Kevin A. Menicoche

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. If the Minister of DPW is ready with his opening remarks, I would be prepared to receive them.

Mr. Speaker, you can understand me when I say that I expect the Minister of MACA to have a lot of sympathy for me when I say Fort Simpson needs a new pool too. All kidding aside, Mr. Speaker, the pool in Fort Simpson is in about the same shape as the pool in Fort Providence was. It’s only three feet deep, has paint chips falling in it and all the wood is rotting. In my own words, Mr. Speaker, I realize that tax-based communities are supposed to pay for their own infrastructure, but let’s be honest here. How is a town of just over 1,000 supposed to pay for a new pool out of their property...

That’s good.

Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I want to discuss the aboveground pool program in the Northwest Territories and make some comments about the swimming pool in Fort Simpson and the poor condition it is in. Mr. Speaker, a new recreational facility such as an aboveground swimming pool could contribute to the overall health of the community. Entire families could enjoy what a swimming pool has to offer, be it from swimming lessons, competitive sports or leisurely activities. Mr. Speaker, I couldn’t have said it any better myself. If these words sound familiar, it is because they should...

With respect to the courthouse again, what is actually going to happen this fiscal year with that $1 million?

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I give in. I just wanted to ask a few questions again, with regard to the new courthouse, the actual cost. I know that the studies come around here this fiscal year. What was the estimated cost again, Mr. Chair?

Thank you, Ms. Lee. Mr. Dent.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I actually don’t have any further questions at this point. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. My question today is for the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. Last week I spoke about taxation on aboriginal education that’s due to take place April 1st. I was just wondering if the Minister knows how much of an impact it will have upon our students and is it actually SFA funding that’s impacted as well. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. That has great implications, because I am of the understanding that the GNWT receives money from the federal government for aboriginal education. Perhaps just briefly, without getting into too much debate, Mr. Speaker, if the Minister can explain or detail the terms of that contract. Thank you.