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.

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Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to update you on progress made by the Government of the Northwest Territories' Sector Support Initiative for Non-Governmental Organizations.

In response to the 2023 External Advisory Committee report on Strengthening the Non-Profit and Charitable Sector, the GNWT has committed to building stronger relationships, cutting red tape, and making funding more reliable for NGOs.

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Mr. Speaker, earlier today I had the honour of joining you and other Members of this House at the First Poppy Ceremony, marking the beginning of the season of Remembrance to honour the veterans and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

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Mr. Speaker, today I would like to share the meaningful progress we are making on Truth and Reconciliation Call to Action number 82, which calls upon provincial and territorial governments, in collaboration with Survivors, to commission and install a publicly accessible, highly visible, Residential Schools Monument in each capital city to honour Survivors and all the children who were lost to their families and communities.

Earlier today, the 2024–2025 Premier’s Awards for Excellence were presented in the Great Hall of the Legislative Assembly.

The Government of the Northwest Territories’ annual Premier’s Awards for Excellence recognize the outstanding achievements of employees and partners who demonstrate excellence and innovation in serving the people of the Northwest Territories.

This year’s awards highlight the contributions of individuals and teams whose dedication, leadership, and creativity have strengthened programs, services, and communities across the territory.