YELLOWKNIFE (June 20, 2012) -- The GNWT has renewed its funding for the Tourism Product Diversification and Marketing Program to support tourism businesses in the NWT seeking to become more competitive in a demanding international market.

As the global demand for outdoor adventure vacations and experiences grows, this program administered by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) provides financial assistance to tourism operators for business planning, product and packaging development, and marketing.

INUVIK (June 19, 2012) – The mandate of the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline Office in Hay River has been expanded.

Increases in resource development activity, particularly in the Sahtu region, have led the GNWT to expand responsibilities for the office and give it a new name to reflect the expanded mandate: the Mackenzie Valley Petroleum Planning Office (MVPPO). 

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Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.  It is a pleasure to be here today at the Inuvik Petroleum Show.  I want to echo Premier McLeod’s comments on the fantastic job that Mayor Rodgers, Council members and the staff of the Town of Inuvik have done putting on this event. Thank you for extending to us, once again, that warm Inuvik hospitality we have come to expect at this important event.

June 12, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, the discovery of diamonds at Lac De Gras in 1991 marked the beginning of a new economic era for the Northwest Territories.  Since then, the mining industry has become the backbone of our economy, creating over 2,600 direct jobs and an annual economic impact of over $750 million.  However, we have not had a comprehensive plan in place to ensure we make the most of our mineral resources. Today I would like to talk to you about this government’s plan to create a mineral development strategy.

June 8, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, we have incredible resource potential in our territory, and with it, significant opportunity for economic growth. But to truly have a diversified economy that provides all communities and regions with opportunities and choices, we need more than just resource development. Today I would like to talk to you about the Sustainable Economic Development Strategy.  

June 5, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, the traditional economy is an important source of income for many Northwest Territories residents and one of the sectors that this government supports as part of our goal of a diversified economy.  Today I would like to tell you about the remarkable sales of Northwest Territories wild furs this year and the government initiatives that support and promote this important economic sector.

June 4, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, our spectacular landscape, vibrant Aboriginal cultures, and beautiful arts and crafts are proving to be marketable attractions for visitors from around the world. With increased visitors, there are increased opportunities for our small and community-based business sector, which diversifies and strengthens our economy.  Today I would like to speak about the progress we have made towards developing authentic Aboriginal tourism products in the Northwest Territories.

May 30, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, we want a territory where a strong, diversified economy provides opportunities and choices to all our residents.  Socially responsible and environmentally sustainable development of our resources will be one of the keys to achieving that goal. The Northwest Territories is resource-rich and brimming with potential.  Today I would like to speak about some exciting developments in the oil and gas sector, and of the significant opportunities the development of resources can bring to our residents.

May 29, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, NWT artisans and filmmakers make a positive economic and cultural impact on our territory, and today I would like to highlight some initiatives to support and grow the arts, crafts and film sectors.

May 25, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, Northwest Territories parks and campgrounds attract thousands of visitors to our Territory every summer.  They are a vital element of our tourism sector – and one we continue to invest in heavily by ensuring they are maintained, improved, and made more accessible to visitors.  These facilities are also enjoyed by our own residents and contribute enormously to the quality of life that we enjoy here in Canada’s North.