Thank you.

Programming Staff at North Slave Correctional Centre.

Members of the committee were concerned to hear that the department was proposing to reduce programming staff at the North Slave Correctional Centre. The committee’s major concerns with this proposed reduction centred on inmate wellness and the ability of the remaining programming to meet the requirements of the federal Corrections Service. The department’s response indicates there will be no reduction in the types of programs offered or in the frequency of offering to inmates, and that existing staff will assume other duties. Committee members have difficulties in accepting the department’s assurances, as Members are always concerned when dedicated program delivery staff is eliminated and prevention programs are affected by budget considerations. It is with some reservation that the committee is prepared to accept the layoff of program delivery staff for offender programs.

Law Bursary Program

The department is proposing to eliminate the law bursary program over the next two years. This program gave some support to students while they

attended school and provided some opportunities for articling and summer employment. While it is sad to see the program end, the reality is that there has been no real net benefit to the NWT or the Government of the NWT, as the majority of recipients have not returned to the North to practise law.

The Student Financial Assistance program remains one of the most generous in Canada and is more than adequate in meeting the financial needs of students wishing to pursue the study of law. Mr. Chair, I would ask my colleague Mr. McLeod to continue.