Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, Mr. Speaker, I rise to talk about very real and dangerous issues that all areas of the NWT is feeling the effects of. This is, of course, the problem we have recruiting and retaining health professionals. This does not mean just nurses, it means all health professionals.

This problem exists in all areas of the Territories and it does not seem to be getting any better. Currently many health boards are experiencing staff shortages and as a result are forced to cut back services to its residents, close centres for anything other than emergencies. These types of measures are only affecting our residents and this situation will continue to worsen before it gets any better.

Solutions must be found to ensure we attract quality staff that will stay for a long term, or increase our northern training programs so that more northern residents can see this field as an excellent career choice. This is a very serious issue and we as MLAs must work with the health boards and the Minister to find a solution. All health boards are saying more resources are needed to adequately provide the services that our residents require. The boards cannot continue to receive less and try to do more. This is very crucial and it could have very serious consequences. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause