Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to briefly outline the process that the GNWT will undertake to formulate a response to the report from the Social Agenda Working Group.
The people of the Northwest Territories are our greatest resource. Continuing development of the North, whether it is social, economic or political development, is dependent upon the strength of our northern community. The social agenda report recognizes the need to develop a long-term plan to improve social conditions and to support healthy, self-reliant Northerners who can fully participate in the opportunities that the North provides.
The report is a result of the efforts of the Social Agenda Working Group. The report includes ten broad-based formal recommendations that apply to all levels of government and the non-government sector. As the lead in developing this government's response, I have formed an interdepartmental working committee to review the recommendations and develop a detailed draft response for review and approval.
While the working group's report includes multi-sector recommendations, the Government of the Northwest Territories can only respond to those items within its mandate and authority. Since many of the recommendations call for shared action and require a broader, multi-party response, we are committed to discussions with other parties.
Mr. Speaker, I intend to meet with members of the Intergovernmental Forum, the Special Joint Committee on Non-Tax-Based Community Affairs and the legislative committees to determine the best approach to take.
Mr. Speaker, even though we recognize there are fiscal limitations, there are things that can be accomplished within the existing resources of the GNWT. We can support projects that test new approaches, such as multi-year and block funding of wellness programs, integration of the interagency concept and one-window service centres, and cooperation with other funding agencies to integrate our approaches to project support.
The GNWT's response to the social agenda report will build on the linkages with extensive activities that are underway through existing GNWT strategies and initiatives, including the Health and Social Services System Action Plan, Active Living Strategy, Early Childhood Development Strategy, Housing Initiatives and the Seniors Action Plan.
We have many opportunities before us, Mr. Speaker, and with the support of this Legislature, I look forward to releasing a detailed public response to the Social Agenda Working Group's recommendations, and an implementation plan by early fall.
Our response will represent the GNWT's commitment, but we will continue to work in partnership with other levels of government and non-government organizations to advance the Social Agenda and bring about positive social change for the people of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause