by Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services

NNSL (June 06/97) - Security of the legislative assembly, care of the mace, overseeing young pages -- it's a lot to bear, but for the last two weeks it's been the responsibility of 23-year-old Jay Bran.

Filling in for Sergeant-at-Arms Tony Whitford, Bran is the youngest person ever to take the deputy's role in the territories.

"It's a lot more dynamic than when you're in the gallery," said Bran, who has been filling the position for the past two weeks. "You feel part of what's going on."

A graduate of Sir John Franklin high school, Bran has been studying environmental science in Vancouver for the last two years.

Though young, he brings considerable experience to his new role.

"Two years ago I worked in the clerk's office during the summer, and got to know Mr. (David) Hamilton and the other clerks," said Bran. "That gave me an understanding of how things work here."

Bran also worked as a page while attending school in Yellowknife.

A big part of his job as deputy sergeant-at-arms is overseeing the young pages who fill members' water glasses, deliver their messages and distribute translation equipment to visitors to the assembly.

Bran noted the territorial assembly is more supportive of youth than most.

Most jurisdictions use second- or third-year university students.

"Here we take a chance and prove to the rest of the country that kids this age can do a good job," said Bran, signalling to the young scouts who were on duty this week.

Providing that chance means a little more attention to detail for Bran and Whitford.

During break this day, Bran checks the appearance of his troops before they head back into the assembly.

He notices one's tie is sprinkled with doughnut dust and orders it cleaned up. Also, there are glasses and jugs across from the member's lounge that need to be put away.

"They have a lot of energy, so they can get jumpy. Sometimes I have to remind them not to run, and that they're on TV all the time they are in here."

Bran said that when they're not speaking in the legislature, MLAs are just like anyone else. But their job isn't his cup of tea.

"My parents keep asking if I have an interest in getting into politics. I just don't have the patience. It seems to take so long to get things done."