NORMAN WELLS (November 26, 2012) -- Oil and Gas Industry representatives were in Norman Wells last week to meet with Sahtu business leaders and representatives of the NWT and regional chambers.

Speaking at the Sahtu Exploration Dinner sponsored by the Norman Wells Chamber on Thursday night, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay highlighted the spirit of collaboration, partnership and forthrightness with which stakeholders in the Sahtu are addressing the enormity of opportunity and economic potential represented by industry commitments in 13 exploration parcels in the region. 

“Government, industry, business and residents of the Sahtu have a common purpose here - to advance development on mutually beneficial terms that can be determined together - and to move forward in a way that fits our collective goals, objectives and priorities while being mindful of our future,” Minister Ramsay said.

Three companies have confirmed projects in the Sahtu this season including: work on six wells, the construction of transportation infrastructure, the development of quarry sites, and ongoing scientific data gathering on water and wildlife. Upwards of $100 million is expected to be invested and will result in 350 jobs and significant economic spin-offs for local regional economies.

While in Norman Wells, Minister Ramsay also addressed the NWT Chamber of Commerce. 

“There has never been a more important time for us to look ahead, past the limitations that exist today, to envision a vibrant, diversified economy where entrepreneurship and risk are rewarded and there is a healthy balance between new and traditional economies,” the Minister noted. “We have a model for relationship building and forming partnerships available to us here in the Sahtu.”

In the next year, the Government of the Northwest Territories will be working closely with the NWT Chamber and other key stakeholders to advance an Economic Opportunities Strategy.

For more information, contact:

Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-920-8696