Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Cancelled barging 2024 season impacts to the Sahtu businesses. On May the 23rd, the Government of the Northwest Territories announced that due to the low water levels, there would be no barging between Hay River, Tulita, and Norman Wells.
Mr. Speaker, while the Government of the Northwest Territories cannot change the low water levels throughout the Mackenzie basin, we can change how we respond to the impacted businesses. Making businesses wait 6 to 12 months to ship supplies is not an option as they can't go without work during the construction season and still maintain staff, cash flow, and pay operating expenses. Several companies already have laid off staff and fear they may never return.
Mr. Speaker, businesses in the Sahtu estimate over $14 million in lost revenues, $500,000 in added shipping costs, and potentially millions more in future losses. Several millions in losses will also be felt throughout reduced indirect spending at accommodations, groceries, restaurants. Mr. Speaker, our region's disposal economy is terrible and gone.
Mr. Speaker, the Sahtu people are resilient, but they also cannot weather the storm alone. Businesses are facing challenges dealing with MTS staff, with virtually no support to assist them as they scramble to make other arrangements. Many feel disrespected, dismissed, with one business quoting as saying it's bordering impossible to do business in the Sahtu region.
Mr. Speaker, the shocking low water levels have dealt a severe blow to our local and regional businesses and the entire Sahtu economy. Without extra support provided at this time, there will be dire consequences. Later, Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the appropriate Minister. Mahsi.
Thank you, Member from Sahtu. Members' statements. Member from Inuvik Boot Lake.
