Thank you, Madam
Chair. I am pleased to present the 2015-2016 Main Estimates for the Department of Health and Social Services. Overall, the department’s estimates propose an increase of $14.9 million, or 3.8 percent, over the 2014-2015 estimates. • One of the highlights of the estimates is new
operational funding for a long-term care facility in Norman Wells as part of the ongoing implementation of our strategic framework, Our Elders, Our Communities.
• This budget supports continued work to bring all
health and social services authorities onto common information platforms and allow them to access support from the Technology Service Centre and continued implementation of the Health and Social Services Information Systems Service Centre. This work is critical as we move to a one-system approach for the delivery of health and social services across the NWT and to delivering improved care.
• The one-time costs associated with our move to
one system are supported until 2017-2018 by the Territorial Health Investment Fund from Health Canada. In 2015-2016 the department will continue with detailed organizational design and the analysis of the financial implications of transitioning the system, including looking at the costs and implications of bringing on the Hay River Health and Social Services Authority into the public service.
• Funding is proposed to support expansion of the
Midwifery Program and we are working closely with the Standing Committee on Social programs to explore opportunities to advance the design of a territorial program in 2015-2016.
• Access to health and social services in French
is being expanded with seven new positions being recruited this spring to support services in communities, a toll-free information line, more French language materials and the provision of interpretation services by phone.
• Over $6 million in new funding is included in this
budget for salary increases for employees and physicians in accordance with our obligations under the respective collective agreements.
• The budget includes funding for improved air
ambulance services with newer and more advanced aircraft and equipment and faster response times to communities with shorter runways.
The proposed Department of Health and Social Services estimates continue to support the priorities of the 17th Assembly. The main estimates include specific activities in support of these priorities.
• We will continue to partner with the Department
of Education, Culture and Employment to provide early childhood development options for families. A social marketing campaign will be launched this year. New funding in 2015-2016 will support early intervention for at-risk families with pilot programs in three regions proposed to be delivered this year.
• We will continue to implement Building Stronger
Families, the Child and Family Services Action Plan, and will focus on developing new tools and training to support families through a flexible response approach.
That concludes my opening remarks, Madam Chair. Thank you.