Yes, Madam Chair. I am here to present the 2021-2022 Main Estimates for the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment. Overall, the department's estimates propose an increase of $404,000 or 0.7 percent over the main estimates of 2020-2021. These estimates support the mandate objectives for ITI while continuing to meet the GNWT's fiscal objectives to prioritize responsible and strategic spending.
Highlights of these proposed estimates include:
- Initiative funding totalling $2.296 million, which includes:
- $936,000 to continue our support of tourism under Tourism 2025 towards the five-year investment strategy for the tourism sector;
- $400,000 to maintain funding for our Mining Incentive Program to stimulate prospecting and exploration and increase resource exploration and development in our territory;
- $360,000 to support the development of regulations for the Mineral Resources Act and to advance work on the mineral administration and registry system;
- $350,000 to invest in the creation of an action plan to develop the NWT's knowledge economy and establish regional economic development plans; and
- $250,000 to support an ITI position to coordinate and ensure continued development of the fish sector and support the Tu Cho Fishers' Cooperative, a key partner in our ongoing work to revitalize the commercial fishery on Great Slave Lake.
- Forced growth funding of $134,000 to support two regional tourism and parks positions;
- Other adjustments of $283,000, with $225,000 for the continued implementation of the Northwest Territories petroleum resources strategy; and $58,000 to support the department's continued provision of communications and services in French; and
- Sunsets of $2.067 million.
These estimates continue to support the priorities of the 19th Legislative Assembly by:
- supporting mandate priorities such as reviews of procurement practices within the GNWT;
- the competitiveness of the Northwest Territories royalty regime;
- socio-economic agreements; and
- the Northern Food Development Program.
That concludes my opening remarks, Madam Chair. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have.