Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to speak specifically about new money for highways. I am obviously interested in the speed-up of Highway No. 3.
Of course, we understand the reason this cannot be sped up is primarily a matter of money. It would cost additional money to speed this project from ten years to three years.
In light of some of the discussions Premier Kakfwi had with Paul Martin and Prime Minister Chretien, where he received assurances from them that there would be some economic development money available to the GNWT in the form of ADA agreements, likely for specific types of things.
I am wondering if the Minister has had a chance to sit down with Mr. Kakfwi and discuss the possibility that some of these highway projects, like Highway No. 3, could be considered project-specific, considering they have a few diamond mines that specifically rely on that upgrade and construction.
We know the traffic is going to get heavier. We know the use is going to get heavier. Obviously, citizens are concerned about that, and I think it is hampering economic development. I am wondering if the Minister has taken some of these things into account in light of the recent meetings Mr. Kakfwi has had, and use that as a possible approach for getting new money for these highways? Thank you.