My next return was asked by Mr. Miltenberger on February 29th. It was on the effect of division on the NWT Power Corporation Headquarters. The impact of the division of the NWT Power Corporation on the Hay River headquarters is not yet known.
The decision to divide the corporation was made in November, 1999. Before the final impact on headquarters can be determined, the corporation must know what the Government of Nunavut's intentions are with respect to a systems manager contract to provide services to the new Nunavut Power Corporation. This request for proposals was issued in October, 1999, but no decision has been taken yet. Should the corporation win the system manager's contract, or a contract to provide services, this will have a great impact on its post-division staffing levels in Hay River.
In response to the decisions to divide the corporation, a review has been initiated of its organizational structure, in both the head office and in the field, to determine the optimal post-division structure. Until this review has been completed, no final determination can be made as to the impact of division on the headquarters. The corporation is also exploring new business opportunities, and the success of these ventures and the timing will impact on headquarters.
It is likely that there will be some job losses as the result of dividing the corporation, although the extent cannot be determined at this time. This subject has been discussed with the employees through their union, and the corporation is taking steps to mitigate any potential impact in its normal staffing activities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.