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.

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Caitlin Cleveland and Sahtu MLA Danny McNeely issued the following statement today following their participation in the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention in Toronto.

Minister Caitlin Cleveland

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to Canada’s recognition of the section 35 rights of the North Slave Métis Alliance:

“The Government of the Northwest Territories welcomes Canada’s recognition of the section 35 rights of the North Slave Métis Alliance.

“Métis people have a long and important history in the North Slave region and across the Northwest Territories. This recognition reflects that history, and the voices of those who have worked for many years to be heard, including North Slave Métis Alliance members.

Today, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Caitlin Cleveland issued the following statement for Pink Shirt Day:

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and accepted for who they are, even though we know that not everyone has had that experience. Today is Pink Shirt Day, where wearing pink means you’re showing support for safe environments, free from bullying and harassment.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is reminding business owners across the Northwest Territories (NWT) that business licence renewals are due April 1, 2026.

If you are operating a business in the NWT, you must have a valid business licence. Business licences are issued on April 1 and expire on March 31 of the following year. Fees are charged annually and must be paid each year upon renewal.

“Yesterday’s announcement from the Government of Canada extending funding for the Inuit Child First Initiative is a welcome signal that the federal government understands how important these supports are for Inuit children and families. Any extension that brings greater certainty in the short term is better than leaving families, educators, and service providers in limbo, and I appreciate the recognition that these programs matter.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today, following the Government of Canada’s announcement of the launch of a new Defence Industrial Strategy:

“On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I welcome Prime Minister Carney’s launch of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. The Strategy’s strong focus on research, innovation, and dual-use technologies is particularly relevant to the North.

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.

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.

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today regarding Imperial Oil’s announcement about future operations in Norman Wells:

“Today’s announcement will be difficult news for many people in Norman Wells and across the Sahtu. My thoughts are with the workers, families, and community members who are directly affected.

“Norman Wells is a community with deep roots and a proud history. For generations, people in Norman Wells and the Sahtu have helped build this territory, and their contributions matter.