Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in the budget it was announced that the government plans to spend $2 million a year over the next three years on an Early Childhood Action Plan. This plan is to ensure healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. Some parts of this plan include healthy parenting, early childhood care, providing for learning opportunities and stronger community supports. I applaud the government's recognition of the need for early intervention and support for children and families who are affected by FAS and FAE. However, I doubt whether $2 million across the Territories over three years is enough.

I am deeply concerned that this funding will not go into programs but will be eaten up in other areas of the Northwest Territories. Someone who can diagnose FAS and FAE, and the O and M to maintain an additional medical specialist entirely dedicated to FAS and FAE would cost over $2 million a year without even considering the necessary support staff. This is before the programs are even established, Mr. Speaker.

In his budget speech, the Minister stated that if we truly believe that our people are our strongest resources, we must make investments in our youngest residents. If we as a government believe that people are our strongest resource, clearly more funding will be put in place to properly address this issue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause