The four contenders for Ndilo chief in next week's election gathered in the local gym for the all-candidates Yellowknives Dene Ndilo forum on Aug. 7.
Shirley Tsetta, Liz Liske, Ted Tsetta and incumbent Fred Sangris all put their names forward for this year's election.
Questions from First Nation members ranged from housing to membership, but there was a particular focus on the need for candidates to be accountable for the financial future of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN), and how the candidates would fund language and culture programs for the community.
President and CEO of Denendeh Investments Inc. and Yellowknives Dene member Darrell Beaulieu drew attention to the importance of revenue sources for YKDFN, citing the next five to six years as particularly significant. He asked the candidates to speak on mining, as well as 'cows and plows' and membership.
Meanwhile, Dettah Chief Ernest Betsina asked the candidates what their short- and long-term goals are for the community, and why?
On mining, Sangris said, SA国际影视传媒淭oday, itSA国际影视传媒檚 not only gold and diamonds, there's a lot of different minerals, hundreds of different minerals SA国际影视传媒� and we have it on this land. ItSA国际影视传媒檚 a new technology, and the world is moving that way. Mining is going to be here forever, so we have to find a way of dealing with it."
Regarding her short- and long-term goals for office, Liske said she has heard repeatedly that members want to see a gym built for the school in Ndilo. She also spoke about her desire to focus on language and cultural revitalization.
Shirley Tsetta is hoping to call for a referendum on the Akaitcho Agreement Process, as well as to advance treaty land entitlement to ratification. She also mentioned her strong belief in the need to bring back supports for YKDFN member home ownership and repairs. In addition, she wants to see policy developed for impact benefit agreement funds, and government offices to be build in Ndilo.
Former YKDFN chief Ted Tsetta spoke on the need to advance the 'cows and plows' process to facilitate Indigenous farming, as well as prioritizing a settlement on Giant Mine compensation. He said he will SA国际影视传媒渨ork with youth and all members to go out on the land.SA国际影视传媒�
Election day is set for Aug. 18.
