Thank you, Madam Chair. One of the particular issues in this briefing note is the Inuvik-Tuk highway. I thought it would be beneficial for everyone if he provided a quick synopsis of some of the discussions that were happening. I will speak in terms of theme as opposed to specifics and allow Members to speak in favour or against or their overall position.
Some of the issues that have arisen out of the Inuvik-Tuk highway have been things along the lines of funding arrangements with the federal government to build a proportion of 75/25 being sort of the final billing. Are there other opportunities? Is the $150 million contribution firm? Members, of course, would like copies, correspondence of funding, arrangements and, of course, conditions. Typically the federal government, as we all know, will build the highway and the provincial or territorial government who then takes it over will, of course, then move to maintenance responsibility.
A lot of Members felt that the cost estimates were too broad. Members want more specific numbers. Long-term implications seem to be unknown; for example, maintenance costs, permafrost conditions, taking away from other major infrastructure properties and, of course, the list goes on.
Risk major had been highlighted. It needs to be fully developed. It includes key decision points, worst-case scenarios. The Minister identified signing an agreement with Canada as the point of no return. Members asked to be kept informed on P3 opportunities and the particular negotiations. This is void including maintenance in a P3 contract. Also to ensure that public funds stay in the North. That is a big issue, allow as many northern contractors as possible and the opportunity to benefit from the project.
Just an overall perspective, the Minister committed to keeping the committee informed which, as all Members I am sure, we certainly appreciate. Details on federal funding arrangements are key for the Minister as he has agreed to procurement processes and contract negotiations are a major issue. He responded to specific requests for technical information regarding permafrost data, route selection. He has also advised Members when project website is live, that he will obviously inform Members. I would assume he is going to inform the public as well so the public can follow this particular issue.
He has committed to providing due diligence of key project milestones and he has stressed repeatedly that, as returning committee discussed broader economic development and mineral development strategies.
Madam Chair, that is just a general overview I offer to committee and Members that I have provided a sort of a quick synopsis to highlighted themes. Many Members will have their own specific concerns which I think are important to get out on the table here today, fleshed out whether they support or don’t support or key weaknesses or areas of concern they want to highlight. Thank you, Madam Chair.