I rise today out of grave concern, not only that Yellowknife, these days, seems to be in the news right across the country, but even locally there are concerns that many of the facilities of which we are proud are in danger of being decimated.

The Aven Seniors' Centre had a deficit last year of $30,422. With the current commitments of this government, as I understand them, that deficit will increase to $54,467. That facility was built on the basis of a tremendous amount of volunteer labour and help, and there has been a tremendous voluntary contribution from people throughout this community, and it is exhausted.

There are people there who are not wealthy; probably the average would be about $10,000 a year that people have to live on. Currently, they are paid $376 a month, and even if that were to be increased, Social Services always finds some convenient way to say, "Well, we do not really have to provide you with the resources you need because if you increase your costs, then, of course, we can reduce ours.'

I would like the government to recognize that this place is a very, very important place, not just for Yellowknife, but for all people in the NWT, because it provides a home which is rather unique. It provides 24-hour care for elderly people with medical needs. It keeps people active and able to lead a meaningful life. It recognizes, appreciates and values the cultural background of its people, and it provides affordable medical care and housing in a very home-like kind of environment.