Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about BIP as well. Mr. Speaker, there has been a lot of controversy in the House, a lot of talk and questions to the Ministers on the elimination of BIP for the second phase of the correctional centre to be developed here in Yellowknife. I totally concur and agree with my colleague, Mr. McLeod, when he asks why are we spending too much money on building jails when we need the money for social issues such as education and housing. We are spending a lot of money on developing first-class accommodations for those who break our laws and we cannot provide enough accommodation for our people in the Northwest Territories.
When BIP was first created, Mr. Speaker, the construction industry needed a bottle to be fed. It was in its infancy. Today, Mr. Speaker, when we are experiencing unsurpassed development, everybody is busy. Our construction industry has grown up, and I believe now is the time to take the soother out that is the BIP.
BIP costs this government anywhere between 10 and 20 percent in extra costs, and that is putting a strain and a challenge to putting up houses that are badly needed in our communities. To build our schools and recreational facilities, that is an extra 20 percent to the actual cost. I believe the people of the Northwest Territories are now ready for open competition. I believe that our construction industry is ready for open competition and that the people of the Northwest Territories should pay the best price they can get.
Maybe the elimination of BIP entirely is not the answer or the way to go, Mr. Speaker, but maybe we should factor in different levels of spending. If it is anything more than a million dollars, maybe BIP should not apply. There has to be a more concentrated effort given to BIP and the implications of BIP on the social aspect of life in the Northwest Territories. I agree with the Cabinet when they made their decision. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.