Thank you, Madam Speaker. My question is to the Minister of Social Services. It is my understanding that the department, directly or indirectly, pays rents and utilities for at least two private sector units on behalf of social assistance clients in Coppermine. These housing units are former northern rental units that were written off by the local housing association and purchased through the local tender process by individuals.
Unfortunately, these housing units are in terrible condition. Two of them are on the honey bucket system, none have running water, there hasn't been any upgrading and minimum maintenance has been done on these units. I would like to ask if the Minister if it's the policy of the department to pay rent to private landlords, either directly or indirectly, on behalf of social assistance clients who have no housing? Thank you.