The committee was made aware that the 2004-2005 draft main estimates reflect a government-wide 25 percent cut in travel budgets from 2002-2003 actual spending. The total travel expenditure reduction for all departments is $3.171 million.
While the committee applauds the government's efforts in this area, Members believe further savings are possible.
The Premier advised the committee that all international travel must be approved at the ministerial level. The committee would urge the Premier to ensure this requirement is followed strictly, and that no staff, including deputy ministers, are ever authorized to approve
international travel. The committee would also urge the Premier to ensure that the costs of any international travel are clearly justified by benefits to the Northwest Territories.
Attendance at federal/provincial/territorial Ministers meetings is another area where Members believe the government may be able to make reductions. Travel costs for these meetings include not only Ministers' travel costs, but also those of staff traveling with the Minister. While there is a clear need for the GNWT to have a strong presence at some FPT meetings such as those for Health and Finance Ministers, there are many FPT meetings that have little or no relevance to the Northwest Territories. The Premier advised committee that each FPT is assessed for its relevance. The committee urges the Premier and Ministers to ensure each FPT is warranted and has real benefit to the NWT.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause