Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in small communities in the NWT, the price of petroleum products is a major concern. In most cases, the only supplier is the government POL contractor. Mr. Speaker, as the only supplier, the government is responsible to ensure that the lowest price possible is obtained from contractors who, in turn, will render a reliable service to communities and public.

This government has also stated it will, in the near future, privatize the POL facilities within the communities. Therefore, the public must be assured that the lowest price possible is obtained from perspective contractors.

Mr. Speaker, business people, the hamlet council and other members of the public in the hamlets of Tuktoyaktuk and Holman Island have requested this government publicly tender any present and future POL contracts to allow members of the business community opportunity to put forward bids to supply this essential service.

Mr. Speaker, I will be questioning the Minister of Public Works and Services on this matter at the appropriate time today. Thank you.

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