Thank you, Mr. Chairman. When this issue came to my attention and there was concern, there was a petition to establish a separate DEC for Hay River, a district education council. When this was turned down, Mr. Chairman, we did a committee report on this. We had a study done to look at the issues that were there. The study did indicate some problems. The study indicated communication difficulties between the DEA and the DEC in general terms. There were some recommendations made to improve administrative matters and so forth, which are always important for us to do.
I understand the question the DEA in Hay River wants. I have indicated back to the DEA that it is problematic to create a DEC. It does base itself around a cost factor, and the cost factor we have provided to the DEA and the DEC in order to set up a separate DEC for the community of Hay River. I have indicated to the DEC that if they wish to discuss this further, I am quite prepared but I need to know from the DEC, because it is an issue. The lines of communication are more appropriately from the DEC to the Minister. The DEAs are part and parcel of the DEC. However, I have met with the DEA a number of times. I will continue to listen to what they have to say. However, the bottom line in a lot of this, Mr. Chairman, is that it is a costly matter for us to create a separate DEC. Am I prepared to talk about that? Of course I am, but there has to be a recognition that cost is a factor here.
The DEA states that they can cut a lot of costs but, Mr. Chairman, I have to go by what my officials advise on how to operate a DEC. I have to adhere to that. It is healthy schools, after all, that is at stake here. My understanding is the DEA in Hay River runs a very good organization and they should be complimented for that. I think they have the community respect for the schools they do run. I think they do a good job, from the best of my understanding, a very good job.
This is an administrative matter. It is not a matter of healthy schools. It is an administrative matter that is a problem here, Mr. Chairman, and that is what we need to work on. Thank you.