Debates of February 18, 2016 (day 1)
Question 6-18(2): Road Access to Slave Geological Province
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In recent years, the NWT has missed out on mining exploration to the benefit of our sister territories. The industry itself has identified a lack of infrastructure as an issue there. I'm pleased to see that the government's prioritizing road access to some of these areas. Will the Minister of Transportation answer what actions have been taken to improve road access to the Slave Geological Province?
Masi. Member for Kam Lake. Minister of Transportation.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Government of Northwest Territories views strategic investment in northern infrastructure as essential in capturing economic and mobility opportunities to benefit Northerners and all Canadians. The department is currently assessing economic and feasibility of a P3 potential of building an all-weather road to the Slave Geological Province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
This could be a significant nation-building project if the connection was made all the way to the Arctic Coast in Nunavut. Has the Government of Nunavut been brought into this discussion about leveraging resources to help finance the construction of the road?
The opportunities, if they're there, through the Federal Build Infrastructure Fund and in conversations with the Government of Nunavut we would certainly have a look there.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Sahtu.