Mr. Speaker, It is no secret that governments across Canada are facing significant fiscal challenges with the current state of the economy. The Northwest Territories is no different with low commodity prices limiting our resource-driven economy and a shortfall of government revenue that challenges our government's ability to provide the services and programs that Northerners have come to rely on. Our economic reality is felt first and foremost by our people, especially those who have lost jobs or business opportunities as a result of this downturn.
Northerners are now looking to us as their elected leaders to provide a clear plan for our future with concrete commitments that will create jobs and prosperity. It is beholden on us, as leaders, to build confidence in our territory as the best place to live, work, and invest in the North and to deliver a plan that strengthens our economy and supports the needs of our people. Northerners need to hear less from this government on the challenges we face and more about the opportunities our government will create through new economic initiatives, infrastructure spending, and lowering the cost of living and doing business in the NWT.
The Government of Canada has made commitments that place high expectations on the Prime Minister's shoulders. Our government now optimistically looks to these commitments as a way to support the aspirations of our people: a 33 per cent increase in the Northern Residents Tax Deduction, a $40 million increase to Nutrition North, and billions in infrastructure dollars. These ambitious commitments create hope for our future and a concrete path forward for a stronger economy. I encourage our government to do the same. Let us show the leadership our people deserve and give Northerners an ambitious and optimistic plan for our future instead of the doom-and-gloom fiscal mantra that continues to create uncertainty in our communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
