If we are talking about capital expenditures, we have gone from an average of a $180 - $200 million in capital expenditures on an annual basis. Frankly, as part of our deficit elimination strategy, we agreed that we would take some money out of the capital budget, as well as from a variety of other areas within government. The capital expenditures for this year are somewhere in the $130 - $140 million range. It is natural that there are going to be less buildings built. We have tried to assess what the priorities of the government are: hospitals, schools, et cetera, to find a way in which we could manage the non-essentials on the capital side. Everybody, Mr. O'Brien, myself, others, have all taken hits. We have heard Mr. O'Brien talk eloquently about the need for his health care facility in Arviat. That came out because we put the money in Mr. Ningark's riding. These were requirements. They were done because of certain criteria. Priorities were established. It has not been the easiest task in the world, trying to determine where we put the money and where we do not. I hope that my colleague does not think that we have unfairly or unduly taken money out of his riding in isolation of monies out of other ridings. The reality is that we have less money to spend, less buildings get built and more people will be unhappy. That is just the reality of fiscal restraint. I have accepted that reality, and I know my colleague has worked hard to assist us in accepting it also. Thank you.
John Todd on Question 349-13(4): Fairness In Allocating Funds
In the Legislative Assembly on February 20th, 1997. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 349-13(4): Fairness In Allocating Funds
Question 349-13(4): Fairness In Allocating Funds
Item 6: Oral Questions
February 19th, 1997
Page 735
John Todd Keewatin Central
See context to find out what was said next.