Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister responsible for the Department of Finance. It is regarding my opening comments, and the consideration that we do have some obligations under land claim agreements.
Specifically, Mr. Speaker, the question I would like to ask the Minister is regarding a contract that was let for security-reception services in Inuvik. Chii Construction, who previously held the contract for three years, was surprised to find out that out of nine tenders, they came in seventh, despite having the lowest bid and the experience. They did not qualify for the bid. They asked for an appeal of the case, knowing they had the lowest bid and the experience. I believe the contract went to a taxidriver in Inuvik.
Mr. Speaker, knowing these are public funds that we block-fund to the Inuvik Regional Health Board to carry out their activities, why do they not have an appeal process so we can get the return on our investment? So we can get the best price for the services provided? In this case, I believe they had the best price, they had the experience, yet they were not awarded the contract.
I would like to ask the Minister responsible for Finance, what policies are in place to ensure there is an appeal process on all public funds allocated by this government?