Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to present the 2016-17 main estimates for the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations. Overall, the department's estimates propose a decrease of $586,000 or 6.3 per cent from the 2015-16 main estimates. These estimates continue to support the objects of limiting expenditure growth in order to sustain the long-term sustainability of the fiscal framework.
Highlights of the proposed estimates include:
● $200,000 in initiatives funding to increase the capacity to support the Government of the Northwest Territories new approach to negotiations and $786,000 in expenditure reductions.
The proposed Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations estimates continue to support the priorities of the 18thLegislative Assembly. Specific activities in support of these priorities include:
● implementing a more flexible and adaptive approach to negotiating land claim and self-government agreements, one that incorporates collaboration and consensus building with all partners and negotiations;
● refining the Government of Northwest Territories' land and negotiating mandates with the view of tabling new land quantum offers as soon as possible;
● consistent with respect, recognition, and responsibility continuing to invite any regional or community Aboriginal governments that are not yet party to one to strengthen their intergovernmental relations with the GNWT through the negotiation of an intergovernmental agreement.
That concludes my opening remarks. Thank you, Mr. Chair.