Rocky Simpson

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?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The handling of the COVID-19 pandemic by the Chief Public Health Officer and her staff has paid off when one looks at the low number of cases, with no confirmed deaths in the Northwest Territories. Compared to the rest of Canada, the NWT appears to be moving along quickly with the rollout of the vaccine, which has resulted in the NWT receiving 19,100 doses with another 16,200 expected shortly. To date, approximately 14,600 first doses and 2,000 second doses have been administered in the NWT.

Mr. Speaker, the World Health Organization, in an interim guidance communication...

That's all. Thank you.

Thank you. That will suffice, that answer? Member.

Minister.

Mr. O'Reilly.

Thank you. Minister.