Debates of June 7, 2006 (day 7)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My Member’s statement today spoke in regard to how the residents of Ulukhaktok would like to see the print making and tapestry facility renovated and utilized once again to show artistic talents. My question is for the Honourable Brendan Bell, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment. Can the Minister direct his regional staff in Inuvik to visit the mayor of Ulukhaktok to conduct both a physical and visual inspection of the facility and see if it can be renovated? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Pokiak. The honourable Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Mr. Bell.

Return To Question 79-15(5): Ulukhaktok Print Making And Tapestry Shop

Mr. Speaker, obviously the arts and crafts sector is very important. It’s something our government wants to support. We are certainly prepared to investigate the future of the Holman print shop. I will be in Ulukhaktok next week with the Member. We are also planning to bring the regional superintendent, so that is probably the most opportune time for us to have a tour of the facility and make sure the mayor is able to talk to our regional superintendent so we can ensure some follow-up. I will commit to doing that and making myself available for that meeting. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Bell. Supplementary, Mr. Pokiak.

Supplementary To Question 79-15(5): Ulukhaktok Print Making And Tapestry Shop

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for the response, Mr. Minister. If we conduct a visual inspection of the facility and it cannot be renovated, will there be other options that we can look so they can conduct…(inaudible)…? Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Pokiak. Mr. Bell.

Further Return To Question 79-15(5): Ulukhaktok Print Making And Tapestry Shop

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We will approach it on a business case basis. Obviously it’s the BDIC that would have to make a determination or decision as to whether or not they are prepared to make an investment into a new subsidiary. Since it was rolled up or closed some time ago, I am not sure of the condition of the assets anymore. I am not sure what the investment or the requirement would be, but I would say that I know the community is very proud of their history and their ability in the field in print making. I have seen a number of the prints on my last visit to Holman. In fact, I purchased one there. It’s beautiful. I think there is a lot of attraction in having an industry like this up and running. So we will look at it, we will evaluate it and I know the BDIC would be interested in looking at a business case test, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.