Bob Bromley

Page 2-19, Executive, information item, Ministers’ offices, active positions.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I just want to understand this department’s role in negotiations on devolution, such as the AIP. It was covered in the general remarks of the Premier under Executive. I’m assuming this department plays a big part in these negotiations. At least the information states they play a major role in all lands and resources negotiations. Could I just get that confirmed?

Thank you, Mr. Roland. I’ll ask the Sergeant-at-Arms to please escort the witnesses into the House.

I’d like to ask the Minister to please introduce your witnesses.

Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu. Premier Roland.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am just wondering. The GNWT’s share of the cost of operation of the corporation, $38.9 million, is that because the corporation does not take in sufficient to cover its costs?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to note that these things and a lot of other common-place green behaviours sound to me like the least we should be doing in our departments and not really voluntary. The Human Resources department and Public Works and Services are best positioned to make these standard practices. Why are we leaving it up to employees to separately devise and implement the most basic practices of green office management? Can we get this in place as a standard that must be achieved?

I appreciate the comments from the Minister. Mr. Speaker, this is good work. It shows motivation on behalf of our employees and our leadership. We know that improving practices involves changing habits and human behaviour such as getting people to wear seat belts or stop cell phone driving, not an easy task; one of the most difficult things to change. Strong leadership is often needed. The Minister, according to my correspondence, has indicated that at least seven departments are signed on. That’s a good start. What more aggressive plans does the Minister have to roll this out across...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Elders have a huge role to play in our education systems of today. They remind youth what wisdom is and what real education means. Their presence in schools, though too rare, brings stability and assurance to our young people that are currently wanting. Let’s work to ensure that our elders are able to fulfill their key role in every one of our educational facilities.

Today I especially want to salute the woman who is the traditional heart and soul of K’alemi Dene School in Ndilo, Mary Jane Francois, who the children call Mrs. Fwasi.

---Applause

Mrs. Fwasi is the school...

Thanks, Mr. Guy. So is the intent to eventually... Those disappear into the general revenues then. I assume and I wonder if the intent is to eventually see them reflected here as revenue. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Yakeleya. Committee, we are on general comments for Public Works and Services. Seeing no further, I will give the Minister an opportunity to respond. Minister McLeod.