Thank you, Madam Chair. I just want to raise a couple issues that we have in the Mackenzie Delta. One thing that is not in the budget this year, but was somewhat committed to, is licenced practical nurses in Tsiigehtchic. I hope there could be revisions made to that.

Also, it was brought up by another colleague, is medical travel. It has improved since the fall, but we do have many escorts who are needed for elders. Many elders were brought up in a time when school was not available to everyone. Not all of our elders know how to read. This is a big challenge coming into a large town this size, or city. It is really challenging and discouraging for many. That needs to be taken into consideration when we send the elders down here for medical conditions.

Also, we are receiving poor diagnoses in the smaller communities, especially in Fort McPherson. We’ve had a couple of cases, even since this fall that could have been avoided. We need to fix those problems as soon as possible.

I’m really looking forward to what is in the plan. The land treatment programs, I am hoping those will be offered up in the Mackenzie Delta. As you know, the Gwich’in have a wellness camp up there. I’m hoping that we can take full advantage of that facility. That is all I have right now. Thank you, Madam Chair.