Rocky Simpson

Thank you. Are there any further general comments? Member for Frame Lake.

The NWT has issues such as lack of housing, addictions, effects of residential schools, and others. Compared to the rest of Canada, these issues negatively impact delivery of extended care and homecare support due to our relatively small population. I would ask the Minister: what, if any, consideration was given to the uniqueness of northern health issues during the recent review process for determining long-term bed requirements for Hay River?

Thank you. Member.

Thank you. The motion is in order. To the motion. Mr. O'Reilly.

Thank you. Member for Frame Lake.

Thank you. I will now open the floor to general comments on Committee Report 8-19(2), Report on Motion 5-19(2): Referral of Point of Privilege Raised by Member for Monfwi on March 10, 2020. Do any Members have general comments? Mr. Norn.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Other than recommendations from the NWT Home and Community Care report dated September 26, 2019, I have not seen, in support of its intent to reduce the number of long-term beds for Hay River, a substantive action plan from the department that establishes how it will achieve effective homecare for Hay River or throughout the NWT. As it stands now, there are no additional dollars, infrastructure, or identified staff increases to support that objective.

Mr. Speaker, the argument for reducing the number of beds for Hay River is weak at best. I would recommend that the...

Thank you. Member.

Thank you. To the motion.

I will now call Committee of the Whole to order. Committee, we have agreed to consider Tabled Document 286-19(2) Main Estimates 2021-2022. Does the Minister of Finance have any opening remarks?