Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (May 30/03) - The federal secretary of state for rural development was inundated with requests for assistance during his visit to Fort Simpson on Saturday.

Ten representatives from Fort Simpson, Fort Liard and Trout Lake solicited several things from Andy Mitchell.

Common among them was a plea for access to capital, particularly to help enhance local infrastructure in preparation for the forthcoming Mackenzie Valley pipeline.

As well, there were calls for the renewal of a federal/NWT Economic Development Agreement and road improvements and extensions in the territory.

"When we have people like you come in, our shopping list is never small," Fort Simpson Mayor Tom Wilson said.

Peter Shaw, a retired civil servant, took the federal government to task for off-loading responsibilities to the territorial government, resulting in lesser service. In particular, Shaw noted, the hospital has been downgraded to a health centre and the airport "is crumbling."

"You guys guaranteed that the service was going to be as good or better," said Shaw, a 35-year resident of Fort Simpson. "Somebody should be kicking somebody's ass."

Following the meeting, Mitchell acknowledged that he didn't make any commitments other than to write formal letters of response to each person who raised concerns.

"I try very hard not to make promises," Mitchell said.

Regardless, Wilson said it was good just to have the secretary visit in person so he'll have some first-hand experience with this area, its leaders and its needs.

The secretary had been in Yellowknife on business prior to coming to Fort Simpson, his only other stop in the NWT.