Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Patterson on March 1, 1995 with respect to the development of policy for film industry.
As indicated in my initial response, a person-year has not been dedicated to assisting the industry. During this time of restraint, it isn't possible for the department to dedicate one person to work solely on film development. Existing staff will be utilized to meet industry needs, at least in the short term.
The department has provided support to the industry by utilizing the business development fund and will continue to do so. The fund can provide up to $150,000 per project, based on employment and other economic benefits. Typically, the department will provide $25,000 for every $200,000 in expenditures made in the north by film companies. The guidelines for the Canada/NWT economic development agreement also allow for assistance to film companies who are developing film or video projects. Other assistance is also available through a network of federal programming through Telefilm Canada, the National Film Board and the Canadian independent film and video fund. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause