Ministers' Statements and Speeches

Update on Creating a New Wildlife Act

May 31, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, wildlife is valued by all people in the NWT and contributes to our well-being and economy. A new Wildlife Act is needed to effectively manage wildlife in the Northwest Territories. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has prepared a draft of the proposed new Wildlife Act for public review and comment.  This draft was developed with extensive input from Aboriginal organizations, wildlife renewable resource boards, residents, industry and other stakeholders.

Oil and Gas Potential and Activities in the NWT

May 30, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, we want a territory where a strong, diversified economy provides opportunities and choices to all our residents.  Socially responsible and environmentally sustainable development of our resources will be one of the keys to achieving that goal. The Northwest Territories is resource-rich and brimming with potential.  Today I would like to speak about some exciting developments in the oil and gas sector, and of the significant opportunities the development of resources can bring to our residents.

Transboundary Water

May 30, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, in 1997, the governments of Canada, the Northwest Territories, Yukon, Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan signed the Mackenzie River Basin Transboundary Waters Master Agreement.   When we signed, our governments agreed on the principles for co-managing the Mackenzie River Basin’s water ecosystems. We also  made plans for signing bilateral agreements between each of our provinces and territories.

Education Hall of Fame

May 29, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to advise this House that a ceremony was held today to celebrate the tremendous contributions that people across this territory have made to education.

The Department of Education, Culture and Employment launched the Education Hall of Fame to recognize that we all play an important role in supporting the education of our children.  It reflects the valuable contributions that educators, volunteers, board members, administrators and other community members make. 

Accountability Framework

May 28, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, since the implementation of the New Deal for NWT Community Governments in 2007, community governments have been in control of their own infrastructure priorities.  The New Deal has changed the way they do business with Municipal and Community Affairs, and as a result, the department’s role has transformed into that of coach, advisor and supporter.

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