Northwest Territories News

YELLOWKNIFE (September 9, 2014) – Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty announced a new scholarship for people considering a career in early childhood development today.

Ten $5,000 scholarships are available to qualifying full-time college and university students to help with the cost of attending accredited post-secondary institutes offering diploma and degree programs with a direct focus on early childhood development.

The Departments of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) and Health and Social Services (HSS) have been collaborating on Right from the Start: A Framework and Action Plan for Early Childhood Development for the last two years, renewing an older early childhood strategy to reflect new research and priorities of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT). Accompanied by an action plan, the renewed framework outlines the work the GNWT plans to accomplish over the next several years through investments in programs and services aimed at improving outcomes in early childhood development.

The action plan describes 22 targeted actions for program and service enhancement and implementation. Action 21 details increasing the number of qualified early childhood development professionals in licenced programs, and outlines a number of tasks to address the action. Establishing a scholarship fund is one of these tasks.

“The investments we have made to date in early childhood development are just the start of developing a solid foundation of improved and new programs, and equitable access and support for families,” said Minister Lafferty. “This initiative is paramount for the future of our territory. The early years in a child’s life are the most critical for healthy development and truly set our children on the path they will follow for the rest of their lives. A scholarship fund for people entering or already registered in an early childhood program is one of the best steps we can take to ensure our children have access to the right programs with qualified early childcare professionals. It also fulfills one of the commitments we have made to the profession.”

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

For more information:

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

Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (September 8, 2014) – The Department of Education, Culture and Employment has officially launched the NWT Stand Up Stop Bullying campaign.

The campaign will initially focus on youth to help effect behaviour change across the Northwest Territories (NWT) and continues the Government of the Northwest Territories’ work to support healthy, educated people that also included the passage of Bill 12: An Act to Amend the Education Act on November 1, 2013.

“Research from across Canada and around the world indicates that youth are the catalyst for changing entrenched perceptions and behaviours in society,” said Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty.  “We know that this generation of youth are more savvy, more informed and more technologically proficient than any generation before them. They are far more engaged in the issues of the day, and bullying and its often tragic effects have a significant footprint in our social consciousness. We are seeing more youth speak out about this issue than ever before.”

One of the primary tools of the awareness campaign is the stopbullyingnwt.ca website, which includes resources for students, parents and teachers, as well as research and information from across Canada on bullying prevention and awareness. The campaign will kick off with contests for both schools and individual students.  Submissions from the contests will be used in the ongoing promotion of bullying prevention, ensuring that youth continue to be engaged in bullying awareness across the NWT.

“We hope our students understand the importance of speaking out against bullying,” said Minister Lafferty. “Empowering our youth is critical to their success in many areas, and will help build a strong and safe school environment that will impact them beyond the walls of the schools.”

Territorial schools are currently working with the Safe and Caring Schools Committee to finalize the Safe Schools plans, regulations, policies and procedures to implement in the 2014-15 school year.

For more information, visit www.stopbullyingnwt.ca.

Media inquiries:

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

YELLOWKNIFE (September 4, 2014) – Canada’s territorial Premiers renewed their collaborative vision for the North at the Northern Premiers’ Forum in Yellowknife today.

A Northern Vision: Building a Better North outlines a vision for the North shared by the governments of the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut. It will help the territories to continue working together to ensure the North is a region of vibrant, healthy communities with sound economies and diverse opportunities, and where the environment is protected for future generations.

“Much has changed in the North since A Northern Vision was originally released seven years ago,” said Northwest Territories Premier Robert McLeod. “Political changes through NWT devolution and the settlement of modern treaties and self‑government agreements mean that northerners are taking greater control of their own destinies. The federal government’s Northern Strategy has brought greater focus to the North and its potential, while Canada’s Chairmanship of the Arctic Council has increased international attention.”

Yukon Premier Darrell Pasloski said: “I am committed to working with my territorial counterparts to create a stronger North. We have reinforced this commitment by renewing A Northern Vision, a document outlining our shared priorities of energy, infrastructure, governance and productive and engaged citizens. Our priority is to ensure continued economic growth in Canada’s North for the benefit of northerners and all Canadians.”

Nunavut Premier Peter Taptuna said: “I welcome an updated version of A Northern Vision as Nunavut is committed to building a stronger North with healthy and self-reliant residents. Nunavut has grown and evolved since the original document was released seven years ago. I believe a renewed focus on energy, infrastructure, governance and responsible resource development can benefit all three territories, their citizens and the rest of Canada.”

The renewed vision is based on four strategic pillars. Productive and Engaged Citizens highlights the territorial governments’ support for healthy and self-reliant residents, including a strong education system and practical skills training.

Energy speaks to the need for reliable and affordable energy systems in order to reduce the cost of living for residents and businesses, and to unlock the North’s substantial resource wealth.

Infrastructure describes the need for robust, reliable infrastructure as the basis for strong communities and resilient economies. Improved transportation systems, including roads, airports, northern ports and coastal access, are essential for improving the quality of life of northern residents.

Governance supports the steps territories are taking to control their environmental, economic, social and political destinies. Partnerships with Aboriginal and Inuit governments and groups are key to this work, as land, resources and self‑government agreements continue to be achieved. A significant accomplishment in this area was the devolution of province-like powers to the Government of the NWT on April 1, 2014.

Responsible environmental stewardship supports each of these pillars, recognizing that the land is central to the North’s cultural identity.

Northern Premiers originally released A Northern Vision: A Stronger North and a Better Canada in 2007. Given changes in the North since then, the Premiers committed at the 2013 Northern Premiers’ Forum to review and update the document.

The previous Northern Vision resulted in pan-territorial cooperation in the areas of climate change and energy. In 2011, Northern Premiers published Paths to a Renewable North: A Pan-Territorial Renewable Energy Inventory and the Pan-Territorial Adaptation Strategy: Moving Forward on Climate Change Adaptation in Canada’s North, which led to the three territories co-hosting the 2013 Pan-Territorial Permafrost Workshop.

For more information visit www.anorthernvision.ca or contact:

Shaun Dean
Director
Cabinet Communications
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2304
shaun_dean@gov.nt.ca

Elaine Schiman
Cabinet Communications
Government of Yukon
Tel: 867-633-7961
elaine.schiman@gov.yk.ca

Yasmina Pepa
Press Secretary to Premier Peter Taptuna
Government of Nunavut
Tel: 867-222-0961
ypepa@gov.nu.ca

2014 Northern Premiers’ Forum     Working together to build a better North

YELLOWKNIFE (September 4, 2014) – Territorial Premiers met today for the 12th annual Northern Premiers’ Forum.

The forum provides Premiers with the opportunity to discuss issues of mutual concern, develop made-in-the-North solutions, and promote northern interests. This year, the Premiers renewed the Northern Co‑operation Accord, the formal agreement that outlines how the three governments work together. The Premiers also launched A Northern Vision: Building a Better North, an update to the territories’ broad collaborative vision originally published in 2007.

Mental wellness

Premiers agreed that mental health is a vital part of the overall well-being of communities, families and individuals.  They discussed the challenges of delivering mental health services in remote communities and noted that technology is commonly used in the delivery of other types of healthcare.  Premiers directed their Health Ministers to consider ways to advance E-Mental Health, and other methods of delivering mental health services in remote communities and report back on the outcome of their work at the 2015 Northern Premiers’ Forum.

Housing

Premiers highlighted the importance of access to stable and affordable housing to northern families, communities and the economies of the territories.

As noted in A Northern Vision, Premiers agreed that the economic potential of the territories will be fully realized through the construction of strategic infrastructure, such as housing, which will encourage investment, enable job creation and improve the standard of living. Key to this is a robust private sector able to participate in meeting the housing needs of the North.

Premiers also recognize the important role that the federal government must play in partnership with the territories as they work to strengthen the North’s housing stock, communities and economy.

Energy

Premiers agreed that clean, reliable, affordable energy is the backbone of a sustainable economy, is essential for the well-being of northerners, and fosters investment and economic growth in the North.

Premiers discussed he need for affordable electricity, especially in off-grid communities, an issue that significantly impacts northern communities. This issue was an area of focus at the 2014 Western Premiers Conference in Iqaluit and again at the meeting of Canada’s Premiers last week in Charlottetown. The Premiers stressed the importance of working together in a number of different areas, including renewable and alternative forms of energy. They noted the significant profile given to energy issues in A Northern Vision.

Northern infrastructure

Premiers discussed the vital role of modern infrastructure in developing Canada’s North. Many northern communities are highly dependent on air and marine transportation services, owing to the lack of reliable road access. The construction of all-season roads, improving marine facilities and navigational charts for northern Canada is necessary to support the sustainable development of the North’s rich resource base. It will also improve the safety and effectiveness of critical industry and community marine resupply and resource export operations. In addition, Premiers noted the significant impact  that a strong telecommunications network has on the lives Northerners  and to the business community.

Premiers noted the importance of the investments the federal government continues to make in northern infrastructure. They emphasized that a strong infrastructure network encourages development in the North, which benefits northern communities and Canada.

Arctic Council

As the second half of Canada’s Chairmanship of the Arctic Council unfolds and the Ministerial meeting approaches, Premiers reaffirmed their commitment to working with Canada to ensure territorial priorities continue to be reflected in Canada’s Arctic Council engagement.  As A Northern Vision emphasizes, reaching out to our circumpolar neighbours through the Arctic Council is essential.

Premiers are pleased that the Canadian Chairmanship has consistently hosted meetings in the North.  Premiers encouraged Canada to continue to involve territorial governments in Arctic Council work. Premiers also committed to working with Canada to ensure there is youth engagement with the Arctic Council

Pan-Territorial Adaptation Strategy

Premiers also received an update on the Pan-Territorial Adaptation Strategy, originally released at the 2011 Northern Premiers’ Forum. The initiative, which grew from the previous Northern Vision, has resulted in partnerships across the three territories to address climate change issues and identify common actions and measures in response to this emerging problem. This partnership continues to carry out important work to address the challenging issue of climate change, and Premiers look forward to receiving future updates.

Next meeting

Premier Taptuna confirmed that the 2015 Northern Premiers’ Forum will be held in Nunavut.

YELLOWKNIFE (August 29, 2014) – Political leaders from Aboriginal Governments, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and wildlife management authorities met in Yellowknife this week to discuss the continued decline of the Bluenose-East and Bathurst barren ground caribou herds.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister J. Michael Miltenberger called the meeting after receiving results from the June 2014 reconnaissance surveys of the calving grounds for both herds.

“The trends from these surveys suggest that both herds are declining at an alarming rate,” said Miltenberger.  “As leaders and managers, there is a need for us to review the current information about both herds and determine together, the management actions needed to help in their recovery and conservation.”

Reconnaissance surveys are undertaken once a year to determine trends in herd size. Population surveys are done every three years to determine the herd size.

The Bathurst herd numbered about 470,000 in 1986 and declined to about 32,000 in 2009.  The herd was considered stable but still low in numbers between 2009 and 2012, at about 35,000 animals.

The June 2014 reconnaissance survey of the Bathurst calving ground suggests that the herd continues to decline.

The 2013 population survey of the Bluenose-East herd indicated it had declined to about 68,000 animals from the more than 100,000 animals estimated during the 2010 survey.

The June 2014 reconnaissance survey of the Bluenose-East calving ground suggests that the herd has continued to decline by about 30 percent.

The results were shared with Aboriginal leaders and representatives from wildlife management authorities.

“I am optimistic that after frank discussion, we can move forward and determine the short term management actions needed before the start of the 2014-2015 winter harvest,” said Miltenberger. “We will reconvene in late October to discuss and decide what further actions we’ll need to take to conserve these two herds.”

Population surveys for the Bathurst and Bluenose-East herds are planned for summer 2015.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel:  (867) 873-7379
Email:  judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (August 29, 2014) – New and prospective tourism operators in the Northwest Territories (NWT) now have an opportunity to be mentored by highly skilled and experienced business and tourism professionals from across Canada.

To strengthen its Tourism Business Mentorship Program, the Department of Industry Tourism and Investment (ITI) has signed an agreement with the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO), one of Canada’s leading volunteer-based development organizations.

Minister of ITI, David Ramsay, sees the agreement as an opportunity for industry growth. “This partnership is a natural fit for the tourism industry and our tourism operators are a vital part of a visitor’s experience. Through this agreement we are striving to equip our operators with the best training resources.”

The Tourism Business Mentorship Program helps resident tourism operators maximize their potential by providing an opportunity and financial support to learn business skills from experienced mentors.

The CESO strengthens economic and social wellbeing in Canada and worldwide by working cooperatively with partners to match and engage its pool of skilled and experienced Canadian volunteers.

NWT residents interested in applying for the program are invited to contact their ITI Regional Offices.

Strengthened tourism training needs were highlighted by the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy (EOS). Through the implementation of this Strategy, the GNWT is working to realize the 17th Legislative Assembly’s goal of a diversified economy that provides opportunities to all communities and regions.

For more information, contact:

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

Ulrike Komaksiutiksak
Canadian Executive Service Organization
Email:    ukomaksiutiksak@ceso-saco.com
www.ceso-saco.com

YELLOWKNIFE (August 22, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) wishes to express its gratitude to Ms. Sheila Bassi-Kellett for her 25 years of service to the GNWT, and to clarify the circumstances of the departure of Ms. Bassi-Kellett from the public service as of August 1, 2014.

Ms. Bassi-Kellett, like all Deputy Ministers, served at pleasure. In ending Ms. Bassi-Kellett’s tenure, the GNWT chose to exercise its contractual right to end the relationship.  The GNWT wishes to emphasize that her departure from the position of Deputy Minister of the Department of Human Resources was on a without-cause basis. There is no suggestion that her dismissal related to her performance. 

Ms. Bassi-Kellett has faithfully and loyally served the Government of the Northwest Territories throughout her years of service and the GNWT wishes Ms. Bassi-Kellett all the best in the future.

The Department of Human Resources remains committed to providing quality services to GNWT departments and agencies and a decision regarding the appointment of a new Deputy Minister of Human Resources will be made in due course.

For more information:
Shaun Dean
Director, Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2304
Email: shaun_dean@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (August 19, 2014) –  The Government of the Northwest Territories is seeking input on options for ensuring the NWT health and social services system better meets the changing needs of NWT residents. The issues and plans for addressing them are outlined in Caring for our People – Improving the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services System, a discussion paper released today by Minister of Health and Social Services Glen Abernethy.

“I am travelling to regions across the NWT to meet with residents and gather feedback on our plans for best health, best care and a better future. We know we have room to improve our system, and want to hear from the public to ensure we are on the right track,” said Minister Abernethy. 

The discussion paper outlines steps to develop a single strategic plan for the health and social services system. Based on discussions with a number of stakeholders, the plan seeks to improve services for all residents of the NWT. The plan outlines actions in a number of areas including moving towards a single integrated health and social service system.

The Department of Health and Social Services has created a survey for residents to respond to the discussion paper. Residents will have until September 30, 2014 to provide feedback.

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

YELLOWKNIFE (August 18, 2014) – Fourteen organizations have been selected to receive Anti-Poverty funding in the NWT. The Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) Anti-Poverty Action Plan received $500,000 to provide organizations with funding for projects and initiatives to help reduce poverty at community, regional and territorial levels. Applicants submitted project proposals for review by the Anti-Poverty Action Plan Advisory Committee and approval from Minister of Health and Social Services Glen Abernethy.

“The successful proposals demonstrated ingenuity and respect for culture and tradition. The GNWT is proud to assist these fourteen organizations in realizing the objectives they have outlined in their proposals and to ultimately improve the lives of people in the territory,” said Minister Abernethy.

The fourteen organizations were selected based their particular initiative and how it would help address certain aspects of poverty in the NWT. The successful applicants will receive funding amounts ranging from $7,000 to $80,000, based on the size, targets and objectives of the different projects.

“The range of initiatives that each chosen project proposed cover each part of the territory, all of which help address some aspect of the picture of poverty in the NWT. Most importantly I believe this partnership between the GNWT, Aboriginal and community governments, Band Councils, NGOs and other groups demonstrates our ability to work together to address issues which affect us all,” said Minister Abernethy.

Healthy, educated people free from poverty is a goal of the 17th Legislative Assembly. By empowering organizations to carry out projects that will have a direct impact on poverty, the GNWT is working towards achieving this goal.

For more information on the GNWT Anti-Poverty Action Plan please consult:

NWT Anti-Poverty Roundtable Final Report:  http://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/default/files/nwt_anti-poverty_roundtable_final_report_summary.pdf

GNWT Anti-Poverty Action Plan: http://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/default/files/gnwt-anti-poverty-action-plan.pdf

Building on the Strengths of Northerners – A Strategic Framework toward the Elimination of Poverty in the NWT: http://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/default/files/anti-poverty_report.pdf

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

YELLOWKNIFE (August 14, 2014) – A boat-safety certification course that will improve the safety skills and knowledge of tourism operators and their guides out on the water is an important initiative that will improve the safety of boaters and make the boating experience enjoyable for tourists.

Offered in partnership by the Departments of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI), Transportation and Health and Social Services, the Pleasure Craft Operator Competency (PCOC) certification course will be offered in Ulukhaktok, Fort Resolution, Lutsel K’e, Trout Lake and Tulita. A successful course was already delivered in Deline, with 12 participants. The Transport Canada approved course is available for all pleasure boaters and these are targeted primarily at tourism operators. Community members can also apply to participate.

“We all want safe waterways, and with all of the visitors who enjoy the NWT’s extensive network of rivers and lakes by boat, it is well worth the time for tourism operators to take this safety course,” said Minister of ITI, David Ramsay. “Tourism operators will have the opportunity to enhance their safety skills to operate in Northern waters, which will help to ensure everyone has a positive boating experience.”

People interested in taking the certification course can contact their regional office http://www.iti.gov.nt.ca/regional-offices. For more information about the PCOC, visit http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/ptec-menu.htm

Through its implementation of the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy (EOS), the GNWT is working to realize the 17th Assembly’s goal of a diversified economy that provides all communities and regions with opportunities and choices.  $75,000 has been invested through the EOS this year to supplement and enhance short term training identified under the GNWT’s Tourism 2015 Strategy.

For more information:

Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel:         (867) 920-8696
Email:    Alayna_Ward@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (August 13, 2014) – Minister of Finance J. Michael Miltenberger is pleased with Moody’s Investors Service’s endorsement of the Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) sound fiscal plans through the continuation of their Aa1 credit rating for the GNWT announced Monday.

Moody’s Investors Service yesterday published its credit opinion the GNWT summarizing its rationale for the GNWT’s Aa1 / Stable Outlook credit rating.  The credit opinion summarizes Moody’s assessment of the GNWT’s fiscal plans and outlook – and in particular the government’s borrowing activity and the impact of devolution.

Moody’s states that: “The NWT adheres to prudent fiscal policy that aims to maintain the structural alignment of revenues and expenses while making necessary expenses in priority areas such as health, social services and infrastructure. The NWT’s fiscal plan is guided by a Fiscal Responsibility Policy that includes guidelines with respect to the types of activities for which debt can be issued as well as limits on total debt and debt servicing costs to ensure affordability. . The NWT, overall, displays strong governance and management factors. Adherence to the Fiscal Responsibility Policy helps to ensure continued fiscal discipline as the territorial government addresses its identified infrastructure needs.”

Moody’s high investment grade rating also reflects the territorial economy, which, while narrowly based and focused on resource development, generates high employment rates and GDP per capita.

While economic growth has been volatile due to the structure of the economy, the credit risk is mitigated by the territory’s low debt burden. “We have adopted fiscal policies that have supported the economy by maintaining spending and by investing significantly in infrastructure, but remain committed to our goal of long-term fiscal sustainability,” Minister Miltenberger said.

The GNWT’s rating is on par with that of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The highest possible credit rating issued by Moody’s is Aaa, one level above the GNWT’s. The NWT’s debt burden is low when compared to that of most Canadian regional governments.

For more information, contact:

Shaun Dean
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 669-2304

The attached news release is being redistributed on behalf of the  Government of the Northwest Territories and the Government of Canada.

Canada Job Grant News Release

YELLOWKNIFE (August 6, 2014) — North Slave communities are experiencing intermittent smoke issues due to ongoing fires in the region. Residents are advised to be aware of travel restrictions and health issues related to smoke.

At this time no communities are being threatened by forest fires. The GNWT continues to work with our partners in community governments and local agencies to ensure public safety.

Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA)

MACA, through the Emergency Measures Office, is working to coordinate GNWT resources to notify the public about the current fire situation and allocate GNWT resources as required.

Transportation (DOT)

Conditions on August 6 have allowed Highway 3 to be opened without restrictions and regular traffic has been flowing throughout the day. The Department is reminding the public to slow down in areas where there may be reduced visibility, watch for bison, and cooperate with any highways officers that may be on the road.

Conditions may change quickly. For the latest updates on highway conditions, visit www.dot.gov.nt.ca, call 1-800-661-0750, or follow @GNWT_DOT on Twitter.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR)

ZF-085, the fire burning approximately 27 km northwest of Yellowknife and approximately 7km from the highway, received some rain last night. Crews and air support continue to work on the east and southwest flanks of the fire, and have made significant progress in containing the fire. Crews continue to do values at risk protection along the highway. The fire is not considered a threat to Yellowknife or Highway 3 at this time. Residents will be advised if conditions change.

For the latest updates on NWT fire conditions, visit www.nwtfire.com, the NWT Fire Facebook page, and the ENR website for daily fire updates at 3pm.

Health and Social Services

The Department of Health and Social Services has been working to advise the public of precautions they can take in response to forest fire smoke. Information on health concerns related to forest fire smoke can be found on the Department’s website at www.hss.gov.nt.ca.

City of Yellowknife

The City of Yellowknife, effective Tuesday August 5, 2014 until September 2, 2014, is offering free use of the Yellowknife Fieldhouse for Yellowknife residents during regular posted hours. This service includes free use of the running/walking track, children’s play area, as well as the open fields during times when there are no scheduled programs or day camp programs. The City has extended the current flexi-pass card holders for an additional month to accommodate those residents that have already purchased a flexi-pass.

The City also welcomes truckers and tourists waiting for Highway 3 to open to use the City’s Fieldhouse facility for showers and recreation. Shower facilities on the main level, are available daily from 6am-9pm.

Yellowknife residents can like the City of Yellowknife’s Our Yellowknife page on Facebook and follow @OurYellowknife on Twitter for information about emergency preparedness and response in Yellowknife.

Further Information

New Public Safety Updates will be provided as information becomes available. Updates will be distributed to local media and posted online at news.exec.gov.nt.ca.

Updates will also be posted at the following facilities in Yellowknife:

1. City Hall

2. Library

3. Pool, Fieldhouse & Multiplex

4. Northern Frontier Visitors Centre

5. Fire Hall

Media Inquiries

Spokespeople will be made available for media interviews. To organize an interview, contact David Maguire, Communications and Web Advisor, at 920-3092 or 446-3084.

YELLOWKNIFE (August 6, 2014) – Northerners who are training to work in the aviation industry at northern airports are eligible for scholarships sponsored by the Governments of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, Discovery Air, Keewatin Air and North-Wright Air.

Scholarships worth $5,000 will be awarded to help students with the high costs of training for a variety of careers in northern aviation. Previous winners have gone on to careers such as airport operations specialists, airport managers, aviation-related and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AME), and pilots.

“Our government is committed to helping northerners get training to pursue aviation careers in their communities,” said Northwest Territories Minister of Transportation Tom Beaulieu. “The aviation industry has been key to northern life for many years and is a vital connection linking communities to each other. Investments in our residents and in training through this scholarship have long-term benefits for the industry and our transportation system.”

“Air travel is a necessity in Nunavut,” said George Kuksuk, Nunavut’s Minister of Economic Development and Transportation. “The Government of Nunavut encourages more Nunavummiut to develop careers in the aviation industry and this scholarship gives them a step up as they access the required training.”

The Northern Aviation Scholarship is available to full-time residents of either territory. Applications are due August 29 for this month’s intake and September 26 for the final intake of the year.

For more information, contact:

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

Matthew Illaszewicz
Manager, Communications
Department of Economic Development and Transportation
Government of Nunavut
867-975-7818
millaszewicz@gov.nu.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (le 6 août 2014) – Les résidents du Nord inscrits dans des programmes de formation en aéronautique dans le but de travailler dans des aéroports nordiques sont admissibles à des bourses d’études parrainées par les gouvernements des Territoires du Nord-Ouest et du Nunavut, et par les entreprises Discovery Air, Keewatin Air et North-Wright Air.

Des bourses d’études d’une valeur de 5 000 $ seront attribuées à des étudiants pour les aider à atténuer les coûts élevés de formation dans plusieurs domaines de l’aéronautique. Les récipiendaires antérieurs ont notamment entrepris des carrières de spécialistes en exploitation d’aéroport, de gestionnaires d’aéroports, d’ingénieurs en aéronautiques, de techniciens en entretien d’avion et de pilotes.

« Notre gouvernement est déterminé à aider les résidents du Nord à poursuivre des carrières dans le domaine de l’aéronautique dans leurs collectivités, » a déclaré le ministre des Transports des Territoires du Nord-Ouest, Tom Beaulieu. « L’industrie aérienne joue un rôle clé en milieu nordique depuis de nombreuses années, car elle permet de relier les collectivités les unes aux autres. Cet investissement sous forme de bourses d’études aura des retombées à long terme pour l’industrie et notre système de transports.

« Le transport aérien est une nécessité au Nunavut », a indiqué le ministre du Développement économique et des Transports du Nunavut, George Kuksuk. « Le gouvernement du Nunavut encourage les Nunavummiut à faire carrière dans l’industrie aéronautique, et cette bourse d’études permet de les soutenir pendant qu’ils acquièrent la formation requise.

Les Bourses d’études en aéronautique sont offertes aux résidents à plein temps des deux territoires. Les demandes doivent être reçues d’ici le 29 août pour les bourses qui seront accordées ce mois-ci, et le 26 septembre pour la dernière série de bourses qui seront accordées au cours de la présente année.

Pour de plus amples renseignements, veuillez contacter :

Brenda Norris
Relations avec les médias
Gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest
867-669-2302

Matthew Illaszewicz
Gestionnaire des communications
Ministère du Développement économique et des Transports
Gouvernement du Nunavut
867-975-7818

millaszewicz@gov.nu.ca

(4:47pm AUG 5, 2014, YELLOWKNIFE) Smoky conditions and reduced visibility from the Birch Lake fires and the fires north of Birch Lake, are significantly affecting travel between Yellowknife and Fort Providence.

At this time no communities are being threatened by forest fires. The GNWT continues to work with our partners in community governments and local agencies to ensure public safety.

Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA)

MACA, through the Emergency Measures Office, is working to coordinate GNWT resources to notify the public about the current fire situation.

MACA is also working with the City of Yellowknife to ensure local emergency preparedness. This includes working with other GNWT departments to allocate resources as necessary as the current fire situation evolves.

Transportation (DOT)

DOT is working to ensure safety of travel on Highway 3. Highway Officers are conducting patrols and using the latest fire information from ENR to determine whether the highway can be travelled safely.

With smoke conditions changing rapidly, the public is advised to check road closure conditions before travelling the highway. The road will be closed if travel is unsafe.

On August 5, 2014, conditions cleared unexpectedly for a short time along Highway 3. DOT was able to move a convoy of about 100 vehicles through from Fort Providence to Yellowknife. A significant portion of the traffic in this convoy included commercial vehicles with supplies bound for Yellowknife. A convoy from the Behchoko side of the blockade was escorted south at 4:30pm on August 5 with ENR support. DOT continues to evaluate highway conditions and move convoys through as it is deemed safe.

For the latest updates on highway conditions, visit www.dot.gov.nt.ca, call 1-800-661-0750, or follow @GNWT_DOT on Twitter.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR)

ENR is coordinating fire suppression activities and providing information on current wildfire conditions across the NWT. ENR also has fire behaviour experts regularly monitoring fires to help anticipate potential changes or advances. This information is being used to determine emergency response measures.

Structural protection crews are working to place sprinklers on values North of Highway 3.

For the latest updates on NWT fire conditions visit www.nwtfire.com The NWT Fire Facebook page, and the ENR website for daily fire updates at 3pm.

City of Yellowknife

The City of Yellowknife, effective Tuesday August 5, 2014 until September 2, 2014, is offering free use of the Yellowknife Fieldhouse for Yellowknife residents during regular posted hours.  This service includes free use of the running/walking track, children’s play area, as well as the open fields during times when there are no scheduled programs or day camp programs.  The City has extended the current flexi-pass card holders for an additional month to accommodate those residents that have already purchased a flexi-pass.

The City also welcomes truckers and tourists, waiting for Highway 3 to open, to use the City’s Fieldhouse facility for showers and recreation.  Shower facilities, on the main level, are available daily from 6am-9pm.

Parking for truckers is available at the Fieldhouse.  Please contact the City to learn more about site access and location.

While in Yellowknife, please note that other facilities such as the pool (user fee), trails, parks, museum, as well as number of restaurants and shops are located throughout our downtown, Old Airport Road, Old Town as well as Kam Lake. Visitor Services are also available at the Northern Frontier Visitors Centre.

Yellowknife residents can like the City of Yellowknife’s Our Yellowknife page on Facebook and follow @OurYellowknife on Twitter for information about emergency preparedness and response in Yellowknife.

Further Information

New Public Safety Updates will be provided as information becomes available. Updates will be distributed to local media and posted online at news.exec.gov.nt.ca.

Updates will also be posted at the following facilities in Yellowknife:

1. City Hall

2. Library

3. Pool, Fieldhouse & Multiplex

4. Northern Frontier Visitors Centre

5. Fire Hall

YELLOWKNIFE (July 31, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories has lifted its voluntary evacuation request for residents living along Highway #3 between Yellowknife and Kilometre 300.

Firefighting actions undertaken by Environment and Natural Resources, including the control line to stop the fire from advancing towards the highway, and improved weather conditions prevented the fire from moving any closer and lessened risks posed to residents living along the highway. Residents are free to return to their homes, but advised to continue to monitor the situation for future changes.

There is no direct threat to Yellowknife at this time, although city residents may experience increased smoke from this fire.

For links to official online information from the GNWT about forest fires, please visit http://www.gov.nt.ca/gnwt_fire_information/index.html

YELLOWKNIFE (July 31, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories’ Mining Incentive Program (MIP) has been oversubscribed in its inaugural year, with strong interest shown by companies and prospectors in the Northwest Territories and across Canada.

The program was launched in June 2014 and provides funds to eligible prospectors and mining exploration companies that are already engaged in mining exploration projects or proposing new projects in the NWT. It aims to offset some of the financial risk associated with grassroots mineral exploration in the NWT.

“The Mining Incentive Program helps our government support those with the energy, expertise and perseverance that this industry relies on to conduct mineral exploration in an environmentally sustainable way,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay. “I especially look forward to using this program to contribute to the success of northern and Aboriginal-owned businesses pursuing mining projects, so more northerners can enjoy the benefits of economic development and a healthy mining sector.” 

The MIP is administered by the Northwest Territories Geoscience Office, which recently informed successful applicants as they make plans to carry out field work during the short summer season.

Launching MIP is part of implementing the GNWT’s Mineral Development Strategy and demonstrates the government’s commitment to growing a strong and diversified economy across the NWT.

For more information:

Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: alayna_ward@gov.nt.ca

Backgrounder – Mining Incentive Program

YELLOWKNIFE (July 30, 2014) – The installation of a high-speed fibre optic link connecting communities in the Mackenzie Valley and Beaufort Delta to the fibre grid in southern Canada is one step closer today with the announcement by Minister of Finance J. Michael Miltenberger that the Northern Lights Fibre Consortium has been selected as the preferred proponent to design, build, finance and operate the Mackenzie Valley Fibre Link (MVFL).

The Consortium, led by Ledcor Developments Ltd., LTS Infrastructure Services Limited Partnership and Northwestel Inc., was selected based on the evaluation of proposals submitted to the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) by pre-qualified contractors.

“Investing in state-of-the-art communications infrastructure helps support economic development for the Beaufort Delta and the Northwest Territories,” said Minister Miltenberger. “The fibre link will provide new opportunities for business, including in the e-commerce and high-tech sectors, and allow for the expansion of the Inuvik Satellite Station Facility, a leader in remote data sensing with international clients. The MVFL will also support more efficient and effective delivery of government programs and services such as health care and education to the communities it will connect.”

To ensure the project is able to achieve a planned commissioning date by the second quarter of 2016, the GNWT and Northern Lights will be working together during the next few months on completing survey, geotechnical and other early planning activities in preparation for the design and installation of the fibre link.

“The selection of a preferred proponent and implementation of an early works agreement are important project milestones that will help us meet the planned in-service date for the MVFL of mid-2016,” said the Minister.

The GNWT and Northern Lights will also be working closely with communities along the Mackenzie Valley and with environmental regulatory authorities to ensure that the design, construction and operation of the fibre link will fully meet all environmental requirements.

For more information:
Shaun Dean
Director, Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2304
Email: shaun_dean@gov.nt.ca

Background: Mackenzie Valley Fibre Link (MVFL)

The MVFL route extends from McGill Lake in southern NWT, 90 km south of Fort Simpson, to Tuktoyaktuk on the shores of the Arctic Ocean, a distance of approximately 1,270 km.

The system will be installed in two phases: McGill Lake to Inuvik with a planned completion of mid-2016, and an extension to Tuktoyaktuk following the completion of the all-weather highway extension from Inuvik.

Seven communities will be served directly by the MVFL, with possible future access to an additional five communities in the region using microwave systems to connect with the MVFL system.

Construction of the MVFL will support the further expansion of the Inuvik Satellite Station Facility by its international partners, positioning the facility as one of the leading sites for tracking and receiving real-time data from polar-orbiting satellites for scientific, mapping, weather surveillance and other purposes.

YELLOWKNIFE (July 29, 2014) – The Aboriginal Tourism Champions Advisory Council (ATCAC) met July 16-17 to set priorities and discuss the future of Aboriginal tourism in the Northwest Territories. This year’s meeting took place at North Nahanni Naturalist Lodge on Cli Lake in the Dehcho Region.

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) David Ramsay looks forward to the continued efforts to establish Aboriginal tourism. “Visitors from around the world are in search of authentic cultural experiences. The languages, traditions and values of our Aboriginal people provide just that. The GNWT is dedicated to supporting the success of our tourism industry and the development of Aboriginal tourism products,” the Minister said. 

Meeting participants discussed ways to grow and develop Aboriginal tourism in the territory, including:

• Working with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment to create tools and resources to grow Aboriginal tourism across all NWT communities, including PowerPoint presentations, brochures and an illustrated book that outlines the principles of tourism development. ATCAC would use and distribute these resources to people in the Aboriginal tourism industry.

• Further development of youth mentorship programs. For example, in Aklavik, there is interest in having summer students learn how to set nets and cut, smoke and store dried fish. This will not only promote a marketable Aboriginal product but also help to preserve culture by creating an environment where elders and youth work together.

• Encouraging participation in FirstHost, a tourism-specific customer service training program developed specifically for Aboriginal communities, was also identified as valuable to guides and instructors in NWT communities.

• Food safety courses, wilderness first aid, CPR training and traditional arts programs were also recommended.

Co-chairs of the Aboriginal Tourism Champions Advisory Council Ria Letcher and Jenni Bruce said the annual meeting was productive. “Through discussions we were able to finalize recommendations and a plan. We look forward to our next step, which is engaging the public. Establishing Aboriginal tourism in our communities and guaranteeing cultural authenticity is paramount,” said Ria Letcher.

The two-day meeting was hosted by the ATCAC and sponsored by the Department of ITI.

The support and development of Aboriginal tourism will help to strengthen and diversify the NWT economy and build a strong, sustainable future for our territory. These are key priorities for the 17th Legislative Assembly.

For more information:
Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: Alayna_Ward@gov.nt.ca

Minister Ramsay, outgoing PNWER President Senator Ranker, Montana Governor Bullock and Premier McLeod

YELLOWKNIFE (July 23, 2014) – Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) David Ramsay was elected president of the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) today at the PNWER 24th Annual Summit held in Whistler, BC.

“The Pacific Northwest Region is one of the fastest growing economic regions in North America and unparalleled in terms of its wealth, beauty and economic potential,” said Minister Ramsay. “I am honoured to be named President and looking forward to leading this great organization during the next year, to representing the interests of Northwest Territories residents and our northern neighbours, and to demonstrating the value, importance and potential of PNWER and the good work of the organization.”

The NWT became a member of PWNER in July 2009. Minister Ramsay has served as vice president since 2011 and is the first PNWER president from the NWT. His new role involves heading the executive committee, the decision-making body of PNWER, and leading PNWER delegations on annual visits to Washington, D.C. and Ottawa. 

Premier McLeod was also in attendance at the PNWER Summit. “The Northwest Territories has a wealth of resources that could help it contribute significantly to the economic growth of the Pacific Northwest region and the country,” said Premier Bob McLeod. “Building and maintaining strong relationships with other jurisdictions that share our interest in creating sustainable growth and prosperity will be key to realizing our potential and I congratulate Minister Ramsay on his new leadership role with PNWER.”

PNWER is recognized by both the United States and Canada as the model for regional and bi‐national cooperation. It was established to achieve continued economic growth while maintaining and enhancing the natural environment. Formed in 1991, members also include British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska.

Participation in PNWER reflects the priority of the Legislative Assembly to build a strong and sustainable future for our territory built on partnerships.

For more information:

Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: alayna_ward@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (July 22, 2014) – Under authority provided by the Hamlets Act, the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs has appointed Bill Buckle as Municipal Administrator for the Hamlet of Fort McPherson effective July 17, 2014 for an indeterminate term. The appointment of an Administrator means that the hamlet council has been dissolved; all responsibilities of council are now being handled by the Administrator in cooperation with the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA).

Mr. Buckle has extensive experience in municipal management in communities across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. He was previously Municipal Supervisor in Fort McPherson, where he helped the community government develop a deficit recovery plan that will now be implemented. 

“Appointing a Municipal Administrator is not a step I took lightly,” said Minister Robert C. McLeod. “The Fort McPherson hamlet council has faced some challenges over the past few years and I am confident this move is in the best interests of residents and will provide the community government with a good basis for beginning its recovery.”

In addition to appointing Mr. Buckle as the Administrator, Minister McLeod also appointed three Deputy Administrators: Tom R. Williams, Deputy Minister of MACA; Eleanor Young, Assistant Deputy Minister of MACA; and Lorie Fyfe, MACA Inuvik Region Superintendent.

The Administrator was appointed to help the community government get back to a positive financial position. Over the past three years the community government has faced a number of difficulties that have led to a significant deficit in excess of $2 million.

For more information:

David Maguire
Communications and Website Advisor
Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 920-3092