Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in my Member's statement today, I would like to talk about the Northwest Territories Literacy Strategy. I want to put on record my support for this strategy. I believe it is going to be fundamental to the well-being of the North. Mr. Speaker, communication is vital. Every individual should have the ability to read and write, and it is the responsibility of this government to provide the tools to achieve these essential skills.
Mr. Speaker, without reading and writing skills, something many of us take for granted, people have a difficult time finding employment and doing many day-to-day tasks. Mr. Speaker, literacy not only affects individuals, but it also affects society as a whole. Societies that invest in literacy programs and services reduce poverty, unemployment, income support and criminal activity. Literacy programs improve the individual, family and community.
Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories Literacy Council has been very successful. The strategy develops and delivers a wide range of community-based programs addressing the literacy needs of community members. The funding also supports training, online learning and resource development for adult literacy practitioners. Funding also goes towards successfully promoting the Northwest Territories Literacy Week and Family Literacy Week.
Mr. Speaker, current funding is barely enough to deliver the programs and services presently available. Additional money should be invested into the Northwest Territories Literacy Strategy to further support programs and services and campaigns, which otherwise might not survive.
For years, I have heard this government identify the need to develop a literacy strategy in the Northwest Territories, and now when we experience an economic boom, Mr. Speaker, this government should consider increasing investment into the programs that are necessary to ensure that northerners take advantage of such a prosperous time.