Briefs from the Legislative Assembly
Smoke, little warmth
An announcement on the seniors fuel subsidy program, slated to be eliminated in the 1997-98 budget, raises more questions than it answers.
Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Charles Dent (left) said the program, which was cut back last year, will continue for those 60 years of age and older, but only if they meet the requirements of a household income test ... which has yet to be developed.
Dent said the needs test will be developed, following approval of the budget, in consultation with seniors and the legislative committee on social programs.
Testing the system
The Yellowknife education system is not second rate - but if it is we should know about it, says Mayor Dave Lovell.
Responding to a report that Northerners scored lower than southerners in a grading of education across the country, Lovell asked Education Minister Charles Dent for a breakdown of scores by community.
Dent said no such breakdown is available.
Order in the house
Counting competence and banging bucks are among the recent issues dealt with by the assembly.
On Friday Iqaluit MLA Ed Picco (left) said chairperson Jane Groenewegen did not allow him the full five questions permitted, and was accused of being unable to count to five.
Chairman John Ningark ruled Monday Picco was not entitled to the apology he asked for.
Recently the chairman also ruled "bang for the buck" is not an offensive term after all. Sahtu MLA Stephen Kakfwi had taken exception to Seamus Henry's use of it earlier in the month.