Leaders from the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), Indigenous governments (IGOs), Katlodeeche First Nation (KFN), their economic development representatives and a representative from the Government of Canada concluded meetings in Inuvik yesterday where they had discussions focused on identifying concrete ways to work together to create a prosperous and strong territory, while still respecting the Aboriginal, Indigenous and individual rights, legal authorities and priorities of each government.

Leaders in attendance agreed that the NWT is facing significant economic challenges and that steps need to be taken immediately in order to ensure a sustainable future for the North and its residents.

The goal remains the same – they want to create a prosperous, sustainable future for the people of the Northwest Territories, built on the foundation of a strong, diversified economy which consists of traditional sectors such as tourism, agriculture, harvesting, cultural arts and commercial fishery but also recognizes the large role that non-renewable sectors have contributed to the territory.

Also discussed at the meeting were opportunities for economic growth. Leaders agreed that large-scale investment in northern energy, transportation and communications infrastructure corridors is key to creating investment and economic opportunities in all sectors.

As part of the next steps, a working group comprised of representatives from each of the IGOs, KFN and the GNWT will be created. This working group will be coordinated and supported by the GNWT and will work to identify economic opportunities and concrete next steps. A Terms of Reference identifying details of the group will be finalized through the Working Group and moving forward, information gathered through the group will be presented to a Steering Committee comprised of the elected leaders of the north.

For media inquires, contact:

Krystal Pidborochynski

Senior Cabinet Communications Advisor

Government of the Northwest Territories

Ph: (867) 444 -9684

Krystal_Pidborochynski@gov.nt.ca