Louis Sebert

I certainly realize this is an important issue. I don't think I can make that commitment at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I realize that this is an important issue; obtaining probate or administration of estate is an important aspect of dealing with an estate. However, we are not contemplating an expansion of services at this time. The success of the outreach program means that there is a full draw on the services now offered. We are not in a position to add new services or enhance the services already offered.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During my time as Minister of Justice, I have often spoken about the Corrections Service and the important work they are doing to improve the programming and supports available in our facilities to help address the needs of individuals in our corrections system.

I know that Members of the Legislative Assembly share with me the hope that people in our care are able to return to their communities on their way to becoming healthier members of our society. Over the past four years, we have made fundamental changes to the programs available to inmates, have been investing in...

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Hay River South, that Bill 58: Justice Administration Statutes Amendment Act be read for the third time. Mr. Speaker, I request a recorded vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I might ask Mr. Aitken to help me with this, but I believe that it is going to be about $500,000 after the three years.

Yes, that's correct, Mr. Chair. Thanks.

The fees had not been changed in many, many years, and we thought it wise to update the fees.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. To my right is Mr. Mark Aitken, assistant deputy minister of Justice. To my left is Ms. Laura Jeffrey, legislative counsel. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to be here today to discuss Bill 58: Justice Administration Statutes Amendment Act. This bill proposes to make targeted and necessary legislative amendments to acts that support the justice system in the Northwest Territories.

This bill amends various statutes administered by the Department of Justice to:

repeal provisions of An Act to Amend the Children's Law Act and amend the Children's Law Act to establish a recalculation service;

amend the Coroners Act to clarify the responsibilities of the Chief Coroner and coroners in respect of inquests and authorize the...

Of course, if the value of your house is a lower amount, then the fees are lower, too. A fee on a $300,000 house is higher than it would be on a $250,000 house. If you bought at $300,000 and paid a fee then and then someone else buys the house or you buy another house at $250,000, you are going to pay less than you would have. The point is the fees are based on the value of the property or the size of the mortgage. If the market is in decline, we will be collecting fewer fees. Thank you.