Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For many years the community of Tsiigehtchic has been asking for a full-time nurse to be permanently stationed there. It is not just the community’s leadership asking for a nurse. Three years ago satisfaction surveys of the regional health services identified the people’s desire for a local nurse. Freeze-up and breakup of the Mackenzie River always disrupts some services, but health care is actually better in Tsiigehtchic at this time. That is because it is the only time there is a full-time nurse in the community. If it can be done during freeze-up and breakup, surely it can be done for the rest of the year.
Returning a nurse to Tsiigehtchic was even mentioned in the Department of Health and Social Services business plan in 2010-2011. The idea was that it would enhance primary care in the community. It was the right thing to do then, Mr. Speaker, and it is the right thing to do now.
Community wellness is a priority of this government, so I am at a loss to explain why no nurse has been stationed in Tsiigehtchic for all these years. The lack of housing is sometimes mentioned as a barrier, but it is not the problem now. The community has set aside housing, should a full-time nurse be able to come to the community.
The community has done its part. People have been very patient. If we are very serious about improving health services in our small communities, there will be a nurse for Tsiigehtchic. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Blake. The Member for Range Lake, Mr. Dolynny.
