Upon election, what do you plan to accomplish in your first 90 days, what about a year?
Upon taking office, I plan to establish full-time constituency services for Range Lake, expanding financial benefits for wildfire evacuees and commissioning an independent review of the wildfire evacuation process, producing a report in 120 days. I’ll also work with other MLAs to develop a Universal Basic Income (UBI) pilot program within 120 days to combat poverty, commission an independent report on negotiated land claims and self-government agreements within 180 days, and make recommendations for full implementation of modern treaty provisions. In the coming year, I’ll prioritize reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, making new offers for all active land claim tables in 365 days and ensuring a fair nation-to-nation approach for all negotiating parties.
What are the most pressing issues you plan to address during your time in office?
I understand the hardships you’ve endured, and I’m committed to making things right. I’ve made healthcare, economic growth and public safety priorities for my campaign and I hope to make them the top priorities for the next government. In these uncertain times, healthcare is my top priority. Over the past four years, we’ve faced unprecedented challenges, but together, we can build a stronger, more resilient healthcare system. As we rebuild after multiple disasters, economic growth is essential. I believe in a balanced approach that supports local businesses, creates jobs, and fosters innovation. Supporting Northern businesses is at the heart of this strategy. Safety is non-negotiable. Recent events have shown us the importance of preparedness and a reliable public safety system. Together, we can build a future where safety is never compromised.
What is your plan to bring workers to the north, and keep residents in the NWT?
I’m committed to boosting the well-being of Northerners and our economy. We can do this through establishing a Natural Resource Dividend, worth up to $100 a month per household, that will put cash in the hands of Northerners, ease the high cost of living and reduce poverty. It’s a proven solution from other Northern regions and will work to keep Northerners in their communities and attract new workers and residents to the NWT. To strengthen our workforce and competitiveness, I pledge to enhance the NWT Territorial Nominee Program, focusing on skilled workers, business investment, and family reunification. This will be complemented by Newcomer Support Services for a smoother transition to success in our communities.
As housing prices continue to rise, do you have plans to address the needs of those struggling to live in the north?
The NWT has a housing problem. We need to not only expand on housing opportunities but make housing more affordable to all. We can do this with a comprehensive approach that includes significant investments in the development of affordable housing units, ensuring that everyone has access to a safe and stable home. Additionally, this approach will implement robust tenant protections and rent stabilization measures to shield renters from excessive increases, fostering a more secure and predictable rental environment. To further empower our communities, we’ll initiate homeownership programs specifically designed for low and middle-income families. These programs will provide financial assistance through grants, subsidies, and low-interest loans, making the dream of homeownership a tangible reality for more residents. By combining these strategies, we can pave the way for a brighter housing future in the NWT, where affordable and secure housing is within reach for all.
Due to the rise in drug crime and homelessness in the territory and its communities, can you describe the number one crime-related issue you plan on addressing first?
In these unprecedented times, our first responders are called on now more than ever, and we must ensure well-equipped and well-trained public safety departments. We can help bolster police services through increased funding to improve response times and capabilities, provide effective equipment and training, along with mental health and wellness support. To create safer communities, we can allocate more resources to community policing, promote collaboration between law enforcement and residents, and address the root causes of crime with funding for substance abuse prevention and youth support programs. We can also provide funding to invest in programs and activities that support young people to deter them from engaging in criminal activities.
