Premier Cochrane congratulates Inuvialuit Regional Corporation on advancing its self-determination

Media Statement

Yellowknife — November 25, 2021

Caroline Cochrane, Premier of the Northwest Territories issued the following statement on the implementation of the Inuvialuit Qitunrariit Inuuniarnikkun Maligaksat, - Inuvialuit Family Way of Living Law by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation:

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation on their important work of building a child and family services legislative framework in support of their members. 

“Inuvialuit Qitunrariit Inuuniarnikkun Maligaksat, - Inuvialuit Family Way of Living Law is a significant moment relating to child and family services reform in the NWT and across Canada. The Inuvialuit are the first Indigenous government in the NWT to ratify a child wellbeing law that will apply across Canada.  The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation is an important partner of the Government of the Northwest Territories, and we share their commitment to improving the lives of Inuvialuit children, youth and families.  I am pleased to see the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation’s hard work come to fruition.

“This law is a big step forward in ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of Inuvialuit children, youth, and families. We are committed to continuing to work with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation moving forward.

“The Federal Act advances reconciliation, recognizes and affirms Indigenous and treaty rights, and supports program and service delivery by Indigenous governments. The ratification of this law by the Inuvialuit is an example of the work we must continue to do to foster constructive and respectful government-to-government relationships with our Indigenous partners and to seek ways to advance reconciliation, recognize and affirm Indigenous rights, and support expanded program and service delivery by Indigenous governments.

“Strong, effective and efficient governments are essential to helping the NWT and its people achieve political, social, cultural, environmental, and economic development goals. I believe that partnership and mutual respect is key to success for our territory.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and all Indigenous governments as we work together for the benefit of current and future generations of Northwest Territories residents.”