Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today as the MLA for Keewatin Central to speak on the matter of health care services in the Keewatin. Mr. Speaker, I recognize the difficulties that have been experienced over the last several months and understand the concerns of my constituents. Adequate health care facilities are fundamental to the well being of all northerners. I am pleased that Percy Kabloona, former mayor of Whale Cove, has been appointed as acting chair of the Keewatin Regional Health and Social Services Board. I am also pleased that the board has moved quickly to appoint Mr. Chris Keeley as the interim executive director. Chris is a former resident of Rankin Inlet, who has worked in senior positions with the GNWT. Chris' wife Martha, was the head nurse at the Rankin Inlet Health Centre for several years. I am confident that Chris has the background and knowledge needed to move swiftly to ensure the needs of Keewatin people for adequate health care facilities are met.
I also commend the Keewatin Regional Health and Social Services Board, working together with the Sakku Development Corporation for their efforts to put a major, multi-purpose health care facility in the Keewatin. As MLA, it is my intention to provide whatever support I can to make this facility a reality for the people of the Keewatin. I would also like to take this opportunity, Mr. Speaker, to congratulate the hamlet of Arviat, for taking the initiative to look at the construction of their health facility through a Public/Private Partnership.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to publicly acknowledge and thank my good and loyal friend, Mrs. Bette Palfrey for her commitment and dedication to the provision of health care for the people of Keewatin. Bette has the distinction of being the longest serving chairperson of the Keewatin Health Board. During a six and one half year tenure, Bette was instrumental in moving the board forward on a number of important issues. Recent health care problems notwithstanding, Keewatin residents owe Bette a debt of gratitude for all her effort and personal sacrifice over the years.
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Mr. Speaker, there is still much work to be done to bring the quality of health care services back to the level the people of the Keewatin deserve and expect. I have full confidence in Minister Ng in achieving exactly that. I believe that the right steps are being taken now to ensure that happens as soon as possible. Thank you.
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