Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. [English translation not provided.]
Today I would like to speak about the transfer of government assets to communities. More specifically, the transfer of government-owned buildings and government-owned mobile equipment, and the transfer of resources that supports the operation and maintenance of these assets under the New Deal with the Department of MACA.
With respect to government-owned buildings, I am talking about an evaluation of the deferred maintenance and the development of a schedule for preventive maintenance program, mid-life retrofits, and the realistic replacement costs for all assets, including mobile equipment and buildings. In addition, there will be a need for preventive maintenance programs and, again, replacement budget costs for assets. Special equipment that will be needed, like equipment to maintain chipseal and other dust suppressants, must also be budgeted for future years.
Often in these transfers the related O and M component of the asset is not included or duly considered. Communities must be given a fair opportunity to receive these assets and have the required capacity to operate and maintain these assets without adversely impacting on the current or planned program services.
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to transferring assets to smaller isolated communities, such as Lutselk’e and Fort Resolution, this government needs to look at these transfers on a case-by-case basis to properly evaluate the merits of the transfer and allow the communities every opportunity to succeed. Mr. Speaker, of course, this approach must be used for transferring government-owned mobile equipment to the communities also.
Mr. Speaker, with respect to the O and M component, this government must be flexible and work with the communities to ensure that all elements with a capacity have been identified and addressed. Mr. Speaker, this approach will help both the government and the communities, and the communities will not be in the position where the costs are greater than what they received from the GNWT. Also, Mr. Speaker, this will ensure there are no costly breakdowns and/or interrupted services to our constituents.
Later on, I will have questions for the Minister of MACA. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Beaulieu. The honourable Member for Hay River South, Mrs. Groenewegen.
