Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this past summer has seen unprecedented growth occur in Iqaluit. There are numerous single family and multi-plex housing units as well as office buildings and the new Legislative Assembly building being built. This activity has meant increasing numbers of people moving to Iqaluit and this has pushed resources to their limit. Housing shortages remain very serious and the homeless shelter was over flowing before it was closed down. A new shelter is now being built to help deal with the problem of homelessness. Mr. Speaker, with all this growth and activity the youth of Iqaluit have not been forgotten. With support from Frobisher Developments Limited they kindly donated a housing unit to be used as a youth centre. Over the past several months, I have chaired a committee of community volunteers that have tried to put together a sound plan to open the youth centre. We have had support from various organizations and companies Mr. Speaker, but we have had no luck with this government.
Our latest request for core funding to help us hire a full-time staff person who would be available to counsel youth and coordinate activities was rejected. Mr. Speaker, last Friday we met to review our options and the committee is scheduled to meet again tomorrow. We now plan on preparing a funding proposal to the federal government. Mr. Speaker, many of our youth are in crisis. The youth centre would be a safe place where they could hang out with their friends and we would have someone available to help and talk to. a trained councillor. I do not understand why this government cannot find a way to help fund such a worthwhile project.
We pay lip service to many of the problems affecting youth. When youth get in trouble or when we have to deal with suicide, crime or drug related problems, we talk about diversion type programs. Mr. Speaker a dedicated environment for youth with trained staff on hand is what is needed. A safe place to go. Later today, I will ask the appropriate Minister about these issues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.