The committee expressed its concerns on sports and recreation to the department, who replied that they are developing a sports and recreation policy framework. Committee members remarked that sports and recreation organizations are already knowledgeable about related programs, services and funding. The committee is of the opinion that these organizations need more support and especially funding, not more regulatory hurdles. If the funds are not there to operate a facility or run a program, then that facility or program is wasted. The department replied that unfortunately given this government's short to near term fiscal outlook, there is not enough money available to upgrade sports and recreation facilities.

There is concern on the part of some committee members that recreation funding is not allocated equitably between various organizations and communities. Committee members remarked that communities have difficulty procuring funding and support for their sports and recreation programs, while hundreds of thousands of dollars are spent on the Arctic Winter Games. The committee noted that sports and recreation is a concern that has overall territorial implications and referred this issue to the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight to ensure it is brought to the attention of all Members. The Minister will provide a briefing on sports and recreation organizations, including Sport North and the Aboriginal Sports Circle, to the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight.

The committee submitted further concerns on the Arctic Winter Games (AWG) to the Minister and his department. Committee members pointed out that the Arctic Winter Games do not have a rationale for the removal of sport events at the games. The committee suggested that the cost of attending the AWG and the intent of the Games be revisited. The committee understands that this will be addressed in the department's briefing to the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight.

Finally, Mr. Chair, the committee emphasized the importance of sports and recreation and its positive role in the development of youth. The committee urged the department to work with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment to improve the working relationship between physical education departments in the schools and the community recreation coordinators and to ensure improved sports and recreation benefits for our youth. Shortfalls in school sport and recreation programs are taken up by the community recreational coordinator. The extra stress placed upon these coordinators leads to burnout and the eventual loss of some community programs and services.