YELLOWKNIFE (January 30, 2013) – Glen Abernethy,Minister Responsible for the Public Utilities Board, announced appointments to the Board today.

Representing a strong cross-section of the population of the Northwest Territories, the newest members will bring a wealth of experience and understanding of the North to their positions. The new members are Mr. Charlie Furlong of Aklavik (effective immediately), Mr. Michael McLeod of Fort Providence (effective April 1, 2013), and Mr. Gordon Van Tighem (effective April 1, 2013) as Chairperson.  Ms. Sandra Jaque of Fort Smith was reappointed as Vice-Chairperson for a further four-year term.

The new members join Mr. William Koe of Fort McPherson, whose term expires on March 31, 2014. The newest members were appointed to either a three- or four-year term. Staggered terms provide board continuity to serve the public interest.

Minister Abernethy thanked retiring members Mr. Joe Acorn (Chair) and Mr. Jake Heron, and recently retired member Peter Guther for their service.

“The work the board does is challenging,” said Minister Abernethy. “It’s highly technical and involves regulatory practices and procedures, administrative law and utility operations, as well as in-depth financial and accounting processes. Mr. Acorn has devoted  ten years to this work and we are grateful to him and his fellow board members for their dedication.”

The Public Utilities Board reviews applications respecting rates and rate structure from public utilities operating in the Northwest Territories. The Public Utilities Act also gives the Board responsibility for reviewing the affairs, earnings and accounts of each public utility every three years, and for issuing decisions in matters such as financing, capital expenditures interim rates and franchises.


For more information: 
Brenda Norris
Media Liaison
Office of the Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2302