Arthur Milnes
Northern News Services

NNSL (Nov 27/98) - It was a tired, but relieved, Jane Groenewegen who sat by herself Wednesday evening, reading a single copy of conflict of interest commissioner Anne Crawford's report in the deserted and darkened Great Hall of the legislature.

The Hay River MLA, who first lodged the complaints against former premier Don Morin, had appeared pensive earlier in the day when the premier's lawyers attempted to stop the report's release through a court action.

"I was merely the messenger," she said. "...I think the public had a good sense of it and they were right...They said that these dealings by the government and Mr. Morin didn't pass the test of honesty and integrity and they lost confidence in the government as a result.

"I hope this goes some way in sending a message to people in positions of leadership this isn't going to be tolerated... by the people of the Northwest Territories."

Groenewegen also said she detected a great amount of fear in the NWT among residents who wanted to speak out about issues the inquiry examined.

Crawford said in her report the MLA had not had an easy time in lodging her complaint against the premier.

"The record in these proceedings show that, from start to finish, Mr. Morin has tried to use this inquiry as a means to attack Mrs. Groenewegen," she said. "He has not focused on his own office and conduct.

"...I am satisfied that...Groenewegen was a necessary and interested party in this proceeding. Particularly in the initial stages of the inquiry she was the factor which moved this worthwhile complaint forward."

The MLA again spoke briefly with reporters after Morin announced his resignation yesterday afternoon.

"I think he did the right thing and should be commended," she said, adding her work in laying the original complaint was not personal. "...I was merely acting as a spokesperson for the people...I feel they (NWT residents) deserve a government they can be proud of and I feel that hasn't been the case of late."