retired earlier this year, entered into an allotted time yesterday. The minister employment, consulting, or contractual stated that the drillers will be coming relationship with Illamar Marshalling? into the community to prepare the Thank you, Mr. Speaker. fencing posts.
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My question to the minister is: as soon Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): as drilling can get started in the spring, Yes, the drilling company has to wait will the minister commit to sending the until the conditions are better as the employees to the community so that we ground already has snow cover that could start working on the fencing prohibits them from reaching the drill material for the dump in Repulse Bay as sites, which they also have to delineate soon as possible? Thank you, Mr. prior to drilling the piles. The areas Speaker. where they will have to reach and be drilling are not all smooth and flat, and it Speaker: Thank you. Minister of has snow cover currently in Repulse Community and Government Services, Bay. Once it is possible to drill the Hon. Lorne Kusugak. foundations for the fencing, they will start the drilling for the fence around the Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): dump. Once it is possible, they will drill The drillers are going to start working as the piles. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. soon as they can because they have made other commitments. They will be Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, going to the community of Repulse Bay Minister. Your second supplementary, as soon as they are able to, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Ningark. Thank you. Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. you, Mr. Speaker. For my second Your first supplementary, Mr. Ningark. supplementary, could the minister assure the House that Repulse Bay will be Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank given first priority to get the drilling you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the crew once it is possible to drill? Thank minister. Yes, we understand the you, Mr. Speaker. schedule, and I believe that the people of Repulse Bay are listening, and we know Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. that the drilling company has other Minister Kusugak. commitments. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Could the minister indicate to me where Unfortunately I cannot make it the first the Repulse Bay project is in terms of priority, especially if it turns out our first numbered priorities? We do understand priority is an emergency, as that may they have many other commitments, but create more problems. I can only inform the dump seriously needs fencing the member that the crew would be because there is debris flying around all going into that community as soon as over the place. Can the minister send they can, Mr. Speaker. I cannot direct them into the community as soon as the drilling company to make Repulse possible? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Bay its first priority because their priorities are dictated by their work, Mr. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker. Thank you. Mr. Ningark. Minister Kusugak.
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Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, I hope the member understands that the Minister. Your final supplementary, Mr. concerns of his community will be Ningark. resolved once it is possible to do so. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I understand what the Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Oral minister is saying. I would like to thank Questions. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. the member for coming to Repulse Bay Elliott. this past summer. I believe that he went to tour the dump and saw the condition Question 119 – 3(2): Multi-Tier that it’s in. I hope that he recalls that Health Care Delivery (Elliott) visit and the report from the community when the project is being considered. Mr. Elliott: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I Thank you. would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health and Social Services. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Mr. Speaker, I recognize that the delivery of health care across Nunavut is Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): complex and that our unique Yes, the member is correct in that I went circumstances can easily lead to to Repulse Bay this summer and the confusion. I’m sure my colleagues are “How do you know?” mayor and well aware, through the media, of the councillors were very hospitable. We did high profile long-term resident from a tour of the community, including the Iqaluit who was caught up in this dump. They outlined the kinds of confusion and I applaud the minister’s concerns they had in regard to the dump. compassionate intervention in this I went to go see the infrastructure in matter. person and my fellow MLA welcomed me to his constituency community. I note that the website for the NWT Department of Health and Social Communities tend to have concerns and Services provides extensive detail on the when you visit, you can then see what health care benefits and coverage the issues are. It is always better to visit provided to its residents. There does not the communities so that we can visualize appear to be any such information the kind of conditions the members are available for Nunavut residents despite talking about in their constituencies. the similarities in service delivery.
It’s not the first time that I saw the dump For the benefit of the listening public, in Repulse Bay, but we did see debris all can the minister update the House on over the place, especially those plastic what kinds of health benefits are bags that are used in the retail outlets. available to all permanent residents of They are just all over the place. We Nunavut under the territorial health usually encounter those plastic bags out insurance program? Thank you. there when we are out ptarmigan hunting and occasionally, people mistake them Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health and shoot at the bags. and Social Services, Hon. Tagak Curley.
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Hon. Tagak Curley: Thank you, Mr. Mr. Elliott: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker. I appreciate the question. To Thank you for that explanation. I realize address the question that has been posed it is quite complicated and I guess one of to me, I would probably need a full day. the big problems we have, as I Since we only have about an hour left, I mentioned in my Member’s Statement, don’t think I’ll be able to do that. is that we have the geographic problem and the services not being provided in But I would say that Nunavut has a the communities. health system that is part of the universal health care in Canada, which I think is I realize that we are under the universal one of the best in the world. It’s no care that’s Canada-wide. But at the same different for my colleagues who are time, to receive the services that are originally from other provinces. We required, we can’t receive them in our subscribe to the same health care system, communities; we need to travel out of plus we also have extra benefits, what the community, which then puts a we call extended health care benefits, burden on people. other provinces don’t provide for their citizens and elderly people. Can the minister update this House on how other services related to health care, Plus, Mr. Speaker, we have non-insured such as medical travel and health benefits. I would not encourage accommodation, which are not covered the member to apply to that one because under the basic territorial health it’s better to be part of the insured health insurance program, are generally system in Canada. To those who don’t provided for Nunavut residents who subscribe to the public health system, need them? Thank you. non-insured health benefits are provided to the aboriginal people who are not Speaker: Thank you, Member. Minister employed, who cannot be provided with Curley. extra benefits through an optional health program provided by the insurance Hon. Tagak Curley: Thank you, Mr. companies. Speaker. I appreciate the question. I believe that those who are employed, So I think our system is pretty good. My even the Members of the Legislative department is currently updating all the Assembly, you and I probably know all public information and there will be an about medical benefits from our place of update on the website. No doubt, we will employment because by and large, most have a better publication that explains of the employers do provide 100 percent exactly what all the other different kinds of the cost of medical travel. of benefits are provided to Nunavutmiut, but I think our system is one of the best. If you are a member of the public service Thank you. in Nunavut, I believe you would have a better understanding than I do as to what Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your your union has negotiated for you. I first supplementary, Mr. Elliott. believe what they have in the collective agreement is a benefit called medical travel assistance and that is administered
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 696 by my colleague, the Minister of where, I think, the burden comes in and Finance. He provides 100 percent the extra funding comes in. medical travel for members of the public service because that’s prescribed in the There are residents and there were collective agreement. newspaper articles about a constituent in Pond Inlet who was in a situation where But if you’re not a member of the union a baby had to be delivered in the in Nunavut, then the Canada health community. Those things could provide system provides a $250 deductible. strain with health care workers, but that That’s what you pay if you’re not leads to my next question. working for any government or unemployed. So I think the member He did mention about the updates to the should apologize for when he insinuated website and I mentioned the NWT earlier that if you’re not working for website. To clarify all of this anybody, you would have to pay 100 miscommunication, can the minister percent of your fare all the way down clarify for the House how his department from Arctic Bay to Ottawa. That’s not provides support, information, and true. You only pay a $250 deductible. assistance to Nunavut residents who do That’s similar to your benefits if you live not have coverage through non-insured in other provinces; it’s no different in health benefits, their employers, and Nunavut. Thank you. other programs? Thank you.
Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your Speaker: Thank you. Minister Curley. second supplementary, Mr. Elliott. Hon. Tagak Curley: Thank you, Mr. Mr. Elliott: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I Speaker. I appreciate the question here. I do apologize if people didn’t understand think the best source of information for what I was saying because I do know all of the medical benefits and so on is that it only costs $250 for someone who available from the local health centres. is not covered under it. That’s why I said They will explain to you exactly what that it’s so complicated that, even a you qualify for prior to departure and conversation between me and you, that’s one thing that I think we all have you’re misunderstanding what I’m an obligation, to find out exactly what saying because that’s not what I benefits we are entitled to. intended. I know that that’s what it is. I personally don’t have all of them in At the same time, it’s nice to be able to there, I probably have them in my work towards this because what ends up briefing book, but I can assure the happening is yes, the airfare is a cost. member that we will make that But what the minister didn’t clarify or information with a little more also say was that once you get down to determination. I have also instructed the either Iqaluit or Ottawa, you have to departmental officials to provide provide your own accommodations, information packages that are clear. either in a hotel, if you’re in Iqaluit, or find a friend to stay with. So that’s Non-insured health benefits do not discriminate against any other citizen in
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Nunavut. I must say that. I would like Hon. Tagak Curley: Thank you, Mr. the member from the High Arctic to Speaker. I think that may have already agree that the majority of his been addressed by the collective constituents benefit from Non-Insured agreement. Health Benefits funds that are provided by the federal government to those I believe that members of the public aboriginal people who are not members service are given optional private or do not qualify for the public health insurance benefits. I know my colleague system. Without that, our budget would from Pond Inlet indicated earlier that he not be able to afford it. subscribes to one of them through his place of employment. I believe that’s So that’s all I can say, Mr. Speaker. available, but whether or not it’s Thank you. available through the private firms, I’m not sure. Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Your final supplementary, Mr. Elliott. I do know that when I worked for NTI, we were provided with optional private Mr. Elliott: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I benefits that would cover the dental care, do agree with that. Non-insured health the eye care, and all of these other benefits are definitely a benefit and it is benefits that are not part of the universal the federal government’s commitment, health care benefits covered by the so I do agree with the minister. universal health system. So I believe that they are available. At the same time, the intent of my questions is mostly education. I know I think it’s up to individuals, whoever there are a lot of [members] of the public lives in Nunavut, to try and find out who are listening, so this might help to what entitlements their employment has bring clarity to the understanding of this provided. Also, I will make a because it’s a complex issue. commitment that we will reference those points in public information as well as In the NWT, the government has an our website. Thank you. arrangement with Alberta Blue Cross to provide coverage for certain health Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, services which do not fall under the Minister. Oral Questions. Member for territorial health insurance program. Nanulik, Mr. Ningeongan.
Would the minister consider directing Mr. Ningeongan (interpretation): Thank his departmental officials to look into you, Mr. Speaker. I apologize; we wrote this issue and ensure that those Nunavut a note to each other. I cannot pose my residents who do not have the necessary question at this time because it deals additional coverage can acquire it either with staff members and I do apologize, from Blue Cross or a similar provider? Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Curley. Oral Questions. Member for Tununiq, Mr. Arvaluk.
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Question 120 – 3(2): Nunavut Housing relatives because people cannot survive Survey (Arvaluk) outdoors here in Nunavut.
Mr. Arvaluk (interpretation): Thank Mr. Speaker, this survey is intended to you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct see if there are friends staying with my question to the housing minister. someone else in their house. If they are there, they are going to be included in I know what the subject matter is for the that questionnaire. It’s hoping to be able survey with respect to housing issues in to tap into everybody out there. It the communities. We don’t know exactly doesn’t matter whether they own the what language will be used in the house or are just staying there because survey, including the questions, since they don’t have somewhere else to go. they are not included. However, it is obvious that the housing issues are the It’s looking at targeting everybody in same as what we have been enquiring every building, in every house in about for the last 10 years. If this survey Nunavut so that we can get a good, proceeds, then this subject should be accurate picture. I think some of the included. questions might even look at where things like that will be mentioned as far It states here that the community as the overcrowding situation goes, why households will be surveyed. It seems to it is overcrowded. Some of the reasons state all households in Nunavut, in all 25 that he mentioned are out there, but this communities. Nonetheless, a concern will give us the hard data to be able to that we voice is that the working poor have and look at, which is something who are homeless will not be included that we don’t have now. because they are not heads of households. Is that correct? Thank you, I agree with him. As I said, I have been Mr. Speaker. pushing for something like this to happen for more than 10 years now. Like Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, I said, I’m very happy that it’s being Mr. Arvaluk. Minister responsible for conducted. It’s going to provide us with the Nunavut Housing Corporation, valuable information that we can use as (interpretation ends) Hon. Hunter far as planning and lobbying purposes, Tootoo. and I look forward to that being done. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for raising Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, that question. I think it’s important to Minister. Your first supplementary, Mr. know that one of the things that we have Arvaluk. been saying in Nunavut, as far as our homelessness rate goes, is it doesn’t Mr. Arvaluk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. show a true picture because we don’t Most of the working homeless people have true homelessness here in Nunavut, are not very aggressive. That’s probably it’s hidden homelessness, where these why they don’t have a home, because individuals whom he talks about are they don’t badger the housing bunking up or staying with friends or association for a home or write letters to
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 699 their MLAs, etcetera. How will you Nunavut Bureau of Statistics in ensure that they are included in the conjunction with Stats Canada. survey? (interpretation) Thank you. I know that 22 senior interviewers had Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, been hired and they went through some Mr. Arvaluk. Minister Tootoo. training here in Iqaluit with the Nunavut Bureau of Statistics and Stats Canada. I Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. would assume that that information Speaker. I would assume that if a should all be included in the training that surveying team goes into a household they received while they were here. with someone who may be a working Thank you, Mr. Speaker. homeless person, who doesn’t have a house and is staying somewhere, when Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, they enter into that household, they will Minister. Your final supplementary, Mr. be asking, “How many people are all Arvaluk. staying here? Are they family members?” And things like that. So Mr. Arvaluk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. those people will be identified as they go Thank you for that answer. In this case, through the units and they will also be will you be assisting the federal included in the survey. Thank you, Mr. government in how to develop an Speaker. effective and accurate method of survey? This is very important to us, not just to Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. find out but to at least reflect where we Your second supplementary, Mr. have been. Arvaluk. The minister himself, in the last 10 Mr. Arvaluk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. years, has been saying what the housing Will you be giving employment problems are and what the critical guidelines or at least survey guidelines situation of our housing shortages is in specifically instructing the surveyors Nunavut. Would you at least be giving how to include those homeless working guidelines to the federal government on people, especially those who may be the effectiveness and accurate method of renting a room from either tenants or doing the survey? Thank you, Mr. homeowners? Will you be giving Speaker. specific instructions as to how to include them? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker. Mr. Arvaluk. Minister Tootoo.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Mr. Arvaluk. Minister Tootoo. Speaker. I think that was the intent behind involving Statistics Canada into Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. the process where we could work with Speaker. I can’t say that I’ll be giving them and with our Nunavut Bureau of specific instructions on that, but I would Statistics to develop a survey that was assume that the corporation is not the appropriate up here. So it wasn’t a actual one doing the survey; it’s the survey that was developed by Statistics
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Canada; it was something that was Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, worked in conjunction between Statistics Mr. Speaker. In the past, we usually had Canada and the Nunavut Bureau of November 1 as the deadline to publicize Statistics. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. how much of an increase there will be on fuel. When will the minister make an Speaker: Thank you, Minister. announcement to Nunavummiut in (interpretation) Oral Questions. Member regard to the prices of fuel, gasoline, and for Iqaluit West, Mr. Okalik. other petroleum products? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Question 121 – 3(2): New Fuel Prices in Nunavut (Okalik) Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): question to the Minister responsible for We are reviewing all of those right now. the Petroleum Products Division. In the coming weeks, we will be able to make an announcement on whether or Every year, we have to wait for our bulk not the price of fuel is going to change, fuel delivery. After the fuel is delivered Mr. Speaker. Thank you. to all the communities, they set up the price for next year. It’s obvious that the Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, bulk fuel has been delivered to the Minister. Your second supplementary, communities and the ships have gone Mr. Okalik. back down south. When will you set the price for fuel and gasoline? Thank you, Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker. The cold season is upon us and the consumption of fuel is Speaker: Thank you. Minister of increasing. I want him to be mindful of Energy, Hon. Lorne Kusugak. that. The price of fuel has gone down a bit, so I’m sure that we will be asking to Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): reduce the price of fuel. Since Christmas Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank my is coming, that would be a great fellow Montreal Canadiens fan for the Christmas present from the minister. question. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The delivery of fuel to all communities Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. has been completed. Some of the barges Minister Kusugak. had to be towed to the communities. We’re now reviewing the fuel price at Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): this time and we’re trying to figure out Indeed, we are currently conducting our how it will have an impact on review of the fuel prices along with Nunavummiut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Department of Finance personnel. What I can tell the member is that prior to the Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, end of this session, I will be able to Minister. Your first supplementary, Mr. make an announcement with respect to Okalik.
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 701 fuel prices. I hope to answer his request I must have really assisted him as he has then. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. progressed all the way into a territorial minister. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Minister. Thank you, Mr. Okalik. Oral >>Laughter Questions. Member for Akulliq, Mr. Ningark. Therefore, I would like to direct my question to the minister. Has he been Question 122 – 3(2): Swimming Pool included in the request and preparations for Repulse Bay (Ningark) for a swimming pool in the community of Repulse Bay? Thank you, Mr. Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank Speaker. you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, a letter arrived from Repulse Bay to my offices Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, from a young lady whose name is Jenny Mr. Ningark. Minister of Culture, and she is nine years old. She wrote to Language, Elders and Youth, me requesting that her community be (interpretation ends) Hon. Louis granted a swimming pool and obviously Tapardjuk. I referred to that request in my Member’s Statement. Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the Further, there is a swimming pool member as he took great care of me identified for Repulse Bay within the during our tenure at the residential capital estimates for the hamlet. school era; I was sent out when I was a Additionally, when the Minister of CGS bit too young. was in Repulse Bay, he was notified about this request from the community. I With respect to his question, it is a good am certain of that. You already know one to pose. At this time, with respect to what my question will be since I have sports and recreation capital expenditure already forwarded the letter to your items, if there is an old facility that the department and I tabled it in the House. community wants to convert into a swimming pool, then we have funds I would like to direct my question to the allocated towards those types of projects, Minister of Culture, Language, Elders but one has to apply for these funds. We and Youth. As a side note, when the have a set amount available right now. minister was but a child and couldn’t zip On the other hand, if you’re requesting a up his own parka nor put on his own brand new swimming pool, we’re not Kamiik, I used to assist him all the time responsible for new facilities. during our residential school tenure and I hope he doesn’t forget that assistance However, if you would like to convert an from those days. old facility into a swimming pool, we do have funds available and April 10 is the >>Laughter deadline for applications. If they submit applications requesting funds to retrofit an old building into a swimming pool, we can review that type of request from
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 702 the Hamlet of Repulse Bay. If they apply formal request for a meeting with our to this fund, then we can review their department, then our office can work request or application, Mr. Speaker. towards a reply to the community.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, However, the onus is on the applicant to Minister. Your first supplementary, Mr. first submit a written application or Ningark. formal request to meet with our office. We cannot direct, as a department, any Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank community that this process or facility you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, my would be much better, so we require an supplementary question revolves around application or request for assistance the Hamlet of Repulse Bay, whose prior to our department becoming council is quite passionate about getting involved in this process. We would a swimming pool for the benefit of their prefer that the request be formally made youth. so we can become involved.
I believe that in their preparations, they That is all I can speak to at this time, Mr. have identified an old facility for Speaker. conversion into a community swimming pool. They have set aside their old fire Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. hall for conversion into a swimming Your second supplementary, Mr. pool. I assume that the Minister of CGS Ningark. is already aware of these facts stemming from the community. I imagine that the Mr. Ningark (interpretation): Thank Minister of CLEY is also aware of that you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, I made a information. They are quite prepared in statement in regard to a person their quest for a local pool. requesting to make a swimming pool and I also identified the individual youth Perhaps your officials can work with the who is requesting to get a swimming local government of Repulse Bay to pool. The hamlet council has already discuss the matter of the swimming pool made a request. Did you see a copy of since they have the good offices of the the letter from Jenny that I tabled minister to lean on. Will the minister yesterday? Thank you. direct his officials, perhaps on Monday, to communicate with the hamlet staff so Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. that they can get the details about the Minister Tapardjuk. facility that they wish to convert into a swimming pool? Thank you, Mr. Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Speaker. Yes, my officials can see if there was an application that was filled out. I haven’t Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. personally seen an application form sent Minister Tapardjuk. out by that community, but I will inform the member once I find out. Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Once we are in Yes, I have seen the letter and I feel receipt of a written application or a compassion for that youth. I cannot even
Friday, November 27, 2009 Nunavut Hansard 703 swim myself. Perhaps once they get a Motion 010 – 3(2): Censure of the swimming pool, they can teach me how Member of the Legislative to swim. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Assembly for Pangnirtung – Notice (Ningark) Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Ningark: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Minister. Thank you, Mr. Ningark. I give notice that on Monday, November (interpretation ends) Oral Questions. If 30, 2009, I will move the following there are none, Item 7. Written motion: Questions. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded Address. Item 10. Petitions. Item 11. by the Hon. Member for Kugluktuk, that Reports of Standing and Special the Member of the Legislative Assembly Committees. Item 12. Reports of for Pangnirtung be censured. Committees on the Review of Bills. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Mr. Tootoo. At the appropriate time, I will seek unanimous consent to deal with my Item 13: Tabled Documents motion today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Tabled Document 061 – 3(2): Nunavut Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Ningark. Housing Corporation’s Response Notices of Motions. Mr. Tootoo. to the Standing Committee on Oversight of Government Motion 011 – 3(2): Acceptance of the Operations and Accountability Report of the Integrity (Tootoo) Commissioner to the Legislative Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. Assembly Regarding Mr. Paul Speaker. I am very pleased, as the Clerk Okalik – Notice (Tootoo) is well aware, to be able to table today the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s Hon. Hunter Tootoo: Thank you, Mr. response to the Standing Committee on Speaker. I give notice that on Monday, Oversight of Government Operations’ November 30, 2009, I will be moving recommendations. Thank you, Mr. the following motion: Speaker. NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded An Hon. Member: Yay! by the Hon. Member for Cambridge Bay, that the sanctions and >>Laughter recommendations contained in the report of the Integrity Commissioner be Speaker: Thank you, Minister. Tabling accepted. of Documents. Item 14. Notices of Motions. Mr. Ningark. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Item 14: Notices of Motions Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Tootoo. Notices of Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Mr. Okalik.
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Item 15: Notices of Motions for First AND WHEREAS it is incumbent upon Reading of Bills all of the Members of the Legislative Assembly to conduct themselves Bill 11 – An Act to Establish the according to the highest standard of Order of Nunavut – Notice behaviour;
Mr. Okalik (interpretation): Thank you, AND WHEREAS the Member of the Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I give Legislative Assembly for Pangnirtung notice that on Monday, November 30, has apologized to this House and 2009, I will move, seconded by the Hon. Nunavummiut for his unacceptable Member for Quttiktuq, that Bill 11, An conduct at the Larga Baffin Medical Act to Establish the Order of Nunavut, Boarding Home; be read for the first time. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. AND WHEREAS the Legislative Assembly wishes to express its Speaker: Thank you. Notices of displeasure with the member’s conduct; Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. Mr. Ningark. NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the Hon. Member for Kugluktuk, that Item 16: Motions the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pangnirtung be censured. Mr. Ningark: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to deal with Thank you, Mr. Speaker. my motion today. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Our colleague is seeking unanimous Thank you. Mr. Ningark. consent to deal with his motion today. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Mr. Ningark: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You may deal with your motion, Mr. I will not speak to the principle of the Ningark. motion for the hon. member has already made a statement earlier in this House. Motion 010 – 3(2): Censure of the Thank you. Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pangnirtung Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. (Ningark) Question has been called. All those in Mr. Ningark: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. favour of the motion, please raise your Thank you, colleagues. hand. I would like to note that you have unanimously voted in favour of the WHEREAS section 18(1) and (3) of the motion. The motion is carried. Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act provides that the Legislative Item 16. Motions. (interpretation ends) Assembly has the power to discipline its Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Minister members; Kusugak.
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Item 17: First Reading of Bills Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, Bill 12 – Northern Employee Benefits seconded by the Hon. Member for Services Pension Plan Protection Rankin Inlet South and Whale Cove, that Act – First Reading Bill 18, Language Statutes Amendment Act, be read for the first time. Thank Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Amittuq, that Bill 12, Speaker (interpretation): The motion is Northern Employee Benefits Services in order. All those in favour of the Pension Plan Protection Act, be read for motion, please raise your hand. the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Opposed. The motion is carried. Bill 18 has had first reading. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. The motion is in order. All those in First Reading of Bills. Mr. Curley. favour, please raise your hand. Opposed. The motion is carried. Bill 12 has had Bill 21 – An Act to Amend the Utility first reading. Rates Review Council Act – First Reading (interpretation ends) First Reading of Bills. Mr. Peterson. Hon. Tagak Curley (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, Bill 14 – Miscellaneous Statutes seconded by the Hon. Member for Amendment Act, 2009, No. 2 – Kugluktuk, that Bill 21, An Act to First Reading Amend the Utility Rates Review Council Act, be read for the first time. Thank Hon. Keith Peterson: Thank you, Mr. you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Rankin Inlet South and Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Whale Cove, that Bill 14, Miscellaneous Minister. The motion is in order. All Statutes Amendment Act, 2009, No. 2, be those in favour of the motion, please read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. raise your hand. Opposed. The motion is Speaker. carried. Bill 21 has had first reading.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. First Reading of Bills. Item 18. Second The motion is in order. All those in Reading of Bills. Mr. Kusugak. favour of the motion, please raise your hand. Opposed. The motion is carried. Item 18: Second Reading of Bills Bill 14 has had first reading. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. First Reading of Bills. Minister Speaker. I request consent of this Tapardjuk. Assembly to waive the one-day notice requirement to allow for the second Bill 18 – Language Statutes reading of Bill 12, Northern Employee Amendment Act – First Reading Benefits Services Pension Plan Protection Act.
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Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Beneficiaries Act, be read for the second Minister. The member is seeking consent time. under Rule 62(2) to allow Bill 12 to be read for the second time today. Are there Mr. Speaker, this bill adds tax-free any nays? There are no nays. Please savings accounts and types of accounts proceed, Mr. Kusugak. for which plan holders may designate beneficiaries so that assets in the Bill 12 – Northern Employee Benefits accounts will not fall into the holders’ Services Pension Plan Protection general estate on death. Act – Second Reading The name of the Act is changed to Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): reflect that it no longer deals only with Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation retirement related plans. Thank you, Mr. ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Speaker. Member for Amittuq, that Bill 12, Northern Employee Benefits Services Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Pension Plan Protection Act, be read for (interpretation ends) The motion is in the second time. order. Question has been called. All those in favour. Opposed. The motion is Mr. Speaker, this bill provides protection carried and Bill 13 is referred to the from creditors for the pension appropriate standing committee. entitlements of members of the Northern Employee Benefits Services Pension Second Reading of Bills. Mr. Peterson. Plan and restricts the ability of members to pledge as security their pension Hon. Keith Peterson: Thank you, Mr. entitlements under the plan. Thank you, Speaker. I request consent of this Mr. Speaker. Assembly to waive the one-day notice requirement to allow for the second Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in reading of Bill 14, Miscellaneous order. Question has been called. All Statutes Amendment Act, 2009, No. 2. those in favour. Opposed. The motion is Thank you, Mr. Speaker. carried. Bill 12 has had second reading and is referred to the appropriate Speaker: Thank you, Minister. The standing committee. minister is seeking consent under Rule 62(2) to allow Bill 14 to be read for the Second Reading of Bills. Mr. Peterson. second time today. Are there any nays? There are none. Please proceed, Mr. Bill 13 – An Act to Amend the Minister. Retirement Plan Beneficiaries Act – Second Reading Bill 14 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, 2009, No.2 – Hon. Keith Peterson: Thank you, Mr. Second Reading Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Rankin Inlet South and Hon. Keith Peterson: Thank you, Mr. Whale Cove, that Bill 13, An Act to Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Amend the Retirement Plan Member for Rankin Inlet South and
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Whale Cove, that Bill 14, Miscellaneous provisions made unnecessary as the Statutes Amendment Act, 2009, No. 2, be result of the concurrence of Parliament read for the second time. that became effective on June 11, 2009.
Mr. Speaker, this bill corrects This bill also corrects inconsistencies inconsistencies and errors in certain Acts and errors in the Inuit Language of Nunavut and corrects references Protection Act and the new Official relating to the Northwest Territories. Languages Act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker: Thank you, Minister. The Minister. The motion is in order. motion is in order. Question has been Question has been called. All those in called. All those in favour, raise your favour of the motion, please raise your hand. The motion is carried. Bill 14 has hand. Opposed. The motion is carried. had second reading and is referred to the Bill 18 has had second reading and is appropriate standing committee. referred to the appropriate standing committee. Second Reading of Bills. Mr. Tapardjuk. Second Reading of Bills. Mr. Curley. Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request Hon. Tagak Curley (interpretation): consent of this Assembly to waive the Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request one-day notice requirement to allow for consent of this Assembly to waive the the second reading of Bill 18, Language one-day notice requirement to allow for Statutes Amendment Act. Thank you, Mr. the second reading of Bill 21, An Act to Speaker. Amend the Utility Rates Review Council Act. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Minister. The minister is seeking consent Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, under Rule 62(2) to allow Bill 18 to be Minister. The minister is seeking consent read for the second time today. Are there under Rule 62(2) to allow Bill 21 to be any nays? There are no nays. Please read for the second time today. Are there proceed, Minister Tapardjuk. any nays? There are no nays. Please proceed, Mr. Minister. Bill 18 – Language Statutes Amendment Act – Second Reading Bill 21 – An Act to Amend the Utility Rates Review Council Act – Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Second Reading Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Hon. Tagak Curley: Thank you, Mr. Rankin Inlet South and Whale Cove, that Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Bill 18, Language Statutes Amendment Member for Arviat, that Bill 21, An Act Act, be read for the second time. to Amend the Utilities Rate Review Council Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Inuit Language Protection Act to remove
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Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Act to the House adjourn for the day. Thank increase the size of the review council you, Mr. Speaker. and to create the position of executive director. Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Schell. The motion is in order. All those in favour, The authority of the review council to raise your hand. Opposed. The motion is establish panels and require information carried. We will go directly to Item 22 is clarified. on the order paper. Mr. Clerk.
The procedure for handling rate Item 22: Orders of the Day applications is amended by conferring on the minister for the review council Clerk (Mr. Quirke): Thank you, Mr. the power to authorize the imposition of Speaker. Notice of meetings: there’s a interim rates. meeting of the Standing Committee on Community and Economic Development The bill allows the review council to at twelve o’clock in the Tuktu Room; determine whether a rate application is there is also a meeting of the minor or major and to take additional Management and Services Board at half time to consider the latter. past one in the Tuktu Room. I ask that members check the sessional work plan The bill clarifies the procedure for for meetings on Monday morning. making information publicly known. Orders of the Day for November 30: Finally, Mr. Speaker, the bill corrects several errors. Thank you. 1. Prayer 2. Ministers’ Statements Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. 3. Members’ Statements Question has been called. All those in 4. Returns to Oral Questions favour, raise your hand. Opposed. The motion is carried. Bill 21 has had second 5. Recognition of Visitors in the reading and is referred to the appropriate Gallery standing committee. 6. Oral Questions Second Reading of Bills. Item 19. 7. Written Questions Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Mr. 8. Returns to Written Questions Schell. 9. Replies to Opening Address
Motion 012 – 3(2): Early 10. Petitions Adjournment (Schell) 11. Reports of Standing and Special
Mr. Schell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Committees Pursuant to Rule 46, I move, seconded 12. Reports of Committees on the by the Hon. Member for Amittuq, that Review of Bills
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13. Tabling of Documents 14. Notices of Motions 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills 16. Motions Motion 11 – 3(2) 17. First Reading of Bills Bill 11 Bill 19 18. Second Reading of Bills 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Bill 6 Bill 7 Bill 8 Bill 9 Bill 10 20. Report of the Committee of the Whole 21. Third Reading of Bills 22. Orders of the Day Thank you.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. This House stands adjourned until Monday, November 30, at 1:30 p.m.
Sergeant-at-Arms.
>>House adjourned at 11:58