Northwest Territories News

YELLOWKNIFE (August 6, 2015) – Fire ZF-014, near Reid Lake, is still a threat. The GNWT is working to suppress the fire and ensure the safety of the public. The following are updates from the various government agencies involved in the response to this wildfire.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR)

ENR is coordinating fire suppression activities. This includes fire crews stationed at the Reid Lake campground as well as air monitoring and suppression activities by air. Value protection efforts on Reid Lake have been successful with crews continuing work in the area. ENR crews are evaluating fire behaviour and will be working to protect values at Peninsula Lake as required.

For the latest updates on NWT fire conditions visit the ENR website www.enr.gov.nt.ca and the NWT Fire Facebook page.

Transportation (DOT)

DOT has closed Highway 4 just past the Reid Lake campground entrance to all traffic. No traffic will be let past the closure until safe passage can be ensured.

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

Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI)

ITI has issued an evacuation order for Reid Lake Territorial Park Campground. Updates about the closure will be issued through regular Public Safety Updates at www.gov.nt.ca, and on the ITI website at www.iti.gov.nt.ca.

At this time the campground will be closed until further notice. Campers who were unable to remove valuables from the park before the closure please call 873-7317.

Campers who wish to cancel a booking can do so without penalty by contacting 445-1717 for the period of August 5-14.  For Extended Stay Campsite holders a refund will be provided at a pro-rated daily rate once the park re-opens. For more information visit www.iti.gov.nt.ca.

Health and Social Services (HSS)

HSS is advising residents with concerns about smoke to see the Health Effects of Smoke Exposure due to Forest Fire information sheet | French Link (http://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/default/files/health_effects_of_smoke_exposure_due_to_forest_fire_0.pdf).

For more information visit www.hss.gov.nt.ca.

Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA)

MACA, through the Emergency Measures Office, is advising cabin owners in the Pickerel Lake area that a voluntary evacuation is being recommended at this time. It is also being recommended that residents avoid areas past Powder Point on the Ingraham Trail, and to avoid travelling in areas that are hard to access (Hidden Lake) due to potential change in fire or smoke conditions.

MACA continues to coordinate GNWT resources and notify the public about the current fire situation.

Further Information

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

Media Inquiries by Topic

Fire conditions and fire suppression: Judy McLinton at 867-445-2297.

Health concerns about smoke conditions: Damien Healy at  867-767-9052 ext. 49034

Highway conditions and status: Nick Hurst at 867-445-1368

Territorial park/campground closures: Briony Wright 867-920-6109

GNWT emergency response: David Maguire at 867-920-3092

 

MISE À JOUR DE SÉCURITÉ PUBLIQUE – FEU AU LAC REID

(YELLOWKNIFE, LE 6 AOÛT 2015) Le feu ZF-014 qui sévit près du lac Reid pose toujours un danger. Le GTNO prend toutes les mesures nécessaires pour éteindre le feu et protéger la population. Les messages ci-dessous sont des mises à jour provenant de diverses agences gouvernementales qui œuvrent contre cet incendie.

Ministère de l’Environnement et des Ressources naturelles (MERN)

Le MERN coordonne les activités de suppression du feu, y compris les membres de l’équipe de lutte contre les feux de forêt qui travaillent à partir du terrain de camping du lac Reid, les activités de surveillance de la qualité de l’air et les activités de suppression du feu par voie aérienne. Les efforts acharnés des équipes affectées à la protection des valeurs dans le secteur du lac Reid ont porté leurs fruits. Les équipes du MERN évaluent actuellement le comportement du feu et, au besoin, redoubleront d’efforts pour protéger les valeurs dans le secteur du lac Peninsula.

Pour obtenir les plus récentes mises à jour sur l’état des feux aux TNO, visitez le site Web du MERN au www.enr.gov.nt.ca et la page Facebook de NWT Fire.

 

Ministère des Transports

Le ministère des Transports a fermé la route 4 près de l’entrée du terrain de camping du lac Reid. Aucun véhicule ne peut circuler au-delà de ce secteur, jusqu’à ce que la route soit jugée sécuritaire.

Pour obtenir les plus récentes mises à jour sur les conditions routières, visitez le www.dot.gov.nt.ca, téléphonez au 1‑800‑661‑0750 ou suivez @GNWT_DOT sur Twitter.

 

Ministère de l’Industrie, du Tourisme et de l’Investissement (MITI)

Le MITI a donné l’ordre d’évacuer le parc territorial du lac Reid. Les mises à jour concernant la fermeture du parc seront énoncées dans les mises à jour de Sécurité publique au www.gov.nt.ca et sur le site Web du MITI au www.iti.gov.nt.ca.

Le terrain de camping sera fermé jusqu’à nouvel ordre. Les campeurs qui n’ont pas pu quitter le site avec leurs effets de valeur sont priés de téléphoner au 873‑7317.

Les campeurs qui devaient occuper le parc entre le 5 août et le 14 août peuvent annuler leur réservation sans frais en téléphonant au 445‑1717. Les détenteurs d’un terrain de camping longue durée recevront un remboursement au prorata du prix quotidien dès la réouverture du parc. Pour de plus amples renseignements, visitez le www.iti.gov.nt.ca.

 

Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (MSSS)

Le MSSS recommande à la population qui se préoccupe de la fumée de consulter le feuillet d’information intitulé Effets sur la santé de l’exposition à la fumée des incendies de forêt.

Pour de plus amples renseignements, visitez le www.hss.gov.nt.ca.

Ministère des Affaires municipales et communautaires (MAMC)

Le Bureau des mesures d’urgence du MACA avise actuellement les propriétaires de chalets situés dans le secteur du lac Pickerel qu’un avis d’évacuation volontaire est en vigueur et il recommande à la population d’évacuer le secteur dès maintenant. Le Bureau demande également à la population d’éviter de circuler au-delà de Powder Point, sur la route Ingraham Trail, et d’éviter les endroits difficiles d’accès, comme Hidden Lake, puisque le comportement du feu et la qualité de l’air pourraient évoluer.

Le MAMC continue de coordonner les ressources du GTNO et d’informer le public sur l’état actuel des feux.

 

Autre renseignement utile

Sécurité publique diffusera de nouvelles mises à jour dès qu’il aura d’autres renseignements. Les mises à jour seront transmises aux médias régionaux et seront diffusées en ligne au www.gov.nt.ca.

 

Renseignements aux médias (par sujets)

État et suppression des feux : Judy McLinton au 867‑445‑2297

Problèmes de santé liés à la qualité de l’air : Damien Healy au 867‑767‑9052, poste 49034

Conditions routières : Nick Hurst au 867-445-1368

Fermeture des parcs territoriaux et des terrains de camping : Briony Wright au 867‑920‑6109

Intervention d’urgence du GTNO : David Maguire au 867‑920‑3092

MONTREAL (August 5, 2015) – Support and funding from the Northwest Territories Film Commission and the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) ensured that the NWT was well represented last week at the prestigious Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal.

NWT Producer Jay Bulckaert (aRTLeSS Collective) was invited to attend the event’s Frontières International Co-Production Market to showcase the Yellowknife-based
pan-territorial genre film festival, Dead North and represent the NWT to producers who are increasingly becoming intrigued with shooting in Canada’s Arctic. 

Northern filmmaker Kirsten Carthew’s Fish Out of Water, winner of the Best Screenplay category of this year’s Dead North film festival, was selected for screening at the prestigious event. Carthew’s film played on the big screen Friday (July 31) and Monday (August 3) to a sold out show.

The Fantasia International Film Festival and Frontières are a major networking destination for industry professionals seeking to stimulate the co-production and
co-financing of genre films. The festival’s relationship with the NWT began when Mitch Davis, Festival Director of Fantasia, was invited to be one of the judges for the 2015 Dead North Film Festival.

“Our government’s film strategy and action plan is focused on increasing the number and quality of local independent film and television productions,” said Minister of ITI David Ramsay. “The strategy also encourages and facilitates guest productions that will work to engage and grow our industry and its services. Our new rebate program and improved government supports attracts and supports increased participation and association with key industry events and helps generate interest and investment in our northern film sector – and our economy overall.”

Media inquiries:

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

YELLOWKNIFE (August 4, 2015) – The Fred Henne and Prelude Lake Territorial Parks were buzzing with activity over the August long weekend with events highlighting the GNWT’s commitment to a flourishing tourism industry.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and prayer blessing by the Yellowknives Dene Drummers celebrated the official opening of a new campground loop at Fred Henne Territorial Park.  The new loop, consisting of 13 large recreational vehicle sites with full 30 amp power service, offers the potential to welcome approximately 5,000 campers per season.  Its construction has been driven by an increase in the amount of road visitors to Yellowknife seeking camping accommodations.

Meanwhile, locals and visitors to Prelude Lake Territorial Park enjoyed a free barbecue Saturday afternoon along with hands–on demonstrations, tips and tactics for fly-fishing by NWT’s Donny Boake, a nationally competitive fly fisher, and the cultural practice of drying and filleting fish by Bobby Drygeese of B. Dene Adventures.

Both events were hosted by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI).

“In addition to enhancing the lives of all who visit and live in the Northwest Territories, NWT Parks also have the potential to generate revenue for northern businesses,” said ITI Minister David Ramsay.  “The capacity to accommodate increased or extended stays at the Fred Henne campground will generate increased revenue for Yellowknife businesses and services.  Increased participation in our recreational fishing industry is helping to revitalize the angling sector in the NWT and our long standing reputation for world-class fishing adventures.”

The events highlight ITI’s commitment to improving parks infrastructure and growing tourism to build a strong and sustainable future for NWT residents and their businesses – a long-standing priority of the Government of the Northwest Territories.

Click here for the backgrounder.

Media inquiries:

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

YELLOWKNIFE (July 31, 2015) – The Northwest Territories Housing Corporation (NWTHC) will exempt public housing tenants receiving the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) in the same manner recently announced for NWT residents on income assistance.

Following Premier McLeod’s announcement on July 24, 2015 that the GNWT would exempt the federal retroactive Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) payments as a source of income for calculating income assistance, Minister Responsible for the NWT Housing Corporation Robert C. McLeod strongly believed public housing tenants should benefit from the full retroactive payment in the same way as other NWT residents with children. 

“The NWTHC supports this exemption because it helps us to ensure that our public housing system continues to be responsive to the needs of our residents,” said Minister McLeod. “This move is another example of the NWTHC working together with other agencies and departments to provide improved consistency in delivering social programs.”

The UCCB is a taxable benefit and eligible residents are expected to receive retroactive payments over the next few weeks. Ongoing monthly UCCB payments would remain an income source for public housing tenants.

Providing opportunities for NWT residents to live stronger, more independent lives is one of the goals of the 17th Assembly.

Media inquiries:
Cara Bryant
Communications Advisor
Northwest Territories Housing Corporation
Tel: (867) 873-7854
Email: cara_bryant@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (July 29, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories Regulator of Oil and Gas Operations (GNWT Regulator), Minister David Ramsay, and Peter Watson, CEO and Chair of the National Energy Board (NEB), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on July 27, 2015.

“With the GNWT Regulator and the NEB each playing a role in regulating oil and gas activities in the NWT onshore, this MOU is an important step to ensuring that those roles are coordinated and that, as much as possible, there is a predictable regulatory regime across the territory,” said Minister Ramsay.

“This memorandum of understanding symbolizes our shared commitment to regulatory excellence. The National Energy Board welcomes all opportunities to collaborate with other regulators to promote the best outcomes for Canadians,” says Mr. Watson.

The MOU reflects both regulators’ roles in regulating oil and gas operations in the Northwest Territories: the GNWT Regulator in the onshore Northwest Territories, excluding the Inuvialuit Settlement Region and federal areas, and the NEB in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, federal areas, and the offshore.

The MOU signals the intent of both regulators to work together on projects that affect each of their jurisdictions and to keep each other apprised of proposed changes in legislation and policy that could result in differing regulatory requirements across the NWT.

The MOU is available on the Office of the Regulator of Oil and Gas Operations (OROGO) website www.oilandgasregulator.iti.gov.nt.ca/news and on the NEB website at www.neb-one.gc.ca/bts/ctrg/mmrndm/index-eng.html.
For more information:

Drew Williams
Manager, Public Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: Drew_Williams@gov.nt.ca

Tara O’Donovan
Communications Officer
National Energy Board
Government of Canada
Tel : (403) 299-3633
Email : Tara.O’Donovan@neb-one.gc.ca

 

YELLOWKNIFE (29 juillet 2015) – Le ministre responsable du Bureau de l’organisme de réglementation des opérations liées au pétrole et au gaz du gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest (le Bureau), David Ramsay, et Peter Watson, président et premier dirigeant de l’Office national de l’énergie (l’Office), ont signé un protocole d’entente le 27 juillet 2015.

« Dans un contexte où le Bureau et l’Office ont chacun un rôle à jouer lorsqu’il s’agit de la réglementation des activités pétrolières et gazières sur la terre ferme dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest, mentionne M. Ramsey, ce protocole d’entente constitue une étape importante pour assurer la coordination de ces rôles et pour faire en sorte que le régime réglementaire est le plus prévisible possible sur l’ensemble du territoire. »

« Ce protocole d’entente symbolise l’engagement que les deux parties ont pris en matière d’excellence de la réglementation, ajoute M. Watson. L’Office souhaite profiter de toutes les occasions de collaboration avec d’autres organismes afin de produire les meilleurs résultats possibles pour l’ensemble des Canadiens. »

Le protocole d’entente rend compte du rôle des deux organismes de réglementation pour ce qui est des activités pétrolières et gazières dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest : le Bureau à l’égard de telles activités sur la terre ferme, exception faite de la région désignée des Inuvialuit et des zones de compétence fédérale, et l’Office quant à cette région et ces zones ainsi que pour les activités extracôtières.

Le protocole signale l’intention des deux organismes de collaborer dans le cadre des projets qui relèvent de leur compétence et de se tenir mutuellement au courant des modifications envisagées à la réglementation et aux politiques pouvant être à l’origine d’exigences réglementaires différentes selon l’endroit.

Le protocole d’entente peut être consulté sur le site Web du Bureau à l’adresse www.oilandgasregulator.iti.gov.nt.ca/news et sur celui de l’Office à l’adresse www.neb-one.gc.ca/bts/ctrg/mmrndm/index-fra.html.
Pour de plus amples renseignements :
Drew Williams
Gestionnaire, Affaires publiques
Gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest
Téléphone : 867-920-8696
Courriel : Drew_Williams@gov.nt.ca

Tara O’Donovan
Agente de communications
Office national de l’énergie
Gouvernement du Canada
Téléphone : 403- 299-3633
Courriel : Tara.O’Donovan@neb-one.gc.ca

Governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories Support NWT Highway Improvements and Community Economic Development Initiatives

Projects will support economic growth in the Northwest Territories

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories (July 27, 2015) – Dr. Colin Carrie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Member of Parliament (MP) for Oshawa, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), and Minister for the Arctic Council today announced three important investments for several major highway development projects in the region. Dr. Carrie was joined by Bob McLeod, Premier of the Northwest Territories, Tom Beaulieu, NWT Minister of Transportation, and Robert C. McLeod, Minister Responsible for Infrastructure, for the event.

The Northwest Territories Highway Improvement Project will receive up to a maximum of $72 million to focus on rehabilitating highways and roads to enhance transportation systems in the North. It consists of eight components that are aimed at repairing aging linkages and improving structural capacity. The following roads and highways will be improved through this project:

Highway Project Description The Mackenzie Highway Embankment and drainage improvements and chip seal work. The Hay River Highway Slope protection and drainage improvements. The Yellowknife Highway Embankment rehabilitation and drainage improvements. The Ingraham Trail Resurfacing, drainage improvements and chip seal work. The Dempster Highway Embankment reconstruction and drainage improvements. The Fort Resolution Highway Reconstruction and chip seal work. The Liard Highway Embankment reconstruction and drainage improvements. The Dettah Access Road Reconstruction and chip seal work.

Also announced today:

• The Northwest Territories Highway Corridors Project: The Government of Canada will invest $1.3 million to examine feasibility options for extending the operating season for winter roads used to supply goods and services to diamond mines.
• The Inuvialuit Community Economic Development Organization (ICEDO) Community Readiness Project: The Government of Canada will investment $2.1 million to help develop community readiness for the economic development opportunities linked to the construction of the highway between Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk in the Northwest Territories.

Quick Facts

• The Northwest Territories Highway Improvement Project has been selected for funding of up to 75 percent of eligible costs, to a maximum of $72 million under the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component-National and Regional Projects. This funding is conditional on the project meeting applicable federal eligibility requirements with respect to the New Building Canada Fund and the signing of a contribution agreement.
• The Government of the Northwest Territories will contribute approximately $24 million to this improvement project, which has an estimated total cost of $96 million.
• The $53 billion New Building Canada Plan provides stable funding for a 10-year period, and includes:
  • The Community Improvement Fund, consisting of the Gas Tax Fund and the incremental Goods and Services Tax Rebate for Municipalities, which will provide over $32 billion to municipalities for projects such as roads, public transit and recreational facilities, and other community infrastructure.
  • The $14-billion New Building Canada Fund, which consists of:
    • The $4-billion National Infrastructure Component that will support projects of national significance; and
    • The $10-billion Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component for projects of national, regional and local significance. Of this amount, $1 billion for projects in communities with fewer than 100,000 residents through the Small Communities Fund.
  • An additional $1.25 billion in funding for the Public-Private Partnerships (P3) Canada Fund administered by PPP Canada.

• Over this ten-year period, the Northwest Territories will benefit from approximately $421 million in dedicated federal funding, including almost $163 million under the New Building Canada Fund.

• Through CanNor, the Government of Canada is contributing $3.4 million to the Northwest Territories Highway Corridors and ICEDO Community Readiness projects.
• The Government of the Northwest Territories will be contributing at least $850,000 to support these two initiatives. Other funding partners will be responsible for all remaining costs of the initiatives. The total estimated value of these two projects is over $4.9 million.

 

Quotes

“Our Government’s support for public infrastructure has never been stronger. We are pleased to work with the Government of the Northwest Territories to approve projects under the New Building Canada Fund, to ensure that infrastructure funding continues to flow in the territory as we focus on creating jobs, promoting growth, and building strong, prosperous communities across Canada. We are proud to invest in road and highway improvements in the Northwest Territories which will focus on increased accessibility throughout the region.”

Colin Carrie
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, Minister for the Arctic Council

“Infrastructure development is a vital part of our future, as a territory and as a country. Moving our vast natural resources to market requires significant and ongoing contributions from our Federal partners. Investments in transportation infrastructure, including improvements to existing highways, contribute to the economic prosperity of the NWT, lower the cost of living and improve the lives of our residents. We are pleased the Government of Canada shares our commitment to the North and is supporting the upgrade and repair of our roadways through their New Building Canada Fund.”

Bob McLeod
Premier of the Northwest Territories

Related Products

Read the backgrounder to learn more.

Associated Links

To learn more about the New Building Canada Fund – Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component – National and Regional Projects, please visithttp://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/nrp-pnr-prog-eng.html.

For additional information on the New Building Canada Plan, visithttp://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/nbcp-npcc-eng.html.

For additional information about CanNor’s Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development Program and the Northern Aboriginal Economic Opportunities Program, visit http://www.cannor.gc.ca/eng/1351104567432/1351104589057

To learn more about the Northwest Territories please visit http://www.gov.nt.ca/

To learn more about the Government of Canada’s focus on jobs and the economy consult Canada’s Economic Action Plan at http://www.budget.gc.ca/2015/home-accueil-eng.html.

Contacts

Vincent Rabault
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and
Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
613-943-1838

Krisandra Reid
Communications Advisor
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
867- 667-3210

Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-669-2308

Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
media@infc.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/infc_eng

 

Les gouvernements du Canada et des Territoires du Nord-Ouest appuient des projets d’amélioration de routes dans les T.N.-O. et des initiatives de développement économique dans les collectivités

Les projets soutiendront la croissance économique dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest

 

Le 27 juillet 2015                  Yellowknife (Territoires du Nord-Ouest)

Au nom de l’honorable Denis Lebel, ministre de l’Infrastructure, des Collectivités et des Affaires intergouvernementales, et ministre de l’Agence de développement économique du Canada pour les régions du Québec, et au nom de l’honorable Leona Aglukkaq, ministre de l’Environnement, ministre de l’Agence canadienne de développement économique du Nord (CanNor) et ministre du Conseil de l’Arctique, Colin Carrie, secrétaire parlementaire du ministre de l’Environnement et député d’Oshawa, a annoncé aujourd’hui trois importants investissements visant plusieurs projets majeurs d’amélioration des routes dans la région. Pour l’événement, le député Carrie était accompagné de Bob McLeod, premier ministre des Territoires du Nord-Ouest, de Tom Beaulieu, ministre des Transports des Territoires du Nord-Ouest et de Robert C. McLeod, ministre responsable des Infrastructures.

Le projet d’amélioration des routes dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest recevra jusqu’à 72 millions de dollars et mettra l’accent sur la réfection de routes et de chemins en vue d’améliorer les réseaux de transport dans le Nord. Le projet compte huit composantes qui visent à réparer des routes vieillissantes et à améliorer les capacités structurelles. Les routes et chemins suivants seront améliorés dans le cadre de ce projet :

 

Routes Description du projet Route du Mackenzie Remblaiement, amélioration du drainage et application d’un enduit superficiel. Route Hay River Protection des pentes et améliorations liées au drainage. Route de Yellowknife Réfection des remblais et améliorations liées au drainage. Chemin Ingraham Resurfaçage, améliorations liées au drainage et pose d’un enduit superficiel. Route Dempster Reconstruction des remblais et améliorations liées au drainage. Route de Fort Resolution Reconstruction et application d’un enduit superficiel. Route Liard reconstruction des remblais et améliorations liées au drainage. Route d’accès à Dettah Reconstruction et application d’un enduit superficiel.

Ont également été annoncés aujourd’hui :

• Le projet d’amélioration des corridors routiers des Territoires du Nord-Ouest : Le gouvernement du Canadas investira 1,3 million de dollars pour examiner les options de faisabilité relative à la prolongation de la saison d’ouverture des routes hivernales utilisées pour l’acheminement des biens et des services vers les mines de diamant.
• Le projet de préparation des collectivités de l’Organisme de développement économique communautaire des Inuvialuit (ICEDO) : Le gouvernement du Canada investira 2,1 millions de dollars pour favoriser la préparation des collectivités afin de leur permettre de profiter des possibilités de développement économique associées à la construction de la route entre Inuvik et Tuktoyaktuk, dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest.

Faits en bref

• Dans le cadre du sous-volet Projets nationaux et régionaux du volet Infrastructures provinciales‑territoriales du Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada, le projet d’amélioration des routes dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest a été sélectionné en vue d’un financement pouvant atteindre 75 pour cent des coûts admissibles, jusqu’à concurrence de 72 millions de dollars. Ce financement est conditionnel au respect, dans le cadre du projet, de l’ensemble des exigences fédérales applicables en matière d’admissibilité aux termes du Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada, ainsi qu’à la signature d’une entente de contribution.
• Le gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest fournira environ 24 millions de dollars pour ce projet d’amélioration dont le total des coûts est estimé à 96 millions de dollars.
• Le Nouveau Plan Chantiers Canada, de 53 milliards de dollars, offre un financement stable pour une période de dix ans et comprend les éléments suivants :
  • Le Fonds d’amélioration des collectivités, composé du Fonds de la taxe sur l’essence et du remboursement additionnel de la taxe sur les produits et services pour les municipalités. Il fournira plus de 32 milliards de dollars aux municipalités pour des projets comme les routes, le transport en commun et les installations récréatives, ainsi que pour d’autres infrastructures communautaires.
  • Le Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada, de 14 milliards de dollars, comprend :
    • Le volet Infrastructures nationales, de 4 milliards de dollars, qui appuie des projets d’importance nationale;
    • Le volet Infrastructures provinciales-territoriales, de 10 milliards de dollars, qui appuie des projets d’importance nationale, régionale et locale. De ce montant, 1 milliard de dollars sont réservés pour des projets réalisés dans des collectivités de moins de 100 000 habitants, aux termes du Fonds pour les petites collectivités.
  • Un financement additionnel de 1,25 milliard de dollars pour le Fonds PPP Canada

(partenariats public-privé), administré par PPP Canada.

• Pendant cette période de dix ans, les Territoires du Nord-Ouest bénéficieront d’environ 421millions de dollars en fonds fédéraux dédiés, dont près de 163 millions au titre du Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada

• Par l’entremise de CanNor, le gouvernement du Canada fera alloue 3,4 millions de dollars pour les corridors routiers des Territoires du Nord-Ouest et pour les projets de préparation des collectivités aux possibilités économiques de l’Organisme de développement économique communautaire des Inuvialuit.
• Le gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest fera une contribution d’au moins 850 000 $ pour appuyer ces deux initiatives. D’autres partenaires financiers seront responsables du reste des coûts de ces initiatives. La valeur totale des deux projets est estimée à plus de 4,9 millions de dollars.

Citations

« Le soutien de notre gouvernement pour les infrastructures publiques n’a jamais été aussi fort. Nous sommes heureux de collaborer avec le gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest pour approuver des projets dans le cadre du Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada, afin de veiller à poursuivre le versement de fonds destinés aux infrastructures, tandis que nous mettons l’accent sur la création d’emplois, la croissance économique et l’édification de collectivités fortes et prospères partout au Canada. Nous sommes fiers d’investir dans l’amélioration des chemins et des routes dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest, de manière à améliorer l’accessibilité dans toute la région. »

Colin Carrie
Secrétaire parlementaire du ministre de l’Environnement, au nom de l’honorable Denis Lebel, ministre de l’Infrastructure, des Collectivités et des Affaires intergouvernementales, et ministre de l’Agence de développement économique du Canada pour les régions du Québec, et au nom de l’honorable Leona Aglukkaq, ministre de l’Environnement, ministre de l’Agence canadienne de développement économique du Nord (CanNor) et ministre du Conseil de l’Arctique

« Le développement des infrastructures est un élément essentiel de notre avenir, que ce soit à titre de territoire ou de pays. Mettre nos importantes ressources naturelles sur le marché nécessite des contributions considérables et continues de nos partenaires fédéraux. Les investissements dans les infrastructures de transport, entre autres pour améliorer les routes existantes, contribue à la prospérité économique des T. N.-W. et à la baisse du coût de la vie, ce qui permet d’améliorer la vie de nos résidents. Nous nous réjouissons que le gouvernement du Canada fasse preuve du même engagement que nous envers le Nord et qu’il soutienne l’amélioration et la réparation de nos routes dans le cadre de son Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada. »
Bob McLeod
Premier ministre des Territoires du Nord-Ouest

Produits connexes

Consultez le document d’information pour en savoir plus.

Liens connexes

Pour en savoir plus au sujet du volet Infrastructures provinciales-territoriales – Projets nationaux et régionaux du Nouveau Fonds Chantiers Canada, rendez-vous àhttp://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/nrp-pnr-prog-fra.html.

Pour plus d’informations sur le Nouveau Plan Chantiers Canada, visitez lehttp://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/nbcp-npcc-fra.html.

Pour obtenir plus d’informations au sujet du programme Investissements stratégiques dans le développement économique du Nord et du Programme d’opportunités économiques pour les Autochtones du Nord, rendez-vous àhttp://www.cannor.gc.ca/fra/1351104567432/1351104589057

Pour plus de renseignements au sujet des Territoires du Nord-Ouest, visitez  le sitehttp://www.gov.nt.ca/

Pour en savoir plus sur l’accent mis par le gouvernement du Canada sur les emplois et sur l’économie, consultez le Plan d’action économique du Canada auhttp://www.budget.gc.ca/2015/home-accueil-fra.html.

Personnes-ressources

Vincent Rabault
Attaché de presse
Cabinet du ministre de l’Infrastructure, des Collectivités et des Affaires intergouvernementales,
et ministre de l’Agence de développement économique du Canada pour les régions du Québec
613-943-1838

Krisandra Ried
Conseillère en communications
Agence canadienne de développement économique du Nord
867-667-3210

Roya Grinsted
Communications du Cabinet
Gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest
Tél. : 867-669-2308

Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Sans frais : 1-877-250-7154
media@infc.gc.ca
Suivez-nous sur Twitter à https://twitter.com/infc_fra

Check against delivery. 

Good afternoon.

This technical briefing supplements today’s announcement of a funding partnership between the Governments of the Northwest Territories and Canada to deliver the NWT Highway Capacity Upgrade Project, valued at $96 million.

This afternoon, we heard the Government of Canada is contributing $72 million, that’s 75% of the cost to reconstruct identified sections of the NWT highway.

This funding under the Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component of the New Building Canada Plan presents significant opportunities for our government to advance economic development and well-being for NWT residents.

The GNWT will contribute $24 million or 25% rehabilitate the system and address our aging highway infrastructure.

The Department of Transportation has identified necessary work that will be delivered on segments of the territorial highways 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and the Dettah Access Road in a four-year plan already underway.

The Department of Transportation is finalizing additional submissions to Canada to achieve objectives in our updated Transportation Strategy.

As indicated by Premier McLeod, our second bundle of projects to Canada includes improvements to community and regional airports, bridge rehabilitation and replacement, safety enhancements, and extending the winter road system.

Our government is also pursuing opportunities under the National Infrastructure Component of the Building Canada Plan with a $700 million proposal to extend the Mackenzie Valley all-weather highway from Wrigley to Norman Wells.

We appreciate the Government of Canada’s contribution of $1.3 million over two years to advance new road corridors in the NWT to promote economic development and connect communities.

We believe the timing is right to invest in strategic links to reduce future exploration costs, maintain the capacity developed in the Mackenzie Valley, and contribute to achieving the North’s full potential while advancing Canada’s economic priorities.

I’m going to turn things over to Kevin McLeod, the Director of Highways and Marine for the Department of Transportation, who will provide details on the NWT Highway Capacity Upgrade Project.

We’ll be pleased to take questions after the briefing.

Thank you.

Please click here for the related backgrounder.

Check against delivery. 

Thank you and good afternoon. It is a pleasure to welcome Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Collin Carrie to the Northwest Territories and to Yellowknife. We know that he has a very busy week ahead of him and I am sure he will receive a warm welcome in all the communities he visits. I would also like to recognize my fellow MLAs.

Today we are announcing an investment of $72 million dollars through the federal New Building Canada Plan and $24 million from the Government of the Northwest Territories, for a combined total of $96 million dollars. We welcome Canada’s investment in the Northwest Territories transportation system and their shared commitment to our goal of a healthy and prosperous north.

Under Minister Beaulieu’s guidance, this funding will allow the Government of the Northwest Territories to invest in transportation infrastructure essential for the economic health and prosperity of our territory and residents.

Our success depends upon building and maintaining core transportation infrastructure necessary to move people, resources, and goods to meet our economic and social needs.

With today’s announcement, the Government of the Northwest Territories will continue investing in infrastructure improvements across the transportation system beginning this summer, from the Dempster Highway in the Beaufort Delta to the Liard Highway in the Dehcho.

MLA for Nahendeh, Kevin Menicoche, has worked long and hard to see the highways in his constituency receive funding. In fact a quick review of Hansard shows he has raised the issue 142 times. I hope he will be pleased with today’s announcement that will see improvements to all Government of the Northwest Territories highways, including Highway 1 reconstruction and resurfacing Highway 7.

These projects enhance the quality of life for Northerners, create jobs, and improve connections between our communities.

The projects will also improve sections of the highway system requiring upgrading because of age and increased traffic loads associated with current and future activities in resource development.

As mentioned in a recent report from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce; despite current declines in the oil, gas, and mining sectors, the world will still need these resources for a long time to come.

The Government of the Northwest Territories intends to invest in public infrastructure by reconstructing and rehabilitating the existing system that will assist economic growth until momentum is regained in resource development opportunities in all regions of the Northwest Territories.

We are also guided by the Department of Transportation’s updated strategy “Connecting Us: Northwest Territories Transportation Strategy 2015-2040” focused with a vision of “Northerners connected to opportunities”.

Today’s funding announcement of $96 million is aimed at improving the existing system but more work will need to be done. The Government of the Northwest Territories is finalizing additional submissions to Canada for projects that include improvements to community and regional airports, bridge rehabilitation and replacement, safety enhancements, and extending the winter road system which bridges connections between our families and communities.

The Government of the Northwest Territories looks forward to future funding announcements on Infrastructure projects.

We also look forward to the continued partnerships with the federal government in advancing the17th Assembly’s vision of a strong and prosperous territory that provides economic opportunities and jobs to its residents.

Thank you.

Exemption for retroactive payment for Income Assistance clients

YELLOWKNIFE, NT (July 24, 2015) – Premier Bob McLeod today addressed the increased Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) monthly payment from the Government of Canada, effective January 2015.

On January 1, 2015, the UCCB was expanded to include a new benefit for children aged 6 through 17, and the payments that parents receive for children under the age of 6 were increased. On a monthly basis, for each child under the age of 6, families are eligible to receive $160 and a benefit of $60 for each child between 6 and 17. The UCCB is a taxable benefit and eligible residents are expected to receive retroactive payments over the next few weeks.

“The increase to the Universal Child Care Benefit is welcome; however there are implications for Northwest Territories residents currently on income assistance,” said Premier McLeod. “Without a change in approach, these retroactive UCCB payments would reduce the amount income assistance clients will receive from the Income Assistance program, as the UCCB is considered income.”

Under the NWT Social Assistance Act and Income Assistance Regulations, the Income Assistance (IA) program has an annual $1,200 unearned income exemption. This exemption was introduced in September 2007 to allow for clients to keep some of their unearned income which includes (but is not limited to) GST tax credits, income tax refunds, and gifts.

Under current policy, both the increase and the retroactive UCCB payments would be considered income. As a result of this, IA clients’ August payments would decrease, and therefore they would not necessarily benefit from the full retroactive payment in the same way as other NWT residents with children.

“Helping our residents live strong and independent lives is one of the goals of the 17th Assembly. To do that, we must be prepared to be innovative and flexible with our programs and services,” said the Premier. “As a result, the GNWT has made the decision to exempt the federal retroactive payment.”
For media inquiries, contact:

Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE, NT (July 23, 2015) – Today, as the latest initiative in the ongoing implementation of the French Language Communications and Services Strategic Plan, the Francophone Affairs Secretariat launched the Active Offer Toolkit for front line staff across the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT).

Introduced in 2012, the strategic plan guides the implementation of improved services to the Francophone community accessing GNWT services. The plan includes three frameworks which cover all aspects of French language service delivery, roles and responsibilities of the GNWT. 

The Active Offer Toolkit is a user friendly resource to support departments and agencies in offering services to the public. Designed primarily for French language service coordinators, managers and supervisors and front line staff, the toolkit includes a consistent active offer across the GNWT, a quick reference guide for front line staff, display materials and a staff training DVD to ensure service delivery remains consistent.

“The toolkit is a significant step in solidifying our commitment to French language service delivery across government,” said the Honourable Jackson Lafferty, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. “We worked very closely with the Fédération franco-ténoise in developing the strategic plan, and with the Francophone community to ensure we are providing services and programs that are consistent and useful to them. We are pleased to be improving our services in our official languages to all of our language communities.”

Each department and agency will determine the best approach and timing to roll out the toolkit resources. Residents will likely begin to notice a change in the visibility of the active offer by the fall. The Francophone Affairs Secretariat will continue to provide training, guidance and support to departments as they use this toolkit to improve their active offer of French service.

Click here for more information on the French Language Communications and Services Strategic Plan.

For media inquiries, contact:

Jacqueline McKinnon
Education, Culture and Employment
P: (867) 920-6222
C: (867) 446-6002
E: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

 

Lancement de la trousse d’offre active en français au GTNO
Suite de la mise en œuvre du Plan stratégique

Yellowknife, TNO, le 23 juillet 2015 – Aujourd’hui, dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre continue du Plan stratégique sur les communications et les services en français, le Secrétariat aux affaires francophones lance la trousse de l’offre active destinée au personnel de première ligne du gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest (GTNO).

Introduit en 2012, le Plan stratégique oriente la mise en œuvre de services améliorés du GTNO pour la communauté francophone. Le plan inclut trois cadres couvrant tous les aspects de la prestation des services en français par le GTNO, ainsi que de son rôle et de sa responsabilité à cet égard.

La trousse de l’offre active est une ressource conviviale visant à aider les ministères et les organismes gouvernementaux à offrir leurs services au public. Conçue principalement pour les coordonnateurs des services en français, les gestionnaires, les superviseurs et le personnel de première ligne, la trousse promeut une offre active cohérente dans l’ensemble du GTNO pour assurer une prestation homogène des services. Elle inclut un guide de référence rapide pour le personnel de première ligne, des documents d’affichage et un DVD de formation du personnel.

« La trousse constitue une étape importante dans la consolidation de notre engagement pour la prestation des services en français à l’échelle du gouvernement », affirme Jackson Lafferty, ministre de l’Éducation, de la Culture et de la Formation. « Nous avons travaillé en étroite collaboration avec la Fédération franco-ténoise pour élaborer le Plan stratégique, et avec la communauté francophone pour veiller à lui fournir des services et des programmes qui sont cohérents et utiles. Nous nous réjouissons d’améliorer nos services dans nos langues officielles pour toutes nos communautés linguistiques. »

Chaque ministère et chaque organisme détermineront la meilleure approche et le meilleur moment pour déployer les ressources de cette trousse. Les Ténois devraient constater d’ici l’automne des changements dans la visibilité de l’offre active. Le Secrétariat aux affaires francophones continuera de fournir de la formation, des conseils et du soutien aux ministères utilisant cette trousse afin d’améliorer leur offre active des services en français.

Cliquez ici pour en savoir plus sur le Plan stratégique sur les communications et les services en français.

Pour toute demande de renseignements, les médias doivent communiquer avec :

Jacqueline McKinnon
Ministère de l’Éducation, de la Culture et de la Formation
Tél. : 867-920-6222
Téléc. : 867-446-6002
Courriel : jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE, NT (July 23, 2015 ) – The Government of the Northwest Territories is moving forward to provide Cassidy Point leaseholders with the opportunity to obtain fee simple title on their existing lot.

“By providing the opportunity to pursue land ownership, this government is fulfilling a long-standing commitment to the Cassidy Point leaseholders,” said Robert C. McLeod, Minister of Lands. “The Department will be working directly with the leaseholders to provide information and details about the purchase process, should they choose that option.”

There are 41 leaseholders at Cassidy Point, which is on Commissioner’s Land, about 17 kilometres east of Yellowknife along the Ingraham Trail. The sale of Commissioner’s Land in the Northwest Territories is priced in accordance with the GNWT’s Land Pricing Policy . Development at Cassidy Point is governed through the Area Development Act and the Cassidy Point Development Area Regulations and any improvements would be managed pursuant to that legislation.

A moratorium is still in place on issuing new recreational leases within the focus area along Highways No.3 and No.4 until the Recreational Land Management Framework is released in Spring 2016. The Framework will provide NWT-wide recreational leasing policies and planning that will respond to the needs of northerners and will be consistent with the Land Use and Sustainability Framework. In addition to identifying what demand exists for making lands available for recreational uses, the Department’s goal is to identify potential new areas suitable for leasing or sale, while respecting Aboriginal rights. The Department will ensure rural land across the NWT is used responsibly and sustainably.

Managing public lands in the Northwest Territories in a responsible and sustainable manner that meets the needs of northerners is a priority of the 17th Legislative Assembly.

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Communications Officer
Office of the Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 669-2308
Roya_Grinsted@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (July 23, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is pleased to announce, based on feedback received from public and stakeholder meetings on Thaidene Nene (TDN) held in Yellowknife last week, that, broad support is building for the GNWT’s balanced approach to find a solution that meets the many complex interests of northerners in TDN.

“I’m very encouraged to see that the collaborative process used so far in discussions is meeting with public support so far,” said GNWT Minister of Environment and Natural Resources J. Michael Miltenberger. “The mix of solutions proposed for TDN heralds a positive change in how the GNWT approaches the resolution of complex interests, some of which have been at play in this region for decades. The TDN process has enabled us to do an incredible amount of work with our partners in a very short period of time.”

At the first of public meetings held last week, the Minister addressed concerns expressed by some attendees that, with the addition of TDN to land already set aside for interim land withdrawals and land claims negotiations, there would be little left for exploration.

“In any negotiation, there are numerous interests that must be balanced,” said Minister Miltenberger. “The total land mass of the NWT is 1.3 million km2, which makes the Thaidene Nene area very small compared to all land available for development. We have excluded areas with high mineral potential, recognizing the important role of mining exploration and development in our economy. However, we also believe that a ‘conservation economy initiative’ can build a more diverse regional economy supported by TDN along with these potential exploration opportunities.”

The Minister assured the public that the GNWT is committed to ensuring all public interests continue to be considered in the process, including protecting the Northern lifestyle, securing a role for the public in ongoing implementation of the park (through a stakeholder working group), and fostering consensus-based decision-making by those parties represented on the TDN Management Board.

The GNWT hopes to continue to work with federal and Aboriginal governments, stakeholders and the public as essential partners in the establishment of the territorial conservation areas being proposed.

Further public engagement sessions on TDN continue next week in the following locations, from 7:00-9:30 p.m.:

July 27 – Fort Smith (Roaring Rapids Hall)

July 28 – Hay River (Ptarmigan Inn)

July 29 – Fort Resolution (Community Hall)

If you are unable to participate in any of these sessions, you can provide feedback in writing until August 15, 2015 to Darin Bagshaw at Darin_Bagshaw@gov.nt.ca.

For more information, please visit http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/programs/thaidene-nene-area-interest.

Media inquiries:
Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

(July 21, 2015)— Partners in Manitoba, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, The Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Ontario to Find Opportunities to Support Remote Communities —

The governments of Manitoba, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, The Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Ontario are establishing a Pan-Canadian Task Force to reduce the use of diesel fuel to generate electricity in remote communities. Manitoba Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell, Quebec Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Pierre Arcand, Newfoundland and Labrador Minister of Natural Resources Derrick Dalley, Northwest Territories Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay, Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Scott Kent, and Ontario Energy Minister Bob Chiarelli announced this historic agreement today.

This agreement comes directly following the Council of the Federation’s announcement of the Canadian Energy Strategy, a demonstration of a shared commitment to strengthening the economy, creating jobs, ensuring a secure supply of energy for all Canadians, supporting energy innovation, and addressing climate change.

Together the Ministers encourage all Canadian governments to join in this new project to support remote communities.

Reducing or eliminating diesel use in these communities would reduce harmful emissions, strengthen local economies, and create well-paying jobs. The creation of the task force supports requests from communities for cleaner and more economical energy solutions.

In Canada, there are nearly 300 off-grid communities with a total population of approximately 200,000 people. These communities include Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal settlements, villages or cities as well as long-term commercial outposts and camps for mining, fishing and forestry activities. Of these sites, approximately 175 are indigenous communities (First Nations, Innu, Inuit or Métis) with approximately 130,000 residents.

The Pan-Canadian Task Force will be chaired by Manitoba, and consist of officials from each of the provincial and territorial ministries and agencies that have policy responsibility for electricity supply in remote off-grid communities and remote off-grid aboriginal communities.

The main objective of the task force will include preparing a joint report that examines:

• outlining approaches that are currently being used or considered for eliminating the use of diesel in remote communities, including grid connection or alternative energy solutions
• sharing information about remote communities, including communities with potential for grid connection, within their respective jurisdictions, including government/agency involvement as well as potential savings that can be achieved;
• describing efforts that have been or are currently underway to reduce diesel use in remote communities, including the policy frameworks guiding these activities;
• identifying opportunities for collaboration between jurisdictions to further explore these ideas, including planning and implementing pilot projects using shared resources; and
• identifying risks and providing risk mitigation suggestions and strategies.

The report will also make recommendations on next steps. Manitoba will host the first meeting of the task force to bring participants together to share information and begin discussions on the use of diesel fuel in remote communities.

This work will also benefit from upcoming discussions being held during the Renewables in Remote Microgrids Conference being held in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories on September 16-17, 2015.

The new task force also builds on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in early 2014 by the premiers of Manitoba and Ontario, as well an MOU between Ontario and Québec signed to collaborate and share experiences on electricity systems options for remote First Nation communities in Ontario and off-grid communities in Québec.

Energy in the off-grid communities has also been identified as a priority under the Council of the Federation’s Canadian Energy Strategy.

– 30 –

 

QUOTES:

“Many remote communities that are not on Canada’s main electricity grid can only use expensive and greenhouse gas-emitting diesel fuel to generate electricity. Establishing this task force will allow us to share ideas and partner on projects that can help remote communities reduce their reliance on diesel fuel.”

– Minister Drew Caldwell, Government of Manitoba

“Bringing renewable energy to the off-grid communities has been a preoccupation in Quebec for a long time. Many partnerships, studies and projects have been conducted in this regard, but it still remains a great challenge. That’s why the Quebec government is proud to join this initiative in line with our orientations. Working together to share expertise will strengthen our respective views on how to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, reduce energy bills and create new clean and green opportunities to these communities.”

– Minister Pierre Arcand, Government of Quebec

“We are very pleased to work with our colleagues in an effort to reduce the use of diesel in remote communities. The Provincial Government and Nalcor Energy – the province’s crown corporation for developing the province’s energy resources – have undertaken alternative energy studies in our diesel communities throughout the province. We feel the work of this task force could be beneficial for the province’s communities and residents and we look forward to the exchange of ideas and information between provinces and territories.”

– Minister Derrick Dalley, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

“With electricity prices of 55 cents per kilowatt hour in our remote communities, the Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to finding innovative solutions to meet the energy requirements of our communities in a sustainable and affordable manner. Sustainable communities and development in Canada’s north is important for all Canadians.”

– Minister David Ramsay, Government of Northwest Territories

“The Yukon is excited to be part of this National Task Force. The work of this group is a unique opportunity for northerners to assist our remote communities with their energy consumption and strengthen their long-term resiliency and sustainability.”

– Minister Scott Kent, Government of Yukon

“Ontario is committed to working with neighbouring provinces to find ways for remote communities to get off diesel using both grid connection and non-grid solutions. This new, Pan-Canadian Task Force we are forming is yet another early outcome of the work done at the recent Council of the Federation to establish a Canadian Energy Strategy. Provincial and Territorial Ministers will work together to achieve real results and solutions for Canada’s remote and first nation communities.”

– Minister Bob Chiarelli, Government of Ontario

MEDIA CONTACTS

For media inquiries, please contact:

Government of Ontario                    Government of Manitoba                             Government of Quebec

Jennifer Beaudry                                Caedmon Malowany                                      Véronique Normandin

416-319-3573                                      204-945-1494                                                  418 643-7295

 

Government of Yukon                      Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

Brigitte Parker                                     Diana Quinton

867-667-3183                                      709-729-5282

 

Government of the Northwest Territories

Roya Grinsted

867-669-2308

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. (July 17, 2015) – Premier Bob McLeod and his provincial and territorial colleagues signed a new Apprentice Mobility Protocol at the annual summer meeting of Canada’s Premiers this week, providing apprentices with a national certification to work across Canada.

The Protocol articulates the agreements jurisdictions have reached to achieve a provincial-territorial approach to mobility for apprentices.  It includes the recognition that work experience and technical training may occur in any jurisdiction; jurisdictions will facilitate mobile apprentices progressing through their apprenticeship programs; and the mutual recognition of apprenticeship training and pre-apprenticeship training between jurisdictions.

“This initiative is a significant step in promoting labour market mobility across Canada and will support our efforts to increase the population of the NWT,” said Premier McLeod. “There is a growing need for skilled tradespeople across the country, and with this Protocol, we are providing a means for apprentices to choose where they would practise without having to recertify.”

Each province and territory is currently responsible for apprenticeship, resulting in 13 different apprenticeship systems across the country.  This can lead to barriers in apprenticeship skills training mobility and may interrupt the continuum of skills training for apprentices that need or want to move while completing their apprenticeship.

“We have a number of initiatives underway to promote the NWT as an attractive destination for people to live and work,” said the Premier. “This includes investments in energy conservation and efficiency, in infrastructure, healthcare, our resident workforce, ensuring a competitive tax system and creating partnerships across public and private industry. We are taking innovative approaches and creating incentives, and the Apprentice Mobility Protocol is one more link in the chain.”

Jurisdictions continue to discuss implementation details, with the Protocol expected to take effect in all jurisdictions in January 2016.

Find more information on Canada’s Premiers here.

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, N.L. (July 16, 2015) – Northwest  Territories Premier Bob McLeod participated in the annual meeting of Premiers and leaders of the five National Aboriginal Organizations (NAOs) yesterday.

As the Chair of the Aboriginal Affairs Working Group (AAWG), Premier McLeod led discussions on the progress made by the AAWG in a number of areas, including ways to increase graduation rates for Aboriginal students, supporting economic development in Aboriginal communities, and ending violence against Aboriginal women and girls. Premier McLeod also presented the Report on Aboriginal Children in Care for discussion at the meeting.

“The NWT is a leader in Canada in working in partnership with Aboriginal governments and has adopted innovative ways of working together to advance shared priorities and interests on a government-to-government basis,” said Premier McLeod. “I welcomed the opportunity to share how our collaborative approach has enabled us to move forward with reconciliation with Aboriginal people. This includes ensuring that Aboriginal languages are recognized as official languages, that the Residential School experience is an integral part of our education of all NWT youth, our unprecedented sharing of resource revenues from public lands and our commitment to engaging Aboriginal governments in the spirit of respect, recognition and responsibility.”

During yesterday’s meetings, Premier McLeod supported discussions on advancing the work begun at the historic National Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Held in Ottawa in February 2015 and chaired by Premier McLeod, the National Roundtable brought together leaders from the federal, provincial and territorial governments with leaders of the five NAOs for the first time ever to discuss collective approaches to this issue.

The AAWG is composed of provincial and territorial Ministers of Aboriginal Affairs and leaders from five National Aboriginal Organizations: the Assembly of First Nations, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Métis National Council and the Native Women’s Association of Canada.

The NWT is beginning its second year as Chair of the AAWG and in May 2015 welcomed Aboriginal, Provincial and Territorial leaders to Yellowknife for the first AAWG meetings to be held in the NWT.

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

HAY RIVER (July 13, 2015) – Staff at the South Mackenzie Correctional Centre had the opportunity to practice their contingency plans during a mock evacuation drill last week in Hay River.

Staff put full evacuation plans to the test when advised of the mock drill starting at 9:00 a.m. last Wednesday and inmates, staff and materials were moved into position for transportation within record time. This included loading vehicles with appropriate security and medical requirements for all inmates, including medications and personal effects. Along with appropriate security gear for safety, current facility records and case files, staff needed to muster water and food to sustain inmates and staff for a full 48-hour period.

“I am very pleased to see the Corrections Service testing their emergency procedures,” said Minister of Justice David Ramsay. “We made commitments during discussions on the recent report from the Office of the Auditor General. We committed to being vigilant on emergency safety. The timing of this drill is excellent considering fire activity in the South Slave area. The success of this exercise confirms our confidence in our staff’s ability to protect the safety of inmates in our care, their work colleagues and the public.”

After the exercise, senior management met to discuss the operation and identify any areas for improvement.  All involved were able to agree the procedures established were sound and effective.

The Warden of the South Mackenzie Corrections Centre is a member of the Regional Emergency Response Committee and works closely with the team for emergency planning.  The Department of Justice is committed to public safety and the safety of everyone in any corrections facility.

Media inquiries:

Sue Glowach
Senior Communications Advisor
Department of Justice
Tel: 867-920-3130
Email: sue_glowach@gov.nt.ca

YELLOWKNIFE (July 10, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has been working collaboratively with Aboriginal governments and is pleased to announce that it has a proposed approach towards the establishment of a Thaidene Nëné territorial park and wildlife conservation areas. The collaborative approach ensures that the majority of the land within the TDN area remains under territorial management to best meet northern interests.

GNWT is beginning stakeholder and public engagement sessions this July to discuss the proposed conservation areas. These sessions will include consideration of proposed territorial conservation area boundaries, discussion of northern laws and policies that may be used to address key interests in TDN, and exploration of a ‘conservation economy initiative’ that builds a diverse regional economy supported by TDN along with other opportunities . The Government of Canada plans to release details regarding its interests in the TDN area in the near future.

The Thaidene Nëné area is a beautiful cultural landscape with unique geography and rich wildlife populations, and encompasses a number of key ecological, cultural and recreational features including the East Arm of Great Slave Lake, NWT. It is also rich in economic opportunities. Given its numerous values, a unique northern approach to planning, conservation, and management is being discussed for the area under consideration.

“Thaidene Nëné is one of the first post-devolution initiatives to feature a made-in-the-North approach to finding balance in a unique area with numerous ecological, cultural and potential economic attributes” says GNWT Minister of Environment and Natural Resources J. Michael Miltenberger. “We wanted to ensure that northerners are able to maintain the northern lifestyle throughout TDN. We have worked with our Aboriginal government partners to build agreement on that.”

The existing consultation boundary for the TDN area includes over 12,000 km2 for proposed territorial conservation designations. These lands are currently protected by territorial land withdrawals while future uses are being considered.

“The Government of Canada commends the Government of the Northwest Territories on their efforts to conserve the natural and cultural values of the Thaidene Nëné area,” said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, federal Minister of Environment and Minister Responsible for Parks Canada. “The Government of Canada will continue to collaborate with the GNWT, Aboriginal groups and communities and other stakeholders, and will be making a related announcement in the near future.”

The GNWT is seeking input from direct stakeholders and the general public to help make Thaidene Nëné a truly Northern experience and regional economic opportunity. The GNWT stakeholder and interest holder sessions commence on July 14 in Yellowknife. This will be followed by GNWT evening public engagement sessions in the following locations from 7:00-9:30 p.m. :

July 15 – Yellowknife (Tree of Peace Friendship Centre)

July 27 – Fort Smith (Roaring Rapids Hall)

July 28 – Hay River (Ptarmigan Inn)

July 29 – Fort Resolution (Community Hall)

For those who are unable to participate in any of these sessions, feedback can be provided in writing to Darin Bagshaw at Darin_Bagshaw@gov.nt.ca

Since April 1, 2014, following the devolution of responsibility for land, water, and resource management, the GNWT  has worked collaboratively with Parks Canada and interested Aboriginal governments on the establishment of Thaidene Nëné conservation areas.

For more information, please visit http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/programs/thaidene-nene-area-interest.
For a backgrounder please click here.

Media inquiries:
Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

 

 

 

TORONTO, ON (July 8, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories will be a signatory to the Climate Summit of the Americas Common Statement. Minister of Environment and Natural Resources J. Michael Miltenberger will sign the Common Statement on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) at the Climate Summit in Toronto, Ontario tomorrow.

“The Government of the Northwest Territories is pleased to sign the Common Statement, which commits participating governments to take actions supporting international efforts to limit the increase in global temperature to below 2 degrees Celsius,” said Minister Miltenberger. “It is critical that we participate in these important discussions, as the North is experiencing some of the fastest warming of any region in the world. The exponential impacts of climate change on the North combines with factors like the high cost of energy and limited infrastructure to present challenges to the sustainability of rural and remote Northern communities.”

Signatories to the Common Statement also agree to:

• Allow flexibility for locally determined action and approaches, including actions identified in the Northwest Territories Greenhouse Gas Strategy;
• Adopt emission reduction targets and publicly report on progress;
• Work towards the long-term objective of a carbon price applied throughout the global economy that considers each country’s different circumstances and priorities; and,
• Enhance cooperation to share information and expertise on various carbon readiness platforms.

“Previous studies have indicated that our high energy prices already create an effective carbon pricing mechanism by leading consumers to make efficiency upgrades or to switch to renewable energy sources,” added Minister Miltenberger.  “As more of the global economy adopts carbon pricing mechanisms, we need to be at the table to understand the potential implications for our economy.”

The Climate Summit is an invitation-only event for Pan-American jurisdictions, environmental groups and industry designed to strengthen cooperation among participants in working towards common approaches for addressing  climate change.

Backgrounders:
Q and A – Carbon Pricing
Backgrounder – Climate Change Actions

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca

(June 30, 2015, Updated at: 4:58 PM) – There is currently a wildfire burning approximately 2 kms northwest of Jean Marie River.  In addition, a wildfire approximately 20,000 hectares in size is burning approximately 6 kms south of Hay River.  As a result of these fires, the communities of Jean Marie River and Hay River and residents along Highway 2 are at increased risk.  Various government departments are working to coordinate resources and response to these wildfires.

MACA

MACA is responsible for emergency measures and coordinating resources and information between all GNWT departments as well as community governments and stakeholders to ensure the security of NWT communities and residents during wildfire season.

The Territorial, South Slave and Deh Cho Emergency Response Committees have been engaged and the territorial operations center is activated and is continuing to plan activities in collaboration with stakeholder organizations. MACA is working with the Town of Hay River, ENR, other departments and stakeholders to develop contingency plans should an evacuation of the town be required.

Neither of the affected communities (Jean Marie River and Hay River) has declared a state of local emergency.  Municipal and GNWT officials will work together to ensure effective communications should evacuation be necessary.

ENR

Environment and Natural Resources is coordinating fire suppression activities and providing information and current wildfire conditions across the territory.

Priority fires in the Northwest Territories include Paradise Complex, approximately 2 kms from the Hay River and, FS-066 fire, about 4 km west Jean Marie River.

Aircraft are still unable to assess or suppress fire due to heavy smoke in the area of the Paradise Complex.  The plan is to cut control lines for a burn out operation to keep the fire from getting west of the river.  Fire operations today are limited to values at risk in the Paradise Gardens and Patterson subdivisions.

The fire about 4 km west of Jean Marie River made a run towards the north last night away from the community. Fire is now 231 ha. Resources on the fire today include 50 fire personnel, four helicopters and air tanker support as required. Fire still poses a potential threat to the community.

DOT

The Department of Transportation is monitoring wildfire situations and smoke conditions on NWT highways to ensure roadways are safe.  DOT is effecting road closures in areas where smoke or fire may prevent safe passage on highways.

DOT provides regular updates to the public through local media, Twitter, the DOT website, email commercial alerts, and a toll-free phone line.

Contacts:

For updates on road closures and highway safety: call 1-800-661-0750; check Twitter:  @GNWT_DOT or online at www.dot.gov.nt.ca

Wildland Fire Updates are available as the fire situation and conditions in the Northwest Territories require. Updates are posted online at www.enr.gov.nt.ca, on the NWTfire Facebook page and at www.nwtfire.com.

A Public Alerts page is available on the main government website that aggregates all the links to information pertaining to emergency response on a variety of departmental websites, including social media accounts at www.gov.nt.ca/public-safety-alerts

 

(30 juin 2015, Mis à jour à : 16 h 58) – Un feu de végétation est en activité à environ deux (2) kilomètres au nord-ouest de Jean Marie River. De plus, un feu de végétation d’une superficie d’environ 20 000 hectares est en activité à environ six (6) kilomètres au sud de Hay River. En raison de ces feux, les résidents de Jean Marie River et de Hay River, ainsi que ceux demeurant le long de la route 2, sont à risque élevé. Des ministères du GTNO travaillent de concert afin de coordonner les ressources et les efforts de lutte en lien avec ces feux.

Ministère des Affaires municipales et communautaires (MAMC)

Le ministère des Affaires municipales et communautaires (MAMC) est responsable des mesures prises en situation d’urgence et de la coordination des ressources et de l’information entre tous les ministères du gouvernement des Territoires du Nord‑Ouest (GTNO), en plus des administrations communautaires et des parties prenantes, afin d’assurer la sécurité des collectivités des TNO et de leurs résidents en cette saison des feux de végétation.

Les comités d’intervention d’urgence des TNO, du Slave Sud et du Dehcho ont été mis au travail et la base d’opération territoriale a été mise en activité; cette dernière continue de s’affairer à la planification des opérations en collaboration avec les organismes partenaires. Le MAMC travaille avec la Municipalité de Hay River, le ministère de l’Environnement et des Ressources naturelles, d’autres ministères, ainsi que des parties prenantes, afin d’élaborer des plans d’urgence en prévision d’une potentielle nécessité d’évacuer la municipalité.

Aucune des deux collectivités touchées (Jean Marie River et Hay River) n’a déclaré d’état d’urgence locale. Les représentants municipaux et gouvernementaux travailleront ensemble afin d’assurer une communication efficace dans l’éventualité où une évacuation soit nécessaire.

Ministère de l’Environnement et des Ressources naturelles

Le ministère de l’Environnement et des Ressources naturelles (MERN) coordonne les opérations de lutte contre les incendies et fournit des renseignements sur les feux de végétation en activité, ainsi que sur les conditions actuelles en lien avec ces feux, et ce, à l’échelle des TNO.

Les feux prioritaires aux Territoires du Nord-Ouest comprennent celui de Paradise Complex, situé à environ 2 km de Hay River, ainsi que le feu FS-066, situé à environ 4 km à l’ouest de Jean Marie River.

Les aéronefs ne sont toujours pas en mesure d’accéder au feu ou de pouvoir lutter contre celui-ci, en raison de l’épaisse fumée présente dans les environs de Paradise Complex. Il est prévu de défricher les arbres afin de créer une ligne de suppression permettant une opération d’incendie contrôlée visant à empêcher le feu de passer à la rive ouest de la rivière. Les opérations de lutte contre les incendies sont maintenant consacrées aux valeurs menacées des lotissements résidentiels Paradise Gardens et Patterson.

Le feu situé à environ 4 km à l’ouest de Jean Marie River a pris la direction nord hier soir, s’éloignant ainsi de la collectivité. Le feu a maintenant une superficie de 231 ha. Les ressources consacrées à ce feu aujourd’hui comprenaient 50 employés de lutte contre les incendies, quatre hélicoptères, et l’aide de bombardiers à eau au besoin. Le feu représente toujours une menace potentielle pour la collectivité.

Ministère des Transports

Le ministère des Transports surveille la situation des feux de végétation et les conditions en lien avec la présence de fumée sur les routes des TNO afin d’assurer la sécurité des usagers de la route. Le ministère des Transports procède à la fermeture de routes dans les régions où la fumée et les feux empêchent la circulation sécuritaire des usagers sur la route.

Le ministère des Transports fournit des mises à jour régulières au public par l’entremise des médias locaux, de Twitter, de son site Web, d’alertes envoyées par courriel aux compagnies de transport et d’une ligne téléphonique sans frais.

 

Comment obtenir les renseignements à jour :

Pour tout savoir sur les fermetures de routes et sur la sécurité routière : téléphonez au 1-800-661-0750; consultez le compte Twitter @GNWT_DOT; ou visitez le www.dot.gov.nt.ca.

Les mises à jour sur les feux de végétation sont publiées en fonction de la situation et des conditions aux Territoires du Nord-Ouest. Ces mises à jour sont publiées en ligne au www.enr.gov.nt.ca, sur la page Facebook « NWTfire » et au www.nwtfire.com.

La page Avis au public peut être consultée à partir du site Web principal du GTNO. Elle réunit tous les liens pouvant mener à des renseignements concernant les interventions en cas d’urgence provenant de plusieurs sites Web gouvernementaux, y compris les comptes que l’on trouve sur divers médias sociaux. Voici l’adresse menant à la page Alertes au public : www.gov.nt.ca/public-safety-alerts.