Rocky Simpson

Next question is: has the Minister commenced discussion with the Minister of Lands on how to address the need for lands dedicated for agricultural use in the South Slave?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The need for a strategy to advance economic opportunities and agriculture was identified in the 2013 Economic Opportunities Strategy. Subsequently, the 18th Assembly developed an agricultural strategy that looked to expand the agricultural sector, increase local food production, increase producer and supplier opportunities, and improve distribution networks for NWT food and food-related products.

Three terms later, this 19th Legislative Assembly continues on a path looking to increase employment in small communities, reduce the cost of living, increase economic...

No, I think that's all. I just want to make sure that fish are protected. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Is there a budget item or a budget amount for the policing? Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I guess I just see the title, wildlife and fish, and I am just curious at what section the fish are actually in here. I see lots of fur-bearing type headings. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I guess I see forestry as a potential for development and a way to create jobs and that, so I also encourage ENR to work with ITI to promote it, because it appears to me that, I guess, living in the South Slave, I don't see a lot of harvesting going on; there is a little bit. I guess, in saying that, I would kind of like to know from the Minister: what activities, or to what extent are activities happening in the South Slave with respect to harvesting? Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I'm just looking at page 81. Under industry development, there is a section on forest management agreements. Do we have any in place, and how many? Thank you, Madam Chair.

Can the Minister confirm whether she's prepared to address the need for legislation that will enhance and support an agricultural sector in the NWT?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In Hay River, we have trees, fish, roads, a port, and agriculture. My questions will be for the Minister of ITI. Can the Minister of ITI tell me if her department is prepared to action the agricultural strategy prepared by the 18th Assembly? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Madam Chair. With respect to, I guess, lands and unsettled areas, like the South Slave for instance and the Deh Cho, ITI developed an agricultural policy or a strategy. I am just wondering. I hear concerns, I guess, from people who want to do agriculture and they don't have access to lands, except for little plots, possibly. Is your department looking at maybe how to resolve that and allow some lands to be made available for agricultural use? Whether it's only one year at a time, people are looking for something to expand that market. Thank you, Madam Chair.