Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the past few years we have heard of many worthwhile initiatives this government has implemented with some aim to assist northern businesses. Clearly this government is attempting to provide many avenues geared to the business community and to encourage investment and establishment of new businesses in the north. Recently, a local business person shared their concerns regarding a system of payment established by this government, and the problems associated with it. Amongst them were the regular glitches with computer systems, Christmas shutdowns and, of course, the occasional human error. Delays in receiving payments are frequent. This creates certain cash flow problems for businesses, especially when they rely solely on GNWT for revenue. This problem has a more dramatic effect on businesses in the smaller, isolated communities. Once a department receives an invoice, it is forwarded to the Department of Finance for processing. They in turn, will process a payment and issue a cheque via the mail system. We are lucky here in Yellowknife that the mail system is originating in Yellowknife, and we receive these payments in a few days. Other communities have to wait much longer. Mr. Speaker, the problem does not end there.
In some communities, there are no bank services and the businesses in turn must send their cheques to a larger community for eventual deposit. These delays all add up to a lengthy process. Mr. Speaker, I understand there is a policy in place for issuing payments and I appreciate the fact that this government has attempted to streamline their system. I am aware that the policy to issue payments to northern businesses provides for a three-week turnaround and, yes, this is a far better cry than the precomputer days. However, I believe we could do a great service to our northern business community by establishing a system of direct deposit or electronic payments where businesses can receive payments directly into their bank accounts. It is my understanding that the finance department does not have the current ability to provide this service because of a lack of software and manpower to establish such a system. We must look at the issue and give consideration to implementing a system whereby we can deposit the payments directly to businesses' bank accounts who provide services to this government. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.