Nellie Cournoyea Nunakput

Madam Speaker, I have a further reply to an oral question asked by Ludy Pudluk regarding the social worker in Arctic Bay. The question was asked on October 7th. In reply to Mr. Pudluk's question about the social worker in Arctic Bay, I can advise that the competition has been completed and a candidate has been selected. There is no housing currently available, but it's expected that the house will be ready by late December or early January.

In the meantime, several options are being considered to ensure that social services remain available to the residents of Arctic Bay. There is a possibility that the social worker might be located in Nanisivik temporarily, commuting to Arctic Bay. Alternatively, the possibility of renting a house from the church in Arctic Bay is also being considered. These would only be temporary measures, Madam Speaker, and I can assure the Member that every effort will be made to locate the social worker in Arctic Bay as soon as housing is available.

Until then, social workers from other communities and from the regional office will continue to travel to Arctic Bay, as required, to maintain service delivery. Thank you, Madam Speaker.