Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to recognize the Yellowknife Association for Concerned Citizens for Seniors and the fine work they are doing providing services and support for our elders in Yellowknife. The association, known by its short name of YACCS, leases the land where the old Stanton Hospital used to be. It has three facilities for seniors there and is within my constituency, Mr. Speaker.
Aven Manor is a 29-bed long-term care facility. Aven Court is made up of 24 one-bedroom housing units for seniors who can still live independently. The Baker Community Centre is used for social and recreational activities by seniors and the community of Yellowknife.
YACCS recently released its strategic plan for the next three years. They hope Yellowknifers, including seniors and care providers, will share their thoughts and ideas about the plan. The goal is to build a supportive community for the health of seniors. While they were doing their strategic planning, the YACCS board and staff wanted to build on the past successes and set new goals. YACCS intends to maintain the programs and services they currently provide. They will monitor and assess their performance of the board and operators of their facilities. They will develop and maintain a data base on seniors' demographics and needs to use when planning services for seniors. YACCS will determine the most appropriate way for them to participate in addressing the need for seniors' housing and care for seniors with cognitive impairments.
Mr. Speaker, I am very impressed with the work YACCS is doing and with the results of this strategic planning exercise they have just completed. I would like to congratulate them on this work and to wish them luck in the future. I urge all interested Yellowknifers and others to contact the association to see how they can help with the good work that YACCS is doing. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause