Debates of May 27, 2005 (day 3)

Topics
Statements

Question 35-15(4): Inuvik Transition House Funding

Thank you, Madam Speaker. In my Member’s statement I spoke of the transition home in Inuvik having to constantly fight for funding. I would like to ask the Minister of Health and Social Services if he could inform me as to why the Transition House does not receive the full funding allocated by his department to the Inuvik Health and Social Services Board. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. The honourable Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Miltenberger.

Return To Question 35-15(4): Inuvik Transition House Funding

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Madam Speaker, I apologize. What happens is the money is sent from the department, once the budget is approved, to the authorities, then the authorities manage and implement the use of the money. So there are circumstances between the authority and the board and the Transition House that we are trying to sort out so the full amount of money is transferred. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Miltenberger. Supplementary, Mr. McLeod.

Supplementary To Question 35-15(4): Inuvik Transition House Funding

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Yesterday I questioned the Minister on another matter regarding the Inuvik Health and Social Services Board and it turns out that we were both under the wrong assumption. Would it be possible for the funding to flow directly from his department to the Transition House in Inuvik and not through the health board? Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Mr. Miltenberger.

Further Return To Question 35-15(4): Inuvik Transition House Funding

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, the intent of our whole health and services system is to have a relationship and structure where the authorities and the boards administer and run the programs in the regions on behalf of the people. So in order for us to do that, we have to continue to stay with that process. We are undergoing operational reviews of all the authorities to make sure everything is working the way it’s supposed to be, and these are thorough, comprehensive operational reviews. There is one currently underway in Inuvik that is going to be finished in June and we will be sharing those findings with the Social Programs committee as well as Cabinet, with the goal being as efficient and effective as possible and to deal with issues such as this to make sure that the money that is voted by the Legislature gets to the program area it was voted for. Thank you.