Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will speak to an item that has been brought to my attention on a number of occasions. Mr. Speaker, I want to speak today on the directive of the NWT Housing Corporation that was issued on April 5, 1995. I'm somewhat concerned with the provision regarding the required use of local accommodation by contractors.

Under the northern preference policy of this government, we try to do things in a way that supports local economies and businesses. The new Housing Corporation directive seems to contradict this objective. What the directive says, Mr. Speaker, is the business contracting with the Housing Corporation must use local commercial room and board facilities when they are working in communities. Mr. Speaker, the concern I have is in defining what constitutes a commercial room and board facility.

The directive specifically excludes bed and breakfast facilities. This does not make a lot of sense to me, Mr. Speaker. Bed and breakfasts are operated by local people trying to make a living by providing a service which, in many communities, is a welcome addition considering the lack of larger community establishments.

Mr. Speaker, I am just not sure why bed and breakfast facilities are not considered to be eligible under the Housing Corporation directive, and I will be following up on this issue with the Minister during question period at the appropriate time. Thank you.