Mr. Speaker, I have another reply to a question asked by Mr. Arngna'naaq on June 22 on the social impact of the Great Whale project. The issue of potential social impacts resulting from the proposed Great Whale hydro development project has been considered by the Department of Social Services. Having seen the impact of the James Bay project on the Cree and Inuit of northern Quebec, we are particularly sensitive to the possibility of harmful changes occurring in several NWT communities. While the most potentially devastating effects are, as I said last year, environmental, we cannot afford to overlook the risk of negative socio-economic impacts as well.
Consequently, although the department does not yet have the resources to conduct an independent socio-economic impact study, staff are monitoring the work undertaken by the various agencies already involved in the assessment review process. We will also be working actively with other government departments involved in the intervention process and with the affected communities, to help minimize any potential impact. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.