Yellowknife — December 16, 2024
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is introducing the Indigenous Employment Policy (IEP) and will rescind the Affirmative Action Policy on March 31, 2025. The Indigenous Employment Policy which will come into effect on April 1, 2025 reflects the GNWT’s commitment to reconciliation by prioritizing the recruitment, retention, and career advancement of Indigenous persons, as outlined under subsection 35(2) of the Constitution Act, 1982.
The Indigenous Employment Policy represents an evolution in GNWT’s approach to fostering equity and inclusion in the public service. It focuses exclusively on Indigenous recruitment and career development. These measures aim to empower Indigenous employees to build meaningful, long-term careers within the GNWT and ensure a public service that reflects the population it serves.
The development of the policy included extensive public engagement, consultation with Indigenous governments, organizations, and stakeholders, as well as feedback from GNWT employees and leadership. These contributions helped shape a policy that responds to systemic barriers and ensures alignment with GNWT’s broader goals for reconciliation and equity.
The policy also emphasizes transparency and accountability, requiring annual reporting on workforce demographics to measure progress and ensure consistent implementation across departments. The GNWT encourages employees to attend the upcoming Town Hall on January 28, 2025, to learn more about the Indigenous Employment Policy.
Quote
“The Indigenous Employment Policy is an important step in advancing reconciliation and ensuring the GNWT reflects the communities it serves. By focusing on removing barriers and providing supports like mentorship programs and leadership training, we are working to create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous employees to grow and succeed. This policy represents our commitment to real change and to building a stronger, more inclusive government for all Northerners.”
- Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance
Quick Facts
- The Affirmative Action Policy will be rescinded on March 31, 2025.
- The Indigenous Employment Policy will take effect on April 1, 2025.
- Indigenous Aboriginal employees currently make up 29% of the GNWT workforce, compared to 49.6% of the NWT population.
- A virtual Town Hall meeting will be held on January 28, 2025, to provide GNWT employees with an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the policy.
Related Links
For media requests, please contact:
Department of Finance
Public Affairs and Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
EIA_FINComms@gov.nt.ca