YELLOWKNIFE (April 17, 2015) – Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay congratulates newly-elected President of the NWT Chamber of Commerce Kevin Diebold and the new Board of Directors and looks forward to working with them on shared priorities, including  important discussions to address ‎ pressure points impacting the NWT private sector. 

“Devolution has opened the door to new ways of improving and advancing the NWT economy,” Minister Ramsay said.  “The energy, experience and guidance of President Diebold and his team are well suited to carry the interests of NWT business and our economy into the next year.” 

In a meeting with the new Board this week, Minister Ramsay committed to continuing important conversations with NWT business representatives on the need for population growth and economic development; the evolution of the regulatory system; and means to address the high costs of doing business in the North.

 In an address to the Chamber, Minister Ramsay highlighted a list of over 25 projects and initiatives advanced in the last year to grow and strengthen the NWT economy. 

“Tangible, shovels-in-the-ground economic benefits are implicit in almost every strategy the GNWT is advancing,” Minister Ramsay said. “Your government has a vision – a picture – of an NWT rich in resources and economic opportunity – populated by self-sufficient communities and driven by vibrant healthy and successful residents and businesses.” 

Minister Ramsay also congratulates Kevin Hodgins, who was recognized Wednesday as the NWTCC’s Business Person of the Year, and  Curran and Associates for its award as Business of the Year. 

The GNWT and NWT Chamber of Commerce continue to work in partnership with the NWT Association of Communities, Northern Aboriginal Business Association and Canada’s Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) to implement the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy.  The strategy’s objectives of diversifying the economy and increasing employment opportunities where they are most needed are both priorities of the 17th Legislative Assembly. 

Media inquiries:
Drew Williams
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: drew_williams@gov.nt.ca