Mr. Speaker, now that the Government of the Northwest Territories is responsible for administering the territory’s onshore petroleum resources, we are looking ahead to effectively plan and manage the NWT’s world-class oil and gas potential for the benefit of all residents.

To encourage future exploration and responsible development of oil and gas reserves in the territory, the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment is preparing for its first-ever Call Cycle for Oil and Gas Exploration Rights.

Mr. Speaker, responsible mineral exploration and development strengthens our territorial economy and helps to provide each region with opportunities and choices.

Mr. Speaker, small businesses and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our community and regional economies.

To encourage economic diversity and sustainability, the Government of the Northwest Territories has long supported the interests and growth of this highly valued segment of the North’s economic community through a variety of programs and services.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 20, 2014) – October 19-26 marks Small Business Week in Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is highlighting services and programs available to local businesses.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 9, 2014) – The Northwest Territories’ (NWT) most productive trappers for the 2013/14 season were formally announced today. Individual trappers in each of the NWT’s five regions are recognized annually in four categories: highest sales, most pelts, and the senior and junior trappers of the year.

FORT SIMPSON (October 7, 2014) – New developments at the Prairie Creek Mine will increase employment opportunities and promote economic growth in the Dehcho Region.

Responding to today’s announcement by Canadian Zinc Corporation (CZN) regarding the start-up of the Prairie Creek underground program as it moves towards full production, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) David Ramsay says he is pleased with what the development of a producing mine will mean for the residents of the Dehcho Region.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 2, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is increasing the price it pays for seal skins under its Genuine Mackenzie Valley Furs (GMVF) Hide Procurement Program.

Beginning next season, the price paid to NWT harvesters per seal skin will climb from $55 to $70.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 2, 2014) – Talent of Northwest Territories (NWT) filmmakers, actors and producers will be on the big screen this week at the 8^th annual Yellowknife International Film Festival, held from October 1-5.

This year’s event, hosted by Western Arctic Moving Pictures (WAMP) at the Northern Arts and Cultural Centre (NACC), includes film screenings, artist talks, workshops, an awards presentation and a gala reception.

YELLOWKNIFE (September 29, 2014) – Initial planning is underway for Tourism 2020, a new plan to guide Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) activities and investments into tourism over the next five years. The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) is seeking industry feedback for the new plan, which will build on investments made over the last five years under Tourism 2015.

YELLOWKNIFE (September 23, 2014) – The skills and talent of Northwest Territories artists will be showcased during NWT Arts Week, September 20–28. Residents and visitors are invited to participate in events taking place throughout the territory. “NWT artists make significant and valuable cultural contributions to communities across the territory,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) David Ramsay.