Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I think there is always a concern of cost, but you have to look at the bureaucracy we have. We do have sort of an advocacy group through the language commissioner and there is the possibility of room within the department where there are areas that can take on this responsibility without any major extra costs to this government. Presently we fund the native association in the Northwest Territories native groups, especially in light of core funding. On talking to them, they feel they can take on this responsibility and deliver it on behalf of this government through the existing funds that are presently there. I think if this government had the will to consider looking at this initiative seriously, there are ways that we can implement such a program. I believe there are avenues out there where we presently have systems in place in regard to the language commissioner. I mentioned the Native Women's Association in the Northwest Territories who are presently being funded by this government to carry on responsibilities similar to an advocacy group. I would like to ask the Minister if he would consider looking at trying to work on the scenario with the different interest groups and also within the government bureaucracy we have now, if there is a way or a mechanism to implement such a needed body in the Northwest Territories.
David Krutko on Committee Motion 22-13(5): To Identify The Amount Of Federal Funding For Western NWT Aboriginal Health Care
In the Legislative Assembly on February 24th, 1998. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 22-13(5): To Identify The Amount Of Federal Funding For Western NWT Aboriginal Health Care
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 24th, 1998
Page 1082
See context to find out what was said next.