Kevin A. Menicoche

The community library in Fort Simpson was severely reduced two years ago and is now just a resource centre. The community of Fort Simpson residents were looking for assistance to upgrade, in fact, from a resource centre to a library where there are actual books. Right now there’s just a series of four computers and older books from a library. Even though it works well for residents who are used to the system, the library, the previous library was still a central point for the community and for hosting author events, et cetera. It’s central to any community. The large communities, of course...

I certainly look forward to that document. Final question here is, as the Minister may have already answered it, the Early Child Development Framework for Action has not been revised since 2001, as was mentioned earlier in the Members’ statements earlier this afternoon. That work is certainly behind schedule. When will that work be completed and when will the recommended actions be funded?

Sounds like there is funding available, probably a couple of different types of programming areas. There are a couple of things, I guess. How are they available to communities and is the current funding already subscribed to, which means I guess basically is all being taken up? Is there opportunity for other communities to get involved? Should they be planning it now or in the future?

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Committee wishes to resume consideration of Tabled Document 3-17(3), Northwest Territories Main Estimates 2012-2013, with Education, Culture and Employment, Transportation, and possibly Environment and Natural Resources.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I have several O and M questions that I just wanted to note. Given the time, I move that we report progress.

---Carried

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. We know how important the first three years are in a child’s life. That is when they build the foundation for their future learning and growth. Responsibility for early childhood development is shared between two GNWT departments and Health Canada. In fact, Health Canada is the main funder of one of the best early childhood programs in this territory. I refer to the Open Door Society in my home community. It was founded 17 years ago and is supported by a very dedicated volunteer board. The Open Door has five staff who run programs for children up to age 12, from nine in the...

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Just with regard to airports, I know that we’ve made some significant headway with some of the small communities in my riding in terms of infrastructure and some runway lighting issues. I’d certainly like to continue to ensure that they are followed up. Begging the committee’s indulgence, I do want to speak about the Trout Lake Airport construction. It’s a capital issue but it’s kind of stalled right now. I believe the government’s going to be taking over controlling the contract. The concern from the community is that they don’t lose out. The concern for me...

I’ll certainly look to the ASA Initiative to track it properly and then do a good assessment, because I know that in our schools in the smaller communities, especially at the district, you see the loss of four positions, but a 0.5 position is a huge decrease in the very, very small communities at a time when we look to our education system and want to utilize as many teachers as we can. Having a reduction, even though it’s based on formula, it still impacts our school. I look forward to the progress of the Aboriginal Student Achievement Initiative.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will look forward to build on those yeses here with my questions today. I would like to ask the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, I spoke once again about the need for new schools in Nahanni Butte and Trout Lake. We have super schools and mega renovations in Inuvik and Yellowknife. That is where our education money is being spent. When will the Minister and this government start turning their attention to our small communities and regions? Thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I will be voting in favour of this motion because I am looking for some change and re-evaluation, and even though the motion seems extreme to some Members, that I believe it’s a statement from Members of this side of this House that we cannot go on with the status quo and it should be at least re-evaluated working with our committee system and have a good look at just how we’re doing business. It is a concern in my communities and in my riding, as well, Mr. Chair. Thank you.