Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, Mr. Speaker, the NWT Senior' Society unveiled their seniors' housing and social needs study.

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It is my understanding that the territorial Minister, Mr. Morin, and also senior territorial civil servants were there as the seniors unveiled this study. Some of the major recommendations of the study are as follows, Mr. Speaker:

- As there is a shortage of affordable and accessible housing in the Northwest Territories, new approaches for shelter must be developed for delivery to seniors by the public and private sectors;

- An overhaul of the current income security system for seniors in the Northwest Territories is required because the majority of seniors have low incomes and currently support spending is not focused;

- The delivery of programs for seniors is fragmented and lacks coordination. A long-term, holistic approach to seniors' needs, managed and directed by a senior government agency, in the NWT is needed. One of the first objectives of an agency dedicated to seniors should be to undertake a comprehensive evaluation to appraise seniors' services in the Northwest Territories;

- Renewed emphasis on home support and coordinated home care, as a primary means for promoting "aging in place" is advised;

- Institutional facilities to care for the needs of frail elders and those suffering from physical and mental disabilities should be developed;

- The abuse of seniors is reported to be widespread in the Northwest Territories and further research and reporting, as well as a public information campaign, is essential to safeguard seniors from abuse;

- Promotion and maintenance of proactive seniors' programs that encourage healthy nutrition, fitness, recreation and social development contribute to the long-term well-being of seniors. These programs should be enhanced and increased.

- A senior management information system which measures and tracks the costs in use of services by seniors is recommended, especially in light of public sector spending restraint.

Mr. Speaker, we owe a debt of gratitude and thanks to Esther Braden, the president and to the NWT Seniors' Society. We, as legislators, often talk about the importance of seniors and elders to our society and to our lives.

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.