Mr. Speaker, many people ask me: what’s the best way to rejuvenate our economy in Nunakput? The answers are plenty, but few of them are being considered by this government. It definitely excludes raising northern taxes for Northerners.
Mr. Speaker, the economic forecast for Canada and our international partners is looking bleak. Even though the International Monetary Fund says Canada could be one of the only countries to avoid recession, this government must do what it can do to maintain the growth.
Realistically, the Northwest Territories has been experiencing very good times. Year after year the North has either surpassed the country in economic growth or definitely been in the top percentage, but these good times have been only in specific areas, such as Yellowknife. Creating jobs is the best way of having a vibrant community, but in Nunakput job creation is unique and difficult and has its challenges.
This government must do more to assist small businesses in the communities and regions to develop capacity infrastructure and attract industry investments and jobs. This is why I cannot understand why this government wants to hinder the economy and creation of jobs for Northerners by increasing taxes and the overall cost of living.
Mr. Speaker, under the current process the criteria for assistance for regions such as ours are unrealistic. The grants are uniform and designed for businesses in larger centers. This government needs to develop a coalition of partners and stakeholders for the Nunakput region due to their unique set of challenges and promote and coordinate a truly northern, regional and intergovernmental approach at rejuvenating the economy.
Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister at the appropriate time.
Thank you, Mr. Jacobson. The honourable Member for Frame Lake, Ms. Bisaro.
