Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report today more than half of the communities in the Northwest Territories have expressed an interest in the
community transfer initiatives. Indications are virtually all communities want, at least, a general workshop on the subject.
Mr. Speaker, to date over 30 communities have requested information about the initiative and many are proceeding with further exploratory discussions. At least ten communities have begun preliminary work with the community transfer working group and government departments on general transfer planning or specific transfer ideas.
Earlier this session I tabled Tabled Document 76-12(3), the Community Transfer Initiative Contribution Policy and Directive, which will make it possible for communities to request funding to assist them with conducing research and other work association with becoming involved in the initiative. You will be asked to approve a supplementary estimate to fund community proposals during 1993-94. The policy sets a $50,000 limit on each community contribution in order to permit us to fund between ten and 15 proposals.
Community proposals are usually submitted to the Ministry of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs after discussions or workshops have been conducted. The community transfer working group evaluates proposals and makes recommendations for review by the community transfer initiative steering committee. Based on final approval, a contribution agreement is then signed with the community.
Proposals have also been received in 1992-93 and four communities were approved to receive funding through service contracts. The hamlet of Cape Dorset received $50,000, the town of Inuvik $18,000, the Tetlit Gwich'in Council $35,000 and the incorporated community of Arctic Red River $6,000 for their preliminary work. We are currently reviewing the Fort Good Hope and Pond Inlet proposals and a joint submission from the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the Gwich'in Tribal Council.
The turnover of the gas/water/sewage system to the town of Norman Wells is near completion. The Gwich'in are pursuing several transfer related initiatives while also developing a general framework agreement for community transfers.
Within government, the community transfer working group is continuing to brief departmental, regional and community GNWT staff at every opportunity. Departments and regional offices are in the process of appointing lead contacts and organizing themselves to participate in the initiative with the coordination of the community transfer working group.
Efforts have begun at headquarters and in the regional offices to compile information regarding GNWT program and service delivery for each community. This information is used by communities in deciding whether or not they wish to take on the responsibility for design and delivery of specific program areas.
As the first few communities proceed toward transfer agreements utilizing their own approaches, the parameters of the initiative and the manner in which we will resolve the many issues involved will become clearer. It is this evolutionary process we have encouraged and I believe the interest and involvement of communities to date proves this is the correct approach. I encourage honourable Members to attend community workshops whenever they have an opportunity.
Later today, I will table a chart which shows whether the community transfer working group has conducted community workshops and information sessions. Thank you.
---Applause