In the Legislative Assembly on October 18th, 1994. See this topic in context.

GNWT Achievements In Iqaluit
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 335

Dennis Patterson Iqaluit

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Being in a kinder, gentler mood this week, Madam Speaker, I looked hard for good things to say about the government. I had to wrack my brain. No, I'm just kidding.

---Laughter I rise today, Madam Speaker, to report on four wonderful accomplishments that have dealt with significant problems in my constituency.

---Applause

I'd like to also say there was a crisis that arose this summer over relocation, availability of housing and reasonable rents for staff of the soon-to-open Baffin treatment centre. I'm pleased to say that houses were made available, funds were identified for relocation and rents were reviewed to ensure they were affordable considering the wages of the treatment centre staff.

I'd like to thank the Honourable Nellie Cournoyea, Minister of Social Services and the Honourable Rebecca Mike, Minister of Personnel for this achievement.

---Applause

Next, much was made in this Assembly, Madam Speaker, of the plight of families who were living on the beach in Iqaluit. I'm pleased to report that last year, an alternate unit was constructed and made available to one family. This year, two units are, at this moment, being constructed and will be made available to two other families who are living in that situation for which the Honourable Don Morin deserves credit.

---Applause

Finally, Madam Speaker, and I don't know if I'm going to have time to outline this one, I have ranted and raved in this Assembly about the lack of married students' housing for students at Nunatta Campus. Although no long-term solution is in sight yet, an opportunity arose this summer. I'm afraid I will have to ask for consent to conclude. Thank you.

GNWT Achievements In Iqaluit
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 336

The Speaker Jeannie Marie-Jewell

Thank you. The honourable Member is seeking unanimous consent to continue. Are there any nays? There are no nays. Please proceed, Mr. Patterson.

GNWT Achievements In Iqaluit
Item 3: Members' Statements

Page 336

Dennis Patterson Iqaluit

Thank you, Madam Speaker and honourable Members. As I was saying, an opportunity arose this summer. Due to the unexpected number of GNWT employees who were either moving out of staff housing or building their own units, some vacancies arose in the government's complement of staff housing units in Iqaluit. At the same time there were married students with families who had applied for Arctic College and were ready to pursue their careers in Arctic College, but could not do so for lack of housing.

I'm very pleased to report, thanks to the Honourable John Pollard, in his capacity as Minister of FMBS and with help from the Honourable Richard Nerysoo, 25 surplus units were dedicated to married students. This will allow that number of students to go to college after all.

Madam Speaker, I would like to say I recognize these achievements and accomplishments. There have been prompt responses to what I'd like to think were practical suggestions to make lives better for my constituents and I'm grateful for that. Thank you.

---Applause

GNWT Achievements In Iqaluit
Item 3: Members' Statements

October 17th, 1994

Page 336

The Speaker Jeannie Marie-Jewell

Thank you. Item 3, Members' statements. The honourable Member for Deh Cho, Mr. Gargan.