Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, with the creation of two new territories in just a few days, many changes will take place at an accelerated pace. In both new territories we will need to position ourselves to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by the rapidly changing political landscape.
Today I am focusing my comments on the new Northwest Territories where these political changes will have significant implications for the management of the healthcare system.
Mr. Speaker, arising out of these changes will be a need to review existing service delivery structures and make adjustments as required to ensure that an affordable, sustainable health and social services system remains in place.
Under the current model of governance, there will be nine health and social services boards in the new Northwest Territories. These boards deliver health and social services to specific regions and communities. Some boards also provide services on a territorial basis. There is a need to review the size and number of boards to ensure efficiency and to reflect the size and makeup of the population while still maintaining effective community and regional governance over program delivery. There is also a need to review and evaluate the working relationship between the department and the boards.
Mr. Speaker, we must ensure that we use all available resources as efficiently as possible while continuing to provide the best care possible. The Department of Health and Social Services has recognized these needs and is developing a framework to guide the review of Health and Social Services in the new Northwest Territories. The review will respond to concerns about the health and social services system that have been raised in different parts of the territory.
Mr. Speaker, while considering clients' concerns, the review will take into consideration the larger context in which Health and Social Services board and the department work. The review will offer the opportunity to consult with northerners on the challenges they face and to hear their recommendations for achieving health and wellness for all residents. It will provide a forum for frank dialogue with our clients about their priorities and the kind of services they need.
Mr. Speaker, we see an opportunity here to structure a review that will provide input from the public, professional associations, non-government organizations, health and social service providers, boards and department staff. There will be an opportunity to build on health reform initiatives currently underway. The new Northwest Territories will be challenged to chart a course that meets the interests and needs of all its citizens and provide opportunities for them to take greater control of their future and more responsibility for their well-being.
The review will be the basis for the development of an updated strategic plan for health and wellness and will allow the territorial government to make informed decisions based on peoples' needs and on best practices. Mr. Speaker, in closing I note that there are many people who are working long and hard to ensure that people of the north receive the best possible health and social services. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the important contribution that the staff of health and social services boards across the territories make on a daily basis. This year promises historic change and new opportunities. Our challenge is to manage the change and to focus on providing stability. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.