I have always indicated to the House that the basic needs of all communities must be met. Basic needs in terms of basic fire protection, water and sewer services, et cetera. I know the department is trying to address these particular problems, particularly in the smaller communities, such as Snare Lake in my riding, Nahanni Butte in Nahendeh, Gjoa Haven or other places. Mr. Chairman, I have always indicated that these small communities have to start having their basic needs met. I know the department has been trying to get these unorganized or unincorporated communities incorporated. That was one of their objectives, to bring them up. In my view, this entire area is not being fast-tracked enough. This entire area has to be seriously looked at by the department.

For instance, when the Member for Nahendeh brought us on a side trip to Nahanni Butte, I was appalled to see their water and sewer services, Mr. Chairman. The community was being serviced by a little garden hose coming out of the side of a school. I did not think that any community, especially in the 1990s, was in that sort of condition. It was appalling to see that type of thing. That is why I have always indicated, since I have been in this House, that the basic community needs have to be addressed. In smaller communities, all their basic needs should be met. I know the department is trying to straighten this situation out, but, in my view, they are not working fast enough. This entire area has to improve. I have many concerns about this. Basic needs, as I indicated, are a requirement. I am not sure what the department intends to do except for trying to develop those unincorporated municipalities to make them more recognized. Can the Minister comment in regard to what I have been talking about? Mahsi.