Legislative reports: Northwest Territories.

The Third Session of the Fourteenth Legislative Assembly reconvened on February 14, 2001. Joe Handley, Minister of Finance, gave notice that the budget address for the fiscal year 2001-2002 would be presented on Thursday, February 15, 2001.

In his Budget Address, Mr. Handley highlighted some of the aspects of the tremendous economic potential in the Northwest Territories. These include incredible opportunities in the oil and gas sector, diamond mining and manufacturing, hydro-electricity and tourism.

He also highlighted some of the key initiatives for the year, including initiative to match northerners with jobs that utilize their training and skills and ensuring that our children get every opportunity to lead fulfilling and productive lives. The government will continue to work with aboriginal governments, the federal government and with industry to ensure the future prosperity of the Northwest Territories and will focus on the need to create business and employment opportunities for Northerners, while being mindful of the need to protect the environment.

The Northwest Territories is in a position that is unique in Canada, and perhaps the world," said Mr. Handley. "We are beginning to experience significant new economic development opportunities while continuing to enjoy clean water, air and land, and abundant wildlife and fish.

In the budget there was a continued emphasis on maximizing northern employment and ensuring that the jobs that are going to arise in the next few years in the developing industries in the NWT, can be filled with qualified, educated Northerners.

The government will continue to focus on literacy as a priority for Northerners. There is a need to emphasize the importance of literacy and to ensure that all Northerners with literacy needs have access to programs and services that strengthen their skills.

The Assembly has identified Early Childhood Development as a priority. They have responded to this challenge and are prepared to implement an Early Childhood Development Action Plan.

The government intends to focus on these key initiatives and continue to invest in education, health care and Income Support. There will also be significant contributions to upgrading highways throughout the Northwest Territories over the next four years.

During this sitting, five Bills received Royal Assent. These include:

* Bill 14, An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act

* Bill l7, An Act to Amend the Legislative Assembly and...