Thank you. Relocation of departmental surpluses.

WHEREAS, the 13th Legislative Assembly has identified its main priorities through the public release of the document entitled, "Agenda for Change;"

AND WHEREAS, the Legislative Assembly's Agenda for Change and Vision for the Future speaks of a healthier, better educated and more self-reliant citizenry;

AND WHEREAS, the Agenda for Change affirms that the old and expensive way of doing things must be changed;

AND WHEREAS, the fiscal year-end is quickly approaching and a number of GNWT departments have experienced and might anticipate budget surpluses;

AND WHEREAS, the Minister of Finance has indicated in the House that the Cabinet will reallocate any surpluses according to the priorities established by both Cabinet and the Legislative Assembly;

NOW THEREFORE, I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for the High Arctic, that this House recommends that the Cabinet reallocate any departmental surpluses that may exist after fiscal year-end 1997-98 to the Departments of Education, Culture and Employment and Health and Social Services;

AND FURTHER, that the Standing Committee on Social Programs be consulted and fully involved in discussions regarding the redeployment of surplus funds to educational, health and social service initiatives.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.