Minister responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board, Mr. Todd.

One of the concerns consistently raised by the Standing Committee on Finance, I believe, by the former chairman at that time, there was concern about the lack of communications with the public outside of the conventional two interest groups, business and unionized workers. There was clearly a need to develop a community relations strategy, get out into the field and let people know in the smaller communities the role and responsibility of WCB. It was determined at that time that an appropriate communications strategy be put in place, and I believe this position is responsible for doing that, Madam Speaker.

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Antoine.

Thank you. Supplementary to the same Minister, Madam Speaker. My question is, does the creation of this position reflect the concern on the part of the board and/or the Minister regarding the public perception of the board? Thank you.

Well, the board is as equally concerned as I am about its image within the Northwest Territories. But, more importantly, an image is substance. And it's concern about it's historical lack of ability to communicate outside of the two lobbying groups, business and the unions, to ensure that we get out and let people know in the smaller communities to meet the new initiatives brought forward about the hunters' and trappers' compensation packages, and to work towards developing other packages or other compensation policies that are going to be more reflective of the smaller communities and the needs and desires of the people in those communities. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you. Supplementary, Mr. Antoine.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Would the Minister agree that previously addressing the issues raised by the protestors over the last few years would do more to enhance the board's image than a full-time public relations person and a quarterly newspaper? Thank you.

Minister responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board, Mr. Todd.

Madam Speaker, I believe we can do both. Thank you.

Item 6, oral questions. The honourable Member for Inuvik, Mr. Koe.