Yellowknife (Feb 25/04) - According to a survey conducted last fall, Northerners are more likely to support same-sex marriage than citizens from any other region in Canada.

Michele Stanners, a representative from the Canadian Unity Council, made a presentation to city council on Monday, outlining some of the similarities and differences between Northerners and other Canadians. - Mike W. Bryant/NNSL photo

Speaking to city council Monday, Michele Stanners of the Canadian Unity Council -- an independent organization of information gatherers -- unveiled a report that chronicled a vast array of similarities and differences between people in different parts of the country.

Few councillors seemed surprised that NWT residents would support same-sex marriage more than other Canadians.

"We're very liberal-minded," said Councillor Wendy Bisaro.

52 per cent support

According to the survey conducted last fall, 52 per cent of respondents from the Northern territories showed support, four per cent more than the Canadian average.

The increased support, however, was only among non-aboriginal respondents, which were actually 66 per cent in favour of same-sex marriage, compared to only 35 per cent of the North's aboriginal people.

It was the first time the unity council included Northern respondents in its survey. Of 3,204 people surveyed across Canada, 145 came from the NWT -- 82 of them aboriginal. Stanners pointed out some other quirky differences separating opinions of NWT residents from other provinces and territories.

Twenty-four per cent of NWT residents believe our territory puts more into confederation than they take out, but only four per cent of Yukoners believe they do.

"With so much activity going on up here, NWT residents are saying we contribute, too," said Stanners.

Senate reform

Senate reform also scored high in the minds of NWT residents. The 42 per who said it ought to be reformed was bested only by Manitoba, Alberta, and B.C.

The NWT was the second, only to Newfoundland, among provinces and territories who believe they're underfunded.

And while, on average, only 42 per cent of Canadians think the federal and provincial/territorial governments work well together, 64 per cent of NWT residents think they do.

"There's a higher degree of trust here than anywhere else," said Stanners.

"Maybe it's because we have so many government employees," joked Coun. Bob Brooks.