Thank you, Madam Speaker. Again, it is our preference as a government to support the companies that are leaving tangible benefits behind. Of course, it is very difficult to wade into the corporate structures of companies to determine exactly what the ownership structure looks like, unless we're conducting something other than a competitive process and we need to go in and negotiate a contract. Then, as I've said, there are a couple of tests and filters; support from the MLA in the region. It's difficult when development arms of bands are involved in joint ventures that may be less than ideal, because obviously there has been some political support for those entities. Getting in and actually evaluating, rating and looking at the track record of companies and comparing them to each other can be something that's very difficult. So I'll give my assurance to the Member that we'll continue to work with the Member to understand better who is doing what in the region and which businesses we need to be, as a government, hoping to patronize as much as possible. Keeping in mind, of course, we have to respect the rules of procurement that we abide by as a government. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
Brendan Bell on Question 79-15(4): Level Playing Field For Businesses In NWT Communities
In the Legislative Assembly on June 2nd, 2005. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 79-15(4): Level Playing Field For Businesses In Nwt Communities
Question 79-15(4): Level Playing Field For Businesses In NWT Communities
Item 7: Oral Questions
June 1st, 2005
Page 190
See context to find out what was said next.