Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am concerned about some of the comments that the Minister has made in respect to funding, or alternatives. Looking at the capital budget, and seeing where he can find the money.
As we have stated collectively, this is going to be a concern for all Members. We have to try to convince the federal government, to ensure that they adhere to some of their responsibilities.
I do not like hearing comments from the Minister that we may have to revise things in the capital budget, such as, whether firehalls, arenas, or any type of municipal buildings are needed. I will tell the Minister unequivocally, as a Member, if you have to look for $22 million, it is not going to be by revising capital projects, such as firehalls, which are an essential need. Particularly, when there are many people in the north that do not get a $450.00 a month housing allowance. What you should look at, is the cost of the housing allowance to civil servants, which cost this government $27 million a year, that is where you can find your shortfall to address your housing needs, not infrastructures that are essential to the communities. Thank you.