As the Standing Committee on Governance and Economic Development reviewed the Department of the Executive's main estimates, the chairperson noted that the placement of the social agenda within the Executive paved the way for considerable discussion of social issues and problems that should fall under the mandate of the Standing Committee on Social Programs.

The committee was also of the opinion that there does not appear to be a clear coordination between the Department of Health and Social Services and the Social Agenda Working Group. While Health and Social Services has just recently announced its action plan, the Social Agenda Working Group plans to release its recommendations at the end of February. The committee would like to be assured that the expenditure of over $475,000 towards the working group has been worthwhile and their recommendations will be considered in the department's plans.

Given the committee's concerns and the fact that their suggestion for the removal of the Social Agenda from the Department of the Executive during the business plan report was not heeded, the committee brought the matter to the attention of the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight.

The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight examined the expanding mandate of the Executive Offices. Given the cross-departmental nature of the social agenda and other initiatives like Maximizing Northern Employment, the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight will be proposing an amendment to the Rules of the Legislative Assembly to include the Executive Offices within the standing committee's mandate.

Mr. Speaker, that concludes the report of the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight on the review of the 2002-2003 Main Estimates. Therefore,

I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Frame Lake, that Committee Report 1-14(5) be received by the Legislative Assembly and moved into committee of the whole for consideration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.