Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have significant housing issues in Yellowknife. There are very few houses for sale and very few new ones being built, largely because of the high price of land. There are not many mobile homes on the market, although I understand we may soon see some development in this area. There are hardly any apartments or rental accommodations available. It is obvious that the market is tough for all income levels.
Mr. Speaker, you can imagine if people with resources are having trouble finding accommodation just what those who have the least are going through.
People who are single and homeless can go to either the Salvation Army shelter or the Women's Centre for overnight shelter. A year ago, their chances of being reasonably accommodated were pretty good. This winter, both shelters are full every night. In fact, Mr. Speaker, both shelters are filled over their capacity pretty well all the time.
For instance, at the Women's Centre, there are 24 to 30 people every night. This is in a place with nine beds that is funded for 16 people. Mr. Speaker, overcrowding, as we all know, can lead to violent situations. On occasion, the Salvation Army and Women's Centre may have to evict residents as a result, just to protect the others.
Mr. Speaker, we could end up with people who have no options for shelter during the coldest time of the year.
This is made worse, Mr. Speaker, by the RCMP shortage and their recent announcement that they will not have the personnel to respond to situations involving an intoxicated person. We are in danger of having someone freeze to death.
Mr. Speaker, Education, Culture and Employment, through their income support program, provides funding to these shelters. They will have to respond. They must fund more bed space and increased staff.
Mr. Speaker, I will be following up with the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment on this issue later today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause