Fort Simpson (Oct 15/04) - Equal training opportunities for industry jobs is needed in Fort Simpson, some residents say.

At a constituency meeting held on Oct. 8, community member Peter Shaw told MLA Kevin Menicoche that the $13 million recently allotted by the government for trades programs is long overdue, but he noted that the funds are designated for aboriginals only.

Nahendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche answers questions during a constituency meeting held at the cultural centre in Fort Simpson Friday. - Derek Neary/NNSL photo

"If you want to start racial tension, boy I'll tell ya we'll need lots of RCMP," Shaw advised. "You've left a lot of your constituents out in the cold."

Resident Rita Cazon concurred.

"You're opening a Pandora's Box if that goes through. I agree with Peter," she said to Menicoche.

Resident Kirby Groat suggested that many young men and women are leaving the community for opportunities elsewhere. He said Dehcho Hall, rather than being torn down, should be converted into a technical school for trades.

The MLA made note of those concerns and acknowledged that training and preparation are required for the proposed Mackenzie Valley pipeline.

He spoke of the need to "kickstart" devolution, the transfer of federal powers to the territorial and aboriginal governments.

Questioned about the loss of an RCMP position from the Fort Simpson detachment, Menicoche replied that he's going to raise the issue in the legislative assembly this week.

He said he will also raise it with MP Ethel Blondin-Andrew when he meets with her this week.

"We all know it's the wrong decision," he said.

Resident Marilyn Lee asked Menicoche about the possibility of more seniors' housing in Fort Simpson. She's already thinking about her retirement years, she said.

"I've given a lot to this community and I'd like to be able to stay here," said Lee.

Menicoche said he'd look into it.

Cazon said she's concerned about elders being sent out for medical care without an escort.

Menicoche said he had already raised that issue with the health minister and was told that a provision is in place for medical escorts.

Lee and fellow community member Lauren Muir said they know of instances where escorts were sought, but could not be found within the community, including family members.