YELLOWKNIFE (February 24, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is leading research into innovative construction techniques that will reduce the effects of climate change on the northern transportation system. The GNWT is providing significant planning, logistics, construction and monitoring support, and the Government of Canada is providing $669,000 for this research under Transport Canada’s Northern Transportation Adaptation Initiative.

Mr. Speaker, ensuring our residents are able to share the benefits and responsibilities of a unified, environmentally sustainable and prosperous Northwest Territories is our shared vision. Infrastructure is a key part of achieving that vision and our government continues to participate in research that will improve northern infrastructure design and protect our Northern environment.

Mr. Speaker, the second winter of construction on the Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway Project is in full swing with our contractor working 24 hours a day, seven days a week from both Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk. Our contract partner, EGT Northwind, is focused on constructing new embankment and installing needed structures during the 20-week construction season, while continuing to train and employ Inuvik and Northern residents on the largest new highway construction project underway in northern Canada.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Transportation is updating its Multi-modal Transportation Strategy that will guide further development of our integrated air, road, rail, and marine systems over the next 25 years.  Engaging stakeholders and the public so we understand their priorities and needs has been a critical part of the process.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to update Members on some recent activities of the Department of Public Works and Services with regards to fuel prices in communities served by its Petroleum Products Division. 

Recent changes in the market have seen oil prices go from all-time highs to record lows over the past year. This current market pricing has provided the Petroleum Products Division with an opportunity to lower its costs and pass on these savings to residents. 

YELLOWKNIFE (December 11, 2014) — Traffic is flowing safely and reliably across both Dempster Highway ice crossings. This is the first year highway service to the Beaufort-Delta region has been interrupted for only a short time during freeze-up.

YELLOWKNIFE (December 3, 2014) – A new book documents the history of the Mackenzie River, the people of the region and the crossing at Fort Providence.

(Check against delivery)

Good morning ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, fellow speakers, and respected Aboriginal leaders.

It’s an honour to be invited to the annual Aboriginal Oil and Gas Forum to discuss actions the Government of the Northwest Territories is taking to address transportation infrastructure needs in our territory.

YELLOWKNIFE (November 14, 2014) – Trout Lake residents and visitors now have access to a wider variety of travel and shipping options with the opening of the community’s new airport.

The original airport was constructed in 1987 and had a 2,632-foot runway. The new runway, stretching 3500 feet, will increase the capacity to handle a wider variety of aircraft, including larger airplanes and pressurized air services.

YELLOWKNIFE (November 10, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories is enhancing its online services with new security features that protect NWT residents’ personal information while improving access to government services.