Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'm pleased to present the 2016-2017 Main Estimates for the Department of Human Resources, and I'll do my best to keep my remarks brief. Overall, the department's estimates propose a decrease of $680,000, which is about 2.8 per cent below the 2015-16 Main Estimates. These estimates limit non-program related expenditures and continue to support the long-term sustainability of the fiscal framework. In our role as a corporate service provider, $4.5 million or about 19 per cent of the department's 2016-17 funding is allocated for direct support to departments and agencies through programs to address hiring, development, and well-being of GNWT employees.
Highlights of the proposed estimates include:
● a reduction in compensation and benefits due to the elimination of three positions;
● a reduction in non-program related contracts.
The Department of Human Resources continues to provide leadership, direction, and support to the GNWT in all areas of human resource management, which ultimately helps to facilitate the achievement of government priorities by all departments. This includes:
● modernizing legislation and policy for the GNWT as it relates to the management of the public service; and
● offering effective recruitment, development, and retention of staff through quality GNWT-wide programs, services, and advice, including working towards a truly representative, inclusive workforce; and
● leading the government-wide initiatives for Occupational Health and Safety.
Thank you, Mr. Chair. That does conclude my opening remarks.