Debates of November 28, 2007 (day 4)

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Health and Social Services. During the last Assembly, I did lots of work on behalf of constituents in Fort Simpson getting a dialysis machine and dialysis located to Fort Simpson. I think it was in the plan for 2008. I would just like to ask where is it in the capital plan at this date.

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The honourable Minister of Health and Social Services, Ms. Lee.

Return To Question 46-16(1): Dialysis Machine For Deh Cho Region

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, based on the successes we’ve had with respect to installing dialysis machines in Fort Smith to start with, outside of Yellowknife, of course, and Hay River, there is a plan in the near future to make dialysis machines available in Simpson. The issues the department are working on right now is with respect to the space at the centre, as well as staffing. Definitely this project is in the works. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Ms. Lee. Supplementary, Mr. Menicoche.

Supplementary To Question 46-16(1): Dialysis Machine For Deh Cho Region

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I would just like to know as well, does the Minister know how many clients are currently from the Nahendeh riding located in Yellowknife or from the surrounding communities of Fort Simpson? Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. Ms. Lee.

Further Return To Question 46-16(1): Dialysis Machine For Deh Cho Region

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t have a specific number of patients with diabetes that require dialysis services in Deh Cho. I know there is most definitely a need to have that service in Simpson and we are working to make that happen in Simpson in that area. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Ms. Lee. Supplementary, Mr. Menicoche.

Supplementary To Question 46-16(1): Dialysis Machine For Deh Cho Region

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was just trying to get at that as there is definitely a need. They have not only relocated to Yellowknife but to Hay River as well. I would just like to get assurance once again that it’s not being moved off the capital plan. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. Ms. Lee.

Further Return To Question 46-16(1): Dialysis Machine For Deh Cho Region

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the challenge is to put it in the capital plan and it is in the works. Mr. Speaker, I would be happy to get back to the Member on exactly where it’s at in terms of its planning process and where it is in the books. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.