The SEED Program contains a market disruption provision in order to refrain from providing businesses with funding for investments when their competitors have funded similar improvements on their own. As with any government program, the objective is fairness. However, in light of COVID, we may want to review this approach in order to support businesses that need to pivot. The challenge will be funding business improvements or COVID pivots when their competitor across the street funded such improvements on their own. That said, again, I'll note our flexible approach, given the current circumstances.

I do want to thank the Member for bringing this to my attention. I will ask my department to consider how we can support Northwest Territories businesses as they prepare to operate in this new COVID reality and do so in a way that is fair. I will keep the Member apprised on what this department is able to recommend within the policy before the end of next week. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.