Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As people of aware, I had to travel south in November to deal with a personal family matter. It was a very difficult situation, but something I needed to do. With this in mind, I followed the process as set out by the CPHO. I submitted my self-isolation plan, and after a few conversations with staff over a few days, it was identified that I would have to stay at one of the isolation centres in Yellowknife.
As we got off the plane, we were ushered into the airport, lined up, and had the opportunity to meet with the COVID staff at the airport. They were very professional, answering questions people had. Once this was done, you were directed to pick up your luggage, then, if you were going to an isolation centre, to the transportation. The driver was very helpful at the time and was following the CPHO orders. Upon arriving at the hotel, I was directed to the front desk and then to the Yellowknife isolation centre office. I was impressed with the job the staff did, signing me in and providing me with clear directions of what we could and could not do during the stay.
During my stay at the centre, I witnessed the same message repeated to every person who signed in. I was very impressed with the way staff were able to provide this information consistently and in such a positive way. I would like to also share some of the things I witnessed. The manager of the self-isolation centre has reached out to the Department of Health and Social Services dietician to review the hotel's menu and improve it for the people. If people had dietary needs or requests, they just needed to reach out to the office and bring it forth. These requests were forwarded to the kitchen staff, and it was implemented throughout their stay.
Some of the other things I got to see was the helpfulness of the staff. One individual was looking for a carry-on bag, and the staff person brought an underarm bag and brought it to this individual. It was brand new, Mr. Speaker, and when the person asked what the cost was, it was said, "Nothing." I watched and witnessed people ask for medication and supplies to be delivered to them during their stay at the isolation centre, and it was met in a very positive nature; they just did it without any regard to their time. They would do it during off hours, just to help the residents.
Mr. Speaker, we sometimes hear the bad things, but I would like again to thank the staff, the frontline staff of the COVID Secretariat and CPHO's office that did this great job. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.