Northwest Territories News

(September 29, 2014) – As part of their ongoing collaboration, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the Fédération franco-ténoise (FFT) Consultation and Cooperation Committee met yesterday to review progress on the implementation of the GNWT Strategic Plan on French Language Communications and Services.

The Strategic Plan was developed by the Committee in 2012 to guide departments, boards and agencies in the development, provision and offer of French language services to the Francophone community. The parties are now focussed on the implementation, administration and promotion of the plan.

“Developing the Strategic Plan was a significant milestone. We are now focussed on ensuring that the plan is rolled out and monitored to ensure it delivers the anticipated outcomes for our Francophone residents,” said the Honourable Jackson Lafferty, Minister Responsible for Official Languages. “We recognized that implementation will be an ongoing process and I am pleased to see that we have been successful in establishing solid building blocks for sustained change over the long term.”

The full-day meeting brought together the deputy ministers of three key GNWT departments involved in the plan’s implementation (Education, Culture and Employment; Health and Social Services; and Human Resources) with the president and other representatives of the FFT.

The meeting provided an opportunity to review the progress made since 2012 and to discuss the challenges and gaps that remain to ensure the ongoing successful implementation of the plan. The group had the opportunity to review and discuss government-wide initiatives, as well as departmental operational plans.

“We are pleased to see that the GNWT is committed to increase the funds for the implementation of the French Language Communications and Services Strategic Plan. We will support their actions towards the federal government to renew and improve the Canada-NWT Cooperation Agreement for French and Aboriginal Languages in the Northwest Territories,” said Richard Létourneau, President of the FFT.

The NWT Francophone community representatives are satisfied with the work and progress achieved so far. They wish to highlight the GNWT’s openness and commitment to work with the community towards the implementation of the plans, and beyond the formal meetings with the committee.

The GNWT had previously committed $5.38 million for the implementation of French language operating plans in all departments.

For more information:

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs
Education, Culture and Employment
Phone: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mcKinnon@gov.nt.ca

Jean-de-Dieu Tuyishime
Executive Director
Fédération franco-ténoise
Phone : (867) 920-2919 ext. 254
Email : dgfft@franco-nord.com

Le 29 septembre 2014 – Dans la continuité des efforts de collaboration, le Comité de consultation et de coopération du gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest (GTNO) et de la Fédération franco-ténoise (FFT) s’est réuni hier pour passer en revue les progrès réalisés sur la mise en oeuvre du Plan stratégique du GTNO sur les communications et les services en français.

Le Plan stratégique a été élaboré par le Comité en 2012 afin d’orienter les ministères, les conseils et les organismes dans l’élaboration, la prestation et l’offre de services en français à la communauté francophone. Les parties se concentrent maintenant sur la mise en oeuvre, l’administration et la promotion du Plan.

L’élaboration du Plan stratégique constituait une étape importante. Nous nous efforçons maintenant de veiller à ce qu’il soit déployé et suivi en respectant les résultats escomptés pour nos résidents francophones, a déclaré M. Jackson Lafferty, ministre responsable des langues officielles. Nous reconnaissons que sa mise en oeuvre se prolongera dans le temps, et je me réjouis de constater que nous avons établi de solides composantes de base qui engendreront un changement durable à long terme.

La réunion d’une journée a rassemblé les sous-ministres de trois ministères clés du GTNO participant à la mise en oeuvre du Plan stratégique (ministères de l’Éducation, de la Culture et de la Formation, de la Santé et des Services sociaux, et des Ressources humaines) ainsi que le président et d’autres représentants de la FFT.

La réunion offrait une excellente occasion de passer en revue les progrès réalisés depuis 2012 et de discuter des problèmes et des lacunes identifiés afin de veiller à l’application réussie du Plan stratégique. Le groupe a pu examiner les initiatives à l’échelle du gouvernement ainsi que les plans de fonctionnement des ministères, et en discuter.

Nous nous réjouissons que le GTNO s’engage à augmenter les sommes consacrées à la mise en oeuvre de son Plan stratégique sur les communications et les services en français. Nous l’appuierons dans ses démarches auprès du gouvernement fédéral pour renouveler et bonifier l’Accord de coopération Canada-Territoires du Nord-Ouest relatif au français et aux langues autochtones », a déclaré Richard Létourneau, président de la FFT.

Les représentants de la communauté franco-ténoise se disent satisfaits du travail et des progrès réalisés jusqu’à présent. Ils tiennent à souligner l’ouverture du GTNO et son engagement à collaborer avec la communauté pour la mise en oeuvre des plans, au-delà des rencontres formelles du Comité.

Le GTNO avait précédemment consacré 5,38 millions de dollars à la mise en oeuvre des plans de fonctionnement en français dans tous les ministères.

Pour en savoir plus :

Jacqueline McKinnon
Gestionnaire des communications et des affaires publiques
Ministère de l’Éducation, de la Culture et de la Formation
Tél. : 867-920-6222
Courriel : jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

Jean-de-Dieu Tuyishime
Directeur général
Fédération franco-ténoise
Tél. : 867-920-2919, poste 254
Courriel : dgfft@franco-nord.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 26, 2014

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories – The Governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories are celebrating the opening of a transitional housing project aimed at supporting single women and women with children at risk of homelessness in Yellowknife. Betty House is a new 18-unit building that will help women and children attain the stability required for the successful transition to permanent housing. Betty House consists of six bedsitting units for single women, ten two-bedroom apartments and two, three-bedroom apartments, for women with children. The City of Yellowknife, a partner in the project, welcomes the addition of Betty House to the community.

The Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development); along with the Honourable Robert C. McLeod, Minister Responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation and Minister Responsible for Homelessness, made the announcement today.

“A safe, affordable home is an important first step towards a new transition in life,” said Minister Bergen. “Thanks to a partnership between our governments, the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation, the Yellowknife Community Advisory Board on Homelessness and the YWCA, women and children will be able to create a better future for themselves.”

“I’m very happy to see the Betty House open its doors,” said Honourable Minister Robert C. McLeod. “With the help of this new transitional home we will be able to help a lot of women and their children move forward with their lives in a positive direction.”

“The City of Yellowknife has watched this project grow from the ground up. We’ve seen our community partners come together to create a transitional housing project that supports important members of our community. To see the doors open is a celebration of a very successful collaborative effort,” says Mayor Mark Heyck.

Betty House received $500,000 in joint government funding as a result of the $11 million Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Northwest Territories. The Northwest Territories will use the funds under the agreement to create new and renovate existing affordable housing for households in need.

Additional funding was provided to Betty House as follows:

• Northwest Territories Housing Corporation’s Capital Infrastructure Acquisition Plan, $1.8 million;
• Government of Canada through its Homelessness Partnering Strategy, more than $1.7 million;
• Dominion Diamond Ekati Corporation, $750,000;
• YWCA Yellowknife, $240,000;
• Yellowknife Community foundation, $50,000; and
• Other private businesses and individuals funding, $260,000 for a total investment of $5.3 million.

The Northwest Territories Housing Corporation partnered with the City of Yellowknife, the Yellowknife Community Advisory Board on Homelessness and the YWCA Yellowknife to build this housing project which supports a critical housing need in the NWT. Betty House is owned and operated by the YWCA Yellowknife.

Annually, the Government of Canada, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, invests approximately $2 billion in housing. Of this amount, $1.7 billion in federal funding is provided in support of close to 600,000 individuals and families living in existing social housing both on- and off-reserve. In the Northwest Territories, this represents an estimated 2,350 households. The remaining funding supports housing-related activities and affordable housing programs, including the Investment in Affordable Housing. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people. Economic Action Plan 2013 continued this commitment with a federal investment of more than $1.25 billion over five years to renew the Investment in Affordable Housing to 2019. The Government of Canada will ensure that funds provided to provinces and territories support the use of apprentices, which will support training of skilled labour. From April 2011 to June 2014, close to 184,000 households have benefited from this investment nationally, including 284 in the Northwest Territories.

The Northwest Territories Housing Corporation (NWTHC) provides access to adequate, suitable and affordable housing. Through the provision of housing programs and services, the NWTHC contributes to the health and education of NWT residents and to the development of sustainable, vibrant and safe communities.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) help Canadians meet their housing needs, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

Media contacts:

Cara Bryant
Communications Advisor, Northwest Territories Housing Corporation
867-873-7854
Cara_bryant@gov.nt.ca

Charles Daniel Mainville
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
403-515-2915
cdmainvi@cmhc-schl.gc.ca

Dayle Hernblad
Homelessness Coordinator, City of Yellowknife
867-669-3409
Dayle.hernblad@yellowknife.ca

POUR DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE

Le 26 septembre 2014

Yellowknife (Territoires du Nord-Ouest) – Les gouvernements du Canada et des Territoires du Nord‑Ouest soulignent l’inauguration de logements de transition à Yellowknife destinés à aider des femmes avec ou sans enfants qui risquent de se retrouver à la rue. Betty House est un immeuble neuf de 18 logements qui aident les femmes et les enfants à atteindre la stabilité nécessaire pour réussir la transition vers un logement permanent. Betty House comprend six chambres avec coin séjour pour femmes seules, 10 appartements de deux chambres et deux appartements de trois chambres pour les femmes avec des enfants. La Ville de Yellowknife, partenaire du projet, apprécie l’ajout de Betty House au sein de la collectivité.

L’honorable Candice Bergen, ministre d’État (Développement social), et l’honorable Robert C. McLeod, ministre responsable de la Société d’habitation des Territoires du Nord-Ouest et ministre responsable de l’Itinérance et de la Jeunesse, en ont fait l’annonce aujourd’hui.

Un logement sûr et abordable est une première étape importante d’un nouveau départ dans la vie, a déclaré la ministre Bergen. Grâce à un partenariat entre les gouvernements, à la Société d’habitation des Territoires du Nord-Ouest, du Conseil consultatif communautaire sur l’itinérance de Yellowknife et au YWCA, des femmes et des enfants seront en mesure de se créer un meilleur avenir.

Je suis très heureux de voir la Betty House ouvrir ses portes, a affirmé l’honorable ministre Robert C. McLeod. Avec l’aide de cette nouvelle maison de transition, nous serons en mesure d’aider les femmes et leurs enfants à aller de l’avant dans la bonne direction.

La Ville de Yellowknife a regardé ce projet progresser depuis le début. Nous avons vu des partenaires s’unir pour créer un ensemble de logements de transition qui soutient des membres importants de notre collectivité. De voir les portes s’ouvrir est la célébration d’un effort de collaboration très fructueux , a dit le maire Mark Heyck.

Betty House a bénéficié d’un investissement gouvernemental conjoint de 500 000 $ dans le cadre de l’Entente concernant l’Investissement dans le logement abordable (IDLA) 2011-2014, totalisant 11 millions de dollars, conclue entre le gouvernement du Canada et celui des Territoires du Nord-Ouest. Les Territoires du Nord-Ouest utiliseront ces fonds pour créer et rénover des logements abordables destinés à des ménages dans le besoin.

Betty House a également obtenu les fonds additionnels suivants :

• 1,8 million de dollars du Plan d’acquisition d’infrastructures d’immobilisations de la Société d’habitation des Territoires du Nord-Ouest;
• Plus de 1,7 million de dollars du Gouvernement du Canada par l’entremise de sa Stratégie des partenariats de lutte contre l’itinérance;
• 750 000 $ de la Dominion Diamond Ekati Corporation;
• 240 000 $ du YWCA de Yellowknife;
• 50 000 $ de la fondation Yellowknife Community;
• 260 000 $ de fonds provenant d’entreprises privées et de particuliers, pour un investissement total de 5,3 millions de dollars.

La Société d’habitation des Territoires du Nord-Ouest a formé un partenariat avec la Ville de Yellowknife, le Conseil consultatif communautaire de Yellowknife sur l’itinérance et le YWCA de Yellowknife dans le but de construire cet ensemble qui répond aux besoins essentiels en matière de logement des T.N.-O. Betty House est la propriété du YWCA de Yellowknife, qui en assume également la gestion.

Chaque année, le gouvernement du Canada, par l’entremise de la Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL), investit approximativement 2 milliards de dollars dans le logement. De cette somme, environ 1,7 milliard de dollars de ces crédits fédéraux annuels sont versés sous forme de subventions continues pour aider près de 600 000 personnes seules et familles vivant dans des logements sociaux à l’intérieur ou à l’extérieur des réserves. Dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest, cela représente environ 2 350 ménages. Le reste des fonds soutient des activités liées au logement et des programmes de logement abordable, y compris l’Investissement dans le logement abordable. Ces investissements contribuent à améliorer la qualité de vie des ménages habitant dans des logements sociaux et des Canadiens à faible revenu, notamment les personnes sans abri ou risquant de se retrouver à la rue, les aînés, les personnes handicapées, les immigrants récents et les Autochtones. Le Plan d’action économique de 2013 a maintenu cet engagement grâce à un investissement fédéral de plus de 1,25 milliard de dollars sur cinq ans pour renouveler l’Investissement dans le logement abordable (IDLA) jusqu’en 2019. Le gouvernement du Canada s’assurera que les fonds accordés aux provinces et aux territoires favorisent le recours à des apprentis, pour ainsi soutenir la formation de main-d’œuvre qualifiée. Entre avril 2011 et juin 2014, près de 184 000 ménages ont bénéficié de cet investissement à l’échelle nationale, dont près de 284 dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest.

La Société d’habitation du Nord-Ouest (SHTNO) a pour mandat de donner accès à des logements abordables de qualité et de taille convenables. En offrant des programmes et des services en matière de logement, la SHTNO contribue à la santé et à l’éducation des résidents des T.N.-O. et au développement de collectivités durables, dynamiques et sûres.

Pour en savoir davantage sur la manière dont le gouvernement du Canada et la Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL) aident les Canadiens à répondre à leurs besoins en matière de logement, communiquez avec la SCHL au 1-800-668-2642 ou consultez le www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

Personnes-ressources pour les médias :

Cara Bryant
Conseillère en communications, Société d’habitation des Territoires du Nord-Ouest
867-873-7854
Cara_bryant@gov.nt.ca

Charles Daniel Mainville
Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement
403-515-2915
cdmainvi@cmhc-schl.gc.ca

Dayle Hernblad
Coordonnateur à l’itinérance, ville de Yellowknife
867-669-3409
Dayle.hernblad@yellowknife.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 26, 2014) – Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty met with stakeholders from across the Northwest Territories (NWT) this week to discuss labour market needs and new initiatives.

Aboriginal governments and organizations, mining and exploration, non-governmental organizations and industry representatives met to hear about the new Canada Job Fund and Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDA) and to discuss labour market needs throughout the NWT.

“The discussions were extremely productive in terms of understanding the NWT’s labour market needs and planning for the future,” said Minister Lafferty. “We have numerous initiatives and opportunities under our current Labour Market Development Agreement which will help address some of our labour market needs, but in order to be truly effective, we must listen to our labour market partners.”

The meeting opened a discussion that focused on improving the LMDA to better meet the needs of the labour market in the light of the recently signed Canada Job Fund Agreement and the upcoming expiration of the LMDA on March 31, 2015.

The current LMDA, signed in 2011, includes funding for benefits like building essential skills; wage subsidies; self-employment; building and learning; and three territorial measures: employment assistance services, labour market partnerships and research and innovation.

For more information visit Career and Employment on the ECE website.

Media inquiries:

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager
Communications and Public Affairs
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 26, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) demonstrated its commitment to addressing the high cost of living in the NWT when Premier Bob McLeod and Finance Minister and Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation (NTPC) J. Michael Miltenberger announced today that the GNWT will cover the $20 million in additional costs NTPC faces as a result of extreme low water conditions on the Snare hydro system this summer. The Premier and the Minister also announced that the GNWT will hold a second energy charrette in Yellowknife from November 3-4, 2014.

“Our government is committed to making the Northwest Territories an attractive place to live, work and do business, and addressing the high cost of living is a priority,” said Premier McLeod. “Energy is a huge part of that cost and we have taken this extraordinary step because our government wants to be part of the solution, not add to the problem. This decision will spare residents all across the NWT from having to cover the cost of low water on the Snare system themselves and will give us an opportunity to identify both immediate and long-term solutions for bringing down energy costs.”

“We operate in remote and challenging conditions and that means the cost to provide power throughout the territory is high,” said Minister Miltenberger. “It limits our opportunities to grow a strong, diversified economy and drives up living costs for residents. We need to find more affordable alternatives for generating power closer to communities so we can make some headway in bringing those costs down and support our economic strategy. The second energy charrette will be an opportunity for energy stakeholders and experts to get together and identify some practical actions that government can take immediately, as well as long-term actions that will allow us to hold the line on energy costs into the future.”

NTPC will incur an additional $20 million in costs from using diesel to supplement electricity generation because of extremely low water in the Snare hydro system. To recover these costs, the corporation applied to the Public Utilities Board for a rate rider that would have seen all NWT electricity users paying an additional 3.69 cents/kWh on their power bills. With today’s announcement, the GNWT has eliminated the need for the rate rider and ensured this additional cost will not be passed on to NWT residents.

“While this decision will shield NWT residents from this one potential cost increase, it is clear that the GNWT must find alternatives to the expensive energy sources we currently depend on,” said Premier McLeod. “The first energy charrette was successful in bringing together a broad cross-section of stakeholders and experts to help define a long-term energy vision for the NWT. We want to use the same approach to take a focused look at actions that will help us bring down energy costs in communities immediately as well as longer-term actions government should be pursuing to keep energy costs low.”

The first energy charrette was held in November 2012 and brought together  over 120 participants from Aboriginal and community governments, businesses, non-governmental organizations and the GNWT in a collaborative process to outline how to meet the territory’s future energy needs. Input from the charrette and public consultations informed the development of the NWT Energy Action Plan, released in December 2013.

Media inquiries:

Brenda Norris
Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2302
Email: brenda_norris@gov.nt.ca

FORT SMITH (September 25, 2014) – Residents of Fort Smith will become the newest beneficiaries of electronic medical information systems, as the Government of the Northwest Territories continues its roll-out of the Territorial Electronic Medical Record (EMR) project. Authorized health professionals will have instant access to the medical information of patients, which enhances patient continuity of care.

“My priority is making sure that NWT residents receive the best healthcare possible and we need a more integrated health and social services system supported by the right technology to make that happen,” said Minister of Health and Social Services Glen Abernethy. “EMR transforms the way information is captured, integrated and shared between authorized health providers and will be an important tool as we continue to work towards creating a more unified system that will ensure better care and better health for a better future for all our people.”

“EMR is more secure than paper records and it will make it easier for authorized health providers to track data over time as well as notifying them on when patients are due for preventative visits and screenings,” said Phyllis Mawdsley, CEO for Fort Smith Health and Social Services Authority. “EMR will ensure health information is available at the right time, right place, and to the right provider.”

EMR is used for scheduling, charting and billing to support the delivery of patient care. Moving towards a paperless record system provides additional security such as tracking who accessed EMR and what changes were made to individual medical records. Additionally, privacy audits are conducted on a weekly basis.

The rollout of the EMR in Fort Smith is taking place this week. There will be no impact on delivery of health services during this time.

Currently, Yellowknife Primary Care Centre and Frame Lake Community Health Clinic and the Hay River Medical Clinic are using EMR.

Backgrounder: Electronic Medical Records

Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2302
Email: brenda_norris@gov.nt.ca

Damien Healy
Manager, Communications
Department of Health and Social Services
Tel:          (867) 920-8927
Email:   damien_healy@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 24, 2014) – Recipients of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award and the Ministerial Literacy Awards were honoured yesterday during the annual Adult Learners’ Luncheon in Yellowknife.

These awards were created by the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment in 2002 and the Council of the Federation in 2005 to recognize adult learners that have overcome learning and literacy challenges or championed literacy to learners of all ages.

“Literacy is critical in everything we do,” said Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty. “Our Literacy Award recipients today demonstrate that literacy challenges can be overcome, are dedicated learners, hopeful visionaries, and are committed to all levels of literacy. I am proud to see them recognized for their achievements and offer my congratulations.”

The award recipients for 2014:

Julie White – Council of the Federation Literacy Award is given to an adult learner who has overcome obstacles and demonstrated outstanding progress in the pursuit of literacy skills in any of the NWT official languages.

Micheline Ricard – The Ministerial Literacy Award for Professional Educators is given to NWT educators who have demonstrated an outstanding dedication to literacy.

Mark Salvor – The Ministerial Literacy Award for Volunteer Educators is given to NWT tutors or literacy facilitators who have demonstrated an outstanding dedication to literacy.

Helen Balanoff – The Ministerial Literacy Award in the Literacy Champion category recognizes an individual or group that has dedicated itself to literacy promotion and initiatives.

Tuktoyaktuk Community Learning Centre – The Ministerial Literacy Award for Organizations is given to NWT organizations, literacy committees or programs which have advocated for literacy and improved literacy levels in their communities.

Deninu School, Fort Resolution – The Ministerial Literacy Award for Youth Learners is given to NWT youth learners (ages 16-25) who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their own literacy development and who have been role models for other youth.

The awards luncheon, provided by Aurora College and hosted by the NWT Literacy Council, is a highlight of NWT Literacy Week.  It is supported by funding from the Department of Education, Culture and Employment.

Backgrounder – NWT Literacy Awards

Media inquiries:

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager
Communications and Public Affairs
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

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.  “In addition, their work showcases the NWT to the world as a culturally rich travel destination and a place of artistic excellence.” 

“It is imperative that we continue to support our arts and cultural communities,” said Minister of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Jackson Lafferty. “They are vital to our Northern identities and reflect our cultures, languages and traditional lifestyles. It is especially encouraging to see many of our youth celebrating their culture through artistic expression, further contributing to cultural revitalization and promotion for the North.”

Some of the events being held to celebrate Arts Week across the NWT include:

• Trashformations Exhibit
  Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre Auditorium, Yellowknife.
  Museum hours. September 21-27

• Workshops, craft demonstrations, snacks and door prizes
  All communities in the Beaufort Delta Region. September 22-26

• Panel Discussion- Marketing Your Art
  Northern Frontier Visitors Center, Yellowknife. 7 – 9 pm. September 24

NWT Arts has also launched a new Facebook page that highlights local artists and shares their diverse collections of crafts, clothing, media arts and more.

In addition to contributing to the preservation of culture, tradition and language, the NWT Arts sector also contributes to a strong, diversified economy in all NWT regions and communities and is highlighted as an area of strength to build on in the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy. The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) supports artists with programs and funding from the Departments of ECE and ITI.

A list of events scheduled during Arts Week is available at: www.nwtarts.com 

Media inquiries:

Leslie Campbell
Senior Communications Officer
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Tel: (867) 920-3343
Email: leslie_campbell@gov.nt.ca

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs
Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

First Intergovernmental Council Meeting held in Yellowknife

September 19, 2014 (YELLOWKNIFE) – Leaders and officials from  the Government of the Northwest Territories, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Northwest Territory Métis Nation, Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated, Gwich’in Tribal Council, Tłı̨chǫ Government, Salt River First Nation and Denínu Kų́ę́ First Nation attended the first Intergovernmental Council meeting today in Yellowknife.

A key feature of the Devolution Agreement is the creation of an Intergovernmental Council to allow governments to cooperate and collaborate on matters related to lands and resource management. The Council is established by the Northwest Territories Intergovernmental Agreement on Lands and Resources Management (NWTIALRM), which was signed in February of this year. The overall goal of the Intergovernmental Council is to work together to explore ways to collaborate and coordinate on land, water and resource management issues. Leaders and officials gathered in Yellowknife and talked about processes for future meetings and priority areas for work in the coming year. Leaders approved the Terms of Reference for the Intergovernmental Council Secretariat. This Secretariat was tasked with undertaking work in a number of key areas including:

• Identifying priority legislation for review
• Establishing a working group to investigate options related to Impact Benefit Agreements, including focusing on best practices from the NWT and other jurisdictions and to return to the Intergovernmental Council with those options
• Developing recommendations to improve Aboriginal government capacity throughout the NWT
• Reviewing processes for water management and planning, including improving baseline data related to water
• Reviewing the Land Use Sustainability Framework and providing any agreed upon recommendations
• Establishing a working group to discuss options related to the administration of resource revenue allocations.

The Council provides an important new opportunity for northern leaders to cooperate on land and resource management across jurisdictions, while respecting the autonomy and authority of each government over its own lands. The inaugural meeting of the Intergovernmental Council is a first step in a new era of cooperation between the Government of the Northwest Territories and Aboriginal governments.   It builds on and complements the GNWT’s ongoing work to engage Aboriginal governments in the spirit of respect, recognition and responsibility and foster strong partnerships that will benefit all residents of the NWT.

2014-09-19 Final Backgrounder Intergovernmental Council

For more information, contact:

Brenda Norris
Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories                                                              
867-669-2302

Bob Simpson
Director, Intergovernmental Relations
Inuvialuit Regional Corporation
867-777-7040

Earl Jacobson
Executive Director
Northwest Territory Métis Nation
867-872-2770

Ethel Blondin-Andrew
Chairperson
Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated
867-589-4719

Helen Sullivan
Chief Operating Officer
Gwich’in Tribal Council
867-777-7900

Laura Duncan
Tłı̨chǫ Executive Officer
Tłı̨chǫ Government
867-766-4003

Chief Harry Deneron
Acho Dene Koe First Nation
403-519-6527

Chief Louis Balsillie
Denínu Kų́ę́ First Nation
867-394-5122

Allen Stanzell
Salt River First Nation
867-872-0396

YELLOWKNIFE (September 18, 2014) – Minister of Justice David Ramsay today announced the appointment of the Honourable Judge Christine Gagnon to the position of Chief Judge of the Territorial Court of the Northwest Territories.

Under the Territorial Court Act, the Chief Judge is appointed to a non-renewable term of five years. The term of the current Chief Judge, the Honourable Chief Judge Robert Gorin, will expire on October 2, 2014 at 5 pm at which point the new Chief Judge’s term will take effect.

“We want to thank Chief Judge Gorin for his dedication during his term,” said Minister Ramsay. “The people of the Northwest Territories have been very well served.”

Chief Judge Gorin will continue to serve as a Territorial Court Judge once his term expires.

Judge Christine Gagnon graduated from the University of Montreal in 1987, and is fluently bilingual. Judge Gagnon was in private practice before serving as a Crown prosecutor based in Iqaluit from 2001 to mid-2006. Following that,  she moved to the federal Department of Justice in Ottawa, and then to Yellowknife in June 2007 as Senior Counsel. Judge Gagnon was appointed to the Territorial Court in February, 2009.

Minister Ramsay said, “We are certain Judge Gagnon will uphold the long history of impartiality and professionalism demonstrated by the Northwest Territories judiciary and confident she will continue to promote access to justice for the residents of the NWT.”

The Chief Judge is responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of the court, including scheduling the sittings of the Territorial Court and the assignment of territorial judges.  The Chief Judge is also responsible for the selection and conduct of territorial judges and the supervision of justices of the peace.

Media inquiries:
Sue Glowach
Senior Communications Advisor
Department of Justice
Tel: 867-920-3130

YELLOWKNIFE (September 18, 2014) – Over $100,000 in funding is being issued to eligible NWT trappers as part of the Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) Trapper’s Grubstake Program.

“Traditional harvesting is an important element of the NWT’s economy and the Trapper’s Grubstake Program helps to offset some of the start-up costs required at the beginning of the season,” said Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) Minister David Ramsay. “Our trappers are the very best in their trade and, as a result, so is the fur they ship to market.”

As part of the GNWT’s Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program (GMVF), delivered collaboratively by ITI and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Trapper’s Grubstake provides financial support to trappers, ranging from $100 for 20 pelts up to a maximum of $2,000 for 400 pelts. To receive a grubstake payment, NWT trappers must have delivered a minimum of 20 pelts to GMVF in the previous trapping season.

The GMVF Program provides one-window access to international markets for NWT trappers and works with the Fur Harvesters’ Auction. The program also helps trappers to maximize their returns and learn best practices for trapping and pelt preparation. In addition to the grubstake support, the GMVF Program offers guaranteed advances and prime fur bonuses.

The NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy (EOS) recognizes the important role of traditional pursuits in the NWT economy and endorses investment in the GMVF Program. By actively supporting the harvesting and marketing of wild fur, the GNWT is helping to diversify the NWT economy, a goal of the 17th Legislative Assembly.

Media inquiries:

Leslie Campbell
Senior Communications Officer
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-3343
Email: leslie_campbell@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 17, 2014) – New data released today by the Department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) confirms that actions the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is undertaking to support the healthy development of children in the NWT are focused on areas of greatest need. The information was collected over three years using the Early Development Instrument (EDI), a standardized method of measuring readiness to learn that is used across Canada and in several other countries.

“The Early Development Instrument is the first reliable measure we’ve had to see how prepared our young children are for school,” said Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty. “The information we’ve gathered over the past three years will help us focus and target our early childhood development investments in areas where they will have the greatest impact and gives us a baseline we can use to measure our success.”

The EDI measures five areas of early development: physical health and well-being, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive development and communications skills and general knowledge. Baseline data gathered over three years indicates that many NWT children are vulnerable in one or more areas:

• 38% of five-year-old children in the NWT are vulnerable in one area of their development, as compared to 25% in the rest of Canada. This is as high as 53% in small communities.
• 23% of five-year-old children are vulnerable in at least two areas of their development, as compared to 12% in the rest of Canada.
• 12% of NWT children are at risk in the area of physical development related to nutrition, sleep and general well-being; more than triple the national average.
• 8.5% of NWT children have been identified with multiple challenges, as compared to the Canadian average of 3.8%.

The EDI results emphasize the need for targeted investment in the NWT’s children and support work the GNWT has already outlined in its Right from the Start: Early Childhood Development Framework and Action Plan. This ten-year strategy will guide GNWT action on early childhood development and addresses the need for enhanced early learning opportunities and new programs and services.

“We need to recognize that we didn’t get to this point overnight,” said Minister Lafferty. “There are decades of cultural and social practices that have affected our kids and it will take time to reverse that. The EDI clearly demonstrates that the NWT’s children need better supports and rich early learning opportunities for healthy growth and development. Our government has already started making the changes all our children and their families need and, with Right from the Start, have the plan we need to ensure long-term success.”

Actions already taken by the GNWT in support of early childhood development include introducing free, optional, developmentally appropriate and play-based Junior Kindergarten, new scholarships for students taking early childhood diploma or degree programs, wage subsidies and professional development opportunities for early childhood workers and licensing changes that give day home operators more flexibility in working with two and three-year-old children. Upcoming actions include providing baby bags for new parents and important parenting information loaded on electronic tablets.

Backgrounder – Early Development Instrument

For more information, visit: www.ece.gov.nt.ca/features/right-start

Media inquiries:

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: (867) 920-6222
Email: Jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 17, 2014) –  Department of Transportation staff continued to ensure the safety of NWT roads and highways by conducting brake inspections in four communities last week.

“Safe driving is everyone’s responsibility, and all drivers need to keep their vehicles in safe operating condition,” said Minister of Transportation Tom Beaulieu. “If your brakes aren’t working, you are a hazard to yourself and to other drivers.”

Highway Transport Officers inspected 48 commercial vehicles in Hay River, Enterprise, Yellowknife and Behchoko during Brake Safety Week, September 7-13. Eight of those vehicles were found to need immediate repairs and were taken off the road.

“Safe travel is our top priority and it is especially important for our children as they go to school,” said Minister Beaulieu. “Our staff immediately put an increased focus on school bus safety and are helping to educate commercial vehicle operators to properly maintain their vehicles.”

Brake Safety Week is part of the Operation Airbrake program sponsored by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, an international not-for-profit organization with a mission to promote commercial motor vehicle safety and security. It supports the 17th Assembly’s goal of keeping NWT communities sustainable, vibrant, and safe.

Media inquiries:

Megan Holsapple
Manager of Communications
Department of Transportation
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel:  (867) 873-7712
Cell: (867) 447-1368

YELLOWKNIFE (September 16, 2014) – Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty met with federal and provincial Ministers of Culture and Heritage last week to review new economic data on culture, arts, heritage and sport in Canada.  The meeting was co-chaired by the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, and the Honourable Robert Henderson, Minister of Tourism and Culture for Prince Edward Island.

The economic data comes from the Culture Satellite Account (CSA), a precise and reliable source using the most rigorous and transparent methodology to date to measure the economic importance and activity of arts, culture and heritage in Canada. The CSA stems from a partnership between Statistics Canada, Canadian Heritage, all of the provinces and territories, numerous municipalities and several non-governmental organizations. New statistics will be provided every year on a range of indicators, such as gross domestic product (GDP) and jobs.

“Arts and culture are extremely important to Northerners many of whom make their living in this way,” said Minister Lafferty.  Having an accurate way to measure the impact and importance of these activities provides us with reliable evidence on which to base investment decisions on the arts.”

Other priorities and collaborative projects were discussed at the meeting such as working together to grow the creative economy; supporting heritage conservation through sustainability, revitalization and re-use of heritage buildings; and TV channel unbundling.  Ministers also discussed the upcoming celebrations of the 150th anniversary of Confederation, including economic opportunities it presents and how to get youth involved.

Ministers re-affirmed their interest in the 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games, which will give provinces and territories a chance to highlight and celebrate their culture and creativity.

Media inquiries:

Jacqueline McKinnon

Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Phone: (867) 920-6222

Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 15, 2014) – Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty joined his colleagues at the Ministers of Labour meeting in Halifax earlier this month.  On the agenda was psychological health and safety issues in the workplace.

The Ministers’ discussions demonstrated links between safe and healthy workplaces, job creation and economic development. Ministers recognized the profound impact psychological health and safety issues have on Canadian workers, businesses and the economy.

Minister Lafferty, who is also the Minister Responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission, said, “at any week across Canada more than 500,000 people do not go to work because of mental illness.  In the Northwest Territories we want our workplaces to be healthy, productive and respectful to all.  A workplace with a culture of trust and civility is a more dynamic environment for everyone.”

Ministers agreed to raise awareness of psychological health and safety issues in their jurisdictions and to promote initiatives that address the psychological health and safety of workers. Preventing injuries and illnesses in the workplace, including psychological health and safety issues, is an essential component of the health, well-being and economic success of Canadians.

As part of their respective responsibilities, Ministers agreed to encourage the promotion of the Voluntary National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace as a best practice within their jurisdictions.  They also agreed to continue sharing research, information and best practices within their own governments, as well as across jurisdictions, to address workplace psychological health and safety for workers, including youth.

The Ministers also discussed issues concerning international labour organization conventions and labour provisions of trade agreements.

Media inquiries:

Jacqueline McKinnon

Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Phone: (867) 920-6222

Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 12, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (NWT) released the 2013 student attendance and Alberta Achievement Tests results today. The Department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) uses this information to measure the success of the territory’s education system and to ensure ECE is making the best use of resources to provide quality education for all students in the territory.

“Research has shown that a child’s attendance record may be the biggest factor influencing his or her success at school,” said Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty. “Everything we have been working toward reflects meeting student and family needs, how we can help them engage in their education, and their sense of belonging and identity within their school and community. Early Childhood Development, Junior Kindergarten, the Early Development Instrument and Education Renewal and Innovation are all aligned to create a foundation for our children to develop and lead productive lives. It is critical that we continue developing these initiatives to ensure we bridge achievement gaps and challenges facing our children and families.”

The Alberta Achievement Tests (AATs), developed by Alberta’s Department of Education, are used in the NWT as the two education systems use similar curriculum. The AATs help to determine if students are learning what they are expected to learn and meeting curricular objectives in Language Arts and Mathematics. The tests are written at the end of the school year in grades 3, 6 and 9. The results are shared with educators and parents and used by policy makers to improve student learning.

AATs provide a picture of a student’s performance on one particular day, and show how well a student has performed in relation to Alberta curricular objectives.

Trends in the 2013 attendance and AAT data show little difference from previous years, revealing once again that there is a need for significant improvement.  The results confirm that far too many NWT children and youth are falling short of their potential and falling behind other Canadian students. Students in small communities are at greatest risk of lagging behind. The results underscore that meaningful and sustainable change is required in the NWT, especially in the areas of early childhood development and learning, which is a major focus of the K-12 Education Renewal and Innovation initiative.

Backgrounder – 2012-13 Attendance and AAT Results

For more information, visit www.ece.gov.nt.ca.

Media inquiries:

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Phone: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 12, 2014) – The Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) is seeking nominations for the NWT Fire Service Merit Awards.

Based on nominations from community members, fire departments and fire chiefs, the NWT Fire Service Merit Awards honour and recognize individuals and community fire departments for their significant contributions to fire safety and fire service in communities across the NWT.

“Recognizing community firefighters, both paid and volunteer, is an important way we can say thank you to those who sacrifice to protect our homes and communities,” said Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs Robert C. McLeod. “I encourage all residents to consider nominating an individual or fire department for their exceptional service.”

Members of the public can nominate individuals or community fire departments online at www.maca.gov.nt.ca. Printable nomination forms are also available on the website.

The deadline for nominations is September 26, 2013.

Recipients of the NWT Fire Service Merit Awards will be announced during National Fire Prevention Week October 5 – 11, 2014.

For more information, please contact:                 

David Maguire
Communications and Web Advisor
Municipal and Community Affairs
Phone: (867) 920-3092
Email: david_maguire@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 12, 2014) – Minister of Lands Robert C. McLeod today announced new measures that will help the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) ensure development on public lands is done responsibly and respects the value Northerners place on the land and environment.

As part of implementing new responsibilities assumed through devolution, the GNWT will be adopting a coordinated government-wide approach for managing environmental liability and securities for resource development.  A dedicated division will be established in the Department of Lands to oversee security management and policy development.  The Division will provide strong and effective collaboration between departments with legislated responsibilities for security deposits and central agencies such as the Departments of Finance and Justice. The Division will also lead and coordinate short and longer term policy development and the Government’s ongoing management of securities.

“Respect for the land is part of the Northern way of life,” said Minister McLeod. “I am confident that the new Liabilities and Financial Assurances Division will help our government fulfill its new responsibilities and make sure that public lands are managed appropriately, especially when it comes to establishing accurate cost estimates for security deposits.”

Requiring securities as a part of the development review process helps ensure potential environmental liabilities can be remediated and the northern environment protected.  Security deposits help protect government and taxpayers from the risk of having to bear the costs of meeting these conditions.

Under devolution, GNWT departments became responsible for administering securities related to their respective legislative mandates.  The new division will ensure a government-wide, unified and consistent approach on this important work.

For more information:

Leila Beaudoin
Communications
Department of Lands
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 765-6741
Email: Leila_Beaudoin@gov.nt.ca

DELINE, NWT (September 11, 2014) – An Aboriginal tourism initiative between the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) and the community of Délįnę is proving to be a viable model for attracting tour groups to the territory’s smaller communities.

Destination Délįnę specializes in providing traditional Aboriginal experiences and recently welcomed its first tour group to the community. The visitors had the opportunity to participate in checking fish nets, berry picking, making bannock, story-telling, a hand games tournament and a community drum dance.

“I commend the people of Délįnę for their hard work and effort to develop and promote their community as a travel destination,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay. “There is strong interest in the tourism industry for meaningful and authentic travel experiences, and this is exactly what Destination Délįnę offers. This is an excellent example of how other smaller communities can gain profile in the travel industry.”

“Aboriginal traditions and customs are important to the people of the NWT. I applaud Délįnę, the birthplace of ice hockey in Canada, for creating this remarkable tourism initiative that welcomes visitors with a true cultural experience,” said Norman Yakeleya, MLA for Sahtu.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is working with the Aboriginal Tourism Champions Advisory Council (ATCAC) to develop a strategy that will capitalize on trending interest in Canada’s North and meet the growing demand for non-consumptive tourism products highlighting Aboriginal cultural experiences.

The Destination Délįnę initiative is responsive to recommendations in the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy, developed to realize the 17th Legislative Assembly’s priority to strengthen and diversify the NWT economy.

For more information, contact:
Leslie Campbell
Senior Communications Officer
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-3343
Email: leslie_campbell@gov.nt.ca

Yellowknife (September 10, 2014) –  On September 9, 2014, the Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority (YHSSA) awarded the NWT Disabilities Council with a contract to provide day shelter services effective October 1, 2014.

Health and Social Service Minister Glen Abernethy noted, “today is an important day, because it demonstrates our society’s commitment to care about everyone. We have heard many times and in many venues about the challenges that some of our citizens experience on a daily basis. It is a moral obligation for government to find ways to support clients that live in difficult circumstances and need our help, and I commend the efforts made by all of these partners to create a sustainable daytime shelter service for people at a time when it is most needed.”

Denise McKee, Executive Director for the NWT Disabilities Council said, “we are pleased to have been awarded the contract for the operation of the Day Shelter, and we will continue to work, as part of an integrated team, to address the complex issues faced by individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and related issues.”

“YHSSA is excited to work with the NWT Disabilities Council for the successful delivery of daytime shelter services to clients in need of support, and we will work closely with this partner to ensure improvements are made that facilitate appropriate access and support to clients” said Liz Wyman, Board Chair of YHSSA. “I would also like to recognize the other key stakeholders that supported the success of this initiative, including the Department of Health and Social Services, the City of Yellowknife, the Departments of Public Works and Services, Education, Culture and Employment, Justice, and the NWT Housing Corporation, and the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce; and I wish to thank Peterson and Auger for providing the critical space needed for this initiative to go forward.”

Working with other government departments and the City of Yellowknife, the Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority (YHSSA) issued separate Request for Proposals (RFPs) for a service provider for the Day Shelter, and leased space.  On September 2, 2014, a lease was signed with Peterson/Auger for a property located at 5023-49th Street in Yellowknife.  The lease is for two years, with optional yearly extensions for an additional three years.

The Yellowknife Day Shelter is funded by the Department of Health and Social Services and the City of Yellowknife.

For more information contact:
Damien Healy
Manager Planning and Communications
Department of Health and Social Services
Tel: (867) 920-8927
Email: Damien_healy@gov.nt.ca

Denise McKee
Executive Director
NWT Disabilities Council
Tel: (867) 873-8230
Toll Free: 1-800-491-8885
Email:  ed@nwtdc.net

CHARLOTTETOWN (September 10, 2014) – Aboriginal tourism development, improving visitor access and engaging the United States market were topics highlighted at the Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting this week.

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) David Ramsay joined federal, territorial and provincial tourism ministers in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island on September 8-9 for the meeting. Discussions focused on aligning efforts to maximize Canada’s global presence as a travel destination.

“This was an ideal forum for Canadian colleagues to collaborate on how to improve tourism marketing, products and regulations,” said Minister Ramsay. “Aboriginal tourism was discussed as a major asset for the Canadian tourism industry.”

Minister Ramsay had the opportunity to present the NWT’s Aboriginal tourism story and available visitor experiences. “Growing the Aboriginal tourism sector is an important goal and discussions about growing the industry were insightful and informative,” said the Minister.

Through exploring and participating in opportunities for tourism growth and development, the Government of the Northwest Territories is working to build a strong and sustainable future for the Northwest Territories, a key priority of the 17th Legislative Assembly.

Media inquiries:

Leslie Campbell
Senior Communications Officer
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel:         (867) 920-3343
Email:    leslie_campbell@gov.nt.ca