Debates of February 6, 2006 (day 23)

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I know that, later on today, we will be reviewing the NWT Housing Corporation’s budget in detail. I would just like to make a few comments about the housing situation and, in particular, my constituency of Tu Nedhe. In general, many of my constituents still have some long-outstanding housing issues that they simply refused to let this department sweep under the rug. These situations and predicaments have hindered improvements to lifestyles, cause undo hardship and resulted in many family breakdowns within my constituency.

Mr. Speaker, these things the Housing department seems to be used to hearing and, therefore, seems to have addressed these problems with displeasure and apathy. But because of this lack of service and the persistence of many of the community members to see some favourable and tangible improvements, these issues will not be swept under the carpet. I urge all of my constituents, and the others in the NWT with housing issues, to continue to fight with this government to get their housing needs addressed.

Mr. Speaker, I feel that we can change this government’s priorities and practices, but we all have to work collectively and make it known that these priorities and practices are not practical and do not improve or solve many of the housing conundrums that we northerners have been raising, be it through the media or through this House and, sadly, throughout many years of our own natural lives only to find that, at the end of the day, there is never any serious consideration or government housing policy development which incorporates small community ideas and approaches resulting in our real needs are never being met.

Mr. Speaker, this has to change. Thank you.

---Applause