November 16, 2011 – Premier Bob McLeod met with Sahtu leadership Monday, November 14, 2011 as part of the GNWT’s continuing commitment to work with Aboriginal and community leaders.
“We have a shared interest in creating a strong and prosperous territory,” said Premier McLeod. “We continued our discussions from the successful meeting we held in Dettah just after the territorial election. The Sahtu leaders were very clear about their vision for the region. I know we can work together to build consensus and move forward as a territory.”
During the meeting, community representatives asked to meet with the Honourable Tom Beaulieu, Minister of Health and Social Services; the Honourable J. Michael Miltenberger, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources; and the Honourable Robert C. McLeod, Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation. Premier McLeod made a commitment that over the life of this government, all Cabinet ministers will visit all regions of the territory to discuss residents’ concerns and work with them to resolve their issues.
“We are developing a new relationship with communities across the NWT,” said Premier McLeod. “Our territory is diverse, but we are united by common interests and a shared desire to overcome our challenges. The GNWT represents all residents and is committed to making the partnerships that are needed to benefit the entire territory. We must provide the programs and services our residents need, as close to home as possible. We must develop key public infrastructure throughout our territory. And we must all work together to ensure that NWT residents are the ones making the decisions about how our public lands and resources are protected and developed so we can be sure that all our residents share in the benefits.”
The Premier met with Tlicho chiefs in Behchoko on November 3 and with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation in N’Dilo on November 4. He and his Cabinet look forward to continuing to meet with Aboriginal and community leadership. A second meeting with all regional Aboriginal leaders is being planned for early in the new year.
Members of the Legislative Assembly are meeting in Caucus November 15-17 to establish priorities for the 17th Legislative Assembly. The next Session begins December 7, when Members will reconvene to review the GNWT’s capital plan.
For more information, contact:
Megan Holsapple
Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2302