Debates of March 31, 2004 (day 12)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My statement today is on affordable housing in the Sahtu. Mr. Speaker, we are all aware of the communities across the Northwest Territories that need more adequate, suitable and affordable housing. Housing in the communities is crucial today. The situation in the Sahtu is no exception. The lack of affordable housing in my constituency affects people across the board; elders, families and single people. Residents are suffering from overcrowded housing and many houses are in desperate need of major repairs. Not too long ago, Mr. Speaker, I learned about a Fort Good Hope elder who was living in a condemned house. Mr. Speaker, we can and must do more.

What I would like to see, Mr. Speaker, is a strategy in the Sahtu that takes into account people’s needs and interests. We need to do something different here. We need a unique response to the particular needs of the people in the Sahtu and other regions. My personal experience tells me that pride in one’s home is an important part of breaking the cycle of dependency. I see no better way to develop pride and self-sufficiency than owning one’s own home. I can say this from personal experience, having built a log house in my youth.

The 2004 NWT housing needs survey is due out any day. I look forward to reading it, Mr. Speaker, although I am afraid to confirm what I already know from what I see when I go to the communities in the Sahtu and what my constituents tell me. The issue of the BIP has been on my mind for some time and the intent of waiving the BIP. The point I am making in this House, Mr. Speaker, is we need housing in the Sahtu and this is what the communities are looking for from this government. I have questions for the Minister at the appropriate time. Thank you.

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