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.

Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the election of John Main:

“On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I extend my sincere congratulations to John Main, whom the members of the Nunavut Legislative Assembly have chosen as their new Premier-elect.

Keynote speech delivered by Premier R.J. Simpson for “Canada’s Next Economic Transformation: Industrial Policy in Tumultuous Times,” a daylong conference held in Ottawa on September 16, 2025, by the Institute for Research on Public Policy. A video version of the speech is available here.

Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson says Budget 2025 includes important investments that align with Northern priorities. New federal commitments for infrastructure, health care, critical minerals, and Arctic security will help advance community well-being, strengthen sovereignty, and unlock economic opportunities across the Northwest Territories.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the election of Currie Dixon:

“On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I extend my sincere congratulations to Currie Dixon, who Yukoners have chosen as their new Premier-elect.