Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to take this opportunity to provide the Members of this House
with a brief update on the status of negotiations for the transfer of the Arctic A airport program from the federal government.
The Department of Transportation initiated discussions for the transfer of this program in July of 1993. Since that time, department staff, with assistance from several other departments of the government, have completed inspections of all the site facilities; reviewed federal work records and budget plans; consulted with Members of this House, aboriginal leaders, community councils and air carrier representatives; and, developed organization structures, budget plans, policy proposals and negotiating positions.
The negotiations have not been without their share of problems. I had hoped to be able to confirm with Members that the transfer would proceed on April 1, 1995, as originally planned. Unfortunately, there are still several issues to be resolved and we are working as quickly as possible towards that end. I am optimistic that we will shortly reach an agreement to implement this transfer on July 1, 1995.
In recent weeks, many Members have indicated to me their support for the proposed transfer. The honourable Member for Kitikmeot rightly pointed out last week that the successful negotiation of this transfer will protect the financial resources that are required to continue to fund airport services at their current level, particularly at a time when the federal government is implementing major budget reductions.
Other Members have recognized that the transfer will provide a stronger operating base of technical skills and human resources that can be applied throughout the entire territorial system of airports, including the 42 B, C and D airports that we currently operate. Further benefits will accrue through the application of our northern employment, contracting and purchasing policies to this program and by linking their operation more closely to the communities that they serve.
While recognizing these benefits, we are continuing to take a cautious approach to the negotiations. We must be satisfied that the financial arrangements and the other terms and conditions of the agreement are acceptable and will allow the department to operate these nine airports as successfully as we have operated the other 42.
In conclusion, Madam Speaker, we remain committed to the negotiation of this agreement. I am confident that over the next few weeks, we will have satisfactorily resolved the last few issues and will be able to turn our attention to the process of implementation. Thank you, Madam Speaker.