Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Economic Initiatives
The committee is generally supportive of the departmental efforts in the area of business and economic development. It is particularly pleased with the support for entrepreneurs and economic development program, SEED, and sees it as an important tool for expanding local economies, particularly within the smaller NWT communities.
Committee members raised issues related to the potential overlap in services for the Business Development Investment Corporation, Community Futures and other business development support services. Recommendations have been made in the past for the department to consider establishing a one-window approach for these services at the regional level. The committee encourages the department to consider ways to streamline these services in order to ensure better coordination and to avoid duplication.
Tourism and Parks
The committee raised concerns about the proposed Cultural Interpretation at Parks Program as a new strategic initiative. Under this initiative the department is proposing to develop cultural programs at a number of territorial parks to increase visitation and improve the overall park experience for tourists. Members support the concept but noted that this could be achieved using existing resources; for example, campground operators or cultural organizations could apply through the Tourism Product Diversification Program to deliver a range of cultural programs within the parks. Members recommend that the
department pursue other means to support this activity.
The committee also recommends that the Parks Renewal Strategic Infrastructure project be cancelled. Members noted that at a time of fiscal restraint there are greater priority needs that could be addressed through this level of investment. Under the Territorial Parks Act there are regulations that support the creation of wilderness and cultural conservation areas, natural wilderness parks and protected areas. While ITI is responsible for the creation and regulation of territorial parks, ENR has the responsibility for conservation and protected areas. Members discussed the overlap of responsibility between the two departments and recommend that there be a review to determine if conservation goals can be effectively met through ITI.
At this time I will pass the report back to our chairman, Mr. Ramsay. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.