Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson has officially assumed the Chair of the Council of the Federation, taking over the role from Prince Edward Island Premier Robert Lantz.

The Council of the Federation brings together Canada's 13 provincial and territorial Premiers to advance shared priorities, strengthen interprovincial and territorial collaboration, and work with the federal government on issues of national importance. The Chair rotates annually among Premiers, with Newfoundland and Labrador set to follow the Northwest Territories.

As Chair, Premier Simpson will lead the Council's work over the coming year, convene meetings of Canada's Premiers, represent the Council in engagements with the federal government and national stakeholders, and help build consensus on priorities that affect Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

Premiers typically meet several times throughout the year, both in-person and virtually, engaging in regular discussions on national issues. The annual summer meeting, which is hosted by the Chair, will take place Yellowknife in July 2027. Hosting Canada's Premiers in the Northwest Territories will provide an opportunity to showcase the territory's people, communities, cultures, and economy, while highlighting the North's critical role in advancing national priorities such as economic growth, resource development, trade corridors, energy security, and Arctic sovereignty.

The Northwest Territories’ consensus system of government gives Premier Simpson a unique perspective as Chair of the Council of the Federation. Like the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories, where Members work together to find common ground and make decisions by consensus rather than along party lines, the Council brings together Premiers with different priorities and perspectives to collaborate on issues of national importance. The Council's work is rooted in cooperation, dialogue and consensus, making the Northwest Territories well positioned to lead its work over the coming year.

During his term as Chair, Premier Simpson will work to increase understanding of the opportunities and realities of Canada's North while advancing discussions on the infrastructure needed to unlock the North's economic potential, strengthen Arctic sovereignty, and improve the quality of life for Northerners.

Quick facts

• Established in 2003, the Council of the Federation fosters a constructive relationship among the provinces and territories, and with the federal government with the aim of strengthening Canada by helping Premiers to work collaboratively.
• Each of Canada’s 13 provincial and territorial Premiers are members of the Council of the Federation.
• The Council also exists to help foster meaningful relations between governments based on respect for the Constitution and recognition of the diversity within the federation.

Quotes

“It is an honour to serve as Chair of the Council of the Federation at a time when Canada is focused on building a stronger, more resilient future, with the North playing a central role. As Chair, I look forward to working with my fellow Premiers to strengthen our country while helping Canadians better understand the opportunities, challenges and strategic importance of the North. Together, we can build the infrastructure, partnerships and economic opportunities that will benefit Canadians for generations to come.”

• R.J. Simpson, Premier of the Northwest Territories and Chair of the Council of the Federation

Related links:

• Council of the Federation Secretariat

For media requests, please contact:

Cabinet Communications

Government of the Northwest Territories

PressSecretary@gov.nt.ca