First of all, I should say that in my correspondence with the Prime Minister I feel we’ve got an opportunity to continue the discussions as we look at this framework we’ve put on the table.
There are a number of factors at play here. The federal government has quite clearly told us they will treat us the same as every jurisdiction in Canada. That is the part where you look at equalization versus formula financing of a 50 per cent in and 50 per cent out scenario. We’ll use a nominal figure of $100. If we were to get $100 in royalty, we’d lose $50 of it through our transfer payments, and we’d net $50. Then another measure comes in, and that’s the fiscal capacity capthat they have put in place; that is different from other jurisdictions. We’re still negotiating the fact that it is a concern to us.
Now, with this framework that may be a way of bridging them. In fact, I would say that is still using the money that is coming out of the Northwest Territories, so I think that is why the discussion has been open and remains open. Hopefully, shortly after the election we will be able to move on that along with the Members of this Assembly.