Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to present the 2019-2020 Main Estimates for the Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs. These estimates total $22.1 million, which represents an overall proposed increase of $715,000, or 3 percent over the 2018-2019 Main Estimates.

The departments' proposed increase relates to forced growth initiatives and transfers partially offset by sunsets. Highlights of the proposed estimates include:

$250,000 in funding to assist in self-government implementation;

$50,000 in additional funding to match contributions to the Arctic Inspiration Prize; and

$38,000 in additional funding to support the delivery of campaign schools to further encourage women's participation in politics.

These estimates continue to support the priorities of the 18^th Legislative Assembly by improving residents of smaller communities' awareness and ability to access government programs and services through government service officers and Single Window Service Centres. Currently there are 22 communities across the Northwest Territories with Single Window Service Centres, providing residents with a single point of access to information on government programs and services. Of these 22 Single Window Service Centres, 15 have now expanded their services to seamlessly deliver Government of Canada programs and services directly to residents in some of our most remote communities.

These estimates also include $250,000 in additional resources for the continuation of advancing, finalizing, and implementing lands, resources, and self-government agreements. With the possibility of up to 42 self-governments, self-government financing agreements, and implementations plans in the Northwest Territories, this funding supports the Government of the Northwest Territories' mandate and legal commitments and obligations arising from self-government agreements.

The additional funding for the Arctic Inspiration Prize shows the Government of the Northwest Territories' continued commitment to a strong and sustainable Arctic in the areas of education, human health, socio-cultural issues, environment, and economy.

Finally, these main estimates continue to support initiatives designed to increase the number of women running for elected office in the Northwest Territories in support of our mandate commitments in this area.

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