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.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has released the What We Heard Report summarizing feedback gathered during engagement on Phase II of the Public Service Act modernization initiative. This phase focused on proposed amendments to section 41 of the Act, which outlines union representation for GNWT public servants.

Correction: The previous release of this PSA on March 12 stated the Technical Safety Act had come into force. The PSA should have stated the Technical Safety Act received assent and will come into force summer 2026.

The Technical Safety Act received assent on March 6, 2026, and will come into force in summer 2026 by future Order of the Commissioner. This Act modernizes and simplifies how technical safety is managed by bringing existing legislation together under one clear, coordinated piece of legislation.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to Canada’s announcement of new investment in the North:

“Prime Minister Carney’s announcement today marks an important step forward for the Northwest Territories and for Canada’s Arctic.

“The Government of the Northwest Territories welcomes the federal government’s commitment to investing in critical infrastructure that will strengthen our communities, support economic development, and reinforce Canada’s presence in the North.

Two cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), otherwise known as bird flu, have been confirmed in common ravens in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, as part of ongoing monitoring for HPAI in NWT wildlife.

Testing identified the H5 strain of HPAI, which is highly infectious among birds. These appear to be isolated cases, and the risk to birds and other wildlife remains low.