Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, although we are still trudging through the freezing temperatures of winter, spring and summer are just around the corner and the warm months will bring to mind recreational activities, including swimming. Today I wanted to discuss the above-ground pool program in the Northwest Territories and make some comments about the swimming pool in Fort Providence and the condition it is in.

Mr. Speaker, the pool was built in 1972 in Fort Providence with a plywood shell and without any heaters in the facility. Now, 30 years later, the roof needs to be replaced. It has huge holes in it that are beyond repair. The cement floor is cracked and heaving. The styrofoam around the pool is cracking and expanding outward and the shower is still in the public view and without any hot water. When the pool is in use, it leaks about a foot of water a week.

It is at risk of collapsing and is a hazard to the public. These problems give rise to issues of security, liability, safety, health and privacy concerns, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs for funding to construct a new pool in Fort Providence.

As we all know, sports and recreation are key to developing strong communities. Sports develops leadership skills in our youth and encourages them to continue to lead in whatever activities or jobs they choose to pursue in life. Sports and recreation also helps to keep youth off the streets and out of trouble. This is unquestionably important in the North where there is a lack of activities for youth, especially in the small communities.

A new recreational facility such as the above-ground swimming pool can contribute to the overall health of the community. Entire families can enjoy what a swimming pool has to offer, be it through swimming lessons, competitive sport or leisurely activities.

These reasons, Mr. Speaker, are why the construction of an above-ground swimming pool in the Hamlet of Fort Providence should be considered. The construction of swimming pools are not considered as capital projects, yet MACA was generous enough to provide $300,000 in funding to Fort Liard's new above-ground swimming pool, completed just this fiscal year. Fort Liard is a community of 520 residents, while Fort Providence has 840 residents and we do not receive any funding.

The population difference is considerable...