Northwest Territories News

YELLOWKNIFE (March 24, 2015) – Figures released today show that the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has successfully filled 108 of 128 positions decentralized during the 2013-14 and 2014-15 fiscal years. Another 22 positions scheduled to be established during the next two fiscal years are currently vacant.

“Increasing employment opportunities where they are needed most by decentralizing positions is a priority for this government,” said Minister of Finance J. Michael Miltenberger. “New jobs in communities will improve services to those communities and strengthen their economies. These positions will make our government more effective and efficient by providing more services closer to the people who need them.”

The initiative to increase employment opportunities in communities outside of Yellowknife includes measures to transfer existing positions, as well as to establish new positions. Decentralization is being phased-in to allow the GNWT to consider opportunities to establish positions outside Yellowknife as part of implementing devolution.

The phased approach also helps the GNWT ensure that impacts on current staff are minimized. Of the 150 positions already identified for decentralization, 122 were vacant when the decision to transfer or establish them was made. These numbers were confirmed in a document tabled during the most recent sitting of the Legislative Assembly.

The GNWT will continue to look for opportunities to establish positions in NWT communities by systematically reviewing its programs and services to identify any that can be located in other communities. All proposals for new positions will be systematically reviewed to determine whether or not they can be located in another community as part of ongoing business planning.

Media inquiries:
Roya Grinsted
Communications Officer
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca
Backgrounder

Of the 150 positions identified as part of the decentralization initiative in a report tabled in the Legislative Assembly on March 9, 2015:

122 were vacant at the time they were approved to be decentralized.

128 of the 150 decentralized positions relate to fiscal 2014-15 or previous year, of these 128:
108 of these positions are staffed (84.4%)
20 of the positions are vacant (15.6%)

22 of the 150 decentralized positions were approved to be decentralized in future years:
15 positions in 2015-16
7 positions in 2016-17
As such, all 22 of these positions are currently vacant

YELLOWKNIFE (March 24, 2015) – Premier Bob McLeod announced today that Mr. David Stewart has been named as Associate Deputy Minister of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) effective May 11, 2015 and will assume the position of Deputy Minister of ECE on August 1, 2015. Mr. Stewart will be taking over from current Associate Deputy Minister Dana Heide and current Deputy Minister Gabriela Eggenhofer, who are both retiring in coming months.

“Mr. Stewart is an experienced senior manager and leader who has contributed positively to the success of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) in his current position,” said Premier McLeod. “I look forward to working with him in his new role this spring.”

Mr. Stewart is currently the President of the NWT Housing Corporation, where he has been responsible for leading the implementation of Building for the Future, the GNWT’s strategic framework for addressing housing needs. Work has included significant improvements to public housing rent scales, homeownership programs, supports to low- and moderate-income residents in private market rental housing and assistance for homeless people. During his tenure, the NWTHC made significant investment in improving the quality of the public housing stock, started construction on five new seniors independent living facilities, and contributed to the construction and opening of Lynn’s Place, a women’s safe housing building in Yellowknife. His previous positions include Assistant Deputy Minister of Executive Operations with the Department of Executive and Territorial Statistician.

Mr. Stewart will work closely with outgoing Deputy Minister Eggenhofer and Associate Deputy Minister Heide to ensure a smooth leadership transition at ECE. Ms. Eggenhofer is retiring on August 1st, 2015 after 25 years with the GNWT. Mr. Heide is retiring on June 5, 2015 after 25 years of service.

“Ms. Eggenhofer and Mr. Heide have dedicated their careers to helping build a strong, healthy Northwest Territories,” said Premier McLeod. “I have enjoyed working with both of them over the years and thank them for their service to the people of the NWT. I wish both of them well on the next phase of their lives.”

Ongoing succession planning and progressively developing its staff are part of the GNWT’s commitment to ensuring a strong public service that is positioned to effectively manage and deliver the government programs and services the people of the NWT rely on.

A replacement for Mr. Stewart at the NWTHC will be announced in coming weeks.

Media inquiries:
Roya Grinsted
Communications Officer
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

MLA Bob Bromley, Speaker Jackie Jacobson, Minister of Transportation Tom Beaulieu, MLA Robert Bouchard, SCEDI Chair Robert Hawkins, and Merven Gruben of E. Gruben’s Transport take a photo by one of the many bridges being constructed on the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway. 

INUVIK (March 20, 2015) – Members of the Legislative Assembly, regional leaders and media received a first-hand view of progress on the 120-kilometre all-weather Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway project this week. Minister of Transportation Tom Beaulieu hosted a two-day visit to construction sites near Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk for the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Members of the Standing Committee on Economic Development and Infrastructure, community leaders from the Beaufort Delta area and the media.

“We’re very pleased with the contractor’s progress to date as well as their commitment to local employment, training, safety and quality under difficult conditions,” said Minister Beaulieu. “We will review the project when the construction season ends in May, and are satisfied right now that the project is proceeding as planned and look forward to opening the highway on schedule in 2018.”

As of March 1, 2015, 602 people were employed to operate and maintain the heavy equipment and support vehicles, supply and operate the work camps, and manage all aspects of the project from engineering and design, to monitoring the construction area for signs of wildlife.

“It’s really something to celebrate, knowing over 70 percent of the workforce is comprised of residents from the Beaufort Delta and NWT communities,” said Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and MLA for Nunakput Jackie Jacobson. “That is a substantial contribution to meeting this Assembly’s priority to create employment opportunities where they’re needed most.”

Standing Committee Chair Robert Hawkins says, “It’s remarkable to see how efficiently crews are able to move material from the pits out to the embankment site.  Watching these massive rock trucks arrive every 13 to 16 minutes, and knowing they operate 24-hours per day, seven days a week makes it easier to understand how they’ve successfully moved almost 2 million cubic metres of material.”

The Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway project is made possible through a strategic partnership between the Governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories with each providing funding of $200 million and $99 million respectively. Investing in strategic infrastructure that will support sustainable economic development is part of the GNWT’s plan for realizing the 17th Legislative Assembly’s vision of a unified, environmentally sustainable and prosperous Northwest Territories.

Media inquiries:
Roya Grinsted
Communications Officer
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

Alberta and the Northwest Territories have signed an agreement to protect the integrity of water flowing downstream from Alberta to the Northwest Territories.

Edmonton (March 18, 2015) – The Alberta-Northwest Territories bilateral water management agreement commits both governments to co-operatively manage water resources. The agreement focuses on aquatic ecosystems in the Mackenzie River Basin, the longest and largest river system in Canada.

“Water is a vital resource that knows no boundaries. We are committed to ensuring Albertans and our neighbours in the Northwest Territories have access to a healthy and sustainable water supply, now and in the future.”

– Jim Prentice, Premier of Alberta

The agreement will help ensure water management plans take an adaptive management approach that determines what actions should be taken and when based on scientific monitoring. It will also respect the jurisdiction of governments and ensure water is collaboratively managed for the benefit of the environment, people and the economy.

“Sustaining and protecting the environment is a critical part of our government’s balanced approach to creating jobs and economic opportunities through responsible development. We welcome Alberta’s partnership and shared commitment to a healthy environment supporting healthy, prosperous people.”

– Bob McLeod, Premier of the Northwest Territories

“We all share the responsibility of ensuring that our water supply remains healthy, secure and sustainable. Alberta and the Northwest Territories are committed to working together to ensure that our shared water resources are protected.”

– Kyle Fawcett, Alberta Minister of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development

“Today’s agreement is a historic first that incorporates many best practices in water management and includes the input of Northwest Territories Aboriginal governments, who were integral to informing our objectives and approach to negotiations. We worked hard on it with Alberta and look forward to using it as a foundation for future bilateral agreements under the Master Agreement.”

– J. Michael Miltenberger, Northwest Territories Minister of Environment and Natural Resources

The Alberta-Northwest Territories Bilateral Water Agreement supports the Mackenzie River Basin Transboundary Waters Master Agreement, Alberta’s Water Conversation theme of managing industrial water use, and the Northwest Territories Water Strategy.

Related information

• Mackenzie River Basin Bilateral Water Management Agreements
• AB-NWT Bilateral Water Agreement
• Northern Voices, Northern Waters
• Water Conversation Action Plan
• Water Conversation
• Water for Life

Media inquiries

Parker Hogan
parker.hogan@gov.ab.ca
780-643-9134
Press Secretary
Environment and Sustainable Resource Development

Roya Grinsted
roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca
867-669-2308
Cabinet Communications
Government of the
Northwest Territories

YELLOWKNIFE (March 17, 2015) – The Kátł’odeeche First Nation (KFN) has become party to the Northwest Territories Devolution Agreement. KFN Chief Roy Fabian joined Premier Bob McLeod and Mark Strahl, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, for a signing ceremony at the Legislative Assembly’s Great Hall yesterday.

“The Kátł’odeeche Fırst Natıon has decided to enter into the Devolution Agreement as it does not affect our Treaty or Aboriginal rights, allows us to better negotiate an ongoing relationship with the Government of the Northwest Territories on land and resource management matters, provides us with an equitable share of resource royalty revenues, and ensures our direct participation in the Intergovernmental Council on Land and Resource Management,” said Chief Fabian.  “As an independent First Nation government, we want to be at the table when matters affecting our traditional lands are being discussed.”  

“I am very pleased to have the Kátł’odeeche First Nation join as a party to the agreement,” said Premier McLeod.  “I welcome the leadership demonstrated by the KFN and Chief Fabian in recognizing the benefits devolution will bring to their members and all NWT residents and taking this step with us today.”

“On behalf of our Government, I wish to welcome the Kátlodééche First Nation to the Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement,” said Parliamentary Secretary Strahl. “Devolution underlines our Government’s commitment, as set out in Canada’s Northern Strategy, to work with Northern and Aboriginal partners to build a strong and prosperous North. We look forward to working with the Kátlodééche Nation, the eight other First Nation signatories to the agreement, and the Government of the Northwest Territories, to continue to encourage responsible, sustainable investment in the Northwest Territories that will benefit communities today and for generations to come.”

With this announcement, the KFN has joined the Acho Dene Koe and Fort Liard Métis Local #67, the Deninu K’ue First Nation, the Salt River First Nation, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, NWT Métis Nation, Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated, Gwich’in Tribal Council and Tłįchǫ Government as parties to devolution along with the Governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories.

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

Chief Roy Fabian
Kátł’odeeche First Nation
Tel: 867-874-6701

Emily Hillstrom
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
Tel: 819-997-0002

YELLOWKNIFE (March 16, 2015) – Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty has announced funding for three NWT schools to both pilot and enhance existing youth resiliency programming.

Diamond Jenness Secondary School in Hay River and K’álemì Dene School in Ndilo were awarded $50,000 each to enhance their existing resiliency programs. Helen Kalvak Elihakvik school in Ulukhaktok was awarded $50,000 to pilot a new resiliency program for their students.

“Building resiliency in youth makes them stronger and better able to deal with challenges in their lives,” said Minister Lafferty. “Resiliency programs help youth connect to the community and culture they live in. This encourages positive relationships, develops leadership skills and strengthens that young person’s identity and well-being.”

Schools across the NWT were invited to apply for the funding through a proposal process. Applicants were asked to address selection criteria such as articulating the goals of their program, how their program would bring the school and community together, and identify its cultural relevance to the students. Program coordinators from the three schools will work together with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) to monitor and evaluate program success as they are delivered through to June 2015. Careful evaluation of the program’s success in these select schools will inform possible further expansion of resiliency programming across the territory.

“Research tells us that culturally relevant resiliency programs see the most success,” said Minister Lafferty. “Resiliency depends on strong relationships with others and the community youth live in. That means a resiliency program in Hay River would be different from a program in Ulukhaktok, for example.”

Resiliency programming is part of the NWT Education Renewal initiative, a comprehensive effort to make improvements to the territorial school system over the next ten years. The Education Renewal Framework commits the GNWT to do its part to ensure student wellness and the development of a positive sense of identity are promoted and embedded in school experiences, programming and environments. The skills developed through resiliency programming will help students identify and access resources that are most relevant and culturally meaningful for their well-being.

For more information on resiliency and resiliency programming, and on the NWT Education Renewal initiative, please review the backgrounder and visit www.ece.gov.nt.ca.

Media inquiries:

Amber George
Communications
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: (867) 920-3059
Email: amber_george@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (March 13, 2015) – More than 160 delegates attended the first Skills 4 Success Symposium, held on March 10-12, 2015, to discuss how skills and postsecondary education strategies can better align with NWT labour market needs and demands.

“When I travel throughout the North, I see incredible potential, talent and desire in NWT schools and communities,” said Minister of Education Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty. “While there has been measurable progress in the past 15 years, we still see major gaps in education and employment. It is too often the case that people do not have the necessary skills to fill available jobs. Skills 4 Success is one way our government will help ensure NWT residents develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes for employment success.”

The Symposium brought together governments, educators and trainers, industry, employers and engaged citizens from across the NWT. The input from the three-day symposium will inform the Skills 4 Success 10-year strategic framework being developed by the Department of Education, Culture and Employment to set out new direction for adult and postsecondary education and skills training in the NWT.

The Skills 4 Success Initiative will seek to improve employment success for NWT residents by closing skill gaps for in-demand jobs and more effectively responding to community, employer and industry needs. Skills 4 Success is taking a systematic look at adult and postsecondary education, and skills training programs, supports and pathways.

“Skills 4 Success has connected all the players – post-secondary, secondary, trades training – to the labour market and the needs of employers,” said Mike Bradshaw, Executive Director of the NWT Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a road map for employment and fully supports the Economic Opportunities Strategy. Every jurisdiction in the country should use this as a model and do the same.”

For more information, visit www.skills4success.ca.
For a Backgrounder, click here. 

Media inquiries:
Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (March 12, 2015) – Premier Bob McLeod has today published a report disclosing his meetings with external parties for the past 14 months. The report is in response to comments the Premier made in the Legislative Assembly last month during debate on a motion proposing a study of a lobbyist registry for the Northwest Territories (NWT).

“The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to being open and transparent as it conducts business on behalf of the people of the NWT,” said Premier McLeod. “We think it is in the public interest to proactively disclose information about meetings between Cabinet Ministers and outside parties so NWT residents have a tool for promoting accountability and better insight into how government does business.”
The report includes a listing of meetings and teleconferences between the Premier and all outside parties, including business leaders, Aboriginal leaders, federal Ministers and foreign dignitaries, as well as information on his attendance at intergovernmental meetings and conferences and other public events where he represents the Government of the Northwest Territories.

The listing does not include information on meetings between Ministers, with Regular Members of the Legislative Assembly, GNWT staff or constituents on constituency business.

Beginning April 1, 2015, information on the Premier’s meetings will be proactively disclosed on a quarterly basis. Plans are being finalized to include information about all Ministers’ meetings in the quarterly reports.

Click here to download the report. 

Media inquiries:
Shaun Dean
Director, Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2304
Email: shaun_dean@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (March 12, 2015) – Minister of Health and Social Services Glen Abernethy tabled the 2014 NWT Patient Experience Satisfaction Questionnaire Report in the Legislative Assembly today. The report highlights the findings of questionnaires completed by people using health care services in the NWT during July and August of 2014.

“The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to helping NWT residents achieve best health by providing the best care,” said Minister Abernethy. “Regularly surveying users on their experience with the NWT health care system, along with other initiatives like our ongoing system reform work, is another way we can continue working towards that vision and the long-term health of our people.”

Some results of the questionnaire included:

• 92 per cent of patients rated the care they received overall as either excellent or good.
• 90 per cent of patients completing the survey found it easy to access services.
• 93 per cent of patients rate the respectfulness of healthcare staff as excellent or good.

The questionnaires gathered feedback from clients on general health care services, health care providers, treatment/procedures, access to services, preventative health, and overall satisfaction.

This is the seventh report to profile client satisfaction with NWT hospitals produced in collaboration by Health and Social Services and territorial Health Authorities.

The report is available on the Department of Health and Social Services website.

Media inquiries:
Damien Healy
Manager, Communications
Department of Health and Social Services
Tel: (867) 920-8927
Email: damien_healy@gov.nt.ca

Mr. Speaker, Northerners have long been known for their generosity and each year the Government of the Northwest Territories employees continue to show their commitment to building stronger, healthier communities by supporting the United Way NWT.

I am very pleased to announce that this year the Government of the Northwest Territories Workplace Campaign raised just over $102,000 dollars.

Mr. Speaker, this is the 12th year of the Campaign and the most successful.  The number of Government of the Northwest Territories staff generosity has doubled and their campaign pledges commit to donating nearly $100 thousand dollars in 2015 through payroll deductions. This is up over $40,000 dollars from the previous campaign.  This makes the Government of the Northwest Territories the biggest corporate donor to United Way NWT, and I am certain we will do even better in the next campaign.

As the Honourary Chair, I am very pleased with this year’s results. I would like to point out that in 2014 the United Way NWT invested over $57,000 in 16 different projects in the NWT.  This year, due to the generosity of so many,  they were able to increase the amount of grants to 21 organizations across the Northwest Territories in the amount of $91,500  dollars. This increase has allowed them to fund projects in Fort Smith, Fort Providence, Hay River, the Sahtu, as well as Inuvik and Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Government of the Northwest Territories departmental coordinators, who were added this year to assist Senior Management with organizing information and fundraising events during the month-long campaign.  Their enthusiasm for organizing fundraising events and encouraging employees to donate is at the heart of this success.

I would also like to express my appreciation to our colleagues, Tracy St. Denis the chair of the United Way NWT and Deborah Ross, the Government of the Northwest Territories campaign coordinator for their dedication and tireless efforts. They have done much to ensure a promising future for our residents. ‎

Mr. Speaker, there are many others within our public service and communities, who have also donated their time, including our payroll and benefits staff who are essential in making the Government of the Northwest Territories campaign a success.   Together the voluntary efforts of all these people are  great examples of our northern spirit, colleagues helping colleagues, neighbours supporting neighbours, and all of reaching out to provide a helping hand.

We know that every dollar counts. So thank you to the Members of this Assembly and the many donors who have generously supported the United Way NWT.

Change starts right here and together we are making a difference.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the NWT is home to a small, but vibrant, manufacturing sector. We manufacture a range of products in the Northwest Territories – from signs and steel girders, to roof trusses, windows and fibreglass tanks. As other industrial sectors – such as mining, oil and gas, and construction – expand, there are opportunities for expansion within the manufacturing sector.

Mr. Speaker, the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy identified the potential for strengthening the economic viability of the manufacturing industry and increasing opportunities for investment in the NWT. Today I would like to update Members on the efforts we are making to strengthen, revitalize and grow this important segment of our economy.

Manufacturing in the NWT is supported primarily by allowances in the GNWT’s procurement process, which recognize higher production costs for made-in-the-NWT products.

The GNWT’s Business Incentive Policy and NWT Manufactured Products Policy are designed to help ensure government purchases are made through NWT owned businesses, thereby leveraging this investment into the business and manufacturing sector.

In addition, improved procurement services have been introduced by PWS under their new centralized procurement function, which provides a more streamlined and transparent procurement experience in support of the manufacturing sector.

Mr. Speaker, we are also developing new promotional materials to increase industry and public awareness of existing manufacturers and their products – and for the NWT Manufactured Products Policy. We will continue to expand the presence and profile of our manufacturing industry on our website, in the media and in our economy.

We have also taken steps to re-establish the NWT Manufacturers Association as a voice for this sector and a forum through which we can seek guidance and input for future planning and investment in support of this sector.

I am pleased to say we are meeting manufacturers on their own turf – in January in Hay River, and most recently this past Friday in Yellowknife, the department heads from our primary procurement departments toured local manufacturing facilities.

This gave us the opportunity to share information and we were able to learn from the business owners about their challenges and successes, and how we can work together to expand the support network to the manufacturing sector, which in turn will lead to business development and economic growth.

In the coming months we will be identifying and taking actions to connect potential users of made-in-the-NWT products with the NWT manufacturing community. We will be reaching into the business community to identify new and potential manufacturing opportunities.

Manufacturing in the NWT has significant potential for growth, Mr. Speaker, and the GNWT is very committed to supporting this industry in order to realize its full potential.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to openness and transparency in conducting its business on behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories. In support of this I am publishing a list of all meetings and teleconferences I have had with external parties, including my participation at intergovernmental meetings and conferences, as well as public events.

These reports will provide more information than would typically be on a lobbyist registry. They identify all meetings with external parties not just those with paid lobbyists, of which there are very few in the Northwest Territories.

As I have said before Mr. Speaker, all of this information was available upon request. However, we recognize that an active offer of information can sometimes not meet the needs or resources of those interested in finding out information. Publishing these reports is an important step in demonstrating our commitment to transparency and to serving the people of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, as Premier, I am proud to work for the people of the Northwest Territories. Not only with Members of this House but with our many Aboriginal government partners, business and industry, Non-Governmental Organizations, Provinces and Territories, the Federal government and many more. I believe this listing shows how important partnerships are to the future of the Northwest Territories.

Beginning April 1, 2015, information on Cabinet Ministers’ external meetings will be published on a quarterly basis to promote continued transparency. While I have provided a retrospective report on all my external meetings, the first report of all Cabinet Ministers meetings for the 2015 – 2016 fiscal year will be published in July.

Later today, I will be tabling a complete list of all meetings I have had with external parties from January, 2014 to February, 2015.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to salute the members of our local film and television industry. This industry is built on the dedicated efforts of businesses and individuals in the NWT who are committed to telling our stories to the world and contribute nearly $10 million to the NWT’s Gross Domestic Product annually.

In order to strengthen the economic viability of the Northwest Territories’ film and media arts industry and increase opportunities for investment, we need a comprehensive plan.

Mr. Speaker, later today I will be tabling a new strategy titled Take One: Northwest Territories Film Strategy and Action Plan. This Strategy will guide the planning and implementation of policies, investments and actions by our government to realize the economic potential of the NWT’s film and media arts sector, to achieve greater recognition for our local productions, and to market our territory as a destination of choice for future out-of-territory productions.

The NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy identified the potential for strengthening the economic viability of the film and media arts industry and increasing opportunities for investment in the NWT.

It highlighted the need for a definitive NWT film strategy to guide government investment, support business opportunities and stimulate economic growth.

Film and television productions do more than generate employment and spending for actors, technical staff and suppliers of goods and services. They also provide significant social benefits involving traditional knowledge, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, community pride and storytelling.

Furthermore, film tourism is a growing phenomenon internationally, and one we want to nurture in the Northwest Territories. It will help us to showcase our incredible landscapes, cultures, traditions and iconic landmarks to the world.

The NWT Film Strategy focuses on five key areas. These include: strengthening government and industry roles and partnerships; enhancing funding and financial support; developing the skills and competencies of NWT film producers; assisting in building infrastructure; and developing efficient and effective marketing and communications.

Some of these actions are already underway. Through the Support to Entrepreneurs and Economic Development (SEED) Policy, the GNWT provides $100,000 annually to support NWT filmmakers, an improvement was made to the funding categories last year to better reflect the stages through which a film is developed. Last month we also announced up to $200,000 in 2015-16 for the NWT Film Rebate Program, a new pilot program aimed at increasing film production activity throughout the NWT. It introduces, for the first time in the NWT, incentives to film on-location in our territory, and an increased incentive for productions filming outside of Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, the NWT Professional Media Association, NWT Tourism and Western Arctic Moving Pictures for their ongoing assistance; and the individuals, businesses, associations, governments, film commissions, production companies, guest producers and industry stakeholders who provided valuable input and perspectives during the consultation phase of the NWT Film Strategy.

I would also like to recognize the partnership and funding support of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency.

Mr. Speaker, we have a vision of a strong and prosperous territory with a diversified economy and the film industry has an important role to play in that. We look forward to putting the Film Strategy’s recommendations in place over the next five years, in a manner that supports the integrity of the Northwest Territories’ unique film and media arts industry, and creates the environment needed for it to flourish locally and participate globally.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

YELLOWKNIFE (March 11, 2015) – People looking to build a cabin along the Ingraham Trail may enter their name into the open ballot draw coming up later this summer.  Minister of Lands Robert C. McLeod made the announcement in the Legislative Assembly today.

“The Department of Lands is responding to what we have been hearing from northern residents, both in the past and more recently during the Recreational Land Management Framework (RLMF) meetings,” said Minister McLeod. “By holding a ballot draw along this portion of the Ingraham Trail, we meet some of the demand for recreational-type leases in a way that also sustains present and future generations.”

The 22 vacant lots are located in six pre-surveyed subdivisions. Two leases are on Reid Lake, seven on Tibbitt Lake, five on Peninsula Lake, one on Pontoon Lake, six on Prelude Lake and one on Madeline Lake. None of these subdivisions are within the areas withdrawn through the Akaitcho Interim Measures Agreement.

The remainder of the RLMF Focus Area along Highway 3 and the Ingraham Trail remains closed to new recreational leases.

The Department of Lands has been holding meetings to seek public input into the development of a Recreational Land Management Framework for the Northwest Territories. This work will help ensure the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) administers and manages recreational land leases in a way that balances northern interests, and respects Aboriginal and treaty rights. It also meets one of the 17th Assembly’s priorities by building a strong and sustainable future for our territory by working with partners to ensure responsible stewardship through our land management regime.

The decision to open 22 pre-existing vacant cottage lots along the Ingraham Trail stems from the Minister’s commitment to examine options for managing vacant, previously surveyed lots within existing subdivisions along the Ingraham Trail. Environmental factors, Aboriginal rights and public feedback gathered to date from the RLMF consultations were carefully considered in the decision.

Further details on the leases, including lease rates and other requirements, as well as information on how to enter the draw, will be advertised widely and made available on the Department of Lands website at www.lands.gov.nt.ca on May 1, 2015. The open ballot draw will take place in the summer of 2015.

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Communications Officer
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

Mr. Speaker, Northwest Territories residents take great pride in the beauty of their land and want to see the Department of Lands managing it in a fair, transparent and consistent way. The development of new recreational leasing policies that respond to the needs of our residents is a priority for the Department.

Lands is committed to finalizing its Recreational Land Management Framework by mid-2016. This Framework will apply to both Commissioner’s land and newly devolved Territorial land. The policies and planning that make up the Framework will address the current and future recreational needs of residents across the NWT, and will be consistent with the Land Use and Sustainability Framework.

Over the past two months, departmental staff have held public meetings to ask residents what matters most to them about recreational land management. Nine public meetings were held in eight communities. We also collected online submissions. The information gathered from NWT residents will guide the writing of the draft policies and plans for the Recreational Land Management Framework. The Department of Lands will share the draft policies later this year with Aboriginal governments, the public, and other stakeholders for additional feedback before finalizing the Framework.

This past fall, the Department committed to evaluating options for managing vacant previously surveyed lots in existing subdivisions along the Ingraham Trail that have become vacant for a variety of reasons. The research, consultation and public engagement work done to date has informed the Department’s review of its options with these subdivisions. Residents have told us that they care deeply about environmental sustainability and also want more access to recreational areas.

After consulting with the Akaitcho and Tłı̨chǫ governments, the NWT Métis Nation, the North Slave Métis Alliance, the general public and other stakeholders, and upon further review and research by the Department, I would like to announce that Department of Lands will be making 22 vacant parcels in previously surveyed recreational subdivisions along the Ingraham Trail available for lease. The lottery process for leasing these lots will be done in an open, fair and transparent manner in the early summer. Information on the lot locations and lottery process will be posted on the Department of Land’s website on May 1st and will be advertised through the local media.

This decision is only possible because already-surveyed lots have become available. There is still a moratorium on issuing new recreational leases within the focus area along Highways No.3 and No.4 until the Recreational Land Management Framework is completed.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Lands’ Recreational Land Management Framework will ensure a clear and fair process for recreational leasing of rural land across the Northwest Territories. Once completed, the Department’s goal is to identify potential new areas suitable for leasing or sale. We will ensure Aboriginal rights are respected. As well, we will ensure rural land across the NWT is used responsibly and sustainably.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, with more than 4, 338 interrelated species and counting, the state of biodiversity in the Northwest Territories provides us a rare chance unavailable in most other regions in Canada or the world—the ability to proactively plan a healthy future for land, water, wildlife and people. Our land, rich in biodiversity, contributes to the high quality of life we all enjoy in the NWT. Our food security and traditional economy rely on maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem integrity in the North. Making sure land in the NWT remains healthy for future generations is a priority of the Government of the Northwest Territories.

A key premise of devolution is that decisions influencing our economy and environment are best guided and managed by the people who live here. As such, the GNWT developed the Land Use and Sustainability Framework for lands management. This means making balanced, collaborative decisions respectful of Aboriginal and treaty rights in the context of sound environmental stewardship. To do this, we consider ecological, social, cultural and economic values in our decision-making to ensure maximum benefits to current and future generations.

We acknowledge the significant contributions of our regional and community partners through the Protected Areas Strategy. We have worked together to successfully define the natural capital of many special areas, initiate discussions on the management and monitoring of candidate areas, and in many instances, have begun the important collaborative decision-making phase of the establishment process.

We are proceeding with a made-in-the-North approach to conservation planning to ensure biodiversity and ecosystem integrity are maintained into the future. Devolution has provided an opportunity for the people of the NWT to create new conservation areas using ‘Northern Tools’, allowing for increased participation in and accountability for the management of these areas.

We have adapted conservation science methods used elsewhere in Canada and around the world to identify the NWT’s ecologically representative core areas and assess gaps. We will work with communities to outline mutual objectives for territorial designations, shared governance and management. Objectives that support balanced land management decisions made collaboratively by Northerners, and fit within a broad comprehensive conservation planning approach. One that includes land use planning, park and protected areas establishment, and ecological representation network planning. Collectively, these initiatives will ensure the progress of responsible economic development in the context of sound environmental stewardship.

As we proceed with our Northern approach to conservation planning, we will be looking for partners. Some of the most successful initiatives in the NWT, such as the transboundary water negotiations, the Species at Risk Conference of Management Authorities, or the new Wildlife Act, were only possible through collaboration. We know that in order to be successful, to create the best conservation network possible, true collaboration and partnerships must continue.

The timing is right to prepare for our future. It is important to take advantage of the science behind best practices, such as ecological representation for managing land use and creating core areas, and combine it with traditional knowledge from our Aboriginal partners. When we work together using the best information available, we ensure the development of a culturally, environmentally and economically sustainable Northwest Territories.

People of the NWT want a healthy land for their grandchildren. The NWT has a rare opportunity to be a leader in conservation, and apply lessons learned elsewhere in the world and across Canada to achieve sustainable resource management. It is far more efficient to preserve land now than try to restore land later. A new NWT conservation network not only maintains our unique northern landscapes, it also provides more clarity and certainty for developers, industry, residents of the NWT and beyond.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment provides a better quality of life for some of the most vulnerable residents of the Northwest Territories through its Income Security Program. I’d like to speak today about a significant improvement that is being made to the Income Assistance Program, as well as two very important initiatives that are underway.

Starting in April 2015, Income Assistance clients will receive more money for food and incidental expenses. These benefits will continue to increase each year for the next four years. The increases to these benefits will allow our clients to receive benefit levels that reflect the actual cost of healthy foods for their families regardless of the community they live in. Healthy, educated people who are free from poverty is a goal of this Assembly, and making this vital enhancement to the Income Assistance Program will help meet this goal.

I am also pleased to report on a joint initiative that is underway with our colleagues at the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation. ECE will be transferring the NWT Housing Corporation responsibility for administration of 75 market housing units available to Income Assistance clients. There will be 55 units in Yellowknife, ten units in Inuvik, and ten units in Hay River. Income Assistance clients in these units will have reduced rent, and resources are being transferred from ECE to the NWTHC to operate them, so it will be cost neutral to the GNWT. People in these units will also experience an easier transition to the workforce due to the Housing Corporation’s graduated rent to income scheme.

Mr. Speaker, I’ve said before that our people are our territory’s greatest resource. Having more skilled NWT residents entering the workforce will strengthen our economy.

We are working to improve the NWT labour force through the creation of five new Employment Officer positions. These positions will provide individual support to employable Income Assistance clients so they are able to gain employment or enter into training programs. The intent of these new positions is to further reduce Income Assistance caseloads, which have continued to decrease over the past five years.

Mr. Speaker, addressing high living costs and giving Northerners the tools they need to find and keep work, including stable housing, are priorities for this government. I am proud of the innovative approaches and work completed to support and contribute to this Assembly’s goals of Northerners leading healthy successful lives free from poverty.

Masi, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the North lost one of the true pioneers of governance in the NWT with the passing of Tom Butters. Tom served in the Legislative Assembly from 1970 to 1991. As one of the longest serving MLAs in the North his respectful and steady approach was admired by those who served with him.

The flags outside the Legislative Assembly have been lowered to half- mast today out of respect for Tom Butters and all he did for the people of the Northwest Territories.

Born in Vancouver, B.C. in 1925, Mr. Butters moved North in 1947. He was a prospector in the Yukon and worked on the Alaska Highway with the Department of National Defence before joining the federal Department of Northern Affairs and Natural Resources as a northern services officer in Ottawa, Churchill and Baker Lake.

He moved to Inuvik in 1961 and became regional administrator in 1963. He left the government two years later to establish the local weekly newspaper, the Drum (now the Inuvik Drum) to serve the Inuvik area, and he established a travel business in the Western Arctic. Tom also served a term on Inuvik town council, where he was deputy mayor, before running in the 1970 territorial election.

Tom Butters was elected five times by the people of Inuvik and served in 13 different Ministerial portfolios including:

• Minister of Natural and Cultural Affairs
• Minister of Economic Development and Tourism
• Minister of Social Services
• Minister of Health
• Minister of Education, Justice and Public Services
• Minister of the Public Utilities Board
• Minister of Finance
• Minister of Government Services
• Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Secretariat
• Minister of Housing Corporation
• Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs

It was during his time as Finance Minister that Tom took on the responsibility for the GNWT finances. Until that time the Commissioner, appointed by Ottawa, had controlled the financial portfolio. Tom worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth transition. Notably it was during his tenure as Minister that Northern Residents Tax Deduction was introduced.

Tom was a hard worker, and famous for his early breakfast meetings, something that appears to be a necessary characteristic for any Finance Minister. He was a very good listener and a fair man. He was soft-spoken, open to others’ ideas and treated everyone with respect.

It is fitting, and certainly no coincidence, that such a man played a key part in the independence of the Northwest Territories. This earned him membership in the Order of Canada in 1994.

Mr. Speaker, I invite Members to join me in thanking Tom Butters for all he contributed to the Northwest Territories and Nunavut – for the legacy he left every one of us, even those who never met him.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

YELLOWKNIFE (March 09, 2015) – The winter road to Wekweètì opens today, completing the NWT’s public winter road system and significantly improving connections between communities and families.

“The complete winter road system reduces the cost of living and supports Northern businesses,” said Minister of Transportation Tom Beaulieu. “Northerners, industry, and tourists rely on highways to move safely and efficiently around our territory. Our winter roads increase communities’ connections to each other while protecting the environment, ensuring our land can continue to sustain all of our people.”

In the winter months 1627 kilometres of winter roads are added to the 2200 kilometres of permanent highways that connect 16 communities year-round. The complete 3827-kilometre road system connects 29 communities during the winter. Privately maintained winter roads from public highways to job sites further increase access to resource-rich parts of the territory, making northern businesses more competitive in a global economy.

This year, investments in the river connections along the Dempster Highway provided near-continuous highway service to Inuvik during freeze-up for the first time ever. Both ferries operated 24 hours a day while ice bridges were built nearby. This lowered the cost of living, improved mobility and provided more secure energy resupply to the Beaufort-Delta. Partnerships with industry in the Sahtu have allowed for increased efforts to construct the Mackenzie Valley Winter Road, allowing equipment to move through the region earlier.

“We are world leaders in Arctic construction, and our vision is to connect Northerners permanently by building permanent roads where we now build winter roads,” said Minister Beaulieu. “This work started last winter near the Arctic coast, where the Inuvik-to-Tuktoyaktuk Highway is under construction. The Mackenzie Valley Winter Road follows the route that will one day permanently connect the new road from Tuktoyaktuk to the southern NWT.”

Investments in transportation infrastructure support the priorities of the 17th Legislative Assembly by connecting northerners to each other and increasing their well-being and prosperity. Improved highway access to communities strengthens and diversifies the NWT economy, making northern businesses more competitive and lowering the cost of living.

Media inquiries:

Nick Hurst
Communications Coordinator
Department of Transportation, GNWT
(867) 873-7956
Email: nick_hurst@gov.nt.ca

Yellowknife (March 9, 2015) – Premier Bob McLeod, Minister Responsible for Women, marked International Women’s Day at the annual Bread and Roses luncheon hosted by the Status of Women Council of the NWT yesterday.

“In the Northwest Territories, we have made great strides for women’s equality,” said Premier McLeod. “We have many powerful women leaders who have not only contributed to their communities, but who have shaped the future of the NWT. More and more women are employed in jobs that historically only men have done, expanding opportunities, as well as social and economic prosperity.”

Each year, International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th. The first International Women’s Day was held in 1911. Thousands of events occur internationally to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women.

Premier McLeod thanked the Status of Women Council of the NWT for the work they do to support women’s equality in the North, as well as the YWCA, the Tree of Peace, the Centre for Northern Families and the Native Women’s Association of the NWT. The Premier also recognized Dene Nahjo, an organization run by young Dene women leaders that recently held a circumpolar women’s leadership conference in Yellowknife.

Premier McLeod also offered his congratulations to the recipients of the Status of Women Wise Women Awards that were given out at the luncheon. The 2015 winners are Pertice Moffitt (North Slave), Annie B. Gordon (Beaufort/Delta), Judy Lafferty (Sahtu), Maggie Sikyea (South Slave) and Caroline Bonnetrouge (Deh Cho).

“We must avoid becoming complacent and entrenched in old ways of thinking,” said Premier McLeod. “While great strides have been made, there are still people in our broader society who do not value women and girls.”

Premier McLeod recently chaired the National Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in Ottawa. The Roundtable was the first time in Canadian history that all Provinces and Territories, the Federal Government, and all five National Aboriginal Organizations have met.

“It is important to promote women’s equality on an ongoing basis,” said Premier McLeod. “Without a shared understanding of the abilities and value of females in our society, we will continue to experience the tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.”