As our economy continues to improve, and as Northerners gain access to jobs in their communities, the costs of our Income Support Program can be expected to decrease. However, as we have heard from the Standing Committee on Social Programs, Northerners with the greatest needs must continue to be supported by this government. To this end, the Income Support Program will be increasing the food scales by $500,000 to allow for increases in the cost of living. As well, the allowance for disabled Northerners receiving income support will be raised by $50, from $175 to $225 per month, to cover additional costs that disabled Northerners face in their daily lives.