Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As outlined by the Minister of Finance two days ago in the Budget Address, this government plans on investing an additional $1 million in the area of day care during the upcoming fiscal year.

Mr. Speaker, the NWT's economy is vibrant and generating new jobs. This activity translates into increased opportunities for northern residents. While part of this government's role is to create an environment for investment and growth, we must also take steps that allow our residents every opportunity to benefit from this prosperity. The goal, aptly articulated in Towards A Better Tomorrow, is one of the principles behind the decision to invest additional funds in this area.

Our plan, Mr. Speaker, is to invest new money in two critical areas. First we plan to increase the daily contribution we make to licensed day care programs. As an example, if the base rate for an infant space is $9.00 per child, we plan to increase it to $14.40 per child. As you can see, Mr. Speaker, this is a full 60 percent increase.

The second area, Mr. Speaker, where we will make a substantial increase is in the area of day care subsidies for low-income parents. Our present system does not cover parents who need day care services during the summer months, or parents who work shift work. If we are going to assist these Northerners in taking advantage of the opportunities before them, we must improve their access to day care services. It is our hope that this increased investment will do just that.

Early childhood is a priority for this government, Mr. Speaker. Investments in early childhood will help to realize our goal of a healthy, self-reliant territory as envisioned in Towards A Better Tomorrow. This investment will give NWT families greater access to affordable quality childcare and a greater opportunity to realize their own career dreams while making a productive contribution to society. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause