SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE
On Dec .14, the 18th Legislative Assembly held a roundtable discussion to kick off the government's priority-setting process.

NWT Commissioner George Tuccaro, left, and Deh Cho MLA Michael Nadli sign papers during the swearing in ceremony Dec. 8 at the legislative assembly in Yellowknife. - Shane Magee/NNSL photo

The discussion was open to the public and went out on broadcast in what a GNWT news release referred to as "an important departure from past practice."

Deh Cho MLA Michael Nadli said the public roundtable hearkens a new standard of transparency for the territorial government.

"That goes along the lines of the spirit of the mission we had in the last assembly. We tried to ensure the government would act in a manner that was open and ... (report) back to us. That was the mission we had last year," Nadli said.

"It's quite a departure from (the past)."

Nahendeh MLA Shane Thompson said having the roundtable opened up to the public allowed members to speak openly about their regional priorities.

"It was a good change, from my standpoint," he said.

"People have always asked the question, 'How are things done?' All 19 members agreed this is a new way of doing business. We don't want to hide what's going on."

During the roundtable, each MLA was given a window of time for a speech outlining their priorities. While much of the discussion centered around topics MLAs campaigned on, both Thompson and Nadli agreed land claims is one of their top priorities.

Nadli, who referred to the Dehcho Process as his "mission" for the 18th assembly, said the process is paramount for his riding and, once concluded, would provide a foundation for communities to tackle their other issues, such as economic development and unemployment.

"Once (claims) are concluded, it will bring a level of certainty. Things will be clear in terms of jurisdictions and roles of First Nations and governments," he said.

"That could (bring) a climate for exploration activity and some form of resource development, balanced with our values of environment and ensuring jobs and business opportunities can be invigorated in the Deh Cho. Because right now, it's pretty bleak."

Nadli cited high unemployment rates and social issues as two factors that make it necessary for the government to resolve outstanding land claims.

"In most communities, there is on average at least 50 per cent unemployment. We have very high social problems and people are simply looking for jobs and a better way of life," he said.

"If we can reach that step of concluding land claims agreements, then we can begin (developing) opportunities in terms of economic development."

Thompson agreed the Dehcho Process is a priority, adding that the government needs to wrap up its negotiations with other land claimants as well, such as Acho Dene Koe.

"I'm hoping the territorial government and aboriginal groups are able to work this out, and we can have a situation where all four claims are done in this legislative assembly," Thompson said.

He is also pushing for the government to address the current funding deficit to municipalities.

"(Our priorities) are based on need, not want, so we as a government need to realize what has the hugest impact on everybody in the territory. Everybody lives in a community," he said.

While Nadli said he is "open" to a cabinet position, Thompson said he will be seeking a spot as well.

"I don't do anything easy," the first-time MLA said.

Thompson joined 10 other MLAs in being elected as first-time members of the assembly. He said that over the last month he has gained confidence in the team he will be working with

"The other new MLAs are very energetic. We're coming in with our eyes open and we understand we're not going to be able to change the world overnight," he said.

"The returning MLAs have also been very open and supportive of us ... With the 19 of us, there's potential we could have a very strong team to get us through this hard time."

The legislative assembly's Speaker and the territory's new premier were both to be selected after press time on Dec. 16.

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