Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Taking care of elders is an important part of Dene culture, and we take it very seriously in Deh Cho communities. At a recent constituency meeting in Fort Providence, it was pointed out that two additional positions are needed for homecare. [English translation not provided]

Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Health and Social Services has informed me that two home support worker positions are filled, although the homecare nurse position is vacant. I am concerned that, with about 40 clients, the home support workers are booked solid and other elders who need service are unable to get help.

Mr. Speaker, the Deh Gah Gotie First Nation previously ran a successful homemaker program through an agreement with the GNWT. Unfortunately, this funding was cut off, and we no longer have the program.

I am also concerned that more of our elders will wind up living in regional centres where our government has concentrated its facilities for seniors. When this happens, it erodes the fabric of our small communities and our culture. If facilities cannot be built in small communities, we must have more homecare to help our elders stay in their homes.

Mr. Speaker, I wrote the Minister of Health and Social Services about this issue. I explained the need for two more homecare workers in Fort Providence. It is a small request, and there are people in the community who can do these jobs. To date, I have seen no progress. There is nothing to indicate that the voices of our elders in Zhatie Koe are being heard or that their needs will be met by this government.

Mr. Speaker, residents of our small communities are entitled to health services on par with those enjoyed by other Canadians. I know very well that we do not live up to that goal. I am not asking for a hospital in Fort Providence. I am asking for two homecare workers to help our elders live well in their final years. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.