Mr. Speaker, during the last session, the Member for Deh Cho announced that site clearing had been completed and foundation work for the Hay River Reserve treatment centre would begin this spring. Tu Cho Gha Contracting Ltd., a construction company which is 100 per cent owned by the Hay River Dene Band, undertook this work.
On June 4, 1992, the Department of Public Works, with the approval of the Financial Management Board, awarded a negotiated contract to Tu Cho Gha Contracting Ltd. for the construction of the centre. The contract is worth $2.3 million. The treatment centre is expected to be finished in the spring Of 1993.
This construction project will provide much needed employment for band members and valuable business experience for this company. This is the largest project ever undertaken by Tu Cho Gha. The subcontractors and suppliers are all NWT companies, and include Mackenzie Electrical Ltd., Weaner's Plumbing and Heating, United Carper/United Furniture, Alternative Energy Supplies, Igloo Building Supplies and Lakeshore Building Supplies, all from Hay River. In addition, Silverado Painting from Yellowknife is also a subcontractor.
The band leadership has played a major role in securing this facility for their community. During the past several years, members of the band, along with representatives from surrounding communities, have helped DPW and Social Services in planning this project.
The Department of Social Services has supported DPWs efforts to work with Tu Cho Gha and the Hay River Dene Band throughout the planning of the project and contract negotiations. Construction of the centre is managed by DPW on behalf of the Department of Social Services. This facility will provide an important service for many years to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.