Louis Sebert

I don't have those exact figures before me. I believe they did meet a large number of times, and I will attempt to obtain those figures and provide them to the Member opposite.

We did receive the letter. However, we found it absolutely necessary that we move ahead. As mentioned earlier, there was a very extensive report done on the program. It did suggest several changes that we did not see as terribly significant to the overall program. At that point, obviously, there were parties that were not particularly happy with the new RFP, including the previous provider. Therefore, to make sure that the program would still be delivered, we looked to other NGOs, and as I said earlier, the John Howard Society, an organization that has existed in Canada for 150 years, stepped...

Thank you, Mr. Chair. An actual contract has been entered into. Thank you.

This program is for those who may be offenders in the sense they have committed assaults and so on, but it is not meant for those actually in custody or on remand, of course, which is also in custody. This program is very directed to those not in custody, who are there voluntarily. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to taking action on the crisis of family violence. Over the past year, I have heard several Members of this House stress the importance of the A New Day program for men who use violence in intimate relationships. I am pleased to report to this Legislative Assembly that the Government of the Northwest Territories has reached an agreement with the John Howard Society to continue to provide this program in Yellowknife. There will be no service interruptions, and men will have walk-in registration at the office next door to the current program space.

Qualifi...

Perhaps Mr. Goldney could answer that question.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I think I could be prepared to share that criteria. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I have no ability to do that. As to the future employment of the employees who were mentioned in the question, that would really be up to them and the Tree of Peace. I have no information or no ability to have any effect on that relationship. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am wondering if I could have Ms. Gardiner answer that question. Thank you.

I will undertake that examination.