Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Agencies, Boards and Commissions was of the opinion that in the absence of the board of directors there must be a well developed framework through which community concerns, suggestions and priorities can be considered at the senior management level of the N.W.T. Housing Corporation.
At the request of the Standing Committee, the Minister has proposed a comprehensive framework for community consultation on housing issues. The goals of the proposed framework are as follows: to make clear the corporation's commitment to consult with communities and M.L.A.s on an ongoing basis to address housing issues; to create increased opportunities for effective consultation and strengthened communication between the corporation and the communities and peoples it serves; to ensure more regular sharing of information and consultation with M.L.A.s, local housing organizations, community governments, band councils, Metis locals and community development corporations; and, to formally consult with communities and M.L.A.s on all major policy and program issues or new initiatives that meet either of the following criteria: policy or program issues which have a universal application and will affect all the Northwest Territories or all the communities in a region; or, policy or program decisions which will affect most or all existing clients.
The proposed consultation model includes strategies that would lead to improved communication with local organizations, with the public at large and with Members of the Legislative Assembly.
The Minister is proposing to institute a process through which the corporation would hold an annual meeting in every district of the Northwest Territories. Representatives of local housing associations and organizations within the district would be invited to participate. In communities where no local housing organization exists, representatives of the community government, band council, Metis local and any community development corporation would be invited to attend.
The purpose of the annual district meetings would be to provide a forum in which housing issues and concerns common to all communities in a district could be raised. The meetings would also provide an opportunity for the Housing Corporation to share information about its initiatives and programs.
The Standing Committee on Agencies, Boards and Commissions took the position that a system of annual district meetings would be a very positive approach to community consultation and could be an even more effective measure for ensuring regional input than is presently provided by the existing board structure.