Kieron Testart

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to table one document, "Fraser Institute Annual Survey of Mining Companies 2017." Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The issue with land claims is, of course, much more complicated than we can get to today, so I am going to move on to protected areas and conservation.

An often concern is, that because of the size of conservation areas in the Northwest Territories, they cut off potential exploration and mineral development. Is the Minister cognizant of that, and is he bringing forward some clarity on that issue to investors that we are a friendly jurisdiction for mining?

My apologies, Mr. Speaker; the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to speak of the largest contributor to our economy, the source of continued growth and the real economic engine of the Northwest Territories. I am, of course, speaking about our mining industry, and I do appreciate the advocacy that our Ministers and government do to support the continued growth and development of the industry, which is why I was shocked to read the most recent Fraser Institute annual survey of mining companies from the year of 2017.

It's a survey that was electronically circulated to approximately 2,700 individuals between August 22nd and...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The 2018 South Slave Arctic Winter Games fast approaches. It will be the 25th Arctic Winter Games for the Circumpolar World.

These games will inspire all participants to find their power through a unique and exceptional sporting and cultural experience that Northerners of all stripes will benefit from.

Not only does this provide the opportunity for our young athletes to shine, but it will show off the beauty and unique culture of the South Slave region of the Northwest Territories, the region of our territory that does not get put into the spotlight nearly enough. Every...

Thank you. I will just conclude that. Previous to what is going on now, has the frequency changed? What I am getting at is: are we doing anything differently from before these changes went in place? Is there any way that they can provide some details on how they have made a meaningful change in how communication is going from headquarters to the facility? It is fine to hear we are doing a better job, but in the absence of policy or numbers in this budget, I would like some assurances. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. This is the first that I have been aware of a shift in security requirements at the facility. Can I get some clarification on that? Are we elevating the security requirements at the facility as a result of changes to the Corrections Act, changes to policies? What exactly is the source of the shift? Thank you.

Thank you. The Minister is aware of this issue. I am asking the Minister how he is addressing this issue, departmental resources. I will be specific. With the elimination of a dedicated rec officer, and now the expectation that all corrections officers will perform recreational programming at the facility, what training resources had been allocated to ensure officers are trained to offer recreational programming to all offenders? I am not talking about supervising a basketball game. I am talking about the same level of service that they receive from dedicated recreation program officers at the...

Has that number increased from last year's budget?

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am just wondering: what is the total allocation for this budget for corrections officer training? Thank you.