Yellowknife, N.W.T. - The 17th Legislative Assembly is back for its third session.

As is the custom with a session opening, commissioner George Tuccaro began the proceedings with an address, but he changed things up this time by reading a throne speech-type statement.

Tuccaro's address laid out the government's agenda for the coming months and he said he will continue to make addresses like this one in the future.

The reason for the new type of address is to recognize the territory becoming more self-reliant through devolution and Tuccaro says it would finally give the NWT what other provinces already enjoy.

"It will give northerners the power to shape what happens in our own backyard. Making us masters of our own home masters of our own destiny," he said.

Tuccaro also said it won't be an easy job, but he's confident all levels of government are up to the job.

"I look forward to the time when we as northerners will have the authority to properly manage public lands, resources and water in a responsbile and sustainable manner for the benefit of the current and future generations," he said.

He added that devolution will be successful if everyone comes together to make it work.

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