With respect to the issue of economic diversification. Committee members were concerned some activities, especially grants and contributions for economic development, may not represent value for money. However, the committee recognized that sectors such as fisheries, hunting and trapping represent more than a return on government investment.
The department explained that it uses an economic framework, which establishes parameters for investment. Prior to amalgamation of the department into the current Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, the latter entity operated as an independent department. The former department, Economic Development, had a grants and contributions program that the now amalgamated Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development continues.