Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, after that Member statement I think that we should just move on to oral questions.
Mr. Speaker, as we move from pandemic to an endemic response, our small communities will continue to be susceptible to COVID outbreaks and will require ongoing support and resources. Mr. Speaker, subject to weather conditions and location, several small communities are not easily accessible. With limited housing options, many families are experiencing overcrowding in homes which may create an unhealthy environment.
Furthermore, as reduced monitoring enforcement of CPHO orders begin, combined with increased number of workers, visitors, and residents entering the NWT, I am concerned for the health of those in small and remote communities. I do not want to see anyone forgotten once we are in our endemic response and beyond. Therefore, it is imperative that this government develop a well thought out plan that incorporates health supports to address any COVID or potential COVID outbreaks in any community going forward.
Mr. Speaker, as a start, one of the tools I would like to see provided to remote and small communities at no cost is antigen rapid test kits. These test kits must be made available through grocery stores, health centres, community governments, RCMP detachments, and NGOs. This would make certain that anyone who may require a test can access them in a timely manner which may help to reduce potential COVID outbreaks. It may not be the ultimate solution, but it allows one to monitor themself and family members.
Mr. Speaker, another tool we have is communication. Communication is an important aspect to providing health services in the NWT. At times, we disappoint in this area. We rely on professional healthcare staff in those small communities to do more than initially asked of them. That includes communicating this government's healthcare initiatives, programs, and limitations to residents.
Mr. Speaker, to provide comfort to residents, healthcare staff, communities, and Indigenous governments, we must effectively communicate to them that health supports will be provided post-COVID. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Health at the appropriate time. Thank you.