Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, Hay River has an increasing seniors’ population and there is a need for new multiresidential barrierfree housing in Hay River. As it stands now, in Hay River we currently we have two senior complexes, with a combined count of approximately 33 units. Madam Speaker, Riverview Lodge, a seniors’ complex in Hay River, is nearing its endoflife, and there appears to be no immediate plan on the books to replace it.
Last February, the Minister responsible for Housing NWT stated that, and I quote: "The corporation anticipates being able to operate this facility for at least another five years."
The Minister further stated that, “Housing Corporation...is also in process of completing a comprehensive technical assessment of the Riverview Lodge seniors’ complex to plan for its eventual replacement in the near future capital plan."
Madam Speaker, knowing this, along with the pace at which this government moves, I am looking to Housing NWT, if not already started, to start the process of developing a plan to replace Riverview Lodge with a multiresidential building. This building will go on what is known as the Disneyland site in Hay River. And in the process, because of location, I will be requesting that the existing Riverview Lodge property be considered for future multiresidential senior housing as well.
Madam Speaker, this is not a complicated issue. The need for senior housing is there; the vacant land is there; the tenants are available; and what we now need is a plan from Housing NWT.
Madam Speaker, I will stop here and will have questions for the Minister responsible for Housing NWT. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
Thank you, Member. Member for Monfwi.
