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Mr. Speaker, it has always been my belief that partnership between our communities, the Government of the Northwest Territories and other levels of government are the key to increasing affordable housing in the Northwest Territories. Through the National Housing Co-investment Fund, we have an opportunity to make this a reality.
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Mr. Speaker, today I wish to provide an update on the on-going efforts of the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs to work with community government partners to support the COVID-19 pandemic response.
We have all been affected by COVID-19. Taking action to slow the spread and protect public health has required leaders from all levels of government to act and adjust operations in order to continue serving Northwest Territories residents.
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Mr. Speaker, one year ago, Members of this House made the transformation of Aurora College into a polytechnic university a priority of the 19th Legislative Assembly. Today, I would like to provide an update on some of the progress that has been made toward this goal.
Premier Caroline Cochrane provided the following statement on mental health and well-being of NWT residents during the COVID-19 pandemic:
“It has been nearly eight months since the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 pandemic. This has been one of the most challenging times in our lives, and has put us all to the test.
Mr. Speaker, in addition to describing these times as unprecedented, the need to “pivot” business models and methods has become one of the buzz words during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr. Speaker, taking action to improve services and supports to reduce the number of Indigenous children and youth in the care is a priority for this government. The 2019-2020 Annual Report of the Director of Child and Family Services that I will be tabling later today, shows a continued trend of overrepresentation of Indigenous children and youth receiving protection and prevention services under our legislation. This is a national issue, Mr.
Mr. Speaker, increasing employment in small communities is one of the priorities outlined in the priorities for the 19th Legislative Assembly. Now more than ever, as we begin to plan for social and economic recovery from COVID-19, we need to ensure there are opportunities for meaningful employment and economic development for our people to keep our communities and territory strong.
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Mr. Speaker, I wish to inform Members that the Chief Public Health Officer has released two public health advisories today.
The first indicates the two positive COVID-19 tests in Yellowknife first announced as presumptive cases on Friday have been confirmed. The individuals continue to safely isolate. We appreciate their cooperation with the investigation into contacts, and we wish them well.
A thorough contact investigation continues, initial signs are good.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to update the Members on the progress we have made with our mandate commitment to reduce the municipal funding gap by $5 million in the life of this government.
We recognize the important role that community governments play in our economy and the provision of core programs and services. Community governments are essential partners in delivering programs and services to meet the need of NWT residents, and they require adequate resources for this important work.
