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Mr. Speaker, effective emergency management and preparedness are critical to the safety and well-being of Northwest Territories residents. Today I want to recognize individuals and groups whose dedication and efforts have helped keep NWT communities safe.

The Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award is a national recognition for outstanding contributions to emergency management. Federal, provincial, and territorial Ministers present this award to highlight efforts in prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

This year’s NWT recipients are the Department of Environment and Climate Change’s Hydrology Team consisting of Shawne Kokelj, Ryan Connon and Anna Coles.

Since 2021, the Hydrology Team has played a vital role in flood preparedness by providing critical updates to the GNWT, communities, and residents. Using satellite imagery, hydrometric gauges, and live camera feeds, they monitor ice conditions and water levels, regularly reporting on flood risks to support emergency planning.

Their expertise and commitment have been instrumental in responding to severe flooding events.

Mr. Speaker, I commend the Hydrology Team on this well-deserved recognition and personally thank them for their above-and-beyond dedication to public safety.

Mr. Speaker, NWT community governments are on the front lines when disaster strikes, and the Government of the Northwest Territories remains committed to supporting their preparedness efforts.

In April 2024, we updated the NWT Emergency Plan to better define the roles and responsibilities of community governments as the lead in emergency management.

The updates confirm our mandate commitment to ensure that emergency management and preparedness initiatives strengthen our capacity to respond to more frequent and severe climate-driven disasters and other emergencies.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, a new Incident Command System, or ICS, training plan is underway, aiming to train up to ten percent of the Government of the Northwest Territories workforce to assist during major emergencies. Additionally, we continue supporting community governments in updating emergency plans and preparedness activities. The Government of the Northwest Territories also conducts an annual “Be Ready” campaign to educate residents on risk, personal responsibility and practical steps to prepare for emergencies which will be launched in March.

Mr. Speaker, while progress has been made, there is more to do. Recent disasters have had lasting impacts, with recovery often taking years. We must continue to enhance our efforts in mitigation, preparedness, responses, and recovery to help communities rebuild quickly and effectively. Success depends on strong collaboration at all levels: individuals, non-government organizations, communities, Indigenous governments and the Government of the Northwest Territories.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the dedication of first responders, community governments, GNWT employees, non-government organizations, and all partners who work tirelessly to keep residents safe. Once again, congratulations to the Hydrology Team on their well-earned recognition.  

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.