Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.

Health

Committee appreciates the concerted efforts made by the GNWT to prevent the spread of COVID in the NWT. While the GNWT has done a remarkable job in preventing the spread of COVID, committee is concerned about the supply of standard and rapid testing kits available to the NWT residents, both currently and for future waves of the COVID. Testing units assist in diagnosing at a more rapid rate for situations where contact tracing is critical and actions to contain transmission can be put in place faster. With global shortages in the supply chain, the DHSS reports that the number of tests received weekly may fluctuate and is expected to continue to fluctuate going forward. Committee understands all COVID tests need to be validated through an accredited lab. For the NWT, the closest accredited lab is in Alberta. Committee shares concerns about potential delays in receiving test results, given the NWT's remote geographic area spread across 33 communities.

Recommendation 2

Standing Committee on Social Development recommends DHSS continue to work with national partners to increase testing supplies, materials, and Personal Protective Equipment to maintain a robust inventory for the anticipated second wave of COVID-19.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to turn it over to the Member for Yellowknife Centre. Mahsi.