The committee noted that the original plan to amalgamate the business development programs was introduced during the business plan process of October 2000 and implementation was planned for the fiscal year 2002-2003.

During the review of the 2002-2005 business plan for RWED, the committee was informed that the department had extended its period for public consultation and input until the end of January 2002. The committee was also informed that amalgamation would not be implemented until 2003-2004.

The committee felt that the re-organization of business programs and loans into a one-stop shop corporation should be put in place sooner rather than later in order for entrepreneurs to take advantage of the current economic boom in the NWT. The department responded that a legislative proposal would be coming forward shortly to amend the necessary acts.

The committee would like assurance that regional positions will not be reduced nor will service delivery in communities be negatively impacted by changes to business support programs. The Minister stated that there was no intent to alter present service delivery in the communities.

The committee looks forward to having one business support organization to ensure equal funding for businesses throughout the NWT. The committee is concerned that not all communities have equal access to Community Futures and other business development funding. A response to the recommendations made by the Business Program Review Committee has been provided by the standing committee to the department. The committee looks forward to having further input once the draft amalgamation policy has been provided.