Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories has a centuries-long history in trapping and the fur trade. We have a high regard for the cultural values entrenched in this tradition, which set Northerners apart from other Canadians; and for the activities of the traditional economy which have helped shape our North and remain in many of our communities today.

As a proud founder and partner of the Fur Institute of Canada, the Government of the Northwest Territories continues its tradition of leadership in this industry.

This week, the Fur Institute of Canada will hold its Annual General Meeting in Yellowknife. This is an ideal time to reflect on the important role trapping plays in our NWT economy and what our Government is doing to support it.

NWT trappers are the very best in their trade, and so is the fur they ship to market.

The Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program and the similarly targeted Hide and Fur Procurement Program are testaments to this fact and reflect this government’s commitment to support and promote excellence in our traditional economy, from the trap line through to the marketplace.

With over $2.5 million in contribution to the economy, last year, trapping provides individuals in our territory valuable opportunities for income and employment and is as important to the northern economy as small scale farming is in southern Canada.

This is particularly true in our most remote communities where the fur industry has sustained Aboriginal populations for hundreds of years; providing food, clothing, shelter, tools and goods for trade.   An industry that can continue to  offer a reliable and sustainable safe haven against the fluctuations of a boom and bust economy and help us diversify and balance our economy in a manner that respects the social and cultural values and aspirations of our people.

Trapping also instils a respect for, and knowledge of our land and wildlife. It requires careful, consistent observation of the environment and the animals which interact with it. Reports back from trappers have long played an important role in the NWT’s conservation efforts.

Through trapping, our Aboriginal populations pass the practices of our ancestors to new generations. By bringing youth into the fold, cultural pride and an appreciation for getting out on the land can be fostered and encouraged for a lifetime.

Mr. Speaker, it is for these reasons our Government has chosen to remain ahead of the curve in our proactive approach to this important sector, jointly led by the departments of Industry, Tourism and Investment and Environment and Natural Resources.    

We continue to connect our trappers to international markets while educating and training resident trappers to maximize their returns with consistent and best practices for trapping and pelt preparation with the world-renowned Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur brand.

Through our Hide and Fur Procurement Program, we also connect local artisans with traditional materials to support their arts and their livelihoods, reinvigorating community-based sewing groups, bringing youth and Elders together to pass on traditional skills and hear stories of the past.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, works with trappers to deliver the Take a Kid Trapping Program, and provide fur remnants to schools across the Territory for use in crafting projects every year.

The Northwest Territories is one of very few jurisdictions offering this kind of support for traditional practices. We are proud of this, and of the fact that our programs are the envy of the Canadian trapping industry.

The benefits of these small, but extremely-dynamic, made-in-the-NWT programs to our trapping industry continue impress.   Our government will continue to support and encourage this sector and the socio-economic benefits it brings our residents.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.