As Rio Tinto’s Diavik Diamond Mine marks its final production this week, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is recognizing its lasting impact while looking to the future of the territory’s economy and workforce.
Dumping garbage, appliances, or construction materials on public land damages the environment, creates safety hazards for wildlife, and is illegal under territorial legislation.
The penalty for illegally discharging contaminants in the Northwest Territories can include a fine of up to $300,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.
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The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has received lead testing results for Chief Jimmy Bruneau school in Behchokǫ̀. 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 the school.
A new pilot program will train fluent Indigenous language speakers to become interpreters at the Northwest Territories (NT) Legislative Assembly. Indigenous language speakers can apply for the program until April 26, 2026.
Minister Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance and Minister of Strategic Infrastructure, Energy and Supply Chains, issued the following statement today following meetings with the Major Projects Office in Calgary:
“Following the Prime Minister’s announcement in Yellowknife on March 12, last week’s meetings with the Major Projects Office marked an important step in advancing the Northwest Territories’ major infrastructure priorities.
Minister Caitlin Cleveland issued the following statement today to mark National Francophonie Day:
“Today, we celebrate the Francophonie and the important role Franco-ténois communities play in the Northwest Territories. For generations, they have helped shape our schools, workplaces, arts, culture, and public service. Their contributions help make the NWT a place where people can connect, pursue opportunities, and thrive.
“National Francophonie Day takes place during Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, a month that showcases Francophone culture and creativity across Canada.
The next phase of work is now underway on the site of the new 50-unit social housing multi-plex in downtown Yellowknife. Site mobilization started on March 3rd, with on-the-ground construction activities scheduled to begin later this month. Yellowknife residents can expect intermittent street closures while material is being delivered. The project remains on track for completion in Spring 2027.
Team NT concluded the 2026 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse with an outstanding showing across sport and culture, marked by record‑breaking performances, multiple gold‑medal moments, and a strong overall medal tally. These numbers reflect not only athletic success but the steady development of young athletes across the territory.
Premier R.J. Simpson today announced the creation of a new Associate Deputy Minister position within the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) to strengthen the Government of the Northwest Territories’ economic strategy and help Northerners capture emerging economic opportunities.
Melissa Cyr will serve as Associate Deputy Minister, Economic Strategy and Policy, a role focused on coordinating economic policy across government, advancing a strategy to encourage growth and investment in the Northwest Territories, and supporting workforce transition.
Minister of Health and Social Services Lesa Semmler released the following statement today in recognition of National Social Work Month 2026:
“As we mark Social Work Month, I extend my sincere appreciation to the social workers across the Northwest Territories whose dedication and compassion strengthen our communities every day. Their work supports residents through some of life’s most challenging and transformative moments.
