Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there was an oral question asked by Mr. Morin on April 26th in regard to ministerial authority to purchase arts and crafts. As all Members are aware, the creation of the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development involved the amalgamation of the former Department of Economic Development and Tourism. One of the goals of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism was to increase job and income opportunities in the arts and crafts sector. As a result, the department has historically been involved in the purchase of arts and crafts in all ridings throughout the Northwest Territories. Likewise, the goal of the NWT Development Corporation is to stimulate growth of businesses in the NWT and to promote economic diversification and stability, including the arts and crafts industry.
Clearly the Department of RWED, the NWT Development Corporation and the Minister responsible for both are mandated to purchase products from NWT artisans and crafts people for promotional purposes, such as displays at trade shows, art festivals and international conferences. As far as other departments or Ministers are concerned, if the purchase of arts and crafts assist in meeting departmental or governmental objectives, it would fall within the scope of their authority.