Yesterday, the 2023-2024 Premier’s Awards for Excellence were presented in the Great Hall of the Legislative Assembly.

The Government of the Northwest Territories' (GNWT) annual Premier’s Awards for Excellence recognize the outstanding achievements of employees and partners who strive for excellence and innovation in the public service. This year’s awards highlighted the contributions of those who have gone above and beyond in service to the people of the Northwest Territories.

Premier Simpson issued the following statement today on the passing of Honourable Murray Sinclair:

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair. Mr. Sinclair was a prominent leader in Canada – the first Indigenous judge appointed in Manitoba, a respected lawyer, Senator and Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

 He will always be remembered for his unwavering commitment to reconciliation and dedication to championing human rights, justice, and truth.

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Mr. Speaker, the cost of delivering health and social services is increasing faster than our resources can handle, at a time when our government is also facing additional costs related to climate change and inflationary pressures. This is why the delivery of sustainable health and social services is an important part of this government’s mandate, and the priorities of the 20th Legislative Assembly.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is donating $150,000 to the Norman Wells food bank to support residents facing rising costs. This contribution is part of the GNWT’s ongoing efforts to alleviate the financial burden caused by rising fuel prices and disruptions to essential supply chains.

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Mr. Speaker, as we approach the one-year mark of this government, I would like to reflect on the progress we have made in strengthening our partnerships with Indigenous governments and the Government of Canada. Our recent trip to Ottawa, as part of the Council of Leaders, is a testament to the collaborative spirit we have built with our partners, and I am pleased to provide the Members of this Legislative Assembly with an update on that trip.

Premier Simpson issued the following statement today on the passing of Tony Whitford:

Yesterday, the whole of the Northwest Territories lost a staunch supporter, a dedicated servant of the people and a friend, Mr. Anthony (Tony) Whitford. 

My deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those who knew and respected him.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) announced the completion of the construction phase of the Hay River Fish Plant. The event concluded the GNWT’s commitment towards the official opening and operation of the plant as part of the Strategy for Revitalizing the Great Slave Lake Commercial Fishery.

Premier R.J. Simpson announced two significant appointments to the senior management of the territorial public service today.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has awarded Transitional Solutions Inc. the contract to conduct an after-action review of the 2023 wildfire emergency response.

Under the terms of the contract, Transitional Solutions Inc will seek input from the public, Indigenous governments, community governments, chambers of commerce, non-government organizations, as well as emergency management partners to identify lessons learned and develop recommendations for improvement.