Merci, Monsieur le President. My question is for the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, who has responsibility for the socio-economic benefits of mining. The potential layoffs by Dominion Diamond of 150 unionized workers at the Ekati Mine raises serious issues regarding the costs and lost revenues to the GNWT and economic impacts of such layoffs. Can the Minister describe the steps taken by GNWT to deal with the mass layoffs of workers, and:
- Does the GNWT have information about worker absenteeism at the Ekati Mine and its impact on the operations of the Ekati Mine?
- What costs will be incurred for re-training, unemployment, and income assistance supports that may be required?
- Provide an estimate of the loss of tax revenue (including personal income tax, payroll tax, and transfer payment) and any other GNWT revenue as a result of the loss of 150 jobs.
- Provide an estimate of the economic impact from the loss of 150 jobs in local gross domestic product expenditures, including purchases of regional transportation and expediting services.
Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.