Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Many of us are no doubt aware there is a major problem with substance abuse among our youth in the NWT. This is reflective of the problem with substance abuse in the NWT overall. As the society of tomorrow will be built on today's youth, it is imperative that we focus preventative and treatment programs for our youth.
In the current fiscal climate of restraints and cutbacks, it is inevitable that choices have to be made as to which programs and services will be funded. It is also imperative that programs be coordinated to get the most efficient outcome for the money spent. Because funding for some programs such as youth solvent abuse has been provided by the federal government, access to treatment has been restricted to youth of aboriginal descent. This has neglected the needs of youth of non-aboriginal descent who are equally at risk from substance abuse.
By focusing on all youth under the umbrella of community wellness, we will be investing in the future of the NWT by providing the necessary services to our youth affected by substances, drug and alcohol abuse. I will be asking questions of the Minister of Health later on today, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.