Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about housing in Nahanni Butte. Almost every house in Nahanni Butte is privately owned. In 2004 the NWT Community Housing Survey indicated that 40 percent of the households were in core need. Many of the homeowners have problems with the physical structure of their house, but cannot afford to pay for the repairs. In 2008 the NWT Housing Corporation responded to these homeowners’ needs and proceeded to arrange for the completion of renovations and much needed repairs.

Nahanni Butte residents were very pleased. The NWT Housing Corporation Assistance Program provided funds to renovate the homes and the renovations were to take place last winter. The renovations did get underway but, unfortunately, due to a number of different reasons, the work was incomplete. Although residents were happy that the work was begun, it needs to be finished. Residents have directed their chief and me to see that these repairs continue. The homeowners should be living in the homes that meet acceptable levels of health and safety.

Mr. Speaker, this work needs to be finished for the comfort and safety of the families, single parents and elder households of Nahanni Butte. They have been waiting a long time to have their needs addressed. Once the project is completed, we will need to continue to concentrate on new and future housing projects.

Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Housing at the appropriate time. Thank you very much.