Mr. Speaker, my second return is in response to a question asked by Mrs. Marie-Jewell on March 9th regarding the responsibility for processing security clearances.
Mrs. Marie-Jewell asked a question of whether or not it was possible to acquire the responsibility for doing security clearances for northern people in the Northwest Territories. Presently, a criminal record check is required for security clearance for individuals applying for positions such as, but not limited to: social worker, nurse, teacher or Department of Justice positions. This requirement is stated in the advertisement for each particular position.
The legal requirements of the Canadian police information system are such that it is not possible for the Department of Justice to acquire the responsibility for doing security clearances for northern people. Even if it were possible, it is reasonable to believe that the process would, in fact, be slower, resulting in unnecessary prejudice to those seeking employment with this government. Thank you.