Return to Written 3-13(3), asked by Mr. Barnabas to the Premier concerning the regional director's position.
The Baffin Senior Management Committee has been active, effective and cooperative in dealing with issues of concern in the region.
The Baffin senior managers will continue to play an important role in the delivery of GNWT programs and services after the closing of the regional director's office. A framework for the effective operation of senior management in all regions is being developed as part of a transition plan to ensure the orderly closing of regional directors' offices. A possibility under consideration is that the Senior Management Committee would be chaired by regional superintendents on a rotating basis. It is clear at this point, however, that individual superintendents will be given the authority and responsibility to take the lead on issues within their department's mandate.
Regarding responsibility for the community transfer initiative, this initiative will continue through community empowerment. The Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs has the mandate for community empowerment. Regional superintendents of MACA will take the lead on community empowerment in each region.
The Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs has the mandate for this government's community empowerment priority and would be better prepared to address questions regarding any plans under consideration for the Baffin region.
It is, of course, important that government program and service delivery in all regions continue to be coordinated after the closing of regional directors' offices. That coordination begins with the Members of the Legislative Assembly and the envelope committee system established by this
government. The coordination continues through to government departments which have worked together within the same envelope system to create three-year business plans. Deputy minister committees consistent with the envelope system have also been created to allow for improved planning, coordination and information sharing between departments.
It is this improved planning, cooperation and communication at all levels of government which will form the basis for ensuring the coordinated delivery of government programs and services in the regions and at the community level.