Rocky Simpson

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I previously said, if we are expected to grow the industry, then we have to provide the support and tools required to make that happen. We can start with our institutions, such as corrections facilities. As both these facilities are under the responsibility of the same Minister, will the Minister of ITI commit to working with the Minister of ECE and Justice to establish small-scale greenhouses on institutional grounds to further the interests of the agricultural sector? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to see those, see where that distribution is because, when you go outside of Yellowknife and pretty well predominantly First Nations Indigenous communities, I just want to see what the buy-in is in those communities and the understanding as well of these programs and if they actually know they are available. The other thing that I would like to know, as well, is: I have got no problem with energy and strategic initiatives. I think we have to look down the road, and as much as I am an oil and gas guy, I realize I have to adapt and change. I would like to...

The agriculture strategy states that, in order to develop the agriculture sector, regulations, legislation, and policies are required at all levels of government to enable the sector to grow and function. Under current legislation, the NWT's agricultural sector has limited room to grow. Production of meats and fish are two areas of concern. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister confirm what, if any, progress is being made with respect to addressing the issue of legislation and policy that is happening in our agricultural sector?

Thank you, Madam Chair. With respect to the $12.39 million, what percentage of those funds would actually stay in Yellowknife versus going out to projects in the communities? Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to focus on some positive news that relates to an important sector of the economy which can greatly impact our residents' access to fresh and reasonably priced products in the Northwest Territories. That sector is agriculture. This government developed an agricultural strategy in 2017 with overall goals of building a relevant and viable agriculture industry; providing support for the safe, sustainable development of food production systems; support to advance and contribute to the sustainability of NWT communities; encourage and support the transfer of food...

Thank, Madam Chair. The labour cost charged for shipyard personnel by ORSI, is that included in that number? Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Have we been in any discussions with the federal government and requested that they provide the funds to cover the Metis Health Benefits? Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. One of the issues that come up in Hay River, as well, is because of the number of non-Indigenous Metis there. They don't have the same coverage as the Indigenous Metis. I look at NIHB, which covers pretty much all the First Nations across Canada, whereas what we have here for the Metis is for a specific group of Metis. The question, and I think maybe it's been answered, is: is the department looking at maybe looking at including the non-Indigenous Metis and looking for additional funds to ensure that all Metis are covered in the Northwest Territories under the Metis...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can the Minister provide us with an indication of the efficacy of the vaccine when receiving a second shot after the 28th day and up to the 42nd day? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Can the Minister confirm if there was a decision made by the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer to forego the administration of a second dose of the vaccine in favour of providing as many NWT residents with a first dose?