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Mr. Speaker, almost 30% of residents in the Northwest Territories over the age of 15 consider themselves smokers. Smoking, which includes vaping, remains one of the worst substances for your overall health and can significantly reduce a person’s life expectancy. That is why the Government of the Northwest Territories continues to find new ways to support residents in making the shift towards a smoke-free life.

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Mr. Speaker, as the 2025 wildfire season approaches, I would like to provide an update on the planning and investments we have made to support wildfire prevention, mitigation and resilience. Our approach is focused on preparing people and communities across the NWT to live safely alongside wildfire, ensuring that we are ready for emergencies.

New reports on developmental inclusion practices and supports within Northwest Territories (NWT) early learning and child care settings are now available.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is increasing fees in regulations by approximately 4% starting April 1, 2025, to reflect rising inflation. This routine adjustment will affect Real Estate Agents, Real Estate Salespersons, Business Licences, Vendors, Direct Sellers, Collection Agencies, and Plan Reviews.

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Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise the House that the Honourable Member for Hay River North, the Premier will be absent from the House today due to illness.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Mr. Speaker, effective emergency management and preparedness are critical to the safety and well-being of Northwest Territories residents. Today I want to recognize individuals and groups whose dedication and efforts have helped keep NWT communities safe.

The Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award is a national recognition for outstanding contributions to emergency management. Federal, provincial, and territorial Ministers present this award to highlight efforts in prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

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Mr. Speaker, investing in our roads, bridges, airports and highways is critical to keep communities connected, improve safety, and support economic growth. Whether it is making sure families can travel safely, helping businesses move goods, or supporting emergency response, strong transportation infrastructure is essential for all Northerners.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has received approval from the Government of Canada to increase its federally imposed borrowing limit from $1.8 billion to $3.1 billion.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is proud to recognize outstanding NWT residents who were awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in a ceremony held at the Legislative Assembly’s Great Hall.

The Coronation Medal is a national honour awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to their communities. Recipients from across the Northwest Territories were recognized for their significant contributions to public service, volunteerism, and community development.

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Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to update Members on the implementation of new Community Government funding allocations that will come into effect in April 2025.

MACA distributes over $110 million in annual funding through the Community Government Funding Policies. While this funding was never intended to cover 100 percent of community funding costs, the funding helps community governments cover the costs of core programs and services like clean drinking water, local roads, recreation, and public safety.