First of all, I thank the honourable Member, Mr. Patterson, who spoke earlier. I think the advice that has been given is very constructive and, collectively, I think we can bring together some solutions to the concerns that are being raised.
Just on the matter of child care that the honourable Member has raised, I would like to advise the honourable Member that that program is available to students. What they need to do is fill out the forms for the program. If the information is not being provided, I would be prepared to direct my staff to ensure that the students do receive the information. Right now, I believe that most campuses are in fact using the program. If there are problems in Thebacha or in any program that deals with our government, we would be prepared to respond as positively as possible. That doesn't mean, Mr. Chairman, we can provide all the support they may be requesting, but we can be responsive to the concerns the honourable Member has raised.
On the matter of instructors, I want to advise the honourable Members in this House that it is one of the areas that has been a concern to me. I have raised it with the department, with Arctic College, and it is an issue that is going to be addressed in the corporate plans of both colleges. I know that it is in the western plan for sure, but we still need some time to assess the plan so that we are satisfied, as a department, that it is responding to the program needs that are in the communities.
On the matter of accountability, I agree. I believe you will be quite satisfied with the legislation that will come before you.
On the matter of principals not being part of the union, we have not addressed that issue at this time, but we have put in place much more accountability on the part of the principal, to the point where they are no longer -- in one particular case -- considered part of the CEC as ex-officio officers but rather will be accountable to the community local boards. On an annual basis, they will have to meet and account for the directions of the school, so it will not be in the absence of the direction of the local community. That includes the whole issue of recruitment, as well. We are moving much further than before, but it may not be as far as the honourable Member wishes we have gone. I think I will be able to answer those questions when we deal with the legislation.
Mr. Chairman, I agree with the concern raised about short-term instructors and we will try to address it with the college president and the board and try to find a solution to that matter. I will report that matter to the honourable Member.