Daniel McNeely

My next question, and I thank the Minister for that answer: does the Minister see the arts sector as one that can play a role in building our economy?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like other Dene communities in the Northwest Territories, the Sahtu Dene display great artistic abilities and traditionally created sewn items from tanned hides.

Mr. Speaker, supports for arts in general can be seen throughout the Northwest Territories. The 2014-2015 fiscal year was a very busy one. ITI contributed through the SEED program to the Sahtu and to the NWT Arts registered database seen 84 local artists. Examples of displayed art can be seen at every Sahtu Air terminal building in the region. The art products are unique and attractive.

Mr. Speaker, Northwest...

Thank you, Mr. Chair. That was it.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My question is on page 42. In the current bilateral agreements, discussions between this government and the federal government, can we see some additional funding coming in for the fiscal year for, more specifically, the whole area of early childhood programming or any other funding that is under way through these bilateral negotiations? Thank you, Mr. Chair.

In my statement earlier, I had mentioned both departments, ECE and ITI. My next question is: what joint funding initiatives are available for traditional artists in the Northwest Territories by a strategy that includes both departments?

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. In the whole community of sports, recreation, arts and crafts, my first question to the Minister of ITI is: what role does ITI play in supporting the arts in the Northwest Territories? Mahsi.

Thank you, Mr. Vice Chair. The motion is on the floor to report progress. The motion is in order and is nondebatable. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried.

Carried

I will rise and report progress. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My last question prior to the long weekend is: will the Minister, along with the Minister responsible for Seniors and the Minister responsible for HSS, taking Minster Moses' lead on our request, coordinate a seniors' gathering in preparation for the opening of the Sahtu Regional Health Centre later this spring? Mahsi.

I am glad to hear there is a wide variety of programs available to our elders. Can the Minister explain the elders' fuel subsidy program in general detail? For example, does the rate of subsidy differ from smaller communities to regional communities?

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Our NWT elders deserve the utmost respect and expect their government's support on elders' subsidy programs; their well-earned financial securities are designed to support their retirement. The Government of the Northwest Territories offers a variety of security benefits to the elders' community. It is comforting to know that both federal and territorial levels of government are there to assist.

Mr. Speaker, offering eligibility and screening the applications is and can be questionable. Like many other policies offered by the government, reviews on efficiencies can be...