Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have three returns. Mr. Speaker, I have a return for Mr. Koe, Question O316-12(2) was asked by Mr. Koe on March 12, regarding proposals for open custody facilities. Mr. Koe asked if there is some form of deal making that can take place once a proposal has been submitted. In forming this question, he quoted from an advertisement that stated, "Following a final evaluation the selected contractor will be required to negotiate a contractual agreement with the Government of the Northwest Territories...."
I would like to advise that the word "negotiate" was intended to mean 'arrange" or "complete' a contractual agreement. That said, some elements of a contract may be negotiated, In a proposal for the operation of a group home, the bidder may suggest a monthly visit with department officials and upon negotiation, agree to change the term to a weekly visit. Several such examples could be found.
There can, however, be no alterations to our requirement for insurance in agreements for services of this type. The potential liability is obvious, and the manager, risk management and insurance through the office of the Comptroller General, insists that both contractors and this government be adequately protected.