Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the work being done by our regional and divisional staff when it comes to supporting supply chain success in the territory.

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Following portion will be spoken in Inuvialuktun

[Mr. Speaker, “let us speak together.”

The GNWT is modernizing the legal framework for construction liens.  In 2023, the Builders’ Lien Act was enacted to replace the Mechanics Lien Act. The new legislation was put in place to address modern construction practices. It sets out the legal processes, systems, rights, and remedies for parties involved in construction disputes. 

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Mr. Speaker, I stand today to highlight one of the most significant achievements of 2024: the finalization of the Our Land for the Future Agreement, formerly called the NWT Project Finance for Permanence Agreement.

Repairs on the Deh Cho Bridge on Highway 3 are now complete, and the bridge has fully reopened to two-lane traffic with no additional restrictions. Drivers are reminded to follow the posted speed limit.

The bridge had been limited to one-lane traffic with reduced speeds since August 2023 due to a broken cable. As part of the repair work, the GNWT replaced the broken cable and the adjustment bars for all 24 cables as a precaution. Additional work included repairing damaged guardrails, replacing lighting, and maintenance work on the north deck joint.

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Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise the House that the Honourable Member for Hay River North, Premier, will be absent from the House for the remainder of this week to attend the Council of the Federation in Washington DC.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the recent Housing Symposium that was hosted by the NWT Housing Forum on January 22nd and 23rd in Yellowknife. This year’s symposium marked the first in-person gathering since the Forum began in 2023.  Over the course of two days, we engaged in important discussions, shared innovative ideas, and strengthened our partnerships.

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Drin Gwiinzii, Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the establishment of the Hamlet of Tsiigehtchic.

 The new Hamlet’s first Mayor and Council were sworn in on January 15, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the community of Tsiigehtchic and for the Northwest Territories.

Ministerial Activities Advisory for the week of February 11-17, 2025

Ministerial Travel 

Please note that travel schedules may change with little or no notice. This schedule is accurate as of February 10, 2025. 
 

• Premier Simpson will be traveling to Washington, DC from February 11 to 14 to participate in the Council of Federation Team Canada Mission.

Meetings and Appearances

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Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health and Social Services is committed to enabling seniors to age in place with dignity as close to home as possible. With an aging population and an increase in the complexity of healthcare needs, the demand for Personal Support Workers is growing.