The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has received lead testing results for Elizabeth Mackenzie Elementary School in Behchokǫ̀ and École St. Joseph School in Yellowknife. Testing has confirmed that some water fixtures show lead levels above the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) set out in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. As a result, the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (OCPHO) has issued a Public Health Order for both schools.

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, the government of the Northwest Territories is making practical investments to strengthen our energy systems and make energy more reliable, affordable, and sustainable for communities across the territory.

The Energy Initiatives Report released on February 3rd shows how we are building a strong foundation for long-term change. We are improving how energy systems are planned, regulated, and delivered, while moving forward with projects that meet local needs and reflect northern realities.

Media are invited to a press conference announcing details on the 54th Avenue Housing Project, located at the former Rockhill Apartments site. Details will include the impact on housing and child care availability, as well as updates on the Hilltop Apartments demolition to prepare the site for future development opportunities.

Date: Friday, February 13

Time: 2:30 pm

Location: Great Hall in the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly

Minister Caitlin Cleveland issued the following statement today following De Beers Canada and Mountain Province Diamonds’ announcement regarding changes to the mine plan at the Gahcho Kué Mine:

“This is serious news for the Northwest Territories. Gahcho Kué is an important employer and economic driver, and any decision that shortens the mine’s operating timeline creates real concern for workers, families, Northern businesses, and communities connected to this operation.

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If you’re a Northwest Territories artist, craftsperson or curator, the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC) invites you to apply to display your art in the Mezzanine Art Gallery. Selected art will be featured in a six-month exhibition, from June to December 2026. Nominations are also welcome.

The application intake is now open. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026.

Effective today, fuel prices will be updated in 14 communities serviced by the Department of Infrastructure’s Petroleum Products Program.

Updated prices will reflect cost changes for wholesale fuel purchases, transportation, and/or dispensing costs.

Communities affected by these price changes include Tsiigehtchic, Colville Lake, Fort Good Hope, Délı̨nę, Tulita, Wrigley, Jean Marie River, Sambaa K’e, Whatì, Gamètì, Łutsël K'é, Sachs Harbour, Ulukhaktok, and Paulatuk.

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Mr. Speaker, Housing NWT continues to repair, retrofit, and construct housing across the NWT at a rapid pace, establishing a strong economic foundation in the NWT and more homes for Northerners, two of this government’s top priorities.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the Tłı̨chǫ Government (TG) were recognized on the national stage for their partnership on the Tłı̨chǫ All-Season Road (TASR), which was awarded at the 2025 National Awards for Innovation and Excellence in Public-Private Partnerships in the Environmental, Social and Governance category.