Debates of March 12, 2020 (day 18)

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Question 189-19(2): Contractor Suspension List

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The questions are for the Minister responsible for NWT Housing Corporation. Earlier, I spoke about suspension lists for contractors. I'd like to ask the Minister, does the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation have a suspension list for contractors in place? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: MR. SPEAKER

Thank you, Member for Hay River South. Minister responsible for Northwest Territories Housing Corporation.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are very few suspensions in the Northwest Territories. We do have a list that we do keep, but we do also try to work with our contractors to get them back into good standing so we are able to further do more business with them. We try to educate them through the process, as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Minister indicated that there were only a few on there. Can she tell me exactly how many is on that list?

I don't have that information in front of me as to how many contractors we have on suspension right now, but I really want to emphasize that we do try to work with our contractors so they do remain in good standing with the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation. I could request from my department to provide a list for the Member's riding of the contractors that the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation does do business with.

I'd like to ask the Minister: how is it determined if a contractor should be placed on the suspension list?

It is determined by the service that is provided and if the contractor defaults in the projects that are put forward. We really try to work with the contractors in-depth to make sure that they are successful in receiving the contracts that they do receive from the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation.

Speaker: MR. SPEAKER

Thank you, Minister. Member for Hay River South.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Every contractor deserves due process, and I'd like to ask the Minister: can the Minister supply me with a copy of the policy or legislation that sets out the process and criteria for determining whether a contractor is to be placed on the list? Thank you.

The Northwest Territories corporation administers through policies. I will direct my staff to find this policy that identifies the defaulting contractors, and I will provide that information to the Member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: MR. SPEAKER

Thank you, Minister. Oral question. Member for Thebacha.