Lesa Semmler

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as anyone in this House knows, the trend over the last 20 years of the NT -- like, of the health authorities have had, you know, their own share of trying to manage a health system, operational system, for the residents of the Northwest Territories and have had deficits over the years to be able to continue services so that way when things are budgeted, that when the day they run out, those services don't stop. That's why they have a deficit budget. And so therefore where we are today is now since past COVID, we are seeing more people accessing the services...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the project approved for planning only in 2024-2025. The geotechnical analysis has been completed. The functional programming, including operational planning, is underway. And an RFP for schematic design and class C cost estimates will be posted this winter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will have to get back to the Member for that. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I said previously, any investigation that child and family services does, if there is found that there may be criminal findings during their investigation, they will report to the appropriate -- and if it's -- it would be RCMP in that case. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we do not air or disclose private matters. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Member from Yellowknife Centre. Minister of Health and Social Services.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, a lot of effort has been put into improving efficiency, and everyone is part of this work. Physicians are on the new YK primary care reform regional committee which is guiding the reform efforts. This committee has created two working groups, both including physicians. One group is focused on clinical information management, and this -- and is working to reduce administrative burdens and streamlining process allowing practitioners and nurses to spend more time with patients. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight our ongoing work to strengthen the recovery supports available across the Northwest Territories for those struggling with mental wellness, substance use, and addictions. In recent years, that work has evolved to offer more relevant and flexible support to residents. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, more than five million Canadians have faced serious mental health issues. Many people say their mental health has gotten worse, with national data showing increased anxiety and feelings of depression. Suicide remains the second-leading cause of death among youth...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, yes, the Department of Health and Social Services, the Hay River Health and Social Services, the NTHSSA, and the TCSA, all complete quarterly vacancy reviews to identify current and future active vacancy needs in the budgeted positions.

Mr. Speaker, along with the vacancy review, exit interviews continue to be conducted with staff across the health and social services system. Data metrics and trends based on their feedback have been used to synthesize into six overarching themes and drivers. The results have been used to inform the creation of the employee...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the department has initiated these discussions with ECE and housing to explore the overlap policies for adults in supported living, and so that work will continue to evolve during this now that they have all of the people in the working groups established. Thank you.