Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Taking action to improve the well-being of Northerners and reduce poverty in the Northwest Territories is a continuing priority for the Government of the Northwest Territories, although it is not something this government can do alone.

Earlier this year an interdepartmental team consulted residents about the root causes of poverty. Residents told us that the root causes of poverty included lack of wellness, lack of education and skills, housing challenges, lack of employment, high cost of living, and programs that create dependency instead of encouraging independence. In setting our priorities as a Caucus, we recognize that action, not more studies, are needed. That is why we identified concrete actions like addressing housing needs, strengthening and diversifying our economy and increasing employment opportunities where they are most needed as our collective priorities.

To effectively address poverty, we will all need to work together; individuals, families and communities, different levels of government and volunteer and community organizations. We all have a role to play when it comes to reducing poverty in the Northwest Territories.

The government appreciates constructive advice from Regular Members on all matters and will certainly take the suggestions and this motion under consideration. However, as this motion is a recommendation to government, Cabinet will abstain from voting on the motion. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.