November 22, 2010 - The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is working closely with fuel suppliers in the North Slave Region to ensure that adequate supplies continue to be available to fuel distributors in the communities of Fort Providence, Behchoko and Yellowknife.

GNWT officials have been in discussions with local fuel suppliers to assess current inventories. Suppliers have confirmed that there are substantial supplies of diesel and heating oil available. Supplies of gasoline and propane are adequate to meet immediate demands and suppliers have already implemented plans for resupply operations.

The current closure of the Mackenzie River Ferry Crossing is preventing the resupply of North Slave communities by road at this time. A resumption of ferry service will require adequate water levels, subject to weather and ice conditions permitting the safe operation of the ferry. The Department of Transportation is providing regular reports on its website at www.dot.gov.nt.ca.

The GNWT is advising the public that there is no need to take unusual steps or stockpile fuel, which may create artificial shortages and undermine efforts already underway to ensure everyone has access to sufficient supplies. Temporary disruptions in community resupply are not unique or unusual and suppliers and northern governments have experience in responding to them.

GNWT officials will continue to work closely with suppliers and community government officials to monitor the situation and respond as necessary.

For more information, contact:

Press Secretary
Office of the Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 669-2302