(Translation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like my colleagues, I believe that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources should be applauded for introducing the NWT beverage container recycling program. This program will reduce the amount of garbage in our landfills.
However, Mr. Speaker, there are problems. I did receive a number of calls, prior to session, from businesses like the Northern Store and Co-op, as well as concerned citizens, over the fact that implementation will mean that prices will go up to pay for the cost of the recycling program. Many NWT residents rely on income support and will suffer because of the increased costs to purchase beverages.
In my region, Mr. Speaker, there will be less work because the industry has scaled back in their operations. This means there may be more people on income support. Mr. Speaker, this is big concern for local residents and vendors. There are also concerns with how the refund program will work in the smaller communities that are not on the regular highway system.
Mr. Speaker, Tuktoyaktuk has a recycling program in place right now, but it is voluntary and no one gets paid for turning their empties in. How will they get refunds once the program starts and they are paying more for beverages?
Mr. Speaker, as the MLA for Nunakput, I would like to request this government to reconsider the implementation of the program until such time as the refund programs are set up. Nunakput residents already pay the highest for food; we don't need to pay more. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.