The standing committee reiterated its concern from the business plans that the government's FIS would require replacement. During the review of the 2002-2005 business plans, the committee heard from the government that it has proposed additional capital funding to extend the operating life of the FIS through the next three fiscal years. The department agreed that eventually, the current FIS system would no longer be economical or practical to maintain and stated that a replacement of the FIS is likely to cost between $10 million and $15 million.

In the review of its 2002-2003 draft main estimates, FMBS informed the committee that over the next two years, it is conducting a business case analysis to determine how best to replace the FIS. It will compare different systems, and consult with users and clients. The standing committee would like the FMBS to ensure a proper implementation plan for this replacement process is established.

Mr. Chairman, that concludes the Standing Committee on Governance and Economic Development report on FMBS. Thank you.