Yellowknife — March 31, 2020
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) understands the physical distancing and isolation measures used to combat the spread of COVID-19 have created new and very real economic stress on Northwest Territories (NWT) residents, families, businesses, Indigenous governments, and communities. In response to this, Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance, and Katrina Nokleby, Minister of Infrastructure and Industry, Tourism and Investment, are announcing additional support for people, businesses, and communities in response to COVID-19.
This package is valued at $8.259 million dollars and will be implemented immediately. This complements the first wave of measures announced earlier this month, creating a total of value of $21.459 million in GNWT COVID-19 support announced to date.
Quote
“The Northwest Territories is already feeling the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the GNWT is committed to doing our part to ensure the economic well-being of our residents is addressed during this difficult time. This comprehensive set of activities will assist everyone in the NWT, no matter where they live, their income, or their job, so they can play their part in the response to COVID-19.”
-Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance
“COVID-19 has already had a significant impact on the Northwest Territories’ economy and our government will continue to put supports in place to help businesses and individuals through this difficult time. The aviation sector, a critical piece of our territorial supply chain, has been especially impacted. So, including the aircraft landing fees already waived, almost $2 million in GNWT financial relief will be provided to help support critical aviation businesses that our communities and economy rely upon.’
-Katrina Nokleby, Minister of Infrastructure and Industry, Tourism and Investment
Quick Facts
- The Government of the Northwest Territories released the first wave of support for NWT residents, businesses and communities on March 20, 2020.
- Economic support measures in the NWT are intended to complement financial supports implemented by the Government of Canada.
Related links
GNWT March 20th COVID-19 Economic Relief Measures
https://www.gov.nt.ca/newsroom/northwest-territories-covid-19-economic-relief
Federal announcement on the Indigenous Community Support Fund
Federal government’s Economic Response Plan: Support for Canadians and Businesses
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC) Business Credit Availability Program
Government of the Northwest Territories – Public Safety Notices, COVID-19 Information
https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety-notices
For all COVID-19 Media Requests, Contact:
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
