Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Since I was elected, I've had the fortunate pleasure to be able to meet many seniors and elders in their homes across the Northwest Territories. Some of these elders and disabled people live in homes built by and owned by the Housing Corporation. Some of these people are lucky enough to have their home accommodate their personal situation, but, Mr. Speaker, many out there are not. Simple things like having their hallways wide enough to navigate their mobility aids, like scooters or even wheelchairs, down their hallways, lowered counter tops, ramps and doorways that allow for easy access, sit-down tubs with access doors, are all designs that can make a difference between independent living with dignity or having to move into an assisted living situation.
The NWT Housing Corporation appears to be taking into account the needs of seniors and the disabled people in their recent designs. Mr. Speaker, evidence of that is the 8-plex barrier-free construction apartment that they're building in my riding, which is soon to be open.
The department is making great strides and they deserve significant credit for their efforts, but I see the need to go a bit further, Mr. Speaker, helping to ensure the present and future needs of our seniors and disabled residents are met through the housing designs the Housing Corporation funds and constructs. Initial spending on such design
features could save large sums of money in extended care costs and help elderly people keep their independence and pride as they live on their own.
Mr. Speaker, there is a need for formal policy, a clear declaration that outlines design factors and equipment that must be incorporated into any unit being built by or paid for by the NWT Housing Corporation aimed at our seniors and disabled persons. This would allow many more people to age in place and not have to be relocated into a health care environment.
Mr. Speaker, we need functional, practical designs based on best practices that meet the needs of our seniors and disabled people now and in the future. Mr. Speaker, I will be challenging the Minister later to help address this concern. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause