Premier R.J. Simpson today thanked Brigadier-General Daniel Rivière for his service to the Northwest Territories as Commander of Joint Task Force North and welcomed Brigadier-General Marc Parent as he prepares to assume command.

“Over the past three years, Brigadier-General Rivière has been a strong partner to the Northwest Territories and a steady presence during some of the most challenging moments our territory has faced. His leadership during the 2023 wildfire season demonstrated the critical importance of collaboration between governments, emergency management officials, and the Canadian Armed Forces. Working closely with municipal and territorial officials, he directed troops sent to Yellowknife to conduct fire break construction and coordinated the evacuation by air of people from Hay River and Kátł'odeeche First Nation.

“Brigadier-General Rivière also played an important role in strengthening northern security and intergovernmental collaboration through initiatives such as Operation NANOOK, the Arctic Security Working Group, and security briefings for Canada’s territorial premiers.

“He played a central role in improving relationships between the GNWT and northern communities with the Canadian Armed Forces at a time when the North is increasingly central to Canada’s sovereignty, security, and resilience. On behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories, I thank him for his dedicated service.

“As Brigadier-General Rivière prepares to return to Defence headquarters in Ottawa, I am pleased to welcome Brigadier-General Marc Parent as the incoming Commander of Joint Task Force North.

“He brings extensive operational, logistical, and leadership experience from across the Canadian Armed Forces and international defence partnerships. As the North continues to play an increasingly important role in Canada’s future, I look forward to working with Brigadier-General Parent to advance shared priorities around Arctic security, emergency preparedness, and northern sovereignty.”

“On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I welcome Brigadier-General Parent to the North and look forward to building a strong working relationship in the years ahead.”