Northwest Territories News

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.”

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Justice is committed to this Assembly’s goals of healthy, educated people and vibrant, safe communities. We contribute to achieving these goals by offering a range of programs and services that give individuals the tools and support they need to address the challenges and poor choices that often result in criminal charges and incarceration. As with any organization, we are always looking for ways – big and small – to improve our programs and services to better help people make healthy choices. Given that commitment, we welcome the report and recommendations of the Auditor General tabled in this House last week.

This performance audit provides us with valuable feedback on our programs and services, many of which are consistent with our own recent observations and the continuing evolution of corrections across Canada. I have accepted all of the recommendations in the Auditor General’s Report. I can assure everyone we will address the issues raised. The OAG recommendations allow us to refine and focus our ongoing work to modernize and continue to improve support for inmates and to ensure public safety.

Earlier this Session I spoke about the Performance Assurance and Accountability Framework the Department is advancing. This Framework will be fully implemented by 2016 and will address how we support our staff as they carry out their duties. It will address the ethics and values they bring to their work, inject accountability into the processes in our system, and allow us to apply policies and directives efficiently and effectively using best correctional practises.

We have a strong commitment to do whatever we can to prepare those who enter Northwest Territories Correctional facilities to come back to live in our communities. We believe that people want to live full and productive lives and we will fulfill our role to offer every opportunity for that to happen. We also know we cannot support change by ourselves. It takes the support of you as leaders, our communities and many other service providers.

One of the reasons we work so hard to keep NWT residents here in the North is so they can get support from their families, their communities and ourselves as they work to change their lives. Keeping inmates in the NWT means they can continue to access cultural land activities, traditional and Elder counsellors, healing and spiritual ceremonies that are effective and speak to the healing that NWT residents need to advance their rehabilitation.

I look forward to discussing the Auditor General’s Report and the work that we are doing in Corrections in more detail with the Standing Committee on Government Operations during the hearings in May.

Corrections is only one part of the equation, Mr. Speaker. Helping people make better choices that keep them out of trouble with the law is another critical aspect of our work. I would like to tell Members today about some of the other actions the Department is taking to find solutions for our residents besides entering a Correctional facility.

As Members know, the Wellness Court began sitting in Yellowknife last year, with the support of partners in the Public Prosecution Service and the judiciary. This alternative court focuses on the offender rather than the offence. It addresses people’s underlying issues, such as drug and alcohol addiction, mental illness and cognitive challenges. Through this program, individuals receive help to address their specific needs in the community rather than in a Correctional environment.

The first sitting of the Wellness Court occurred on October 2, 2014 and it continues to sit every second Thursday. As of late February there are five people participating in the program and 13 individuals have been referred. The Department continues to refine the program with the judiciary, as well as with other GNWT departments and community stakeholders.

I also want Members to know of a new development with another specialized court, the Domestic Violence Treatment Court. The eight-week program to support this Court has been running in Yellowknife since 2011. It provides low-risk offenders who have accepted responsibility for their actions peaceful alternatives to violence in their domestic relationships. Training sessions for staff are scheduled to start this month and, by the end of April, this valuable program will be offered to residents of Hay River, the Katlodeeche First Nation and Enterprise.

Members will also want to know that we have established an agreement with the Tree of Peace Friendship Centre in Yellowknife to once again provide a healing program for men who use violence in their intimate relationships. “A New Day” healing program is a part of larger system of accountability and safety to provide men with an alternative way of behaving with their partners and children. It was developed specifically for NWT residents with input and support from the Coalition Against Family Violence. To date, we have 12 clients who are attending individualized counselling sessions and 20 men who have been referred to the program.

Mr. Speaker, I remain committed to supporting the people of this territory and ensuring the Department of Justice is providing the best programs and services possible, delivered by our dedicated and professional staff. This recent report of the Auditor General was timely and will help further focus the work we were already doing to improve our offerings. We are confident this work will be done and I look forward to providing updates to Members as we proceed.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, all around the world, International Women’s Day represents an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality.

Each year International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8. The first International Women’s Day was held in 1911. Thousands of events occur to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organizations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women’s groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day.

In the Northwest Territories we have made great strides for women’s equality. We have many powerful women leaders who have not only contributed to their communities but who have shaped the future of the Northwest Territories. More and more women are employed in jobs that historically only men have done. The Government of the Northwest Territories continues to promote capable women to senior management and other positions of influence within our government.

The Status of Women Council continues their good work to support more women to run for election. I was pleased to attend the 2015 Campaign School and speak with many of the women and their supporters who will be running in the next Territorial election. Having balanced representation in this House and in other leadership positions allows us to be stronger and wiser together.

This weekend the Status of Women Council will host the annual Wise Women Awards and I will be attending to offer my congratulations to the many wise women from across the Northwest Territories.

Other organizations in the Northwest Territories like the Native Women’s Association contribute to women’s equality through their support programs and advocacy work. I would also like to recognize the new and dynamic organization Dene Nahjo who recently held a circumpolar women’s leadership here in Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, when we support equality for women we support equality for all our residents, strong individuals, families and communities sharing the benefits and responsibilities of a unified, environmentally sustainable and prosperous Northwest Territories.

Make It Happen is the 2015 theme for International Women’s Say, encouraging effective action for advancing and recognizing women. I encourage all Members of this House and those listening today to consider how they can Make It Happen.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize the members of Team Northwest Territories who represented our territory at the 2015 Canada Winter Games in Prince George, British Columbia from February 13 to March 1. The 139 athletes, coaches and mission staff were from 11 communities in the Northwest Territories including Aklavik, Deline, Fort McPherson, Fort Providence, Fort Simpson, Fort Smith, Hay River, Inuvik, N’dilo, Sachs Harbour and Yellowknife.

They participated in the sports of badminton, biathlon, cross country skiing, curling, hockey, figure skating, judo, shooting, speed skating and squash. I know that each and every one of them trained hard and did their very best to represent the NWT and their communities at this premier national event. I would like to make special mention of Brent Betsina of N’dilo, who brought home the silver medal in Judo, the NWT’s first medal at the Games since Brendan Green’s win in 2007.

Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to report that the City of Yellowknife and officials from MACA were in Prince George to gather information related to the consideration of a bid by the City to host the 2023 Canada Games. Earlier this year, Mayor Mark Heyck and I launched a public process to inform and advise the citizens of Yellowknife of the benefits that hosting the Games could bring to the City and the NWT. The Mayor is also leading a task force to develop a business case for City Council’s review that will examine what resources will be needed to successfully host the Games. I am looking forward to assisting and expressing our Government’s full support for hosting the Games in Yellowknife.

Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories will also be hosting the 2018 Arctic Winter Games. Just last month the Arctic Winter Games International Committee visited Inuvik and Hay River / Fort Smith to review bids from those communities.
These will be the first Arctic Winter Games held outside of Yellowknife since the 1978 Hay River – Pine Point Games.

I am confident that regardless of the community that wins the bid, the real winner will be the sport community and youth in our communities. Ensuring NWT residents are able to participate in and experience these important multisport games is one way we are supporting healthy educated people in communities across our territory.

In closing Mr. Speaker, I want to thank and recognize the parents, coaches, managers, sport officials and Sport North staff and volunteers for their tireless work in preparing our Canada Games team. I also want to thank and recognize the City of Yellowknife, the towns of Hay River, Fort Smith and Inuvik and the communities in those regions supporting the 2023 and 2018 Games events.

Thank You, Mr. Speaker

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the recent and ongoing improvements made by NAV CANADA at 17 of our airport sites with Community Aerodrome Radio Stations and at Wekweeti and Colville Lake Airports.

NAV CANADA is the private corporation responsible for civil air navigation services and weather within Canadian airspace. It has recently invested in the weather observation systems at 19 of our airports in the NWT. This improved weather information; now available 24-hours a day and 365 days a year, will support safer and more effective air transportation services for our communities and residents. The Department of Transportation has assisted NAV CANADA in these installations by providing land, material, and construction and coordination assistance.

Mr. Speaker, reliable weather data is critical to airport and air carrier efficiency and safety. Airline operators make decisions on whether to fly or not based on available weather information. In a potentially critical situation, such as a medevac flight, the availability of current and accurate weather information allows operators to make flight decisions quickly.

The changes made by NAV CANADA mean pilots can now rely on improved data and tailor their flight schedules to respond to weather conditions with a higher degree of confidence. The new weather observation systems can operate in an unattended mode to deliver sufficient, real time, accurate weather 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. This information will be accessible even when Community Aerodrome Radio Stations are closed for any reason.

In addition, the new automated weather observation systems in Colville Lake and Wekweeti provide cameras which can be accessed remotely to provide airline operators with views of the airport and runway without ever leaving their offices.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that all 27 airports in the NWT now have access to weather information that is no more than 75 nautical miles from their sites.

The real-time, accurate weather data provided through these investments to the Weather Observation Systems will benefit our residents and communities through improved air services between communities and allow for improved decision-making and faster response times by the medevac service contractor.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Transportation continues to work with our partners, such as NAV CANADA and airline operators, to make improvements to our air transportation system.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, last May we presented Our Elders: Our Communities, a Strategic Framework outlining the Government’s commitment to support Elders and Seniors who wish to live in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, and ensure that services are available when this option is no longer viable.

As the backbone of our communities, Elders and Seniors should be supported and given the best care possible. Seniors are the fastest growing population in the Northwest Territories. Over the past decade, the Seniors’ demographic has grown at a rate of more than five per cent per year, and this trend will continue. Meeting the health care and social needs of Elders and Seniors is a high priority for our government.

Our Elders: Our Communities gives us a framework to identify gaps in our system, and where we need to take action.  Priority areas include: home and community care services; integrated and coordinated service delivery; caregiver supports; Elder-responsive communities; accessible and current information; and sustainable best practices.

The guiding principles within Our Elders, Our Communities strengthen the development of programs, services and supports to Seniors and Elders.  There are seven key principles:

Choice, means knowing that seniors can make or be an active participant in making ones’ own choices.

Respect and dignity, means that we treat Elders in a manner that imparts value, importance and self-worth.

Equity, acknowledges and celebrates the unique characteristics of Elders.

Awareness, promotes community, regional and territorial programs and services aimed at keeping Elders in their communities

Access, ensures Elders have access to culturally appropriate services and support, and access to information that allows individuals to be knowledgeable and to make informed decisions about healthy options available.

Safety, stresses safe, supportive and secure environments free of fear, exploitation and violence.

Finally, Empowerment, which refers to providing opportunities for Elders to continue to reach their full potential, with access to educational, cultural, spiritual and recreational resources, and to continue to make a positive contribution in their communities.

These principles align with the Rights set out in the Northwest Territories Seniors Charter and, together with our priority areas, provide a roadmap for the development of programs and services to support healthy and active aging within Elder-responsive communities across the Northwest Territories.

By taking action in areas identified in the Framework, we will help Elders and Seniors remain in their communities as long as possible.  The Department of Health and Social Services continues to engage the Health and Social Services Authorities and Avens – A Community for Seniors, to advance shared work in areas such as training in palliative care and approaches to care that focus on the needs of the Elder, and developing policies to support the implementation of new Continuing Care Standards. We’re also planning for new long-term care beds across the Northwest Territories, including Avens in Yellowknife.

The Department is also working with the Health and Social Services Authorities to enhance home care services.  Currently, home support is available in most NWT communities and home care is available in communities with nursing staff. Elders’ day programs are available in several communities, which provide an opportunity for Elders to socialize and have a nutritious meal, as well as participate in Elders in Motion, an active living program offered by the NWT Parks and Recreation Association.  Keeping healthy, active, and connected to each other is critical to wellbeing and programs like these play an important role in Elders’ lives.

I am pleased to report that new facilities are being built and resources are being developed to help Seniors achieve a high quality of life. The Department of Health and Social Services is working with the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation to address independent housing needs in our communities, and incorporate space for home care and Elders’ day programs into the designs for new Seniors’ housing units.

Any improvements to our programs are not possible without partnerships.  The Department of Health and Social Services has also been working with the NWT Seniors Society and the Departments of Justice, Municipal and Community Affairs, Education, Culture and Employment, and the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation to update the Seniors’ Information Handbook.  We are also developing a companion booklet for caregivers.

The Seniors’ Information Handbook provides a comprehensive list of government programs and services that seniors and their caregivers can access to help them make informed decisions and remain independent and active in their home communities.

The companion Caregiver Booklet will provide information to assist families caring for their loved ones. The plan is to release these documents this spring.

Another example of collaboration is the Aurora Research Institute’s recently released report titled “Influences on Quality of Life of the Older Adult” in the Northwest Territories. Working directly with the NWT Seniors’ Society and communities, Aurora College faculty and students gathered valuable, current information on the quality of life of Seniors and Elders across the Northwest Territories that can help support informed decision-making and direction for leadership, advocacy, education and research.  Later today I will table this report.

Taking action in priority areas to improve the programs and services for Elders will not be a short-term undertaking, Mr. Speaker.  The Department’s work is ongoing and will continue through transition.  We have established numerous partnerships to help ensure Seniors receive the support they need. As we move forward, we will continue engagement with Aboriginal governments, non-governmental organizations and community members to ensure our programs and services are delivered in the best way possible.

Together, we are working toward our vision of aging in place, and Best Health, Best Care and a Better Future for residents of the Northwest Territories.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

YELLOWKNIFE (March 5, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) continues to support community government projects that promote public safety by increasing response capability of local fire and ambulance services through the Ground Ambulance and Highway Rescue Funding Program. In 2014/15, the GNWT provided $400,000 in funding to communities through this program, an increase of $200,000 from previous years. Additional improvements to the program include raising the maximum amount of funding per community to $50,000, including minor capital infrastructure projects as eligible expenses and allowing multi-year projects.

“Providing resources to community governments so they can improve their local fire and ambulance services is an important part of improving public safety in the Northwest Territories,” said Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs Robert C. McLeod. “Expanding the funding available under this program and also providing more options for how recipients can use the funds helps community governments address their unique  needs. ”

Since 2007, this program has provided over $1.5 million to community governments for initiatives such as new ground ambulance or highway rescue vehicles, emergency medical responder training, casualty trauma kit supplies, off-site crash kit supplies and more.

“The ground ambulance and highway rescue funding, in conjunction with the basic training that the volunteers have received, will provide us with the necessary skills, transportation and equipment to treat, mobilize and transport patients in a safe manner,” said Patrick Simon, Deputy Mayor of the Hamlet of Fort Resolution.

“The City of Yellowknife appreciates the additional funding used towards emergency response capabilities along NWT Highways near our community.  These additional resources help Yellowknife play a stronger role in the region in the area of emergency support services,” said Mark Heyck, Mayor of the City of Yellowknife.

In 2014-15, the GNWT has allocated $400,000 to support the following community government projects:

• Yellowknife – Rescue vehicle and equipment
• Hay River – Ambulance
• Fort Smith – Rescue equipment
• Fort Simpson – Highway rescue vehicle
• Fort Resolution – Highway rescue vehicle
• Fort McPherson – Ambulance and equipment
• Inuvik – Rescue equipment
• Behchoko – Training and communications equipment

An Interdepartmental Advisory Committee composed of the Departments of Municipal and Community Affairs, Justice, Transportation and Health and Social Services was established in 2011 to implement the GNWT’s Ground Ambulance, Highway and Remote Medical Rescue Services Strategy to support and strengthen delivery of community-based ground ambulance, highway rescue and medical remote rescue services in the NWT.

The Ground Ambulance and Highway Rescue Funding Program helps build response capacity in communities and contributes to sustainable, vibrant, and safe communities as outlined in the 17th Legislative Assembly’s vision of Believing in People and Building on the Strengths of Northerners.

Media inquiries:

David Maguire
Communications and Website Advisor
Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-3092
Email: david_maguire@gov.nt.ca

Mr. Speaker, each year we celebrate March as National Social Work Month. Social work is a profession for those with a passion to help improve people’s lives. Social Workers help individuals, families and communities by providing support and resources and working through challenging and complex circumstances.

Social Workers can work directly with individuals to provide counselling services or other supports. They also contribute to the broader improvement of our Territory through policy development and helping to improve the way services are provided and delivered at the community level.

Social Workers have an ethical obligation to advocate for broad social change to address social inequalities that will benefit the marginalized members of our communities, and ultimately, all of us.

When families are in crisis, Social Workers are there to help people get back on their feet. Social Workers show outstanding dedication and professionalism to help people achieve success and realize their best selves. The hours are tough, as help is required around the clock.

Social Work requires determination, devotion and a sense of purpose to make a real difference for people in need, and I have seen many positive outcomes as a result of Social Workers’ efforts.

For these reasons and many more, Social Work is being celebrated this year as a Profession of Choice. As the Minister of Health and Social Services, I want to express how much the Government of the Northwest Territories appreciates professional social work not just during Social Work Month, but every day.

I am pleased to have this extra opportunity to celebrate these outstanding professionals and express the Government of the Northwest Territories’ recognition and thanks for all their hard work on behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, it makes me very proud to share an important milestone with this Legislative Assembly. At the Truth and Reconciliation Commission event in Inuvik in 2011, I committed our government to educating students and teachers in the Northwest Territories about the history and legacy of the residential schools.

For the year following that TRC event, Education, Culture and Employment staff worked closely with the Nunavut Government, the Legacy of Hope Foundation, and in particular, former residential school students, to complete a resource package of teaching and learning materials.
In October of 2012, all NWT Northern Studies teachers were introduced to the new teacher’s guide. At this in-service, many survivors shared their experiences with our teachers. The experiences shared during this in-service helped the teachers not only in their delivery of Northern Studies, but in their understanding of their students and the communities they are working in.

Since this initial launch, I committed our government to train not just the Northern Studies teachers, but all K-12 teachers in the NWT on the history and legacy of residential schools. It has taken us over a year to accomplish this goal and as of February 19th every NWT teacher has participated in an in-service. We will now be offering this in-service to all new teachers arriving to the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, this is an important accomplishment, and I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank several groups. I want to thank the principals and teachers who listened respectfully to the difficult truths.

I want to thank the Vision of Hope and Health Canada for supporting the process through their counselling services and attending every in-service. They also provided follow-up support for those who needed it. I want to thank Maxine Lacorne who is an intergenerational survivor and also travelled to many communities and provided hope through sharing her experiences and journey of healing. Most importantly, I want to acknowledge and thank the many former residential school students all over the NWT who graciously shared their experiences with open hearts.

In June, I will be hosting meetings with my counterparts from across the country, the Council for Ministers of Education Canada. At these meetings, we will be discussing how to make it a requirement in every province and territory across Canada for all teachers to be familiar with the issues related to the history and legacy of residential schools, regardless of where they study or where they teach. Together, we are understanding the past and seeking reconciliation to build hope for tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories can be very proud of the leadership role we have played right across this country in assuring that never again will another generation be able to say ‘I didn’t know.’

Masi, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, three years ago, the 17th Legislative Assembly made it a priority to establish sustainable, vibrant, safe communities. Today, I want to speak about some of the work being done by the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs to help reach that goal by strengthening community emergency preparedness and fire protection.

In the past 12 months, NWT communities have experienced some extreme events that have tested their ability to respond to natural disasters and community fire incidents. These events can occur at any time and in any place, with or without warning. Effective response requires a continual planning and capacity building.

Mr. Speaker, emergency preparedness and community fire protection are critical. Our collective efforts need to focus on helping communities reach a suitable level of readiness. To this end, MACA is committed to several important goals that will help create and sustain a foundation with which to support and strengthen community preparedness and response.

MACA continues its efforts to help community governments improve community emergency management capacity. This includes the delivery of community planning workshops and table top exercises. Since 2011, 20 communities have updated their existing emergency response plans or created new ones. Last year, MACA launched a new table top exercise in Whati, which is now available to communities to help validate emergency plans.

Mr. Speaker, work continues at the territorial level as well. Recently, MACA began a review of the government’s civil emergency response efforts from last summer. The review will identify gaps and deficiencies in last summer’s operations and allow us to improve procedures and plans. It will also inform work to update the territorial emergency response plan that will commence in the spring.

MACA is also coordinating the GNWT’s participation in Operation NANOOK 2015, which provides a great opportunity to practice and evaluate components of the NWT’s emergency measures regime. This annual Canadian Forces live exercise is scheduled to take place in August and will involve working with key partners to respond to a simulated wildfire event in the vicinity of Fort Smith.

Last summer, the Department completed a territorial hazard identification risk assessment which provides communities guidance concerning risks that pose the greatest threat to people, property, environment and the economy. This tool can be used to update community emergency plans, develop municipal disaster risk mitigation plans, and guide development of emergency response exercises.

MACA also started work on modernizing the Civil Emergency Measures Act to ensure it provides the GNWT and community governments with effective tools to respond to our current hazard environment. Work is well underway and it is hoped that we can pass in the 17th Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, not all emergency events occur from natural disasters. Many originate in our own homes and have a profound impact on families. According to the National Fire Protection Association, households can expect a home fire every 15 years. While most will be small fires resulting in little or no damage, some will be greater. This means effective community fire protection needs to remain a high priority for the Department and community governments.

In 2014, MACA continued implementation of an NWT Community Fire Protection Plan, focused on key priorities identified by fire protection stakeholders. The Department recently worked with partners to implement a territorial-wide carbon monoxide awareness campaign and a volunteer fire fighter recruitment and retention toolkit for community governments. These efforts combine to help improve the efforts of smaller communities with limited equipment, capacity and volunteers. Future efforts will continue to build on local capacity by providing templates and tools that can be implemented by fire departments in communities across the NWT.

To help ensure adequate first aid skills, MACA is delivering first responder training to community volunteers and staff. Since June 2014, six communities have received training, with several more sessions planned for the remainder of the year. This effort has been combined with a unique opportunity to increase public access to Automated External Defibrillators. Working with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, we are combining efforts to place more than 60 defibrillators in recreation and public facilities throughout the North, and to deliver user training to volunteers.

Central to this goal are our continued efforts to help community government staff and volunteers achieve certification and accreditation as fire fighters. In 2014, eighteen Individuals were certified as fire instructors and eight individuals as fire investigators.

Mr. Speaker, improvements in community fire protection require a sustained effort and effective collaboration on behalf of all stakeholders. It also requires an effective foundation with which to ensure adequate oversight and authority for all levels of government. To this end, MACA is making good progress towards an updated Fire Prevention Act that will reflect our true operating environment. A draft bill is expected early in the 18th Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to commend community governments for their continued efforts in this important area and to thank our partners for their ongoing support.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, Aboriginal Languages Month is an opportune time to reflect on past successes and the work that lies ahead in continuing to promote, revitalize and preserve our nine official Aboriginal languages. We are all burdened by the truth that some of our Aboriginal languages are struggling, not because we are not doing enough to support them, but because the challenges they face are complex.

Residential school and colonialism have left some deep scars behind and are largely responsible for Aboriginal people struggling to keep their languages alive. Adding to this reality is the fact that English has taken over as the predominant language of our society. This history can never be forgotten nor can its impact be reversed quickly.

Mr. Speaker, the good news is, however, that the Government of the Northwest Territories is partnering with Aboriginal governments, schools and the federal government to make a difference and reverse this trend. This collaboration is vital as success can only be achieved by working together, each doing our part. That is not about duplicating efforts and creating bureaucracy. It is about sharing in the responsibility and helping build one another’s capacity.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the NWT invests 15 million dollars each year to support and promote Aboriginal languages through:

• Building the capacity of Aboriginal governments to implement their 5-year regional language plans;
• Funding culture and language programs in schools;
• Funding language nest programs in daycares;
• Supporting Aboriginal broadcasting;
• Funding programs that increase the number of Aboriginal language instructors;
• Developing Aboriginal language terminology;
• Supporting specific Aboriginal language initiatives; and
• Providing government services in Aboriginal languages where possible.

Mr. Speaker, these are the highlights of our actions, providing evidence that we are firing on all cylinders. Key to all of our efforts, however, is parents speaking their Aboriginal language at home with their children, and children embracing the learning of that language. Without that key ingredient our efforts can only go so far.

Mr. Speaker, administering support for Aboriginal languages is complex. To simplify our approach and provide the funding in the most straightforward way, as of April 1st, 2014, all Aboriginal governments now have the control and flexibility to decide where best to allocate their funding. They have done their homework and have developed very rich regional language plans. Our job is now to support them in their efforts to implement them and give them time to assess what has worked best and where improvements can be made.

We are helping them in developing monitoring and evaluation plans for their accountability and measuring their efforts.

Mr. Speaker, we have listened to the advice of the Aboriginal governments and our Elders; they are the ones on the ground in the communities. They see the decline happening before their eyes. But they also see pockets of progress – there are the children working with Elders to create a dictionary; there are youth teaching others what they’ve learned, there are children sitting with community Elders and learning from them, and there are communities rallying from the youngest to the oldest to ensure that everyone on the ground is reaching beyond their communities to share their languages with the world.

Masi, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, regulated electronics recycling programs are in place or under development in all Canadian provinces and the Yukon Territory and we are making good progress on an electronics recycling program in the Northwest Territories.

Recycling electronics helps prevent harmful materials from leaching into the environment when disposed in landfills, burned or left on the land. Recycling old electronics into new products also minimizes environmental impacts related to extracting raw materials through mining and other activities.

In a survey conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 2008, residents identified electronics recycling as one of the top three priorities for the territorial waste reduction and recovery program.

ENR began an electronics recycling pilot project in September 2013, which has collected over 20 tonnes of electronics at bottle depots in Fort McPherson, Norman Wells, Fort Smith and Fort Providence.

Through a competitive process, e-waste collected under the NWT’s program will be sent to a recycler in Alberta on a three year contract. Recyclers will be required to be registered under the Government of Alberta electronics recycling program. This will ensure important environmental standards and employee health and safety standards are met, and will make sure no electronics are sent to countries where minimum standards are not in place to protect the environment and employee health and safety.

There is a cost to recycling the e-waste but these will be covered through the environmental handling fees charged on each new electronics product purchased in the NWT or purchased online. These fees range from $3 for a portable computer to $100 for large industrial printers.

ENR is currently drafting new Electronics Recycling Regulations under the Waste Reduction and Recovery Act.

The program has been designed to ensure a level playing field for retailers. Proposed fees are comparable to program start-up fees in other jurisdictions and are no higher than the top end of fees in other Canadian jurisdictions. Measures will also be put in place to make sure all electronics suppliers are compliant with the Regulations, including online electronics distributers.

From January 6 to February 16, 2015 stakeholders were invited to provide feedback on the proposed NWT Electronics Recycling Program. These included industry associations representing electronics suppliers, NWT and local Chamber of Commerce offices, Arctic Co-op, Northwest Company, NWT Association of Communities, mines, Government of the Northwest Territories, Public Works and Services and the waste management service industry.

Most of the feedback received was from national and multinational electronics manufacturers, distributers and retailers. There was generally support for the program and no feedback was received expressing broad opposition to an electronics recycling program in NWT.

Comments from stakeholders included ensuring that environmental handling fees are set appropriately, delaying the program launch to avoid busy times for retailers, engaging industry in refining the product list and harmonizing the NWT program with other jurisdictions as much as possible.

The program will be funded by environmental handling fees charged to electronic suppliers on all new designated electronics sold in or into the NWT. Refunds will not be provided for electronics returned for recycling.

The draft Regulations will be complete in spring 2015 and a territory-wide electronics recycling program is targeted to launch in fall 2015. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

YELLOWKNIFE (March 3, 2015) – The Minister of Justice has accepted all recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General of Canada (OAG) Report on NWT Corrections Service.

“We welcome this examination of our procedures and processes as supportive of improvements and change in the Corrections system,” said Minister of Justice David Ramsay. “We have an obligation to provide strong programs for rehabilitation as well as to prepare inmates for their reintegration to the community and we don’t take this obligation lightly. We are committed to public safety.” 

The OAG undertook a review of the Corrections Service in the Northwest Territories. The OAG Audit was to determine whether the Department of Justice is meeting key responsibilities in corrections facilities.

Fourteen recommendations were made by the Auditor General which will assist in the ongoing efforts to improve management policies and procedures as well as the department’s ability to adequately monitor and report.

As a first step, the Minister has instructed the Department of Justice to take immediate action in a number of areas identified by the audit.

The Minister also said that change is necessary in the way the Corrections Service conducts business. “I hope to meet with the Standing Committee on Social Programs to present a work plan that responds to the Auditor General’s recommendations and, more importantly, to discuss how we move forward together. I have no doubt the professional and dedicated staff of the Corrections Service will be able to work for the change we need to make improvements.”

Media inquiries:
Sue Glowach
Senior Communication Advisor
Department of Justice
Tel: 867-920-3130
Email: sue_glowach@gov.nt.ca

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment has approved five traditional Aboriginal names for the Mackenzie River under the NWT Geographical and Community Names Policy.

As the Department responsible for community and geographical names in the Northwest Territories, we place a special emphasis on traditional Aboriginal geographical names as they are important to the culture, history, and languages of the people of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, the Mackenzie River is the largest and longest river system in Canada and continues to serve as a transportation corridor. It provides key support to communities along its length, while serving to foster economic development.  In this way, like a strand of sinew, it ties the Northwest Territories together.   The Mackenzie River is one of our most important geographical features and helps to define the Northwest Territories’ place in Canada. 

In 1984, the Geographical Names Board of Canada declared the Mackenzie River a geographical feature of Pan-Canadian Significance in recognition of its historical importance and prominent place in the Canadian landscape.  With that decision, both the French and English names for the Mackenzie River became official. Previously, only the English place name was an official name.

Through the NWT’s Geographical and Community Names Policy, we have the ability to also make the traditional names for geographical features official to assure their cultural continuity. In accordance with this, the five Aboriginal names for the Mackenzie River are now approved and join the English and French versions as official names.

The Aboriginal names are:

Kuukpak, the Inuvialuktun name,

Nagwichoonjik, the Gwich’in name,

Deho, the North Slavey name,

Dehcho, the South Slavey name, and

Grande Rivière, the Michif name.

All of the Aboriginal names translate as a variation of ‘big’ or ‘great’ river, underscoring its importance as a geographical feature.

Mr. Speaker, now that the Aboriginal names for the Mackenzie River have been recognized, an Elder from any community along its length can stand on its bank and tell his or her grandchildren that their name for the river is known by all.

Masi, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health & Social Services is pursuing the 17th Legislative Assembly’s goal of healthy, educated people by investing in prevention, education awareness, and early childhood development. By working in partnership with community and Aboriginal governments, non-governmental organizations, health professionals and other stakeholders we can achieve our vision of Best Health, Best Care, for a Better Future.

To help all partners align their efforts, we are holding a Territorial Wellness Gathering from March 3rd to 5th at the Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife.  We are partnering with the NWT Association of Communities to host this event, and I would like to thank the Association for their assistance.

Community leaders, Elders, and youth from all 33 communities will come together, along with representatives of Aboriginal governments and non-governmental organizations, staff from the Health and Social Services Authorities, the Government of the Northwest Territories and Health Canada, to take part in the Gathering.  

Participants will learn about how social determinants and economic factors influence people’s health, and explore how we can work together to improve the overall well-being of our residents. The Gathering will focus on three themes: Closing the Gap; Healthy People and Communities; and Building Stronger Families.

It will be informative and inspirational, with compelling presentations from prominent experts. It will provide opportunities for participants to actively engage on the three themes and share ideas on how they can improve residents’ quality of life. It offers individuals and organizations a venue to learn from each other, share their wisdom, and exchange knowledge on best practices that enhance the well-being of our communities.

The sessions will also be available through live webcast so that all residents have the opportunity to hear these presentations.

A number of key speakers from across Canada will be attending the Gathering, along with our own local experts and residents. They will share their wisdom and stories and will be a valuable resource that participants can learn from.

I look forward to hearing from respected professors, researchers, and physicians such as Dr. Janet Smylie, one of the first Metis doctors in Canada, and Dr. Cindy Blackstock, Executive Director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada.

Mr. Speaker, there are many factors that negatively influence the health and well-being of our residents. These include struggles with income, education, early childhood development, food insecurity, and housing. Other issues include mental health, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, diabetes and even the impacts of climate change.

The Gathering will offer participants an opportunity for open and honest dialogue about these issues and help foster awareness and understanding, and will give participants ideas for addressing issues in their communities. It will also provide information and real life experiences from Northerners on successful efforts to improve the well-being of our residents.

Aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories have an increased burden of chronic disease and the trends will continue to worsen unless we intervene. We know that better promotion of healthy lifestyles is one of the keys to improving this situation.

Because so many NWT residents are Aboriginal, especially in the smaller communities, improving the health status of the Aboriginal population is one way the Department of Health and Social Services is working to accomplish our goals.

We continue to develop effective, culturally-appropriate prevention and promotion programs and work with our health centres to create a welcoming environment where Aboriginal people feel respected and supported. The Northwest Territories has an opportunity to become a leader in culturally-sensitive approaches to care.

Improving the health of all NWT residents will require the cooperation and effort of many groups and organizations, Mr. Speaker. We need to continue to develop strong partnerships with community and Aboriginal governments, non-governmental organizations and health and social service providers to form an integrated approach in order to have a collective impact.

This is why having events like the Territorial Wellness Gathering is important. We hope that from the Gathering we can collectively develop solutions that give residents greater opportunity to enjoy the benefits of healthy lifestyles.

Mr. Speaker, exchanging information and finding new, innovative ways to address the social and economic factors that negatively influence our residents’ well-being will help us achieve our goal of having sustainable, vibrant, safe communities.

This Gathering also moves towards achieving our commitments in the GNWT Anti-Poverty Action Plan, Early Childhood Development Action Plan and Pathways to Wellness: An Updated Action Plan for Addictions and Mental Health.

By strengthening our partnerships and weaving together our collective wisdom, we will realize our vision of Best Health, Best Care, for a Better Future. I look forward to sharing the findings from the Gathering with my colleagues in this Assembly.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to advise Members of the Legislative Assembly that the Honourable George Tuccaro, Commissioner of the Northwest Territories has been reappointed to his position for another one-year term. The appointment was announced by the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada the Honourable Bernard Valcourt last week. Commissioner Tuccaro’s second term will begin on May 11, 2015 and end on May 10, 2016.

The role and relationship of the Commissioner’s Office and the Government of the Northwest Territories has always been a close one. Only 30 years ago, the Commissioner would have been directly involved in the day-to-day running of government and would have had many of the same responsibilities the Premier now has.

As our people and territory have evolved, so has our political system. Today, elected representatives serving the people of the Northwest Territories have the responsibility for the daily direction and control of the government.

At the same time, the role of the Commissioner has evolved into a more ceremonial and symbolic office similar to that of a provincial lieutenant governor. In this role, the Commissioner symbolizes and expresses the values and aspirations of all residents of the Northwest Territories. In representing the interests we all share, the Commissioner is a powerful symbol of the things that unite us as Northerners.

The Commissioner is also an important symbol of our belief in our democratic institutions of government, both in Canada and the Northwest Territories. Through his relationship with the Governor General, Lieutenant Governors and other Commissioners, the Commissioner symbolizes our participation in the Canadian federation.

The demands of being Commissioner require a person with unique characteristics. To represent and reflect their interests, the Commissioner needs to know and be in touch with people all across the Northwest Territories. A Commissioner needs dignity and tact to help foster respect for the institutions of government, despite political controversy and human error. Also a Commissioner needs selflessness to rise above personal interest and represent the interests of all Northwest Territories residents.

I think everyone will agree that Mr. George Tuccaro has demonstrated all those characteristics in private life and in his term as Commissioner. Mr. Tuccaro is well known across the North, both as a broadcaster and through his travels. His support for Northern arts and culture is well known. He has served on the NWT Arts Council, promoted Aboriginal language programming at CBC North, served on the Legislative Assembly’s Cultural Enhancement Committee and been involved in many cultural events throughout the years. His more recent work before becoming Commissioner involving issues like healthy lifestyles, drug and alcohol abuse prevention and residential schools, proved that he is still in touch with the issues that affect so many Northerners today.

Mr. Speaker, it has been an honour to have worked with Mr. Tuccaro during his term as Commissioner. He is traveling in the Mackenzie Delta this week promoting the anniversary of the Canadian flag, but I would like to invite all Members to join me in congratulating him for his reappointment.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, developing our employees and ensuring the public service is prepared to provide sustainable, quality programs and effective services to our residents in the future are a priority of this government.  In 2009, we started a 10-year journey to develop excellence in the public service through 20/20: A Brilliant North, the NWT Public Service Strategic Plan.  We are mid-way through the implementation of 20/20, and now is a good time to review some of our successes.

Our ability to provide sustainable, quality programs and services is strongly linked to recruiting and retaining talented staff who are committed to their professions, their communities, and the people they serve.   Employee surveys tell us the Government of the Northwest Territories is an inclusive workplace that recognizes and embraces diversity.  They tell us we have good programs to support recruitment and the development of Northerners.  They also tell us employees see real advantages to working for the GNWT, with its unlimited range and diversity of work and opportunities for career growth, development and advancement. 

Mr. Speaker, we have seen good results in developing future senior managers through the leadership, management and Aboriginal development training programs. We have started implementing competency-based performance management to ensure successful performance in our jobs.  We have implemented policies and programs to ensure our employees are treated with fairness, dignity and respect. We have partnered with Aboriginal and community government’s to develop and sustain the public sector at all levels across the NWT.

The Government is focusing on strengthening its occupational health and safety culture. The Department of Human Resources is providing strategic advice on Occupational Health and Safety or OHS activities across the GNWT.  Twenty-nine Departments and agencies have developed or are in the process of developing their OHS Programs and have OHS Coordinators in place.

However, we recognize there is more we can do to achieve our goals. It is also important that the public service focus on service delivery outcomes. We can achieve this by providing managers a strong framework for human resource management decision-making.

The Department of Human Resources is preparing an HR Management Accountability Framework to align the GNWT with modern best practices in human resource management.  The Framework will establish the supporting structure to set clear roles and responsibilities and reasonable performance expectations based on legislation, policy and regulations for sound human resource management decisions.

Mr. Speaker, we can improve our ability to acquire and retain talent by modernizing the workforce and workplace.  Modernization means offering efficient and effective recruitment programs substantiated by cost-benefit analysis and sound return on investment.  The Regional Recruitment Program is assisting with increasing regional employment opportunities by linking residents with local jobs.  Nine trainees are in positions learning new skills through on-the-job training and providing service to people in their communities of Inuvik, Fort Simpson, Fort Providence and Fort Smith.  Two more positions are in the processing of being filled.  Work is underway to improve the program so that it is a proactive tool for hiring managers looking to fill positions.

Mr. Speaker, our vacancy numbers have improved, dropping by 188 positions between last April and October.  The GNWT is continuing its focus on training the Northern labour force and marketing itself and the jobs available throughout Canada using streamlined recruitment to bring qualified and skilled people into the North to fill hard-to-recruit positions. We will continue to use direct appointments and or recruitment to attract affirmative action candidates to the GNWT and fill our critical vacant jobs.

We continue to invest in our youth by making jobs available through the Summer Student and Internship Programs.  While we are making opportunities available to post-secondary students and graduates, they also have a role to play.  My advice to them as new job seekers is to be proactive in their search for employment.  Research GNWT departments and agencies to find work units related to your field of study.  Approach managers in these units to let them know you are interested in working for their Department.  Apply now.  Hiring is based on the needs of departments and agencies.  Managers will contact students directly if an opportunity arises.

Mr. Speaker, implementing a HR Accountability Framework and improving our HR programs continues to move the GNWT towards the goals and objectives of the NWT Public Service Strategic Plan.  With these modernization efforts, we ensure a diverse, competent and sustainable workforce, capable of, and committed to, delivering high quality services to the people of the Northwest Territories.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I have often talked about the Education Renewal Initiative in this House and have updated Members a number of times as to its progress.  In our discussions last year, Members said that unless children actually go to school it does not matter what programs and supports are provided. Members encouraged us to create a school attendance advertising campaign, and, Mr. Speaker, we have acted upon that advice.

Mr. Speaker, our school attendance rates are not where we want them to be.  Students must strive for a hundred percent attendance in order to give themselves the best chance to learn.  A student who has 80% attendance is missing two full years of school by the time they reach Grade 10.  In 2014 the average attendance in our small communities was 77% compared to 82% in the regions and 90% in Yellowknife.  71% of Northwest Territories Grade 10 students had less than 80% attendance.  We must work to improve these statistics.

Ensuring students go to school is everyone’s responsibility.  Many people can affect a student’s attendance.  It is the role of the school to provide thought-provoking classes, and a safe and warm environment.  Parents and caregivers can help their children get out of bed on time to provide a healthy breakfast and a quiet place to do homework.  Leaders can speak to the importance of education and can motivate and incent students by showing them how a good education can improve their lives  and government can provide information and resources to help students become the best they can be, provide leadership to District Education Councils and Authorities and support parents. 

Following on the advice of Members, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment is undertaking a student attendance campaign that takes our message directly to youth in ways they understand.  We are using innovative and modern graphics and “teen-speak”.  We have created an infographic which not only poses questions about attendance but offers youth places to go if they need help.

We will be providing these resources to Members for their constituency offices and will be displaying information about attendance, helpline contacts and quick facts in every community in the Northwest Territories. Our goal is to ensure youth make good decisions for themselves and their futures and to make sure they know where to seek help if they need it.

Mr. Speaker, this campaign was, in part, created by youth.  They advised us on the look and feel of the campaign, the right wording to use to reach their peers and where to place our messages.  I firmly believe that because of their participation in this campaign, we will reach out in the most effective manner to a wider youth audience and will be more successful because of it.

But, Mr. Speaker, this is not all we are doing to increase attendance in schools.  Through the Education Renewal Initiative there are several projects underway to improve schools as learning environments.  One of the reasons some students do not attend regularly is because they are being bullied. We are addressing this through our Safe and Caring Schools legislation, regulations, School Codes of Conduct and Safe Schools Plans.

Another reason some students attend irregularly is because they are hungry.  This issue is being addressed, in part, through the Healthy Food in Schools initiative which is underway this year.  Some students do not attend school because the courses they are interested in are not offered.  We are addressing this issue through the expanded commitment to distance learning that ERI is supporting this year.

Mr. Speaker, we share a vision of a strong and prosperous NWT.  Our youth need to be healthy and educated if they are going to participate in, and fully enjoy the benefits of a growing economy.  Education renewal is helping prepare them for a successful future. We recognize that attendance is of paramount importance as we move forward with the Education Renewal Initiative and we are working hard in this area on many fronts.  These are some of the ways that our renewal of education is tackling the issue of student attendance in the NWT.

I want to thank Members for their advice and guidance on this issue and for their continued support as we work with youth to help them achieve their dreams.

Masi, Mr. Speaker.

Bobbi Hamilton (centre) receives award from Steve Versteeg (left), Manager of Community Justice and Policing and Colin White (right), Manager Community Policing Programs

HAY RIVER (March 2, 2015) – The 2015 Ministerial Restorative Justice Award has been presented to Bobbi Hamilton of Hay River for her significant contributions to the people of her community.  Ms. Hamilton has demonstrated peaceful ways of resolving conflict and promoted healing between offenders, victims, families and communities.

“The work that Community Justice Coordinators like Bobbi Hamilton do for their communities and the changes that result from it can never be underestimated,” said Minister of Justice David Ramsay. “She has worked with hundreds of youth over the past seven years to help them make better choices in their lives and  for the future. The majority of youth assisted through this alternative to the courts go on to change their lives and live crime-free.” 

The Ministerial Restorative Justice Award was established in 2014.  It recognizes the significant contributions of individuals who demonstrate leadership and model the restorative justice principles in the service of peace through their work, lifestyle and ways of transforming human relationships by encouraging communication and healing between people in conflict.

“I do what I do because I like to help people make positive changes,” said Bobbi Hamilton. “When I see those results, it’s rewarding; to be recognized for this is a further bonus.”

The Restorative Justice process contributes to achieving the 17th Legislative Assembly’s goal of sustainable, vibrant, safe communities by providing an alternative to the traditional court system for individuals who are ready to make changes in their lives, accept responsibility for their actions and to start to repair the harm they have done to their victim and the community.

Media inquiries:
Sue Glowach
Senior Communications Advisor
Department of Justice
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-920-3130
Email: Sue_glowach@gov.nt.ca

Bobbi Hamilton
Coordinator, HR Community Justice Committee
102 – 31 Capital Drive (Greenway Building)
Hay River
Phone:  867- 874-3993