Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health and Social Services has defined their purpose as follows: "To promote, protect and provide for the health and well-being of the people of the Northwest Territories." From this purpose we can assume that all the residents of the Northwest Territories can expect a certain level of health care and access to the various services and that all communities can expect a certain level of infrastructure to deliver such services.

Mr. Speaker, in reviewing the 20-year needs assessment I found that the health centre once identified for the Hay River Reserve has been eliminated. I understand and recognize the need for fiscal restraints, however, residents of the Hay River Reserve who require health services are now forced to travel to Hay River to obtain health services. This can be very difficult for many of the residents, especially for the very young children and the elderly, in the case of emergencies.

The addition of a health care facility on the Hay River Reserve will not only provide the residents with timely access to health services, it will provide the community with health care professionals that will be closer to the community, thus creating a greater understanding of community health issues. It will allow for easier distribution of health information and will allow for effective communication with the hospital staff in Hay River. It will also improve community infrastructure and build community capacity.

Mr. Speaker, the need for the health centre is an issue that has been ongoing and one that requires an innovative approach if it is to be realized. An option that has been proposed by the chief of the K'atlodeeche First Nation would result in the band council constructing a building that could be leased back to the Government of the Northwest Territories for use as a health centre. This option would not require a major capital outlay by this government for construction of the building, but only require a lease and operating payment.

Mr. Speaker, the K'atlodeeche First Nation has proved it is willing to look outside the box to seek workable solutions for the benefit of its residents. I urge this government to do the same by making this very important need a reality. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services during question period. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause