The funding was recommended in the Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada's report for allocation in rural and remote regions of the country to improve health-care resources. The commission was chaired by Roy Romanow, a former NDP premier of Saskatchewan.

The funding could potentially help address local health-care needs and cover $8 million in additional GNWT health funding allocated recently.

Miltenberger, however, believes that will only be the case if the money is allocated equitably.

"Per capita can't be the only criteria.

" There has to be some recognition of needs, distances, geography and cost," said Miltenberger.

"Per capita is not going to go very far. We'd like to see it allocated on a minimum amount and then the per capita could kick in."

Miltenberger also joins the voices of his provincial and territorial colleagues in adamantly opposing any cost-sharing deal.

"We've already put in far more money than the federal government for them to ask us to come to the table and put in more money," said Miltenberger.

So far there has been no indication how the federal government plans to distribute the money.

"The federal minister (Anne McLellan) has confirmed her commitment to work with all jurisdictions and stakeholders but has not provided any indication on how much money will be made available," said Miltenberger.

The Romanow report also outlines support for key areas that the GNWT is focusing on, said Miltenberger.

In the Health and Social Services Action Plan delivery of front-line services, aboriginal health, expansion of home care and mental health services have all been listed as priorities.

Miltenberger said he expects funding to be made available following the unveiling of the federal budget in February.