Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Minister, I am sure not advertently, is trying to put words in my mouth in terms of some reference to more staff at the headquarters level, which is nowhere, anywhere in my comments is my intention.

My question relates more to the functioning of the department right through down to the boards, where there are clearly problems with the financial systems, administrative systems and management systems. I am not saying put more people into doing these functions that are not working. I am asking the Minister what particular steps in these key areas, what key changes does she plan to implement that is going to make these systems function properly, ensure there is a connection with the boards, allow the department to be able to count the money, to monitor and evaluate the programs that they are in charge of, the 26 pieces of legislation that they have that they are responsible for...the department is telling us the system is out of control. Are we sitting by to wait for Mr. Cuff to give us the chapter and verse on what we should be doing as a department?

It is very amazing to me that given the comments and the state of the department, we would be standing by with all of the talent we have in the North and all the talent we have in the government and the department, and basically say we need this particular gentleman to come in to cure these problems after the multitude, the plethora, the overabundance of studies and reviews we have had, some of which are not even cold off the press, such as the Ministerial Forum on Health and Social Services Review. As my colleague pointed out, the Child Welfare League one where there was no response to the 58 recommendations. One plane load of consultants barely leaves the tarmac heading back south and we have another coming in.

I am very concerned of this incredible reliance that seems to be on these folks to come in and tell us how to save this sinking ship of Health and Social Services. This is very critical. The programs and services we run are very important, as has been pointed out in this House and as everyone is aware.

Yes, I am going to meet with Mr. Cuff because he is here. I will not miss the opportunity to pass on my concerns. I am also very concerned about what the Minister and the department are doing right now aside from waiting for Mr. Cuff to tell them how to fix the problems in the department. Thank you.