The issue of community governance capacity continues to remain an ongoing concern of the Standing Committee on Governance and Economic Development. As the Government of the Northwest Territories continues its practice of devolving more and more responsibilities to the community level, committee members are concerned these additional responsibilities are not accompanied by adequate funding, technical knowledge, qualified personnel, facilities and equipment. Increasing and already high fuel costs have already magnified operating costs for communities.
The committee noted that in many cases, communities are not involved in decision-making processes at the territorial or departmental level on issues that directly impact them. Committee members are of the position that communities should be and must be involved in any process that affects them.
Further, the committee pointed out to the government that facilities and equipment in most communities require immediate repair, upgrading or replacement. Committee members are very concerned that inadequate facilities, equipment and the shortage of qualified staff to maintain and operate them represents a major safety issue. These facilities and equipment must be brought up to standard. The committee is of the position that the territorial government has to invest more in community infrastructure. This was also mentioned on page 5 of the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight's Report on the Review of the 2000-2003 Business Plans and the 2000-2001 Main Estimates:
"It was brought to the attention of the committee that there appears to be an increase in the percentage of funds being used to increase and sustain bureaucracy -- it is the opinion of the committee that these funds could be better spent on infrastructure or other essential programs or services for the people of the Northwest Territories."
Mr. Speaker, that concludes the introductory portion of the report.
I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Range Lake, that the Report of the Standing Committee on Governance and Economic Development on the Review of the 2001-2002 Main Estimates be received by the Legislative Assembly and moved into committee of the whole for consideration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.