Debates of June 2, 2005 (day 7)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. We have to work in concert with the other departments. Health and Social Services is also involved in this process. We have to come to some agreement about the renovations, because Public Works and Services tell us that renovations are critical to the continued occupation of that building in the not-too-distant future. They don't have to happen this year or next year, but we shouldn't be signing a subsequent 10-year lease for the building if there aren't some important renovations done.

The issue of the renovations and whether or not we should do them or look for new space has to be settled first. That is the point that we are in in these discussions, whether or not this government is going to embark on a process of renovating that building or if we are going to perhaps look for different space. I can assure the Member that we are working to resolve the situation well in advance of the May 2008 deadline.