Qujannamiik, Uqaqtii. I wish to make a few further comments about the need for executive representation in the Baffin region. I know that this government made the decision to terminate the regional director's position in all regions as a financial restraint measure and I know that most Members of this Assembly, except the Members from Baffin, supported this decision. 1, therefore, accept that the decision was made and the positions are gone.
However, Mr. Speaker, I wish to point out to the Premier and his Cabinet that I still believe that they have a strong need for a representative of the Cabinet to be located in the region. My main concern is that our government should be represented at the executive level in the Baffin region in the years leading up to Nunavut. We already know that the federal government is planning on significantly enlarging their presence in Nunavut; especially, I suspect, in Iqaluit.
I believe that our government needs someone senior in place who can represent the government as a whole and represent the views of this Legislature and the Cabinet as the federal government enlarges its presence in Nunavut. Of course, we want to get along with the new federal departments and bureaucrats who will be moving into Nunavut, but I also believe that we should have someone there who will protect the interests of this government and this Assembly and monitor what is going on. I know that the plan is that various superintendents will coordinate responses on an issue-by-issue basis, and I understand that Municipal and Community Affairs will have a major role in filling the former functions of the regional director. However, Mr. Speaker, I am doubtful that one or more superintendents can easily assume the duties of what was a busy office of four persons.
As we all know, our superintendents are busier than ever before...
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.