Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Oct 07/05) - Wrigley needs a full-time nurse and a police detachment and Nahendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche is pledging to make sure his peers know it.

As the fall sitting of the Legislative Assembly kicks off on Oct. 12, Menicoche said improving health and law enforcement service for Wrigley, a community of about 150 people, is high on his list of priorities.

Chiefs from Wrigley have unsuccessfully pleaded for a nurse and police officer for years. Gabe Hardisty, a former Wrigley chief and band councillor, affirmed the need for both services.

"We need to get them to respond right away, not two to three hours later," Hardisty said.

Asked how he can make a difference, Menicoche replied, "Well, what I've been finding out is that the moment I stop talking about those issues then they (government officials) think it's OK."

Jean Marie River, Nahanni Butte and Trout Lake could also benefit from increased nursing and police presence, even if the service isn't based in those small communities, he contended.

Another issue of growing concern is sharply rising fuel costs. Menicoche and fellow MLA David Ramsay have consequently called for a special committee to review unique Northern energy solutions.

For example, solar power is being tested in Jean Marie River and Trout Lake has expressed interest in windmills, Menicoche noted.

"We may not do anything (to lower) current gas prices, but keeping our other costs of living down is really what we should look at," he said.

Menicoche remains in favour of a single power rate for communities with diesel generators.

He said the fuel riders that will be introduced by the NWT Power Corporation will hurt "Granny from Nahanni."

"Wait until she gets her first power bill and her first fuel bill," he warned.

"I don't think people would mind so much if we're all paying the same."

Other topics that Nahendeh's MLA said he plans to tackle in the legislature include funding for housing and community infrastructure.