Michael Nadli

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.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. This will likely be my last question. There’s several strategies that are developed, including the conservation network initiatives, there’s the Boreal initiative. How integral will the Land Use and Sustainability Framework play in terms of ensuring that there’s consistencies with plans across the NWT? Mahsi.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I just wanted to understand. Earlier I did mention the term Protected Area Strategy initiative and where it fits within the government at this point. I understand it’s been changed into conservation network initiative, so if I can get some explanation in terms of whether they’ve changed gears in terms of how the approach will be taken in terms of engaging and collaborating with communities.

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...

Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Yes, thank you. I'd like to thank the deputy for providing an update. I know some communities have done some inventory analysis in terms of the potential for forest products within their territory, and whether the forest fires from the past two years have negated or significantly impacted their inventory in terms of, you know, working with the proponent and the community and whether that's become a factor or not. Thank you.