Michael Nadli

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I wonder if the deputy minister can provide an example in terms of how engagement is flowing in terms of non-claiming groups and if maybe he could draw an example perhaps of an instance where some work has been done with non-claiming groups. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Are the two protected area linked to the Deh Cho land use plan and the overall land use plan for the Northwest Territories? Mahsi.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Negotiations can take time; however, I believe the department and this government could consider mechanisms including fast tracking negotiations or putting interim measures in place. What is required to move candidate area from its current evaluation stage to the next step in the process? Mahsi.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. [English translation not provided.]

The Protected Areas Strategy is a northern conservation tool. It was introduced to help communities identify highly valued areas and preserve them for lasting appreciation and enjoyment. Establishing a protected area under the Protected Areas Strategy involves a sevenstep process. It starts with the identification of an area and obtaining widespread support for its protection and eventual designation as a protected area with the full support for partners involved. These parties generally include First Nations, governments, and NGOs. Mr...

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I understand in terms of some background context, I think how PAS or conservation area networks are related was this concept of Y-to-Y, Yellowstone to Yukon, you know, establishing a network of conservation areas for wildlife habitat. My understanding is that was the founding initiative that drove the development of the PAS initiatives. I understand NGOs had a clear role in terms of ensuring resources and commitment and support were given to communities along with government. I just wanted some clarification whether the parties remain the same, as both levels of...

Yes, just maybe a final question, Mr. Chair. I just wanted to get some clarification. Where in this budget in the Interim Resource Management Assistant Program located? Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I wanted to get an understanding in terms of the government’s work, especially this department, with groups that haven’t settled a land claim in terms of what kind of resources the government is providing in terms of assistance. I wanted to see if I can get some clarification in terms of Wildlife Management Boards. Is that strictly for land claim groups or does that include non-claim groups? Thank you.

How does the Department of Environment and Natural Resources plan to support the processes here? You know, it’s moved from an initial concept of Protective Area Strategy, it’s kind of moving to this new conservation network initiative there. How would the department plan to support this process?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources. “Collaborate with First Nations government” seems to be the mantra that this Cabinet has put forward, and there’s also a need for jobs, so of course obviously a need to work with industries as well. Can the Minister explain how our concerns over the wood pellet mill and the woodland caribou population within the K’aagee Tu protected area are being addressed? Mahsi.

I'd like to thank the Minister for saying that, and perhaps, you know, the issue's not as simple as that. For example, in terms of jurisdictions, you know, sometimes because of jurisdictions we get caught up in red tape. Sometimes the fact is that we have to board up homes because of jurisdictional messes between governments and First Nations communities. Recently, there has been steps in terms of trying to sort out the jurisdictions, the red tape, to try to bring housing to citizens that need it, particularly on the Hay River Reserve. Could the Minister update this House in terms of ensuring...