Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on Premier Pillai’s announcement that he will step away from territorial politics:

"I want to extend my sincere thanks to Premier Pillai for his leadership, friendship, and partnership, and to wish him and his family all the best as he prepares to step away from territorial politics.

Health and Social Services Minster Lesa Semmler issued the following media statement today regarding Emergency Department Coverage at Stanton Territorial Hospital and Support for Physicians Across the NWT.

Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance and Minister Responsible for the Public Service, and Lesa Semmler, Minister of Health and Social Services, issued the following statement today regarding public service modernization and efforts to strengthen the health and social services system.

Minister Caroline Wawzonek:

“The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has been undertaking a comprehensive, multi-phase modernization of the Public Service Act to ensure it continues to meet the needs of a modern workforce and a modern public service.

Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the conclusion of the 2025 Northern Premiers’ Forum in Haines Junction, Yukon:

"The Northern Premiers’ Forum is always an important opportunity to connect with my colleagues from Yukon and Nunavut, and to work together on the challenges we share. This year’s meeting felt especially energizing.

We had honest and productive conversations about issues that matter to Northerners — from Arctic security and housing to health care and growing the economy.

Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, provided the following statement for Red Dress Day:

“Today, our hearts collectively pause to grieve as we reflect on Red Dress Day, a day dedicated to honouring the lives of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals who have been stolen from us. Displaying a red dress is a powerful reminder of the loss that we have experienced, and the thousands who should be standing with us today.

Premier R.J. Simpson wishes to offer his deepest condolences on the passing of Bob Simpson, whose decades of service helped shape the political and social landscape of the Northwest Territories.

“Bob Simpson was a dedicated and thoughtful leader who devoted his life to advancing Indigenous rights and strengthening Northern governance. Over more than 25 years with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, and in leadership roles across the Beaufort Delta, he made lasting contributions to self-government, devolution, education, and community development.

Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on the results of the 2025 Federal Election:

"I extend my sincere congratulations to Mark Carney on his election as Prime Minister of Canada. Born in Fort Smith, he shares a connection to the Northwest Territories — a territory whose leadership and potential have never been more important to Canada’s future. I look forward to building a strong and productive partnership focused on unlocking the full potential of the North for the benefit of all Canadians.

Premier R.J. Simpson extends his deepest condolences to all those affected by the tragic events at the Lapu Lapu Day Filipino street festival in Vancouver.

“The heartbreaking news from Vancouver has left many of us in the Northwest Territories shaken and grieving. Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who were injured, and all those whose lives have been forever changed by this senseless act.

Minister of Infrastructure Vince McKay issued the following statement on the successful completion of the Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) 2025 winter fuel resupply program:

“This year’s winter fuel resupply was one of the most complex operations we’ve undertaken in recent memory—and I’m proud to say it was a success.

The illicit drug landscape is changing rapidly—here in the Northwest Territories and around the world. During initial surge response to opioid overdoses in the NWT, the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer engaged with many community and Indigenous leaders regarding the information needed to support community response. One gap identified was general knowledge around the newer types of drugs that are entering the NWT.