Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to present the 2017-2018 Main Estimates for the proposed new Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs. This new department, which will come into effect on April 1, 2017 represents the amalgamation of the Executive and Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations, two departments which have much in common, face similar challenges, and are significantly interdependent. The April 1st merger was designed to strengthen communications and coordination among functions and, most importantly, to better serve a shared client base.

These estimates continue to support the Government of the Northwest Territories' objective of ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the government and its programs by managing expenditures due to limited revenue growth.

The 2017-2018 Main Estimates total $19.194 million. This amount remains unchanged from the 2016-2017 Main Estimates for the Departments of Executive and Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations. Highlights of the department's proposed 2017-2018 Main Estimates include:

• Forced growth of $22,000 for increased software licensing requirements;

• A new initiative of $95,000 to hire an additional government service officer; and

• Reductions of $117,000.

The department's proposed estimates for 2017-18 continue to support the priorities of the 18th Legislative Assembly. Specific activities in support of these priorities include:

• Coordinating and supporting the planning and implementation of initiatives and actions in support of cross-government goals;

• Providing policy, strategic, legislative, and communications advice to support Cabinet and Ministers;

• The conclusion of land, resources, and self-government agreements in a manner that respects the inherent right of self-government and ensures an overall effective, affordable, and workable system of governance, capable of providing an adequate and comparable level of quality programs and services for all Northwest Territories residents;

• The successful ongoing implementation and monitoring of land, resources, and self-government agreements by ensuring all Government of the Northwest Territories obligations within its agreements are met; and

• Constructive and co-operative intergovernmental relations with federal, provincial, territorial, Aboriginal, and foreign governments that are based on mutual respect.

That concludes my opening remarks. Thank you, Mr. Chair.