Wally Schumann

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When this came up on a quick and short notice, the local superintendent out of the Inuvik region would have notified the mayor of Aklavik. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I believe there have been some challenges around accessing parts and stuff, but I believe that, going forward, with all the other work that is happening, I do not believe that will impede the delivery date of when we are going to put the ferries in during the first or second week of June.

This is the first I've heard of this situation. I want to sit down with the Member after session today and get the details on it. I believe 15 months definitely is too long to hear back on an issue.

As I said last week in this House, I think we anticipate the launching of the ferries in a timely manner, as it normally is the first or second week of June. Like I say, we are doing some painting. We are doing inspections. We are doing some maintenance on the vessels. I do not know if the loaders and stuff are out fixing the approaches right now, as they could be soft still from the water levels just recently receding. I can check into it and update the Member.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories made a commitment in its mandate to capture opportunities by securing funding for three new transportation corridors. Investing in the Tlicho All-Season Road, Slave Geological Province Access Corridor, and the Mackenzie Valley Highway will support sustainable communities while strengthening our economy. Each project will create significant job and training opportunities, helping develop our northern workforce. As more communities are connected to the highway system, essential goods and materials can be delivered more effectively, and the...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, we've heard certain challenges from certain people in the manufacturing sector in the Northwest Territories. That's why we're coming forward with a manufacturer's strategy and, in the life of this government, we will address those in particular. As I've said, we have a very robust procurement system in the Northwest Territories; probably better than any province or territory in Canada. We will continue going down that road to help northern businesses meet the procurement to the Government of the Northwest Territories.

No, I am not willing to commit to do that. As I've said in this House, I believe we have a good system in place. Is it perfect? No. We will continually work to improve it for residents in the Northwest Territories and businesses in the NWT.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I committed to getting back to the House on that communication that we would have, particularly with the contractors of the winter road, and I have not got that to date. I will follow up and get back to the Member.

We may have to bring the Member onboard for the Marine Transportation System. He has guaranteed river levels. We will work diligently to do all the prep work to the site and make sure the boats are up and running safely. We will work with all Members of this House to let them know when we can get them in on a timely matter, subject to the river conditions.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, I will have to defer that question to the Minister of Health and Social Services with respect to abattoir legislation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.