Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last week, there was much discussion on seniors' homes in the NWT. I would like to speak specifically about Kivallik House in Tuktoyaktuk.
The Kivallik seniors' facility can accommodate 10 seniors, and includes rooms that are suitable for husbands and wives. Presently, there are three seniors living in the facility. A husband and wife team is contracted by the Housing Corporation to provide security and some caregiving. The local housing authority in Tuktoyaktuk assists with the maintenance of the Kivallik House.
Mr. Speaker, I agree with my colleagues, that the units are not running at full capacity. The number of clientele does not cover the operating costs. I know that the LHO is trying to encourage elders to move into this wonderful facility. However, as we know, you can't force an elder to do something that they don't want to do. I applaud these elders for their independence in the keeping of their own homes.
Mr. Speaker, as an example, and elderly person just turned 87 years young last week. She currently lives with one of her sons in the house and is very independent. She traveled to Yellowknife for a conference just last week. These are the types of seniors we are talking about here. Their homes and their independence are very important to them.
I understand that the NWT Housing Corporation is looking at alternatives for the Kivallik House, and I have seen recent ads in the paper for minor renovations. My understanding is that the NWT Housing Corporation plans to restructure the facility, so that five units can be used for low-cost housing.
Mr. Speaker, a senior's home should be used for their quiet time and enjoyment, and not have to worry about other clients disturbing them. I am concerned that there has been no consultation with the seniors or LHOs in Tuktoyaktuk. One very good alternative, Mr. Speaker, would be to upgrade the facility to a level II care home and repatriate the two elders from the Joe Greenland Centre in Aklavik.
In closing, Mr. Speaker, I am firm believer in independence. I applaud many of my elders in Tuktoyaktuk, for their independence and desire to stay in their homes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause