Fort Simpson (May 19/06) - Better health care, a stronger RCMP presence and more educational opportunities are some of the wishes Deh Cho residents want if the Mackenzie Valley pipeline becomes a reality.

Victor Boots, a resident of Willowlake River, addresses the Joint Review Panel in Wrigley while Rita Betsedea watches. - Roxanna Thompson/NNSL photo

In Wrigley, Fort Liard, Jean Marie River and Trout Lake people brought their concerns and their hopes to the Joint Review Panel as it toured the region.

In Wrigley on May 11 a number of presenters talked about the community's desire to have a stronger nurse and RCMP presence before the pipeline arrives.

"Most of all we need a good nurse here in Wrigley," said Charlie Talley.

Talley said his concern is mainly for the health of elders. He added that the pipeline should help create better recreational facilities in the community.

"It would be nice if we see some changes in Wrigley for the kids," said Talley.

As part of his presentation, Michael Neyelle, also mentioned the need to work hard on access and benefits agreements for the pipeline so that the children will benefit.

"Even though we say no we know in the end it will go through," said Neyelle.

The Joint Review Panel also heard a joint presentation by residents from Willowlake River, including Betty Ann Betsedea, Rita Betsedea, Robert Hardisty and Victor Boots.

"We would like to say no," said Betty Ann Betsedea on the pipeline.

She added that they know they can't stop the pipeline, so they are instead asking for help in obtaining a telephone and electricity.

In Fort Liard on May 12, Chief Harry Deneron said he supports the construction of the pipeline.

"We are simply looking for the opportunity and the spin-off that this pipeline will bring," said Deneron, according to the transcripts of the hearing.

Many presenters spoke about Fort Liard's previous experiences with oil and gas development projects.

Jim Duntra said he thinks students need opportunities like the pipeline for jobs.

"I think it's good for the young people to get into the work nowadays because I believe that we can't go back to trapping and that stuff any more," he said, according to transcripts.

Joanne Deneron also spoke about the opportunities for work that the pipeline might provide.

When the panel reached Jean Marie River on May 15, the students from Louie Norwegian school were ready.

The students each made a brief statement to the panel accompanied by a drawing. Concerns included that the pipeline will make the animals move away and that strangers will move into the community.

Some students spoke about positive effects such as more jobs for community members that will provide more money.

Many people spoke about their concerns for the land and wildlife.

Elder Leo Norwegian voiced his support for the pipeline.

"The pipeline is going to do us good," said Norwegian, according to transcripts.

The transcripts for the May 16 hearing in Trout Lake were not available before the paper went to print.

See inside the paper for more on the Joint Review Panel general hearings held in Fort Simpson.