Mr. Speaker, elders, health care workers, the band council and family members of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory are working exceptionally hard to replace their aging long-term care home. Built in 1972, the current elders' home is at capacity and no longer meets current regulations. Detailed plans have already been designed for an expanded facility, but they need further investments to ensure that elders can age with dignity close to family and friends, as the licence is set to expire in June 2025.
The community has secured $49 million for this project and needs Indigenous Services Canada to cover the funding shortfall. The existing facility must not close without having another one ready to transition current residents within the community. Failure to do so would retraumatize residents, who are residential school survivors, and reduce their ability to pass on their historical knowledge and teachings. Time is of the essence. Indigenous Services Canada and the finance minister must ensure the $20 million requested is advanced for this new elders' home.