Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to be here to present the 2018-2019 Main Estimates for the Department of Health and Social Services. The total proposed budget for the department is $461,563,000. Overall, the department’s estimates propose an increase of about $38.3 million, which is an increase of 9 per cent over the 2017-2018 Main Estimates.
Highlights of the proposed estimates before you include:
• Forced growth of $9.2 million;
• Sunsets and other adjustments of $25.5 million, including $12.6 million to address existing base deficiencies in six high-pressure program areas that have been experiencing significant growth; and
• Funding for initiatives totalling about $3.995 million.
The department’s proposed spending in 2018-2019 continues to support the priorities of the 18th Legislative Assembly.
Some specific funding activities in support of these priorities include:
• $2.863 million to operationalize the new Norman Wells Health Centre and Long-term Care Facility;
• $762,000 for the Yellowknife Sobering Centre;
• $653,000 to enhance rehabilitation services for children;
• $848,000 to enhance services for FASD and autism;
• $1.234 million to establish school and community child and youth care counsellors in the Dehcho and the Tlicho; and
• $498,000 to establish three positions to respond to the additional requirements for front-line inspections, advice and support to agriculture-related operators, food establishments and the associated policy, and regulatory work to support the multi-department efforts to implement the GNWT Agriculture Strategy.
Mr. Chair, that concludes my opening remarks, and I am looking forward to answering any questions the Members may have.