Watch the full video of the Territorial Address on YouTube

The Government of the Northwest Territories announced mandate highlights today in the second Premier’s Territorial Address.

Watch the full video of the Territorial Address on YouTube. 

When Canada looks to its future, the North is a guiding light — and the Northwest Territories is at its heart. Progress is coming into view as we turn shared priorities into action.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today regarding Imperial Oil’s announcement about future operations in Norman Wells:

“Today’s announcement will be difficult news for many people in Norman Wells and across the Sahtu. My thoughts are with the workers, families, and community members who are directly affected.

“Norman Wells is a community with deep roots and a proud history. For generations, people in Norman Wells and the Sahtu have helped build this territory, and their contributions matter.

With the results of the election of the Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation now confirmed, Minister Lucy Kuptana has resumed her role on the Executive Council of the Government of the Northwest Territories. The Housing and Status of Women portfolios, which she previously held, have been reassigned to her.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the election of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation Chair:

“On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I congratulate Erwin Elias on his election as Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation.

Mr. Elias has proven leadership experience and a strong connection to his community, and I wish him every success as he takes on this role. I have had a positive working relationship with Mr. Elias in the past and look forward to continuing to work with him in his new capacity as Chair.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today regarding interim Cabinet arrangements:

“Earlier today, Minister Lucy Kuptana advised me that she has decided to seek election as Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation.

“I respect her decision to pursue this opportunity. At the same time, it is important that the Government of the Northwest Territories carries out its work in a way that does not influence, and is not perceived to influence, external governance processes.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today marking the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report:

“Ten years ago today, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future. This landmark report and its Calls to Action continue to guide governments and institutions, and all parties to the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, in acknowledging the harms caused by residential schools and in advancing reconciliation through sustained, meaningful action.

Speech delivered by Premier R.J. Simpson for the Geoscience Forum on November 25, 2025.
 

Good morning. Mahsi cho for being here today.

The NWT is at the heart of Canada’s resource future. From critical minerals to world-class geology, this territory holds the materials, and the expertise that Canada needs to stay competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.

Premier R. J. Simpson and Minister Caroline Wawzonek issued the following statements today in response to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Tłı̨chǫ Government and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation to advance the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor (AESC).

Premier R. J. Simpson

Northwest Territories Premier R. J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the success of the Committee on Internal Trade:

“Yesterday, ministers from across Canada gathered in Yellowknife for the ninth Committee on Internal Trade meeting of 2025. This has been a year when strengthening our domestic market has never been more important. In a time of global uncertainty and real pressure on supply chains, governments have been working together with a renewed sense of urgency to reduce barriers, lower costs, and create new opportunities for workers and businesses.