Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

WHEREAS alcohol abuse has taken a heavy toll in all Northwest Territories communities;

AND WHEREAS alcohol consumption and drug use has increased among young people;

AND WHEREAS NWT Liquor Commission net revenues will increase to $24 million in fiscal year 2011-2012 from $22 million in fiscal year 2008-2009;

AND WHEREAS the Northwest Territories has only one alcohol and drug treatment centre;

AND WHEREAS there is no detoxification centre or relapse centre in the territory;

AND WHEREAS the Department of Health and Social Services strategic action plan, “A Foundation for Change,” includes no strategic action to establish additional alcohol and drug treatment centres;

AND WHEREAS the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce has called for the establishment of an alcohol and drug treatment centre;

AND WHEREAS alcohol abuse is a contributing factor in the offences committed by a majority of inmates in Northwest Territories correctional facilities, and in a majority of family violence cases;

NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre, that the Government of the Northwest Territories take immediate action to identify the various options for establishing a mobile alcohol and drug treatment program that can be delivered on the land, and report back to the 17th Legislative Assembly during

the first six months of its term in office.