Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak about the need for a dedicated Tlicho administrative region to improve coordinations of government programs and services for Tlicho communities.
Mr. Speaker, one of the challenges with the current North Slave regional structure is that it combines Tlicho communities with Yellowknife, the largest urban centre in the territory. This creates an imbalance in planning and resource allocation because regional priorities are often dominated by the needs of Yellowknife, which has a population of over 21,000 compared to over 3,000 across the four Tlicho communities. As a result, smaller communities like Behchoko, Whati, Gameti, and Wekweeti struggle to have their voices heard and their unique needs addressed.
Issues such as housing shortages, aging infrastructure, and health service gaps can be overshadowed by urban priorities, making it difficult to ensure equitable service delivery and accountability for Tlicho residents. A Tlicho administrative region establish a clear administrative boundary for planning, reporting, and accountability so that commitments to housing maintenance, health staffing, education support, and local infrastructure are clearly tied to the needs of Tlicho communities.
Mr. Speaker, it would allow for better coordination of GNWT programs and services, reduce duplication, and improve transparency in how resources are allocated and delivered. By improving coordination and accountability, this change would help address longstanding gaps in housing, health care, and infrastructure, and strengthen trust between government and Tlicho communities.
Mr. Speaker, a dedicated Tlicho administrative region is a practical step toward better outcomes for families and communities across the Tlicho region. Mr. Speaker, I will have question for the Minister of Finance at appropriate time. Thank you.
Thank you, Member from Monfwi. Members' statements. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.
