Mr. Speaker, by way of background, I think it is important to know that there are several issues here. First, the decision by the federal government to use Public Works Canada as the infrastructure manager for infrastructure construction in Nunavut, rather than the GNWT. The GNWT took exception to that because we are of the view that we can do that cheaper and can build more infrastructure with the amount of dollars that are there than the federal government. At the same time, they have also indicated their interest to make a special deal with NTI birthright development corporations, to own and construct this infrastructure.
When the GNWT raised its objections on who will do the managing, because of the cost factor, I think it was immediately interpreted by NTI to mean that we were somehow not in favour of their birthright development corporations being involved. We have tried to make it clear to them, since then, that it is a GNWT position that the birthright development corporations have an important and critical role to play in the infrastructure development of Nunavut and I've said that many, many times.
However, related to that, it is my own view that it is important we foster individual Inuit businesses, whether on their own or in partnership with others, to make sure that we have a large number and a broad base of businesses that will support the Nunavut economy, rather than the economy being dependent on three or four major corporations. I've tried to make that clear, but I can't seem to get through to NTI for one reason or another, but that is the view.
We are in favour of the birthright development corporations and they should be involved. So should the GNWT and all Inuit of Nunavut. Thank you.