Sheryl Yakeleya

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Finance.

What criteria does the Department of Finance use to determine the adequacy of financial support provided to evacuees under the emergency evacuation relief program and has the department reviewed whether the current funding levels meets the actual cost incurred by Fort Providence evacuees? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Minister commit to working with the community of Fort Providence to assess the full financial impact of the evacuation and consider additional reimbursements for those who face exceptional costs? Thank you.

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Today, I want to speak on behalf of residents of Fort Providence who were forced to evacuate their homes this past summer due to wildfires threatening their community. This evacuation was not a short-term disruption; it lasted for almost two weeks. Due to the prolonged evacuation, individuals and families alike faced significant financial strain. Many had to pay out-of-pocket for fuel, food, lodging, and other essentials, often far from home and without access to support.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT's Emergency Evacuation Relief Program provides a one-time payment of $800 per...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister for NTPC.

Can the Minister explain whether there's currently a plan in place to supply power to Fort Providence and Kakisa from the Taltson Hydro Project. Thank you?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to discuss Northwest Territories Power Corporation, NTPC, and the Taltson Hydro Project which provides power to Enterprise and K'atlodeeche First Nation in my riding. NTPC's mandate includes investing in core assets, increasing the distribution customer base, reducing emissions, and reducing fuel consumption.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to promote affordable clean energy across the territory. But I want to see more affordable power rates in my riding, especially in Fort Providence and Kakisa. According to the 2023-2024 annual report, NTPC incurred limited...

Thank you. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Will any of the work for projects in the region lead to the creation of new jobs within NTPC? Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize the Dene Zhatie translators here from the region. In the House are Sarah Gargan and Mary Jane Cazon and to thank them for their contribution to keep the language alive. Mahsi.

Thank you. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. She probably answered a little bit of this, but I need it to be on the -- say it again. Can the Minister say whether this work is dependent on applications for federal funding or more part of our government's budget initiatives? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Health and Social Services further to my colleague's questions.

Is there a mechanism or a thought of the Department of Health and Social Services to work with other jurisdictions to create a cross-border agreement with other provinces and territories to ensure residents get care when they need -- when and where and can be transported home if needed? And this is looking at a new way to do business, to support our residents that may need emergency travel or emergency health care in other jurisdictions, if needed. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What formats such as radio, pamphlets, posters, are used in health promotion campaigns to target different demographics, such as youth and elders? Thank you.