NNSL (DEC 18/96) - In an effort to further reduce government spending, a number of government services will close for seven working days, beginning Dec. 23., rather than the usual two.

Finance Minister John Todd said recently that offices in the departments of Health and Social Services, Justice, Municipal Affairs, Safety and Public Services and Transportation will close.

However, a number of facilities and services, including hospitals, jails, social worker offices, ferries, airports, and the GNWT Liquor warehouses in Inuvik and Iqaluit, will remain open.

"Part of this government's efforts to reduce and balance the budget involves shutting down government operations for an additional five days over the Christmas holiday break," said Todd.

The list of departments that will not function throughout the seven-day break includes Education, Culture and Employment, the NWT Housing Corporation, Public Works and Services, and Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development.

Todd said anyone unsure if the services they are looking for are open or closed should phone in advance before visiting the office.

All government departments will resume normal operations on Jan. 2, 1997.