Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, Infrastructure, of course, is a new department formed through amalgamation and, of course, we are aware that amalgamation of the departments is one of the biggest changes to government organization introduced by this government in this budget. This is not to suggest that Regular Members do not recognize some of the efficiencies that are being gained through the proposed amalgamations.

As we just heard from the Minister, there is set to be a regional office in the Sahtu if this budget is approved. We know obviously that our fellow colleague would be very supportive of that, our colleague from the Sahtu, and so we recognize that there certainly are efficiencies to be had, but Members also have difficulty, to some degree, supporting some of the amalgamations and the reductions proposed with it.

Some of the reasons are that we have been clear all along that we see that the amalgamations have been primarily driven by the fiscal strategy and its reduction targets. We have shared concerns with the validity of zero-based review. We have also shared concerns that amalgamations seem to lack clear implementation and change management plans, at least to the degree that they have not been shared.

We are clearly being concerned about risks of disruption to front-line services when it comes to amalgamations. Probably most importantly, however, is we are very concerned with the negative impact on jobs and employment, especially at a time when that could be seen as contributing to the challenges facing our current situation with our economy.

Under the corporate management aspect of this department, as the Minister is probably aware, we have been seeking an increased Investment and Community Access Program. We have seen a lot of uptake for this program. It has always been a strong program. Communities use these funds to complete projects they determine to be a priority. It has been beneficial in all the regions.

In programs and services, the Minister is also aware that we have wanted to see an increase in funding to the Arctic Energy Alliance. We see the Arctic Energy Alliance is obviously a reliable and proven partner in helping the GNWT achieve its greenhouse gas reduction targets, and is a leader in implementing renewable energy sources and has helped a number of the communities over the years identify and work on alternative energy solutions.

Arctic Energy Alliance programs are directly tied to the GNWT's climate change and energy strategies and so clearly, Mr. Chair, their efforts help us meet our own targets and goals as a government. The Arctic Energy Alliance programs will broaden access to programs to improve participation by lower-income residents. This helps reduce the costs of living and certainly reduces the use of diesel fuel.

Mr. Chair, regionally, in the regional operations aspects, as the Minister is aware again, we are seeking for further investment in the Sambaa K'e winter road. Like all winter roads, it has become a lifeline for the community and reduces the cost of air service. We see it as a very important investment.

As was talked about in the House today, winter ferry services at Peel and Arctic Red Rivers, we are seeking a reinstatement there that I am sure the Minister is clearly aware of. We know that this takes away some of the uncertainty that is created in the region. We see it as unacceptable without a solid contingency plan for a winter road. We heard from our Member from the Mackenzie Delta earlier today that it is obviously a job creator and it keeps the cost of living down.

These are some of the aspects that I wanted to share on behalf of Regular Members as general comments before leading into the department, Mr. Chair. Thank you.