(YELLOWKNIFE) Monday, March 28, 2022 – The Standing Committee on Social Development, chaired by Caitlin Cleveland, is seeking an extension of their review period to allow further consideration of Bill 40: An Act to Amend the Medical Profession Act.

Bill 40: An Act to Amend the Medical Profession Act (the Bill) received second reading in the House on November 26, 2021, and was referred to the Standing Committee on Social Development (the Committee) for further consideration. The Committee review stage in the legislative process allows for 120 days.

During this review, the Committee was pleased to receive feedback from multiple stakeholders on the Bill. Some of those stakeholders raised concerns with certain aspects of the Bill and certain issues that are not within the scope of this Bill.

Near the end of the Committee’s review period, the Government of the Northwest Territories Department of Health and Social Services identified issues with the Bill that could require substantial amendments. These issues address some of the points of contention identified by stakeholders. The Committee is willing to work collaboratively with the Minister of Health and Social Services to try to make improvements to the Bill and is seeking an extension of their review period.

The extra consideration time will allow the Committee to continue working on the Bill as it evolves to produce the best possible legislation for the people of the Northwest Territories. The Committee intends to re-open public consultation on the Bill and report back to the House during the upcoming May/June sitting of the Assembly.

After the Committee review stage, the Bill will be considered by the Committee of the Whole (comprised of all MLAs), followed by its third reading and vote, followed by its assent from the Commissioner.

To send the Committee a written submission about the Bill or arrange a meeting with the Committee, e-mail Committees@ntassembly.ca.