The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has released the What We Heard Report summarizing feedback gathered during engagement on Phase II of the Public Service Act modernization initiative. This phase focused on proposed amendments to section 41 of the Act, which outlines union representation for GNWT public servants.

Between October 2025 and January 2026, the GNWT invited input from bargaining partners and the public, including through an online survey and written submissions on the Have Your Say website. A total of 135 survey responses and 49 written comments were received.

The engagement reflected strong interest in how union representation is structured within the GNWT, with bargaining partners emphasizing stability in labour relations, clear and predictable rules, and independent, expert decision‑making that aligns with established Canadian models and northern realities. Public feedback showed that many supported greater employee choice and sector‑specific representation, while others raised concerns about government involvement, potential risks and uncertainty, and the timing and outreach of the engagement. Equity and inclusion considerations were also noted, particularly regarding protections for Indigenous and disabled employees.

The GNWT will use input from this engagement, along with public submissions made to the Standing Committee on Government Operations during their review to date of Bill 26, to inform the development of a legislative proposal to amend section 41 of the Public Service Act. The GNWT has committed to introducing a Bill for Phase II amendments to the Public Service Act in Fall 2026

To learn more, please visit: https://haveyoursay.nwt-tno.ca/updating-the-public-service-act

For media requests, please contact:
Beau Stobbs
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Finance
Beau_stobbs@gov.nt.ca