Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair Bill 8, An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act, was referred to the Standing Committee on Social Development on June 12th, 2024. Throughout the committee's review, the committee received positive feedback from students on this proposed change to the student loan. The committee also heard caution from the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment to make sure decisions were being made from an evidence-based perspective but ultimately informed the committee that the loan element increase would be something that the department could support. However, when the committee discussed the topic of Northwest Territories' students advancing themselves academically, the committee could not ignore the many aspects of the Northwest Territories' education system that needs to improve so that Northwest Territories' students from all regions and communities have every opportunity to fulfill their academic potential. In particular, our Indigenous students require and deserve dedicated unwavering support from the Government of the Northwest Territories.

The committee has made recommendations to ensure that support be provided by the Government of the Northwest Territories. Individuals may have additional comments. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.