In the Northwest Territories, we entrust the RCMP with the responsibility to support every citizen’s rights to safety and security; and, we also entrust them with the right to take away a citizen’s liberty in response to unlawful activity. That is a tremendous power and responsibility.
Mr. Speaker, the COVID-19 global pandemic has impacted every aspect of life in our territory.
The Government of the Northwest Territories has responded to the pandemic in a variety of ways. In addition to the measures taken to protect the health and safety of our residents and communities, our government has acted to mitigate the economic impacts of this crisis on our economy, and to invest in the economic well-being of Northwest Territories industry and businesses.
Mr. Speaker, the month of June is designated as Senior Citizens Month in the NWT. It is a time to recognize and show appreciation for the contribution made by seniors and elders to our communities, our families and society in general.
In the Northwest Territories, seniors continue to be the fastest growing demographic in our population. In fact, it is projected that seniors and elders will comprise approximately 20 per cent of our territory’s population by 2035. This presents opportunities as well as challenges, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, we will defeat the scourge of COVID-19, and when we do, we will be better prepared to attract and welcome new residents.
Check Against Delivery
Mr. Speaker, every June the Government of the Northwest Territories, together with the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Chamber of Mines, and the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission of the NWT and Nunavut, mark mining week in our Territory.
Check Against Delivery
Like other Departments across the GNWT, the Department of Justice saw its operations, administration, programs and service delivery impacted by COVID-19. Some functions or activities were delayed as more urgent tasks took over and staff were redeployed. Yet as we begin to take stock of the last few months, there are both challenges and opportunities that have appeared. I want to speak today on the response and emerging opportunities within Court Services and Corrections.
Check Against Delivery
Mr. Speaker, the COVID-19 pandemic is a global crisis on a level the world has not seen in generations. Taking action to slow its spread and protect public health has required leadership from all levels of government.
Today I would like to highlight the work that has been done by the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs and the Emergency Management Organization in response to COVID-19.
Mr. Speaker, COVID-19 has affected all areas of social and economic activity in the Northwest Territories and around the world. As the pandemic has evolved and jurisdictions have been able to manage its spread, all governments are looking at the public health measures that have been put in place and are continuing to adjust them.
Check Against Delivery
Mr. Speaker, when students at Aurora College left for March break they were unaware of the uncertainty that the pandemic would bring to so many aspects of their lives, including if they would remain on track to achieve their education and career goals. I would like to share with you today some of the challenges and innovative solutions that the team at Aurora College implemented to support their students and their communities.
Check Against Delivery
I would like to begin today, Mr. Speaker, by commending the courage and resolve of our front line staff responding to this unprecedented public health emergency.
