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.

“Today, we join people around the world in celebrating Earth Day under the theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet.’ This year’s theme is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the environment, build resilience, and move toward a cleaner energy future.

In the Northwest Territories, the effects of climate change are intensifying. The Arctic is warming nearly four times faster than the rest of the planet. In recent years, extreme weather—floods, wildfires, and drought—has tested the resilience of our communities and underscored the urgent need for action.

Premier R.J. Simpson extends his deepest condolences on the passing of Ted Blondin, a respected Elder from the Tłı̨chǫ Region whose lifelong dedication to his people leaves an enduring legacy across the Northwest Territories.

“Ted Blondin was a remarkable leader whose vision and commitment helped shape the future of the Tłı̨chǫ Region and the Northwest Territories. His tireless efforts to advance education, health, social well-being, and self-governance—most recently as Chair of the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency—leave a legacy of service that will be felt for generations.

Minister Vince McKay issued the following statement regarding CN Rail's decision to not repair the section of damaged rail line between Enterprise and Hay River:

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming visit to Iqaluit, Nunavut, as his first domestic trip as Prime Minister:

Minister of Health and Social Services, Lesa Semmler, issued the following statement today regarding the court approved plan for tobacco compensation:

"Today, I am pleased to announce a resolution in our efforts to recover money for our health care system from the tobacco companies that sold cigarettes in Canada. The Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Ontario has approved a plan that represents the largest resolution of its kind in Canadian history and the third largest ever globally.