Mahsi, Madam Speaker. I rise today to speak about focusing on social issues, as was recommended in the recently-tabled Finance committee report, Investing in our Future. Government was asked to assess its priorities and refocus its efforts on social issues.
This does not mean the government should abandon economic development. What it does mean is we need to build a foundation of healthy, well-educated people and we need to concentrate on this foundation. Madam Speaker, the government can invest money in economic opportunities in a community. But, if some people in the community cannot or will not take advantage of these opportunities, either because of social problems or lack of training or education, then money spent on economic development is not a good investment.
On the other hand, if we invest in our people, then we will be in a position to gain more benefits from economic opportunities that are developed. We must invest in our future by investing in our people. These are long-term investments and the expected returns are also long-term. Benefits should be forthcoming well into the future. In other words, the government should continue with economic development initiatives while, at the same time, ensuring that we are well-equipped to maximize the returns on investments.
Would focusing on social issues be too costly? Can the government afford to develop a social action plan, given the uncertainty of federal funding and increasing demands for government services? These are all legitimate questions to ask. However, I believe that a fundamental shift in emphasis is the way the government can afford to proceed. It is the way to move towards division. The only way we can build a strong foundation for the creation and survival of two new territories.
Madam Speaker, I know we may not get more money from the federal government. Therefore, we will be required to make very wise investments with the scarce resources available. The wisest investments are those focused on our citizens. Mahsi, Madam Speaker.
---Applause