Premier R.J. Simpson and Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs Vince McKay issued the following statement in response to receiving the final After-Action Review (AAR) of the Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) emergency response to the 2023 wildfire season—one of the most significant public safety events in the territory’s history.
Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to the swearing-in of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Cabinet:
Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on Premier Pillai’s announcement that he will step away from territorial politics:
"I want to extend my sincere thanks to Premier Pillai for his leadership, friendship, and partnership, and to wish him and his family all the best as he prepares to step away from territorial politics.
Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the conclusion of the 2025 Northern Premiers’ Forum in Haines Junction, Yukon:
"The Northern Premiers’ Forum is always an important opportunity to connect with my colleagues from Yukon and Nunavut, and to work together on the challenges we share. This year’s meeting felt especially energizing.
We had honest and productive conversations about issues that matter to Northerners — from Arctic security and housing to health care and growing the economy.
Premier R.J. Simpson wishes to offer his deepest condolences on the passing of Bob Simpson, whose decades of service helped shape the political and social landscape of the Northwest Territories.
“Bob Simpson was a dedicated and thoughtful leader who devoted his life to advancing Indigenous rights and strengthening Northern governance. Over more than 25 years with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, and in leadership roles across the Beaufort Delta, he made lasting contributions to self-government, devolution, education, and community development.
Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the results of the 2025 Federal Election:
"I extend my sincere congratulations to Mark Carney on his election as Prime Minister of Canada. Born in Fort Smith, he shares a connection to the Northwest Territories — a territory whose leadership and potential have never been more important to Canada’s future. I look forward to building a strong and productive partnership focused on unlocking the full potential of the North for the benefit of all Canadians.
Premier R.J. Simpson is continuing efforts to ensure the Northwest Territories (NWT) remains top of mind for federal decision-makers during the 2025 election by publishing an open letter in The Hub—a national, not-for-profit digital news outlet—and writing directly to all federal party leaders and local candidates.
Premier R.J. Simpson extends his deepest condolences on the passing of Ted Blondin, a respected Elder from the Tłı̨chǫ Region whose lifelong dedication to his people leaves an enduring legacy across the Northwest Territories.
“Ted Blondin was a remarkable leader whose vision and commitment helped shape the future of the Tłı̨chǫ Region and the Northwest Territories. His tireless efforts to advance education, health, social well-being, and self-governance—most recently as Chair of the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency—leave a legacy of service that will be felt for generations.
Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming visit to Iqaluit, Nunavut, as his first domestic trip as Prime Minister:
Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to the Government of Canada’s announcement of new military investments in the North:
"I want to thank Minister Blair and the Government of Canada for their continued commitment to Arctic security. Expanding the Canadian Armed Forces’ presence at the Forward Operating Locations in Iqaluit, Inuvik, and Yellowknife strengthens Canada’s strategic presence in the Arctic and reinforces its commitment to supporting Arctic and Northern communities.
