Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to Canada’s recognition of the section 35 rights of the North Slave Métis Alliance:

“The Government of the Northwest Territories welcomes Canada’s recognition of the section 35 rights of the North Slave Métis Alliance.

“Métis people have a long and important history in the North Slave region and across the Northwest Territories. This recognition reflects that history, and the voices of those who have worked for many years to be heard, including North Slave Métis Alliance members.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today, following the Government of Canada’s announcement of the launch of a new Defence Industrial Strategy:

“On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I welcome Prime Minister Carney’s launch of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. The Strategy’s strong focus on research, innovation, and dual-use technologies is particularly relevant to the North.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement regarding the shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia:

“The heartbreaking news from Tumbler Ridge has left many of us in the Northwest Territories deeply saddened. On behalf of Northerners, I extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, to those who were injured, and to the students, educators, and first responders facing the aftermath of this horrific act.

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Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise the House that the Honourable Member for Nunakput, Minister Responsible for Status of Women, will be absent for a portion of the House proceedings today to virtually attend the Federal Provincial Territorial Ministers on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ Peoples meeting.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Mr. Speaker, we gather today at a significant moment for our territory and for our country. It is a moment of change and uncertainty, but for the Northwest Territories, it is also a moment of opportunity.

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.