[English translation not provided.]
Mr. Speaker, in November I raised the issue of the impact that the closure of the Deh Cho Hall will have on several key non-government organizations in Fort Simpson. The government’s decision to move its own offices rather than upgrade Deh Cho Hall has left the library, the family resource centre and other local organizations scrambling to find new space. At the time, I asked the Minister of Education to take a proactive approach and organize discussions with the community to help identify alternate space for these valuable organizations.
Mr. Speaker, the Minister did commit to work with the community to establish a transition plan. Regretfully, that has not happened yet, and the clock is ticking for these groups. They still have nowhere to go, and there is a real sense of urgency in resolving this issue.
Mr. Speaker, we have heard time and time again the challenges NGOs face in finding affordable spaces. I believe the government needs to show some goodwill and be willing to work with the community to help identify alternate space for these valuable organizations. I would urge the Minister to live up to his commitment and meet with the community as soon as possible to ensure that suitable arrangements can be made.
I will be asking the Minister questions about the status and the updates on this issue. Mahsi cho.
