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Whitehorse, Yukon
Thursday, October 21, 2004 — 1:00 p.m.
Speaker: I will now call the House to order. We will proceed at this time with prayers.
Prayers
Introduction of pages
Speaker: It gives me great pleasure to announce the following students who will be serving the House as legislative pages for the fall 2004 sitting. They are Aaron Holway, Colin Campbell, Coralie Ullyett, and Stuart Murray from Vanier Catholic Secondary School, and Aven-Lee Enzenauer, Gareth Sloan, Melissa Grimard and Santina English from Porter Creek Secondary School.
Today we have with us Santina English and Stuart Murray. I would ask members to welcome them to the House at this time.
Applause
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Withdrawal of motions
Speaker: Also, the Chair wishes to inform the House of changes which have been made to the Order Paper. Motion No. 75, standing in the name of the Member for Porter Creek South, and Motion No. 235, standing in the name of the Member for Pelly-Nisutlin, have been removed from the Order Paper as the actions requested in those motions have been fulfilled. Also, Motion No. 187, Motion No. 188 and Motion No. 213, standing in the name of the Member for Porter Creek South, Motion No. 150, standing in the name of the Member for Mount Lorne, and Motion No. 167, standing in the name of the Member for Mayo-Tatchun, have been removed from the Order Paper as they are outdated.
Modification of motions
Speaker: Finally, Motion No. 55 and Motion No. 274, standing in the name of the Member for Porter Creek South, have been modified so that the text of the motions remains current.
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DAILY ROUTINE
Speaker: We will proceed at this time with the Order Paper.
Tributes.
Tributes
In recognition of Women’s History Month
Hon. Ms. Taylor: Mr. Speaker, October is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women and all of their accomplishments.
As the minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate, I take especially great pride in rising to pay tribute to the women of this territory, and indeed there is a lot to be proud of.
Women of both the western and traditional sense have certainly come a long way in 75 years. I refer to our two past female grand chiefs, Judy Gingell and Shirley Adamson, our former Premier, Pat Duncan, and many other women who have and continue to serve public office today.
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It may be a leader in your community, a volunteer, a working professional or a mother. Women play an integral role toward the betterment of our communities. Each year, the Women’s Directorate honours Yukon women by highlighting their contributions to the social, economic and political fabric of the Yukon.
Today it is with great honour that I stand before you as the minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate to acknowledge and honour immigrant women’s contributions to our territory. Immigrant women work hard, they pay taxes, contribute to our community through volunteer work and bring with them rich values and beliefs moulded by their cultures.
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This year, the directorate, together with the Yukon Human Rights Commission, collaborated with Filipina women of this territory in the design and development of a celebratory poster, of which I was very pleased to take part in its official launch yesterday in the Whitehorse Public Library.
Mr. Speaker, many Filipina women came to the Yukon in search of a better life for themselves and for the families they left behind. In 1981, there were only two Filipinas in the Yukon, both of whom were women. Today, over 175 Yukoners claim the Philippines as their place of birth, almost 90 percent of them being women. While finding a better life in the Yukon, Filipina women have contributed to the Yukon’s well-being by promoting a better life for all Yukoners, this being demonstrated by the rich cultural, economic and professional contributions that Filipina women have made to our society, and for that we are grateful.
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I would also like to acknowledge Yukon First Nation peoples who have lived and died here for tens of thousands of years. We are all very appreciative and grateful to First Nation women for sharing generously their culture, their hospitality, family values and respect for the land and each other.
Last month, in my capacity as Minister of Tourism and Culture, I was also pleased to join with the Yukon Council of Archives as well as other Yukon heritage institutions in the official launch of two new virtual exhibits entitled, “Nothing is as Certain as Change” and “Yukon Women and Children”.
Both exhibits celebrate many extraordinary individuals — artists, leaders, politicians, writers and athletes, many of whom are women. The exhibits not only provide public access to archive educational opportunities, but raise awareness of the very importance of preserving and protecting our heritage for future generations, including the evolution of women in the Yukon and the important role that they continue to play toward the betterment of our society day after day.
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I certainly urge all members to take some time to view these exhibits. They are very well done and they can be found on the Department of Tourism and Culture archives Web site.
Again, Mr. Speaker, Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate women in all their accomplishments. Here at home it’s clear we have a lot of women to be very proud of.
Mrs. Peter: I rise on behalf of the official opposition to pay tribute to Women’s History Month. Every October since 1992, Canada has celebrated Women’s History Month, which was started by a group of women from Victoria, B.C., and supported by the Status of Women Canada.
[Member spoke in native language. Translation unavailable.]
It is particularly fitting at this time to bring women and women’s history to the attention of the House and to the Yukon public. We are currently witnessing the obliteration of women’s achievements in society on our national television. CBC TV is running programs which ask Canadians to vote for the person they feel is the greatest Canadian.
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Not one of the 10 finalists in this competition is a woman. This is a very sad comment on the true picture of society’s ability to recognize the many contributions made by women from all walks of life in Canada.
Women are still marginalized in the 21st century. It was not until 1929 that women were finally given the right of participation in all public life. We owe that achievement to the Famous Five women who pursued the appointment of women to the Senate of Canada. After a long battle, they were successful in having women recognized as persons under the British North America Act. On October 18, Persons Day is now celebrated.
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Many women served in this House and in many other leadership roles throughout our communities. Mr. Speaker, they strive to make a difference for people in our territory. Very few are recognized for their achievements.
This year, we pay tribute to immigrant women, more especially Filipina women. The challenges they have faced in becoming a part of our communities sound very familiar to First Nation women. We heard their stories yesterday.
Our stories are the same. Most of these women are faceless because resources are not put into the research and public education that is so important to stimulate a greater appreciation of all our achievements.
Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the wisdom and guidance of the women of our communities, the courage and determination of First Nation women who continue to sustain our culture and our languages. Our mothers and our grandmothers have blazed many trails for us. Our communities are much stronger thanks to their commitment and love for their people. Mahsi’ cho.
Ms. Duncan: Mr. Speaker, what better place to begin a tribute to Women’s History Month than right here at home in our Yukon archives. There’s a link on the Government of Yukon Web site to a virtual exhibit called “Yukon Women and Children.” The minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate has mentioned it earlier. Mr. Speaker, this exhibit is so well done that I would strongly encourage all Yukoners to visit it while this opportunity is presented to them.
And may I also on behalf of the Yukon Liberal caucus offer my congratulations to the Yukon Council of Archives, who managed the project: Midnight Arts; Pat Halladay Graphic Design; the curriculum advisor, Debbie Gohl; and the Yukon archives and their partners.
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The Web site opens with this quote, “Skilled hands of women stitched First Nation society together in many ways.”
The Web site also highlights that, in 1975 during the celebration of International Women’s Year, Yukon women stitched five large wall hangings that now hang next door in the members’ lounge. They’re marvellous tapestries, Mr. Speaker. Unfortunately, unless you’re taking a guided tour of the building or invited to a public event, Yukoners very rarely get to see these tapestries.
I’d like to close my tribute to Women’s History Month with a constructive suggestion to offer to all members of the Legislature. Since this is the Yukoners’ place, let’s hang those marvellous tapestries where Yukoners can see them more often. Perhaps as a fitting tribute to Women’s History Month, we should ensure both the preservation of these tapestries — they’re almost 30 years old — and presentation of the tapestries.
Let’s celebrate Women’s History Month by honouring just one of the many contributions of Yukon women to public life and ensure a more public place of honour for the tapestries stitched by the skilled hands of Yukon women, just as they, over time, have helped stitch the Yukon community together.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
In recognition of Foster Family Week
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: I rise today to ask my colleagues in this House to join with me in thanking the foster parents of the Yukon. Whether they are part of the current 96 families providing respite, kinship or foster care, or among the hundreds who have provided this service in the past, they certainly deserve our recognition and our thanks.
Children come into the care of the Department of Health and Social Services for a variety of reasons. Foster parents are those very special people who take these children and young adolescents into their homes, provide them with a safety net and help them build a sense of self-worth.
Our Yukon foster parents give their time, their homes and their hearts to the children of our communities who, for whatever reason, cannot be in their own homes.
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Mr. Speaker, last night the family and children's services branch hosted an evening to recognize the efforts of our foster families and the department officials. This event was extremely well-attended, with approximately 100 joining together in recognition of the efforts of our foster parents and foster families.
On behalf of all of us, I commend and thank them for their dedication and commitment to the communities and to the children — the children who are our futures.
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. McRobb: I rise with pleasure to also pay tribute to our Yukon foster parents during National Foster Family Week.
Foster parents are very special people. I extend the sincere thanks from members of the official opposition to our many foster families in the Yukon who perform this vital service.
It is concern and love for children that attracts people to the demands of foster parenting. Foster parents open their hearts and their homes to provide safety and emotional support to children who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in crisis situations.
Foster families work with social workers in a team, which often includes the children’s original family, to help heal conditions that have lead to foster children being lead into care.
We hope the concerns of foster parents and extended families will be thoroughly addressed in the current review of the Children’s Act and in any subsequent legislation and regulations extending from that review.
Thank you.
Ms. Duncan: I rise today to join with my colleagues in the Legislature in recognizing Foster Family Week.
Parenting is the best experience and at times the most challenging of our lives. Seeking out the role of a foster parent takes a very special type of individual. There is an expression about knowing the value of your contribution to society by the difference you have made in the life of a child.
Foster parents walk the talk and they live it. Their contribution to the lives of children and young Yukoners is immeasurable.
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On behalf of the Yukon Liberal caucus to these very special individuals, Yukon foster families, thank you.
In recognition of Library Week
Hon. Mr. Hart: I am pleased to pay tribute today to the first-ever Yukon Library Week, which runs from Thursday, October 21, to Friday, October 29. It is our intention to make this an annual Yukon event.
Yukon public libraries join libraries across Canada in celebrating the important role libraries play in our education and in our lives. Canadian Library Week is an initiative of the Canadian Library Association and is championed by libraries across the country to promote public awareness of the services that the libraries provide in local communities. The goal of the Yukon Library Week is to celebrate public libraries in the Yukon and the many services they provide.
Yukon public libraries coordinate public library services throughout the Yukon. In addition to operating the Whitehorse Public Library as a central library, it provides financial support, advice and training to 14 community libraries and their staff. Yukon public libraries provide internet access to all community libraries, many of which have been upgraded to provide high-speed access. This service, together with the interlibrary loan system, connects Yukoners to information and literature worldwide.
Yukon public libraries provide support for emerging and established writers with programs such as the writer-in-residence program, the writers summit, and the Yukon Writers Festival. Yukoners also enjoy literary readings and storytelling sessions.
Yukon public libraries work in partnership with Yukon Learn and the Yukon Literacy Coalition to promote literacy in our communities. It has also worked together with the local CNIB to provide a computer at the Whitehorse Public Library and software for people with reading difficulties or vision problems. Yukon public libraries also work to encourage children to visit our libraries by offering children programming such as story time and summer reading programs.
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During Yukon Library Week, Yukoners are encouraged to visit their local library to receive an “I love my Library” pencil and a bookmark and to enter a free draw. The winner will receive a gift certificate from Mac’s Fireweed Books in Whitehorse. As an added bonus, overdue library materials may be returned fine-free to all Yukon public libraries during this special week.
I am pleased to announce that the award-winning Canadian writer Tomson Highway will be this year’s special guest during Yukon Library Week. Mr. Highway, a Cree from northern Manitoba, is a playwright, novelist, children’s author and a musician. He has won numerous awards, including the Order of Canada and two nominations for the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama.
Mr. Highway will present free readings, combined with piano performances for Yukoners of all ages at venues in Whitehorse, Dawson, Mayo, Pelly Crossing, Carmacks and Haines Junction. This tour is presented by the Yukon public libraries in conjunction with the Canadian Council for the Arts. Additional events and activities will be presented at various Yukon public libraries throughout this special week. I encourage Yukoners to celebrate Yukon Library Week by visiting their local library.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Cardiff: I’m pleased to rise today on behalf of the official opposition to pay tribute to our libraries in this Yukon Library Week. We’re blessed in this territory with having had governments that recognized the importance of libraries to our educational and social life by establishing libraries throughout the Yukon. Every one of our communities has access to books, videos, and audio tapes, if not within their own community, then through a modern interlibrary loan system that is second to none. That the vast collections can be accessed easily through a Web site and prompt service is a hallmark of library staff.
The main library sponsors many educational events such as readings by authors, which are taken to almost every Yukon community and with support for new writers. In many communities, the library is used as a central meeting place for volunteer organizations and literacy tutors.
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The wide range of services offered through our libraries recognizes the importance we put on reading and education. We extend our gratitude to our hard-working librarians and volunteers on our library boards. Without our library system, we would fall short of our objectives for ourselves, our children and our future.
Thank you.
In recognition of Small Business Week
Hon. Mr. Kenyon: I rise today to recognize Small Business Week. Small business is the economic engine of this nation. With an estimated 2.5 million small business operators nationwide, they are the largest block of employers in all economic sectors.
Small firms, usually defined as those with fewer than 100 employees, make up 97 percent of goods produced in businesses and 98 percent of all service-producing businesses. Relative to population, the Yukon claims second place for the number of businesses compared to the rest of the country. The highest ranking is in Saskatchewan at 96.4 per 1,000 population, and the Yukon second at 92.7.
Across the Yukon, small business people provide the goods and services our society depends upon, but they do a lot more than that: they are the business people who work long hours away from their families to keep their businesses going and growing and our economy moving. They also contribute goods and funding for any number of charitable causes, from raffles to sponsoring sports teams and similar fundraisers.
Yukon small business people step up to the plate to improve their communities in many, many ways. They are the people we come to depend upon to sit on committees, steering groups and advisory councils and contribute even more to their communities.
Small business operators help to motivate governments to seek better efficiencies and ways of delivering our services and programs.
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Yukon small business operators deal with situations unique to the north — situations that their competitors in the south don’t have to even consider — yet these Yukoners compete with Internet sales, catalogue sales and other ways of competing.
It is tough to operate a business with these things to consider, but they are here with their lights on and their doors open, stock on the shelves, and a desire to serve their customers.
I invite all members of the House to join me in recognizing the outstanding contributions that small business provides to our economy, our society and to our quality of life.
Mr. McRobb: I am proud to also stand and speak in tribute to Small Business Week, and for all those involved in this important sector of our economy within the Yukon.
We would have had more to say on it, Mr. Speaker, but we weren’t apprised that this tribute would be called for today. We will look forward to addressing it in the future days of this sitting.
Thank you.
Ms. Duncan: I rise on behalf of the Liberal caucus to pay tribute to Small Business Week.
Our party has always strongly supported small business. In our last election platform, we proposed that the tax rate for small businesses in the Yukon be cut from six to four percent. I am glad that the Yukon Party has adopted this idea as their own and that it will come into effect on January 1, 2005.
Small businesses are integral to the Yukon community. We heard the importance of small business earlier today during the tributes when the Minister of Community Services noted that participants visiting Yukon public libraries are eligible to win a gift certificate from none other than Mac’s Fireweed Books, here on Main Street in Whitehorse.
Today is an opportunity to recognize and thank small business for their contribution to our life here in the Yukon.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, small business.
In recognition of Waste Reduction Week
Mr. Cardiff: I rise today on behalf of the official opposition to pay tribute to Waste Reduction Week.
Waste Reduction Week is organized across Canada by a coalition of non-government, not-for-profit, environment groups.
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The message “Too good to waste” is one that resonates deeply. We are blessed to be living in an incredible natural environment and it falls upon us as Yukoners to ensure it remains so for future generations.
In the Yukon, Raven Recycling is the Waste Reduction Week organizer. The importance of the work that Raven and other recycling organizations in this territory do cannot be overstated. They deserve our full support.
The “Too good to waste” message is everywhere. In my riding of Mount Lorne, the community wishes the Mile Nine dump to be converted to a transfer station. Mount Lorne already recycles over 25 percent of the waste in the dump. A change to a transfer station will increase this number, it will save money and it will reduce future environmental damage.
I’m happy to say that community action like this is taking place across the Yukon.
Speaker: Introduction of visitors.
INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS
Hon. Mr. Fentie: Greetings, Mr. Speaker, to this opening day of our fourth sitting of the 31st Legislature. I would ask the indulgence of the House to turn their attention to the gallery and extend a warm welcome to Chief Mike Smith of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation, Chief Steve Buyck of the Na Cho Nyäk Dun, and to Chief Eddie Skookum of the Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation.
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: I ask all members of the House to join with me in welcoming three individuals from Alaska who are the owners, builders and operators of a paddlewheeler that hopefully next season will be operating out of Dawson City: Nick Turner and Charlie House from Eagle, Alaska.
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Mr. Fairclough: Mr. Speaker, in the gallery today, as was introduced earlier, Chief Eddie Skookum and his council. We have numerous members of Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nations — too many people to name out today, members of my community, of Carmacks. I’d like to ask all members of this House to welcome them here today.
Applause
Mrs. Peter: I’d like the House to help me make welcome my sister, Dorothy Rispin, who is in the gallery with us today.
Speaker: Any further introduction of visitors?
TABLING RETURNS AND DOCUMENTS
Speaker: Under tabling of returns and documents, the Chair has for tabling the Conflict of Interest Commission Annual Report for the period ending March 31, 2004. This report was distributed to members of the Assembly and to the media this past June.
The Chair has also for tabling a report from the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly on the absence of members from sittings of the Legislative Assembly and its committees.
Are there any further returns or documents for tabling?
Are there any reports of committees?
Mr. Clerk, petitions.
PETITIONS
Petition No. 3 — received
Clerk: Mr. Speaker and hon. members of the Assembly, I have had the honour to review a petition, being Petition No. 3 of the First Session of the 31st Legislative Assembly, as presented by the Member for Mount Lorne on May 18, 2004. This petition meets the requirements as to form of the Standing Orders of the Yukon Legislative Assembly.
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Speaker: Petition No. 3 is accordingly deemed to be read and received.
The Chair does wish to remind the House about the rules respecting the manner in which petitions are presented. Standing Order 65(3) states: Every member offering a petition to the Assembly shall confine himself or herself to the statement of the parties from whom it comes, the number of signatures attached to it and the material allegations it contains. The Member for Mount Lorne, when presenting Petition No. 3 on May 18, 2004, added comments, describing why certain pages were not attached to the petition and why certain individuals did not sign it. As Standing Order 65(3) makes clear, such comments are not in order. I would ask, therefore, that members limit themselves when presenting petitions to the kinds of remarks allowed for in the Standing Orders.
Under this item of business, are there any petitions to be presented?
Petition No. 4
Mr. Hardy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have for tabling the following petition, which has approximately 214 signatures, and the petition of the undersigned shows that the Government of the Yukon has responsibility to care for reindeer or caribou that are not considered game farm animals under the Yukon Wildlife Act and are not permitted to be kept in captivity by the operators of the Northern Splendor facility on the north Klondike Highway. Therefore, the undersigned ask the Yukon Legislative Assembly to urge the Government of the Yukon to reach a fair compensation agreement with the owners of Northern Splendor who have cared for the herd for the past 17 years and to relocate the reindeer caribou to the government-owned Yukon Wildlife Preserve.
Speaker: Are there any bills to be introduced?
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
Bill No. 46: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Lang: Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 46, entitled Act to Amend the Oil and Gas Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources that Bill No. 46, entitled Act to Amend the Oil and Gas Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 46 agreed to
Bill No. 47: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Fentie: Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 47, entitled Act to Amend the Financial Administration Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the hon. Premier that Bill No. 47, entitled Act to Amend the Financial Administration Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 47 agreed to
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Bill No. 48: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Fentie: I move that Bill No. 48, entitled Act to Amend the Elections Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the hon. Premier that Bill No. 48, entitled Act to Amend the Elections Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 48 agreed to
Bill No. 49: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Edzerza: I move that Bill No. 49, entitled Act to Amend the Legal Profession Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the Minister of Justice that Bill No. 49, entitled Act to Amend the Legal Profession Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 49 agreed to
Bill No. 50: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Edzerza: I move that Bill No. 50, entitled Act to Amend the Crime Prevention and Victim Services Trust Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the Minister of Justice that Bill No. 50, entitled Act to Amend the Crime Prevention and Victim Services Trust Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 50 agreed to
Bill No. 51: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Hart: I move that Bill No. 51, entitled Act to Amend the Motor Vehicles Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the Minister of Highways and Public Works that Bill No. 51, entitled Act to Amend the Motor Vehicles Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 51 agreed to
Bill No. 53: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Hart: I move that Bill No. 53, entitled Act to Amend the Insurance Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the Minister of Community Services that Bill No. 53, entitled Act to Amend the Insurance Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 53 agreed to
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Bill No. 54: Introduction and First Reading
Hon. Mr. Fentie: I move that Bill No. 54, entitled Act to Amend the Income Tax Act, be now introduced and read for a first time.
Speaker: It has been moved by the hon. Premier that Bill No, 54, entitled Act to Amend the Income Tax Act, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bill No. 54 agreed to
Speaker: Are there any further bills for introduction?
Are there any notices of motion?
NOTICES OF MOTION
Hon. Ms. Taylor: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the Yukon government to implement a long-term educational public awareness campaign focusing on zero tolerance of violence against women and children and raising awareness of resources available to assist those leaving violent and abusive relationships.
Mr. McRobb: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT it is the opinion of this House that
(1) Health Canada has reported an alarming increase in the number of prescriptions for certain pharmaceutical drugs for First Nations in some Yukon communities;
(2) some of these pharmaceuticals, such as the painkiller Tylenol 3 and the muscle relaxant Ativan, are known to be commonly traded for illicit use throughout North America, including the Yukon;
(3) no control currently exists over the number of prescriptions written for any drugs or for any segment of society in the Yukon; and
THAT this House urges the Yukon government to demonstrate leadership in addressing the problem of illegal drug use and trafficking in the territory by working with Yukon doctors and licensed pharmacists to implement an effective territory-wide computer system for tracking prescriptions.
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Ms. Duncan: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the Government of Yukon to reach a fair and equitable settlement with the owners of the Northern Splendor Reindeer Farm, as they originally committed to do in the spring of 2004.
Hon. Mr. Hart: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT it is the opinion of this House that a south extension of Hamilton Boulevard will alleviate traffic on the existing access route and would provide residents and emergency vehicles a second access and exit in the case of emergency or crisis; and
THAT options for an extension south of Hamilton Boulevard should be examined in consultation with residents, Kwanlin Dun First Nation and the City of Whitehorse.
Mr. Cardiff: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the Government of Yukon to recognize the need for special measures to deal with the extraordinary impact of two recent wind storms that swept through the City of Whitehorse and other areas and to ensure the safe and prompt cleanup of the area, as well as the development of an effective strategy to reduce fire risk over the long term by:
(1) working with the City of Whitehorse, local advisory councils, community associations and utilities to coordinate assistance to residents;
(2) creating a special FireSmart program to clean up downed trees on neighbourhood trails and green belt areas; and
(3) providing assistance to residents who need help cleaning up their property, including the removal of mature trees that may pose a hazard to power lines or buildings.
Mr. Cathers: I rise today to give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the federal Liberal government to eliminate the goods and services tax on heating fuels and electricity sold north of the 60th parallel in recognition of the colder climate faced in this region and in the spirit of the 1993 Liberal election promise to “scrap and abolish the GST”.
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Mr. Rouble: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the Immigration and Refugee Board to expeditiously schedule a hearing in the Yukon thus allowing Yukon refugee claimants to have their cases heard in the Yukon in a timely manner.
I also give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the Yukon government to continue to promote the VictimLINK toll-free crisis line that was introduced in July 2004 through the cooperative efforts of the Government of Yukon and British Columbia to assist and support victims of family and sexual violence in the Yukon.
Mr. Hassard: I give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the federal Liberal government to fully meet the funding commitments it made to Yukon regarding the municipal rural infrastructure fund and the strategic infrastructure fund.
I also give notice of the following motion:
THAT this House urges the Yukon government to work with the Royal Canadian Legion to design and develop a veterans licence plate in recognition of Yukon veterans and their efforts to protect our country and preserve peace around the world.
Speaker: Are there any further notices of motion?
Are there any statements by ministers?
This then brings us to Question Period.
QUESTION PERIOD
Question re: Business loans, outstanding
Mr. Hardy: Well, Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate that this new sitting has to begin with a question about a matter that comes up on a daily basis. Wherever my colleagues and I have the opportunity to speak with Yukon people throughout the Yukon, this is a question that continues to come up within the first couple of minutes of our discussions.
Months ago the Premier announced that he had come up with a solution to the outstanding government loans. The opposition told him it wouldn’t work. The banking community told him it wouldn’t work. Yukon people across this territory told him what he was planning to do wasn’t acceptable, but the Premier refused to listen to the people of this territory and he persisted.
Shortly after the last sitting, Mr. Speaker, the Premier’s solution completely fell apart.
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This question is very simple. What does the Premier plan to do now? What is his permanent solution?
Hon. Mr. Fentie: I must begin by correcting the record. It is obvious from the factual information in this matter that the solution hasn’t fallen apart at all. This government has managed to take a delinquent file, which was in collection purgatory for years — for decades — and advance it a great distance in a very short time.
For example, we have forgiven the NGOs who owed money to the government. We have repatriated hundreds of thousands of dollars back to the federal government where it belongs. We have got approximately $2 million of this delinquent file recommitted. I would suggest, Mr. Speaker, that is hardly a solution falling apart; I would suggest it is a solution well on its way to conclusion.
Mr. Hardy: The Premier is completely wrong. Everything he said there was ongoing before he started on this ridiculous path that he presented as a permanent solution to the matter. It doesn’t matter how successful he paints his plan, Yukon people do know differently. From one end of this territory to the other, Mr. Speaker, they are fed up and disgusted with the Premier’s failure to deal with the $300,000 debt of his colleague, the Member for Klondike.
The people of this territory pay their mortgages, pay their taxes, and they pay their debts, but according to the Premier, those standards don’t apply to this special colleague of his. In fact, instead of getting his colleague to pay, what does the Premier do? He rewards him. He names him “Deputy Premier”.
Why is the Premier refusing to tell the Deputy Premier what Yukon people are demanding that he say: “Pay up or step down.”
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Hon. Mr. Fentie: Again I’m compelled to correct the record. This process was not well on its way at all. When faced with this file, past governments ran as far away from it as they could — not this government. As I pointed out earlier, we have advanced it a great distance.
We do have some remaining delinquencies and the government is now reviewing all options available to deal with those remaining delinquencies and it would include — Mr. Speaker, and I would say “include” — the member in question, a member who was, by the way, elected to this Legislature in 1996 with this very same loan and delinquent file. He was elected to this Legislature in the year 2000; he was elected to this Legislature in the year 2002. That’s an expression of the people of Klondike. That has a place in this debate.
Mr. Hardy: Maybe we need to correct the Premier’s memory again. There were 1,500 outstanding loans; there were only 80-some left. That’s fairly darn good before he started on this plan. We have to also remember that he made a promise two years ago that this would be resolved. It hasn’t been resolved.
The Premier says he wants to hear constructive suggestions from the opposition and we’re very happy to oblige that, Mr. Speaker. There are some very simple steps the Premier could take to deal with this disgraceful issue. There are remedies available through the Conflict of Interest (Members and Ministers) Act and there are remedies available through the Financial Administration Act.
The Premier can take action during this sitting to erase this blot from his government record — and I tell you, people are watching to see what he does about this — and to prevent this kind of situation from arising again for any future government, so we don’t have to have this kind of debate in here again.
Is the Premier willing to take action this sitting or is he going to let his Deputy Premier keep thumbing his nose at the hard-working Yukon tax-paying people?
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Hon. Mr. Fentie: I put great value in what the member has provided in terms of options; however, I would point out that this particular file is related to a specific arrangement between the Yukon and the federal government from many years ago. Most of this was comprised of the economic development agreement with Ottawa. The government of the day chose to use this type of file and contribution from the Canadian taxpayer to basically carpet bomb the Yukon Territory with money — and that was a former NDP government.
Now this government is faced with collecting delinquencies. We have advanced in a great way — a great distance. We have forgiven NGOs. We have repatriated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the federal government. We have got recommitted in this file approximately $2 million, and now we have remaining delinquencies, which we are looking at options for. One of them will be collecting the remaining delinquencies, and if that collection process is applied it will be applied to all the remaining delinquent files, including the Member for Klondike.
Question re: Tantalus school, Yukon College campus at
Mr. Fairclough: My question is for the Minister of Education. In a letter to Chief Eddie Skookum of the Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation dated April 14 of this year, the minister states that the question of the Yukon College being annexed to the new Tantalus School would be left “…for further discussions by the joint facilities planning advisory committee”, a committee established by the minister himself. I have that for tabling.
The decision was made by the committee not to include the campus in the new school. Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation passed a resolution on June 10 strongly supporting the location of the campus at or near where it is presently. The minister has gone against the decision of its own committee and the General Assembly resolution of Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation. He has broken his word to consult. Why is the minister refusing to follow the advice he had asked for? Can he explain that to the House and can he explain that to the people of Carmacks?
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Hon. Mr. Edzerza: I would like to start by stating that I do appreciate and welcome all the visitors in the gallery today.
Mr. Speaker, I will state for the record that, as minister, I have had a very difficult time trying to produce a very positive initiative. I think we talk about youth, we talk about children. Traditionally they are a priority in our lives.
I walked through the school at Carmacks, and I was appalled at the condition of the school. I was, quite frankly, very, very surprised that previous governments never replaced it immediately upon seeing the condition of the school.
Mr. Speaker, there have been 10 years of trying, in desperation, by the citizens of Carmacks — and I mean all citizens of Carmacks — to replace that school.
This government has made the commitment; this government will replace that school.
Mr. Fairclough: The community of Carmacks will ensure that that happens, but the minister avoided the question again. This is typical of that minister, Mr. Speaker. The committee consulted with the community of Carmacks. The Village of Carmacks, through the planning committee, the planning committee itself, the school council and the Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation all agreed that the College campus should be in its present location. The minister was well aware of this, but he chose to ignore that advice.
How did the minister make the decision to ignore the community’s wishes, or did someone else make that decision for him?
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Hon. Mr. Edzerza: For the record, I’d like to remind everyone in this House that that particular member voted against the monies that were allotted for the school at Carmacks. That hardly demonstrates to this side of the House that there was support for building a school in Carmacks.
I want to say again, Mr. Speaker, that this school in Carmacks is a public building and is one that must meet the needs of all students and all citizens. I take great pride in saying that I have worked on behalf of children for 20-plus years. They are a true value to me and, I would assume, to every adult in this territory.
Mr. Speaker, the well-being and the safety of all children in Carmacks is paramount.
Mr. Fairclough: I could tell the member that we on this side of the House don’t disagree with the government on projects such as the Carmacks school. We’ve said that over and over again. We disagree with how government spends overall, like trying to build a bridge in Dawson City.
Let’s get back to the question.
The minister went to Carmacks last week. He announced the decision to the school council and the village council. He couldn’t consult with the Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation. He didn’t tell Yukon College. He didn’t tell the joint facilities planning advisory committee. He ignored all these people, Mr. Speaker; he broke the faith with the people who had taken him at his word. Somebody else got to the minister and managed to influence his decision. This is a typical Yukon Party consultation.
Now that the minister is informed, will the minister make a commitment right now to scrap his backroom decision that has so greatly divided the community? Will he do that?
Hon. Mr. Edzerza: I’m very pleased the member opposite has chosen to raise the issue of consultation, because one of the messages I received loud and clear on my consultation trips to Carmacks was, “Thank God some government is consulting.” That was the message I got.
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Mr. Speaker, I’ve got messages such as the opposition party has done nothing in Carmacks, no consultation. I have reports that the Liberal government never paid visits to Carmacks. They were going to do something to an infrastructure without even the knowledge of the people in Carmacks. So, Mr. Speaker, this government is prepared to work with the people of Carmacks. I really do sincerely hope that we will all work to the betterment of the children, the youth and the adults.
Mr. Speaker, this whole infrastructure is very, very important, not only to the children. It’s important to the youth, and it’s important to the elders. For example, my mother-in-law who is now deceased went back to school at age 72. So the grandchildren are in school; the grandmother is in school.
Thank you.
Question re: Land applications, Fish Lake Road
Ms. Duncan: Mr. Speaker, I have some questions for the Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources. Over the summer, a number of Yukoners have made land applications on the Fish Lake Road. Thirty people have applied for six-hectare parcels. Basically, all the land on the Fish Lake Road has been applied for. There was no public notice of this land being made available, and it appears that only a fortunate few heard about this chance to get large parcels of land so close to Whitehorse.
Can the minister explain for the rest of the Yukon how this land was made available and why only a fortunate few were able to take advantage of this great deal?
Hon. Mr. Lang: Certainly, there was some land available, and people took advantage of it. There is a process on how it unfolds, Mr. Speaker. Certainly there has to be a land plan, and we have to go ahead with that. But certainly what the individuals did was legal, and they applied, and we will address them as they come forward.
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Ms. Duncan: I wrote the minister about this issue more than two weeks ago, and I have yet to receive a response. In my letter I suggested to the minister that I believe we have a case here where the interest in land is well ahead of the necessary public policy development, and the minister himself has just stated that there has to be land use planning.
I also suggested in my letter that the government not make any land available in this area until there is a fair and open public process that is well-established.
Can the minister make the commitment that a fair and open public process will be established before land is made available?
Hon. Mr. Lang: For the member opposite, we were elected to make some decisions. I certainly take her recommendations seriously, and I will consider them, but at the moment we’re going forward with the applications.
Ms. Duncan: I appreciate that the minister has made a commitment to look at the recommendations I’ve given him. This land rush along the Fish Lake Road has created hard feelings among many Yukoners who felt they weren’t given a chance to get some of this land and submit an application.
The minister can fix the problem if he commits that the land will not be sold until there is a fair and open public process clearly established. I’m not sure that the minister exactly stated he was willing to make that commitment, so I’m asking him to make it today.
Will the minister guarantee that the land will not be dispensed or sold by the Government of Yukon until such time as there is a fair and open public process? Will the minister make that commitment?
Hon. Mr. Lang: Our government was elected, and we hoped in our first term of office to make land available to all Yukoners, whether agricultural, commercial or whatever people wanted land for in the Yukon. So we’ll commit to work with Yukoners to go forward with the land issue.
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Question re: Caribou permit allocation
Mr. McRobb: I would like to bring the new Environment minister back to something that occurred during the heat of summer. Back in July he made things even hotter for many Yukoners when he overrode the previous Environment minister within a couple of weeks of assuming responsibility for that department. This minister’s decision reduced the number of caribou permits available for resident hunters and transferred those permits to a local outfitter. Now that the minister is back in town and finally is able to speak to this issue, can he tell this House what his reasons were for overruling his colleague, the former Environment minister?
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: This was an issue of natural justice. It is my obligation and responsibility to ensure that the tenets of natural justice were applied. And the member opposite’s premise for his question is incorrect.
Mr. McRobb: That’s hardly an answer.
The minister’s backroom decision trashed the local processes for dealing with wildlife issues, as established in the Umbrella Final Agreement. The Alsek Renewable Resource Council had dealt with this issue extensively through three years of negotiations with outfitters and public consultation. The outfitter quota appeal committee had dealt with this matter too. Incidentally, its three members are appointed by this government and the outfitting industry. But none of that seems to matter to this minister who, in the blink of a passing tow truck, picked up the phone and overruled everybody because he knows best.
Can he now tell Yukoners his reasons for overruling the local resource council and the appeal committee?
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: The member has a slant on this situation that is very inaccurate.
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The process that is in place was not followed. That is the basic problem. The minister has a responsibility and an obligation to ensure that processes are adhered to and the tenets of natural justice apply. That is my responsibility and that is a responsibility that I take very seriously and follow.
Mr. McRobb: It sounds like the minister is warming up for a place on the bench instead of carrying out his responsibilities as Environment minister.
This fiasco has demoralized and outraged members of boards and committees across the territory. Why should they devote their time, effort and knowledge to try to help this government make good decisions about our wildlife in the territory? What’s worse, the minister has yet to respond to month-old letters from those he overruled.
The minister insulted everybody involved in this process by not consulting anybody other than the outfitter who called him up. He thinks he knows best but he’s sadly mistaken.
Will the minister now reverse his knee-jerk decision and apologize to all those people he insulted?
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: This total issue is one that I as Minister of Environment took very, very seriously. It is my obligation and responsibility to ensure that the tenets of natural justice apply. There is a process that has to be followed.
The decision was made for one year only. In fact, the total quota that was taken was the same as last year and it has been referred back to the Alsek Renewable Resource Council, all the affected outfitters and the quota appeal board for a full consultation with the science as to the number of bulls that can be taken and sustained out of that herd. It is back into a process that we hope will evolve into a solution for all.
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Question re: Northern Splendor Reindeer Farm
Mr. Hardy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A few minutes ago, I asked the Premier a simple question related to the standards he applies to his Cabinet colleagues. I have another very simple question on a related topic. It concerns the standards the Premier applies to himself. Why did the Premier break his word, his written commitment, Mr. Speaker, to enter into a mediation process with the owners of the Northern Splendor Reindeer Farm to find a solution to a situation this government itself created?
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: This issue is one of the reindeer and the situation that our government found itself in. We can only thank the leader of the third party, whose government proclaimed the new Yukon Act in 2002 for these problems, creating — they left out and omitted on the new Yukon Act the regulations surrounding reindeer. Any confusion or lack of clarity regarding the regulation of reindeer resulting from the new Yukon Act will be addressed by our government, and our government is in the process of developing changes to legislation and regulations to address this very issue, Mr. Speaker. It’s another problem that we inherited from the former Government of the Yukon that we have to fix.
Mr. Hardy: Mr. Speaker, shame on that government; shame on that minister even talking about a blame game after two years of supposedly being in power. We have to question that.
Now, it’s all on record, Mr. Speaker. The media have all the letters between the Premier and the owners of the reindeer farm. On May 18, the Premier agreed to three conditions for the process, including allowing the owners a direct say in, and I quote, “that you have a right to approve or reject the government’s choice of a third party mediator and a direct say in setting the terms of reference for that process.”
Secondly, on June 2, the Premier invited the owners to set up a meeting, and, quoting that, “I look forward to hearing from you to further discuss the next steps in the proposed mediation process.”
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I will also table this letter.
On July 26, the Premier wrote, “Our intention was not to endorse a traditional formal mediation process.” All of a sudden there’s a shift.
Some Hon. Member: (Inaudible)
Mr. Hardy: Yes, Mr. Speaker, I have one more, please.
And on August 27, the Premier wrote, “Accordingly that offer is now withdrawn.”
That’s a standard the Premier applies to himself. A promise is not a promise, it’s just words.
Right now there’s a reindeer at the front door of this building, from what I understand, that belongs to this government. My question is this: what does the Premier plan to do with it and the rest of the reindeer herd?
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: What the member opposite has clearly identified and pointed out are the lengths our government will go to to resolve a difficult situation that we inherited from the previous Liberal administration.
We can assure the owner of the reindeer farm that they will be able to continue to carry out their business. They need to procure permits to export or sell their stock as they did prior to the enactment of the 2002 Yukon Act. We make that commitment and we take this matter very seriously. We want this organization, this firm, to continue carrying out the good work they’re doing and we will be changing the law and we will be changing the regulations to reflect what was in place previously so these individuals can continue.
Mr. Hardy: Well, I get very nervous when I hear that minister talk about changing the law, because we do not know what they’re going to bring in to serve their own purposes.
These questions are directed at the Premier because all the signatures on the letters I just read are from the Premier himself.
I’d like to table a letter that explains how this reindeer herd came to the Yukon as a demonstration project under a federal/territorial economic development agreement. Under this government, the owners of the Northern Splendor Reindeer Farm have been denied the right to operate as they did before. This government was quite willing to come to terms with the other two wildlife-viewing facilities in the Yukon many months ago. One of those operations is now a government-owned wildlife preserve.
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Why is the Premier refusing to come to terms with the owners of the one remaining facility?
He acted twice. Why won’t he act a third time and get this dealt with?
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: This government’s position is quite clear on this matter. There will be changes coming forth to the legislation and the regulations to allow for the same conditions that existed under the previous Yukon Act to continue today.
In the interim, we have provided a commitment that we would like this firm and this couple to carry on business and that they will be able to continue carrying on that business. If they require permits for export purposes or selling some of their stock — and to that end the minister responsible for agriculture, given that reindeer are domestic animals, will continue as necessary to feed the reindeer, as we have done so in the past.
Question re: Code of conduct for MLAs
Mr. Hardy: Now, we have almost reached the halfway point in the mandate of this government. I’ve already pointed out the number one concern that Yukon people raise every time we talk to them. That is the loans, and the previous minister was just speaking on behalf of this government, and the issues of —
Speaker: Point of order, please. “Beaking” is an inappropriate term. I would ask the member not to use that.
Carry on, please.
Mr. Hardy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Of course I won’t.
The number two question, without fail, is: when is the next election? We hear that everywhere we go now, Mr. Speaker. Is it any wonder given the way this government, this Premier, has broken faith with the people? Ministers who stiff the taxpayer by not paying their bills are a big problem. Ministers who treat legislated advisory bodies as if they were just a nuisance are a problem, Mr. Speaker. Ministers, including the Premier, who think nothing of breaking commitments that they have made in writing, Mr. Speaker, are a problem.
Now, why does the Premier condone this kind of conduct from his ministers and why does he practise this kind of conduct himself? These questions are for the Premier.
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Hon. Mr. Fentie: I’m concerned, Mr. Speaker, if indeed the government was practising this type of conduct or any type of conduct of this sort.
When it comes to this government’s commitments and its efforts today, as we near the 24-month mark, well, let’s go over those. Let’s look at an increasing population. That’s factual. Let’s look at one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country — here in the Yukon Territory — and that’s because there are more jobs for Yukoners — that’s factual. Let’s look at the fact that we’ve launched a Children’s Act review to deal with one of the most challenging areas this territory is facing today — children in care. Let’s look at educational reform. Let’s look at correctional reform. Let’s look at increases in health care. Let’s look at the increased investments in education. Let’s look at the biggest budget tabled this fiscal year in the history of the Yukon Territory, stimulating the economy throughout the Yukon. Let’s look at the increased exploration in our resource sector. Let’s look at our film and sound industry that is growing. Let’s look at the increased numbers for tourism, at a level of about 8.5 percent this year. Need I go on, Mr. Speaker? The government side rests its case.
Mr. Hardy: Well, we heard that rhetoric last time we asked any questions of this government, and all we got was a spin back. But I can assure you, Mr. Speaker, the people of this territory are telling a lot of different stories than what that Premier just said.
Now, the Premier must be listening to a very carefully selected bunch of people if he thinks Yukon people are really happy with this government. People are not happy, Mr. Speaker. They’re not happy with the double standards; they’re not happy with broken commitments; they’re not happy being ignored or manipulated or taken for granted. And they’re not happy about this government’s record of action that is falling so far short of what was promised them two years ago. If anything, this government is practising divisive politics.
The Premier promised a new, inclusive style of governing based on consensus building, consultation, collaboration and compromise, not one of confrontation and unilateral decisions. Noble words, Mr. Speaker, but when does the Premier intend to start delivering on that promise?
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Hon. Mr. Fentie: It is almost difficult to stand here and continue to articulate to the Yukon public, based on the questions being asked from the opposite side, all the commitments that this government has already lived up to in less than 24 months. With some humbleness here, I want to point out to the member opposite that this commitment of inclusiveness is alive and well under this government.
Let’s take the Children’s Act review as an example, a template. We didn’t just consult with the First Nation people whose children are the most affected by this piece of legislation when it comes to children in care. We actually partnered with them and jointly developed the process that will lead to amending that legislative mechanism so we improve our ability when we deal with children in care. We didn’t just consult with Yukon First Nations when we embarked upon correctional reform. We used the same template — inclusiveness, partnerships — jointly developing and constructing something that would improve the future of the Yukon Territory in corrections.
We’re doing the same thing in education. One of the highest priority areas for First Nation people and all Yukoners is our education system. We are not doing that in isolation; we are doing that in public. I want to point out to the member opposite that I just spent the better part of two months travelling this territory. There is a sense of optimism, but we know there are many challenges ahead. We know there is hard work ahead and the difference is that this government works at it; that side of the House talks about it.
Mr. Hardy: Well, the Premier says it, but he sure doesn’t practice it and the evidence is obvious today with people protesting out on the street because this government will not listen to them, with people bringing their problems directly to the doorstep, and the government won’t listen to them — the Premier won’t listen to them. Obviously the Yukon people have a different view of what’s happening. And they are very patient people. They can be very forgiving, but they’re not afraid to turn their back on any government they feel has let them down. We’ve seen that in the past. And the clock is ticking for this government.
The Premier claims to welcome constructive suggestions from this side of the House, and he’ll be getting plenty from us. I can guarantee that. In fact, I’m going to give him one right now.
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We believe there should be a code of conduct for ministers and members of the Legislature. Yukon people would like to see that — we’ve heard that.
Will the Premier make a commitment right now to work with the opposition parties on developing a code of conduct for MLAs and ministers? Yes or no?
Hon. Mr. Fentie: We’ve made many, many offers to work with the opposition in many, many areas on many, many issues. Unfortunately we’ve been turned down.
There is a code of conduct and it’s overseen by the Conflicts Commissioner, and we all know that. It’s well-established and well-entrenched. When it comes to people expressing themselves through protest, I applaud them, this government applauds them. It is a positive fact; it is democracy alive and well, and I urge them to do that whenever they feel it is necessary. To say, because of that, that the government is not listening would not be correct. We are listening and that is why we are doing the things we are doing. It is to improve the life of each and every Yukon citizen in this territory.
This government is building a future and partnership with First Nations and all Yukoners, other jurisdictions and the corporate community. We are building a future. The opposition is trying to reconstruct the past.
Speaker: The time for Question Period has now elapsed. We will proceed to Orders of the Day.
ORDERS OF THE DAY
Hon. Mr. Jenkins: I move that the House do now adjourn.
Speaker: It has been moved by the government House leader that the House do now adjourn.
Motion agreed to
Speaker: This House now stands adjourned until 1:00 p.m. Monday.
The House adjourned at 2:16 p.m.
The following Sessional Papers were tabled October 21, 2004:
04-1-106
Conflict of Interest Commission Annual Report for the period ending March 31, 2004 (Speaker Staffen)
04-1-107
Absence of Members from Sittings of the Legislative Assembly and its Committees: Report of the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly (dated October 21, 2004) (Speaker Staffen)
The following documents were filed October 21, 2004:
04-1-47
Construction of School in Carmacks with Resolution of LSCFN attached: letter from Hon. John Edzerza, Minister of Education (dated April 14, 2004) to Chief Eddie Skookum, Little Salmon-Carmacks First Nation (Fairclough)
04-1-48
Northern Splendor Reindeer herd, resolution of situation: letter from Hon. Dennis Fentie, Premier (dated May 18, 2004) to Stella and Lloyd Gregory (Hardy)
04-1-49
Northern Splendor Reindeer herd, resolution of situation: letter from Hon. Dennis Fentie, Premier (dated June 4, 2004) to Stella and Lloyd Gregory (Hardy)
04-1-50
Northern Splendor Reindeer herd, resolution of situation: letter from Hon. Dennis Fentie, Premier (dated July 26, 2004) to Stella and Lloyd Gregory (Hardy)
04-1-51
Northern Splendor Reindeer herd, withdrawal of offer to resolve issue through informal process: letter from Hon. Dennis Fentie, Premier (dated August 27, 2004) to Stella and Lloyd Gregory (Hardy)
04-1-52
Northern Splendor Reindeer Farm, establishment of: letter from Alan J. Hunt, PhD (dated October 24, 2004) (Hardy)