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Dissolve the people? Yellowknifer - Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Brooks wasn't present when the memo was issued March 21, just one week after voters decisively rejected the city's plan to borrow up to $49 million to build a downtown district energy system using wood pellets and geothermal heat from Con Mine. But most of Brooks' council colleagues were at that meeting. Their silence and seeming lack of interest in administration's plot to do away with the need to seek voter approval on multi-million dollar projects is very troubling. Coun. Cory Vanthuyne, while insisting he wouldn't allow the city to proceed with another $49 million borrowing scheme without voter approval, said he didn't think administration "was trying to be devious in any shape or form," which is simply a naive thing to say in light of the glaringly obvious timing, and administration's gall to press forward with it in spite of it all. Fortunately, the memorandum's authors - in their haste to respond to the decision handed to them by voters - assumed too much. The GNWT's Cities, Towns and Villages Act does not, in fact, give the city authority to do away with referendums as administration learned just a day or two after presenting council with the memo. Well, what a relief. Thank heavens there are some checks to administration's petty little schemes because council is certainly not jumping to our defence. It's bad enough that administration would charge ahead with a contemptuous and hastily written attack on our right to vote on major borrowing plans, but council's inability to fully recognize the danger is even worse. No doubt there are some good minds at city hall, and many, if not most of the city's programs, are ably run. But there is also some testiness and impatience showing through when administrators are forced to answer to the public. Late last year a senior public works official lashed out at the perception that the private sector can do a job more efficiently and cheaper than the city; last week another senior official balked at answering Brooks' question on whether referendums would continue should a debt management proposal be approved. Obviously, being put on the spot is not the favourite part of the job for most bureaucrats, especially when dealing with a public that's not always well-informed or well-versed in public policy. The real problem comes when city councillors start empathizing with and internalizing administration's frustrations and annoyances. This leads to council meetings moving behind closed doors with undisclosed discussions. Ultimately, as was the case before the late 1990s, the danger is that council will start voting in secret. City council clearly became very emotionally attached to the Con energy plan and because of that, councillors stopped asking hard questions of administration, except for David Wind. The result was the appearance of city council as pitchmen for city hall rather than guardians of the public trust. If council supports administration in throwing up walls to guard the city from public input, then councillors are cutting themselves off from everyday people, some of them with considerable expertise, who would otherwise be there to give them advice. Sixty years ago German playwright Bertolt Brecht penned a famous retort: "Would it not be easier for the government to dissolve the people and elect another?" It was in response to the exasperated cries from East Germany's rulers regarding a workers' uprising. They were shocked their subjects would be so insolent as to not trust their guiding hand to lead them. From the manner in which city hall has reacted to the voters' rejection of its $49 million borrowing scheme last month, the city's senior bureaucrats aim to follow Brecht's advice. It's therefore critical that council doesn't follow their lead. Aglukkaq could avoid grocery bill in this election Darrell Greer Kivalliq News - Wednesday, April 6, 2011 As this was written on April 1 (oh, the irony), the Liberals - regarded by many to pose the biggest threat to Tory MP Leona Aglukkaq in the upcoming federal election - still hadn't named a candidate. Most Canadians are not looking forward to going to the polls yet again. But, for Aglukkaq, the timing for a federal election couldn't have been better. Aglukkaq has fared fairly well during her time in office, proving herself to be far more than a token appointment to a ministerial position by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. She's avoided the "sexy" issues that have all but claimed the political careers of others, and has shown the instincts of a far more experienced denizen of capital hill than she actually is. On her best days, Aglukkaq comes across as truly pushing Northern issues to the front burners of the Tory agenda, and her openness to consulting on issues with Senator Dennis Patterson is a lot more than window dressing to keep folks happy at home. On her worst days, Aglukkaq can come across as someone who's made the big time and forgotten her roots. And, nowhere is that more obvious than in her unbridled support of the new Nutrition North Canada program that has replaced the old food mail program. Has Aglukkaq's paycheque become large enough that she no longer remembers what it's like to stand in a major Nunavut grocery store with the sick feeling in your stomach that comes from knowing the cash in your purse isn't nearly enough to cover the items on your list? We all know the saying if you want something bad enough in one of our stores, don't look at the price, just put it in your basket. Unfortunately there are many good people in Nunavut who do have to look at the price, no matter how bad they want something. And, as a further memo to some of the good folks in Ottawa, we're not slow on the uptake in Nunavut. We get it. We know the importance of trying to eat healthier foods and we understand your new program is aimed at promoting healthier choices, not lowering that big number staring back at us from the bottom of our grocery bills. But that doesn't change the fact $300 doesn't buy $600 of totally healthy food items to feed a family. Leaving the government's totally ridiculous claim of the pitiful low number of Inuit who own a credit card aside: the old program, at least, offered everyone a chance to use southern retailers to keep their cupboards full without having to build a garage big enough to store a year's worth of items at barge time. And, whether the Tories admit it or not, it is, indeed, subsidizing junk food when you give our major retailers the power to negotiate a flat rate across the board for the items they bring in by air. Second memo to Ottawa folks: this is not rocket science. Aglukkaq may win this election before the majority of Nunavummiut realize how badly conceived the new program truly is (in its present form). But, then again, a strong Liberal candidate still has time to make a good run. After all, they may have more money than a lot of us, but, the last time we checked, shareholders in our major stores (those who actually live in Nunavut) still only have one vote each.
Elders vital to education NWT News/North - Monday, April 4, 2011
As incumbent Dennis Bevington's success has proved over his two abbreviated terms in office, toeing the party line is not necessarily the best approach. Despite constituents knowing the NDP will likely never rule the House of Commons, Bevington has managed to hold on to his seat - with strong support from many communities. That's not to say having an MP who is not sitting with the governing party is the best choice for the territory but it does show that a lot of voters in the NWT consider the candidate and not the party when casting a ballot. And there is no shortage of issues for a federal MP candidate to consider. Increasing our debt limit, as Bevington attempted to do before Parliament dissolved, is one issue that needs serious consideration. But giving the territory more borrowing room doesn't have to mean raising the lending ceiling, a choice that would result in more money spent on interest payments instead of programs. For years the GNWT has argued with the federal government to exclude debt from Crown corporations such as the NWT Power Corp. from the territory's overall accumulated debt. Considering that debt is self-liquidating -- paid for by ratepayers -- it makes sense to free up the more than $100 million for other endeavours. Our territory is in need of improved social programs, especially addictions treatment centres closer to people's home communities. Regional rehabilitation centres in the Beaufort Delta, Sahtu and perhaps Yellowknife would make it easier to access services for those who want to heal. Infrastructure funding is another hot topic. A deal to help finance the Mackenzie Valley pipeline and build the Mackenzie Valley highway would bring jobs to thousands and boost the economies of many communities along the route. For the people of the Beaufort Delta, a reaffirmation of the $150 million in funding for the Tuktoyaktuk to Inuvik highway that disappeared when the government fell should not be forgotten. We need money for policing, nurses and doctors, teachers, and adapting infrastructure to the effects of climate change. Any candidate worth representing us in Ottawa must be prepared to give straight answers on these topics during the campaign period.
Erasmus sends the right message NWT News/North - Monday, April 4, 2011 Edward Erasmus began his first few days as Tlicho grand chief on the right foot. Following his election victory, he spoke to the need for unity among Tlicho leaders and communities. The Tlicho government, like many governments, has struggled with controversy over the years. Chiefs from Behchoko, Whati and Gameti took the Tlicho government to court in 2009 to challenge a decision to eliminate the chiefs executive council -- community chiefs sat on that committee and were charged with overseeing Tlicho law. The Supreme Court rightly ruled that the decision rested with the Tlicho Assembly. Canada's highest court reinforced the message that the Tlicho people have been trusted with the right of self-determination. Shortly after he was elected, Erasmus told News/North his mandate is to build communication and trust among all four Tlicho communities. "It doesn't matter where we are; it's very important to build a good working agreement," he said. We encourage Erasmus to stay true to that course and hope the community chiefs come to the table with similar intent. The Tlicho are the first NWT aboriginal people to achieve self-government and therefore should strive to serve as an example to other First Nations exploring the same path. As a people, the Tlicho have largely succeeded in preserving their culture and language. In 2009, 90.4 per cent of residents in the region spoke the Tlicho language, according to the NWT Bureau of Statistics. The region has the highest rate of traditional speakers in the territory. Maintaining a strong and unified government will ensure the Tlicho continue to maintain healthy ties to their traditional ways while guiding their own future. Co-operation and communication will be vital to those goals and we hope Erasmus's spirit of co-operation leads the Tlicho people to a common goal.
Mining brings opportunities Nunavut News/North - Monday, April 4, 2011 Mining, more than any other industry, has the potential to fuel Nunavut's economy over the next several decades. The territory has vast, untapped mineral deposits that are attracting attention from mining companies around the world. After the global economic meltdown in 2008, investment in Nunavut's exploration sector rebounded faster than many other jurisdictions, including the NWT. Spending on mineral exploration in the territory is expected to increase by 22 per cent this year over last year, to an estimated $322.8 million. Newmont Mining Corporation alone is more than doubling its spending to $300 million this year from $140 million last year on its Hope Bay gold project 90 km south of Cambridge Bay. There are projects ongoing in all three regions, evaluating the mining potential of gold, silver, diamond, iron, uranium, zinc, lead and copper deposits. Gold and iron, in particular, are among Nunavut's hottest commodities at the moment. There are significant benefits tied to welcoming exploration and development of the territory's mineral resources - infrastructure, jobs, training, contracts and other business opportunities. Many people in Baker Lake can attest to that since Agnico Eagle's Meadowbank gold mine opened last year. Mining is poised to be a huge economic driver in Nunavut. However, there are obstacles on this road to prosperity. One is the high costs of doing business in the North, due to the lack of roads, ports or even safe anchorages for large vessels in most communities. Another is getting kids to school and raising graduation and post-secondary education rates so more Nunavummiut will qualify for higher-paying jobs with mining firms. Both Nunavut Tunngavik and the Government of Nunavut have been very clear that they want the opportunities mining can bring. But both are also committed to preserving Inuit culture, and are adamant exploration and development should do as little harm as possible to the land, waters and wildlife which are integral to Inuit cultural practices and identity. These principles have come under scrutiny recently in regards to uranium mining near Baker Lake. Supporting these two contrasting objectives requires striking a fine balance, and some Nunavummiut are concerned the balance is tipping too far in favour of the mining side rather than the socio-economic side. Both governments are now seeking public input before reviewing their policies on uranium mining. Though uranium mining brings concerns not common to other types of ore, the discussion comes at a time when many communities are in consultations with companies seeking to set up operations nearby. We hope the different viewpoints raised at the forums provide Nunavummiut with answers on how to maintain traditional practices and environmental standards while embracing the prosperity associated with extracting valuable elements from Nunavut's ground.
Yk the big election prize Weekend Yellowknifer - Friday, April 1, 2011
Therefore it's necessary once again to ask what the NWT, and Yellowknife in particular, has to gain or lose by the result on May 2.
For incumbent Dennis Bevington, his task remains to convince voters of his relevancy representing the NWT as a member of the NDP. Providing there is no coalition with the Liberals, Bevington and his party have little chance of forming a government.
Bevington was true to his word in voting against the gun registry last year, and has otherwise done a respectable job representing Northerners.
However, with a number of important issues relating to the NWT at the forefront - the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline, devolution, and the massive costs of building infrastructure in the North - the allure of having an MP from the governing party is something that is bound to enter the minds of many voters.
The challengers have their own demons to wrestle with: Liberal Joe Handley will have to wear the albatross his $182 million-and-counting Deh Cho Bridge has become since his time as premier. Conservative Sandy Lee will have to convince the party faithful she really is a Conservative, plus rise above the criticisms of her performance while minister of Health and Social Services. The Green's Eli Purchase, meanwhile, is the lowest profile candidate and will have to work hard to get attention.
There are many issues of particular concern to Yellowknife that candidates ought to address: the lost funding for respite care, the need for a rehabilitation and treatment centre for alcoholics and drug users, the long anticipated changes to the NWT's regulatory regime, long waits to see health care specialists, and the status of Yellowknife as an isolated community and what that means to federal northern living allowances once the Deh Cho Bridge is complete.
Also needing attention is the ongoing sluggishness of the city's economy, where the cost of living continues to rise while job and population growth remains stagnant.
Yellowknife is a handsome prize for any candidate. Whoever wins here, likely wins the Western Arctic seat in the House of Commons. Paying attention to the city's pressing needs is therefore imperative.
The mother of a one-year-old child described a confused and chaotic scene at the Yellowknife Primary Care Centre's day clinic earlier this month.
She told Yellowknifer she arrived early but was funnelled to the back of the line even while manoeuvring a stroller. When the day clinic began accepting patients for the afternoon, everyone rushed for the reception desk to be served. This system leaves seniors, those with disabilities and those with strollers or cradling infants in their arms at a disadvantage. In a room full of people, being the first or last person to arrive at the counter could mean the difference between waiting 10 minutes or a few hours to see a doctor.
The CEO of the Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority said the organization is collecting information to see how it can improve its services. Better organization should be addressed sooner than later.
The take-a-number system at the vehicle licensing bureau is the obvious model to use. It's simple and works well, and it would not be difficult to put in place.
Those who are sick and seeking medical care should not be pitted against each other in a physical contest to see whose name will be first to be called.
The transition period between winter and spring is carnival and jamboree time in the region. Beavertail Jamboree in Fort Simpson, which takes place in early March, is usually the first indicator spring has arrived.
Other festivals follow closely on its heels including the Ndu Tah Spring Carnival in Trout Lake, the Moccasin Spring Carnival in Wrigley, the Deh Cho Bison Jamboree in Fort Providence and the Mudball Carnival in Jean Marie River just to name a few. What is it about these carnivals that makes them so anticipated?
One of the primary allures of the carnivals and jamborees is their timing. As many of their names suggest the events exist as a celebration of the change of seasons. After five months of snow, residents of Deh Cho communities are looking for any excuse to get outside as the weather begins to turn warmer.
But the carnivals are more than just that. Watching the traditional games, often the most popular events, gives a glimpse of their more important function.
There is always such a great atmosphere during the traditional games as residents who haven't seen each other possibly for most of the winter catch up on what they've been doing. People gather and chat while taking in the events and snacking on the food that is unfailingly available hot off of the fire.
Then there are the events themselves. Sure there are prizes to be won at the end but the competitions never get too serious.
Competitors cheer for each other and the crowds cheer everyone on. There is applause when someone shows great technique and strength in the log throw or when a competitor chops their log in four pieces in record time. There is also friendly laughter when a log falls short of its mark or refuses to co-operate under the blows of an axe.
During the traditional games, one sees the celebrations' real function is to bind communities together through shared experiences. This is what makes them so important and why they should be supported.
Carnivals don't happen without volunteers. Some volunteers help year after year but more are always needed to ensure the events continue.
The volunteers who assisted with this year's carnivals deserve a round of thanks. Participants also deserve some credit. Most don't enter the events whether it is the talent show or traditional games expecting to win, but they still come out to share in a good time and support their community.
There were less than a dozen people there.
Granted there was a very full Truth and Reconciliation meeting at Ingamo as well as a bingo, but I think people don't know what they're missing.
The bi-monthly committee of the whole meetings are by far the most entertaining Monday nights I have enjoyed in a long time. I feel like on these nights 7 p.m. is primetime and my favourite show comes on.
I mean most small towns have an essence of ideal reality TV gold to them but Inuvik's shines even brighter somehow.
Now for those of you who haven't seen it before, the show basically stars Mayor Denny Rodgers, the responsible brother trying to make sure everyone in his family understands each topic and is happy. For this, he luckily has his loyal "cousin" and sidekick Grant Hood, who, like Data from Star Trek, can hold a ridiculous volume of figures and plans in his databank. At many points throughout the episode he is called upon to verify or clarify on a topic.
Denny's older, straight-shooting but level-headed sister is Alana Mero, who obviously takes after her father, Clarance Wood. Their calm yet to-the-point mannerisms keep the plot focused and on track. The proud papa often lets her have the reins and just observes quietly especially when his twin - yet polar opposite brother - bursts into the room.
Denny may be the star but Vince Sharpe is a fan favourite. It doesn't matter what the subject, Vince's character is there for some stirring of the pot and some comedic relief. He also works as a great antagonist for his two sporty "nephews," Nick Saturnino and Terry Halifax. When Vince walks into council chambers the recorded applause starts. Every time he speaks, the audience sits on edge with anticipation, as you have no idea what will come out of his mouth. Watch for the ongoing gag between him and Denny where Vince begins speaking without using his microphone, and cue the resulting eye roll from Denny.
These little squibs are quickly attempted to be defused by brother Chris Larocque, but "uncle" Vinny doesn't pay him much mind when on a mission.
Then there's Kurt Wainman, who is like Judd Nelson in the Breakfast Club, kind of quiet and brooding but chiming in with important points. He sits beside his "brother" Jim McDonald, who presents a contrast to Kurt's stony demeanour with his boundless energy.
If you haven't caught this show yet I highly recommend trying at least one episode. It airs every second Monday and Wednesday at 7 p.m.
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