I have a return to written question asked by Mr. Yakeleya on March 31, 2004, regarding the Harvesters' Assistance Program and the income support program.
Harvesters' assistance payments to trappers are not considered in income support calculations. The Harvesters' Assistance Program is an exemption under the consolidation of social assistance regulations. This exemption allows the value of materials or vehicles required for hunting, trapping or fishing to be excluded from the net monthly income calculations. This rule applies to everyone in the Northwest Territories, including the Sahtu, Gwich'in and the Inuvialuit.
Income support officers receive training on a regular basis and are aware of this regulation. The regional income support managers will ensure that these guidelines are followed.