Bob Bromley

But I really do appreciate the Minister’s comments and agree that some real innovation is needed in finding ways to protect our northern businesses. Thanks for that. I really appreciate that and encourage that.

Will the Minister include some of the ramifications of things like NAFTA — North American Free Trade Agreement — that’s been mentioned by my colleague Mr. Krutko, and the obligations we become vulnerable to when we lose these things that are forgiven because of grandfathering and so on? I’m asking for a very eyes-open approach to this. It sounds like there is a tendency to do that with...

Thank you, Minister. Mr. Cummings.

Moving on, page 6-17. Questions? Mr. Hawkins.

I appreciate that clarification. Again, looking at the presentation yesterday, “to generate the required interest, we need to consider removing the application of the BIP from these...contracts” is one statement, followed by “the subcommittee has recommended eliminating the application of the BIP from the GNWT and community government infrastructure projects.” That’s sort of two levels there. And then finally, Cabinet has requested implementation. So I just want to be sure. Can the Minister commit to bringing the Regular MLAs in on this process, and can we expect a briefing from the...

Thank you, Minister Lee. Mr. Abernethy.

Thank you, Ms. Lee. Anything further, Mr. Hawkins?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to ask some questions on the plans for the business incentive program — the BIP. I’d like to give Minister Bob McLeod a chance to respond to some of these questions.

Could the Minister tell us exactly what is in planning for cutback or what changes are being contemplated? I see from the presentation yesterday that he has been requested by Cabinet to implement the recommendation. I’m gathering he must have some firm ground on that. What exactly is being contemplated, just to make sure we’re making our comments appropriately?

Further, Mr. Hawkins?

Minister Lee.

Thank you, Mr. Hawkins. Minister Lee.