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What do leaders across the N.W.T hope to see in the next federal budget? CBC North - April 17, 2021

Canada's Liberal government is set to release a highly anticipated federal budget on Monday, leaving leaders across the N.W.T. Since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau formed a minority government in the fall of 2019, the government has only released one federal budget. Reducing inequalityThe first federal budget since the start of the pandemic is expected to tackle inequality. Erwin Elias is the mayor of Tuktoyaktuk, a community where the impacts of climate change are in plain sight. (Mario De Ciccio/Radio-Canada)O'Reilly reiterated a sense of urgency when it comes to adapting and mitigating climate change as well.

Mentions: Paul Betsina, Caroline Cochrane, Kevin O’Reilly

NWT capital spending sees second biggest increase in the country My Yellow Knife Now - April 16, 2021

This is the second year in the row spending on capital projects has increased, after five years of increase since 2015. Since capital spending peaked in 2015 with the construction of the Gahcho Kué diamond mine, private investment has trended downward while public investment has also increased. Private investment in capital projects has dropped significantly since Gahcho Kué was constructed in 2015. The 13.4 per cent increase in capital investment for the Northwest Territories is the second largest increase, to Yukon which is expected to increase the most, rising by over 20 per cent. Capital spending in Nunavut is expected to grow by less than 1 per cent.

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Caroline Wawzonek

Whatì to get high-speed fibre internet in $11M project Cabin Radio - April 15, 2021

...workforce, equipment, camp facilities and environmental protection measures for both projects. Chief Nitsiza and NWT finance and industry minister Caroline Wawzonek each said don’t anticipate any issues with approval for the fibre line as it will cause little additional disturbance. Installing approximately...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Caroline Wawzonek

N.W.T. weighs options for curriculum renewal CBC North - April 15, 2021

K-12 curriculum is out of date and in need of renewal," said Shannon Barnett-Aikman, the assistant deputy minister of Education and CultureN.W.T.-made curriculum ruled outRight now, the N.W.T. For example, the high school curriculum is adopted entirely from Alberta for Grades 10,11 and 12. Jessica Brace, the director of curriculum development with Education, Culture and Employment, confirmed they'd be maintaining this approach and ruled out the possibility of a curriculum designed completely by the N.W.T. Regardless, the curriculum needs to be reflective of cultures, languages and identities of students in the N.W.T., Brace added. curriculum is "closely aligned" with what the department is looking for in a curriculum, they are still considering all options, including Alberta.

Mentions: Jackson Lafferty, Kevin O’Reilly

NWT, on hunt for new curriculum, says BC is ‘most closely aligned’ Cabin Radio - April 14, 2021

The NWT government on Tuesday strongly hinted a move toward adopting much of British Columbia’s school curriculum is likely in the coming two years. Education officials presenting an update to NWT MLAs said the BC curriculum was easily the best fit for the territory across four key criteria. The territory currently uses Alberta’s curriculum but has been unnerved by that province’s recently announced update, which was panned by experts and not developed with the NWT’s input. A decision on the source of the next NWT curriculum is due in August or September this year, for implementation across the territory at the start of the 2022-23 academic year. “It’s hard to imagine Alberta’s [new curriculum] is going to come out any better,” deadpanned Frame Lake MLA Kevin O’Reilly in response.

Mentions: Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly

Is 24 enough in Hay River? NNSL Media - April 12, 2021

...because they would be able to stay in their homes,” she said. Green noted she visited on April 9 at the invitation of Hay River South MLA Rocky Simpson. Tom Makepeace, chair of the Hay River Seniors’ Society, sounded pleased with the meeting with Green. Productive meeting “I think it was...

Mentions: Rocky Simpson, Julie Green

Hay River flooding shelter approved by CPHO My Yellow Knife Now - April 12, 2021

...as well. I like to keep things in the South Slave, if we can,” he said in the Legislative Assembly. Minister for Municipal and Community Affairs Paulie Chinna — the department who are developing the community guidelines for flooding preparations — said her department will be working closely with a...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Rocky Simpson

New Tourism 2025 strategy good but has a few surprises, say operators NNSL Media - April 9, 2021

...highlights. Tourism 2025: RoadMap to Recovery was tabled on March 30 in the legislative assembly by Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) Minister Caroline Wawzonek. The strategy notes that tourism was one of the first sectors to feel the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which caused “significant negative...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Caroline Wawzonek

In Covid’s wake: ‘zombie economy’ or real rebound? NNSL Media - April 8, 2021

...proactive. “The communication plan for the GNWT needs a serious overhaul,” she said. Communication could improve: Wawzonek Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek concurs with Bruce, to a degree, on the communications problems. “We can always do better,” she said. “I know there is some desire to have...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane

NWT needs cultural shift to reform harmful child protection system, committee hears NNSL Media - April 8, 2021

...should be providing their own child protection services and Indigenous-led addictions treatment programs in the NWT, said Inuvik-Twin Lakes MLA Lesa Semmler. GNWT image While she acknowledged that in five to 10 per cent of cases there are parents who aren’t capable of caring for their children, in the...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Lesa Semmler, Jackson Lafferty, Rylund Johnson

City ponders adjustment to tax mill rate My Yellow Knife Now - April 7, 2021

...Alty, who was in favour of keeping the mill rate the same. Alty added council should create business incentive programs instead. Councillors Rommel Silverio, Robin Williams and Stacie Smith all supported keeping mill rates the same as in 2020. Councillor Cynthia Mufandaedza said she would support...

Mentions: Niels Konge, Rommel Silverio

Yellowknife contemplates shifting property tax burden Cabin Radio - April 6, 2021

... Status quo and ‘shock to the system’ “I hope we don’t stay with the status quo,” Konge said. Mayor Rebecca Alty and councillors Rommel Silverio, Robin Williams and Stacie Smith, however, supported keeping mill rates the same as in 2020. Alty said she doesn’t believe changing the mill rate...

Mentions: Niels Konge, Rommel Silverio

Rapid housing rejections leave Yk applicants disappointed NNSL Media - April 5, 2021

...reality of family homelessness” Dumbuya-Sesay said the sizes of the families can vary so it is hard to pin down a count on individuals impacted. Katrina Nokleby, MLA for Great Slave said she wasn’t greatly in-tune with the specifics of the Yellowknife housing projects but said that it was noticeable that...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Katrina Nokleby

Suicide prevention strategy needs revision, says MLA NNSL Media - April 5, 2021

...informed him of the limits of health supports for individuals with experience of suicide. The person reached out after Health Minister Julie Green announced on March 9 that her department had allocated $225,000 for a community suicide prevention fund. The fund will provide $45,000 per...

Mentions: Julie Green, Kevin O’Reilly

Housing woes could be locked out with easy-build homes: CEO NNSL Media - April 2, 2021

...unit because I think that’s what we need to get our hands on to convince others that this is something worth trying,” he said. Great Slave MLA Katrina Nokleby said the homes and the price sound good but she would also need to see a working demonstration unit in the North before she can commit to it. ...

Mentions: Jackie Jacobson, Kevin O’Reilly, Katrina Nokleby, Caitlin Cleveland

MACA unwilling to pay for Ingraham Trail Fire Services My Yellow Knife Now - April 1, 2021

...and surrounding area impacts response times within city limits, according to MACA. (Photo by MyTrueNorthNow.com staff.) MLA for Yellowknife North Rylund Johnson criticized the territorial government for not being clearer about their unwillingness to pay, when discussions about the fire services were first...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Rylund Johnson

How the NWT plans to help tourism recover from Covid-19 Cabin Radio - April 1, 2021

...hardest by the Covid-19 pandemic, the NWT government has set ambitious goals to help the industry not only recover but grow in the coming years. Caroline Wawzonek, the tourism minister, tabled the territory’s latest five-year tourism strategy – titled Tourism 2025: Roadmap to Recovery – in the...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. needs user-friendly public registry for oil and gas, says MLA CBC North - April 1, 2021

...registry that links licences to a mapped location would improve the transparency of how the N.W.T. manages oil and gas resources. Industry Minister Caroline Wawzonek said the website works for her purposes, but that she's willing to find opportunities for improvement. "This issue has come up generally, that [the...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Kevin O’Reilly

MLAs approve 2021-2022 budget NNSL Media - March 31, 2021

... Examining and measuring the effectiveness of specific program delivery by the NWT Housing Corporation through the Government Renewal process. Steve Norn, Tu Nedhé-Wiilideh MLA and chair of the standing committee on accountability and oversight also praised the work put into considering the Main...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Wawzonek

Home ownership barriers not being fixed: MLA My Yellow Knife Now - March 31, 2021

... The NWT Housing Corporation has 321 mortgage files. Mortgage payments are on time for 103 of them, with 218 are in arrears. While Housing Minister Paulie Chinna said there are a lot of mortgages under the NWT Housing Corporation’s portfolio that are under arrears, the corporation still maintains a...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Caitlin Cleveland

GNWT’s budget passed with additional spending on programs My Yellow Knife Now - March 31, 2021

... “The work undertaken in recent weeks, including the unprecedented commitments on policy, is a shining example of consensus government at work,” Steve Norn, Chair of the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight Members, said in a statement. “We are pleased with the positive outcomes for...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Wawzonek

75 per cent vaccination goal ‘now in question’ NNSL Media - March 31, 2021

...according to Health Minister Julie Green who spoke to the issue on Monday. While discussing the easing of Covid-19 restrictions with Kam Lake MLA Caitlin Cleveland in the legislative assembly, Green said one factor in loosening the rules will be the progress of vaccinations. Chief public health officer (CPHO)...

Mentions: Julie Green, Caitlin Cleveland

Health minister defends cut in long-term care bed projections My Yellow Knife Now - March 30, 2021

...Advertisement - Health Minister Julie Green defended the new long-term care bed projections amid criticism from MLA’s. Green announced in February that new projections more than halved the number of long-term care beds the GNWT estimated they would need in the coming years. The new projections,...

Mentions: Frieda Martselos, Rocky Simpson, Julie Green

75 per cent vaccination goal in question: Health Minister My Yellow Knife Now - March 30, 2021

...Advertisement - Health Minister Julie Green says there is doubt over whether 75 per cent of adults receiving their COVID-19 vaccine is enough. Green was speaking in the Legislative Assembly on Monday and said new considerations like the UK COVID-19 variant — two cases of which had been reported in Fort...

Mentions: Julie Green, Caitlin Cleveland

Health minister waffles on requirements for herd immunity CKLB 101.9 - March 30, 2021

...cent vaccination target for herd immunity against the COVID-19 virus may be changing. During oral questions in the Legislative Assembly yesterday Julie Green, minister of Health and Social Services, faced questions from three MLAs about how the government will be easing health restrictions in the...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Julie Green, Katrina Nokleby

N.W.T. MLA, Industry minister at odds over imposing $21M fee on oil company CBC North - March 30, 2021

...in the Sahtu by converting an exploration licence into a significant discovery licence without imposing fees or conditions. Industry Minister Caroline Wawzonek says springing the new regulatory regime on Husky Energy, recently absorbed by Canada's third-largest oil and natural gas producer Cenovus Energy,...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Wally Schumann, Kevin O’Reilly

What will it take to ease public health restrictions in the N.W.T? MLAs ask health minister CBC North - March 30, 2021

...MLAs pressed Health Minister Julie Green in the Legislative Assembly Monday to give more information on the territory's plan to relax public health restrictions, as residents and business owners prepare for another pandemic summer. The pressure to relax restrictions is mounting with the territory...

Mentions: Julie Green, Caitlin Cleveland

Minister defends reduction of Hay River long-term care beds Cabin Radio - March 30, 2021

...built in Hay River has been halved because better data is now available. Julie Green faced questioning in the legislature from Hay River South MLA Rocky Simpson after the news, two weeks ago, that Hay River will now receive 24 new long-term care beds instead of the 48 beds initially announced in 2015. More...

Mentions: Rocky Simpson, Julie Green

NWT finds new money to speed up midwifery expansion Cabin Radio - March 30, 2021

...adding the changes were a result of “all of us working together.” “I am very, very proud that we moved forward with this,” Norn said. Katrina Nokleby, the Great Slave MLA – who was a cabinet member during the last budget negotiations – said: “I’m really happy to see that we have been...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Frieda Martselos, Caroline Wawzonek, Julie Green, Kevin O’Reilly, Katrina Nokleby

Rapid housing rejections leave Yk applicants disappointed NNSL Media - March 29, 2021

...reality of family homelessness” Dumbuya-Sesay said the sizes of the families can vary so it is hard to pin down a count on individuals impacted. Katrina Nokleby, MLA for Great Slave said she wasn’t greatly in-tune with the specifics of the Yellowknife housing projects but said that it was noticeable that...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Katrina Nokleby

NWT’s 75% vaccination target ‘now in question’ says minister Cabin Radio - March 29, 2021

...coverage with one dose of the Moderna vaccine and 36-percent coverage with two doses. Responding to questions from Tu Nedhé-Wiilideh MLA Steve Norn, the minister said: “Putting a firm timeline on when we’re going into phase three is very difficult to do.” Green said she expects Dr Kami...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Julie Green, Katrina Nokleby, Caitlin Cleveland

RCMP close Hay River highrise fire investigation Cabin Radio - March 29, 2021

... Unsafe balconies, a damaged fire alarm system, and other issues related to fire protection were among concerns documented by housing minister Paulie Chinna in recent...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Rocky Simpson

Critics deplore lack of sunshine list in NWT NNSL Media - March 26, 2021

...their salary range chart, and ultimately figure it out. But why make it harder for people?” Lack of data perpetuates pay gaps Great Slave MLA Katrina Nokleby also supports the introduction of an NWT sunshine list. “I was shocked when I came into the GNWT and found out how much some people make,” she...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Rylund Johnson, Katrina Nokleby

NWT can do ‘a lot more’ to replace shuttered law library Cabin Radio - March 26, 2021

...2016, making the territory the only jurisdiction in Canada without one. Despite criticism from some lawyers and regular MLAs, then-justice minister Louis Sebert defended the decision, saying the library was too expensive, under-utilized, and that many resources had moved online. Sebert promised a new...

Mentions: Louis Sebert, Kieron Testart, Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly

‘A warming feeling’ : Alberta veterinarian granted travel exemption to practice in the N.W.T. CBC North - May 8, 2020

...said he was in touch with several MLAs along with Fort Smith Mayor Lynn Napier-Buckley about getting across the border. Stickney said Hay River MLA Rocky Simpson along with Thebacha MLA Frieda Martselos were "instrumental" in having his case put forward to the territorial government. Simpson also showed his...

Mentions: Frieda Martselos, Rocky Simpson

NWT explains how it’ll divide $8.7M fund for northern airlines Cabin Radio - May 8, 2020

...to lobby the federal government for money to support other NWT airlines that don’t offer scheduled passenger services, like charter companies. Katrina Nokleby, the tourism minister, told tour operators on Friday that “additional support is on the way for our airline...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Katrina Nokleby

Yellowknifer editorial: North’s economy needs mining NNSL Media - May 8, 2020

But the backbone of the Northern economy was almost overlooked completely. Frame Lake MLA Kevin O’Reilly actually attempted to steer his colleagues away from trying to aid the mining industry because the GNWT doesn’t have “deep enough pockets” and cannot control commodity prices or financing. That’s what mining has done. He’s also an advocate for the Taltson Hydroelectricity Expansion Project, the Slave Geological Province Corridor Project and the Mackenzie Valley Highway. Premier Caroline Cochrane told reporters that mining industry representatives will be consulted as the economic plan evolves.

Mentions: Caroline Cochrane, Kevin O’Reilly

Is now the time for guaranteed basic income in the NWT? Cabin Radio - May 4, 2020

...could be used at a provincial or territorial level. No matter how much government tries to make a program address a gap, it never catches everyone. RYLUND JOHNSON, YELLOWKNIFE NORTH MLA Research into Mincome is complex as the participants knew it was temporary, which makes it hard to establish what would...

Mentions: Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly

Territory kicks out Gwich’in man who tried to move home to Inuvik during pandemic CBC North - May 3, 2020

...Collinson, Thom's ministerial advisor, would "assist in responding." It's not clear if any action was taken after that. Inuvik Twin Lakes MLA Lesa Semmler says although she hadn't heard about Hagen's case by Friday afternoon, she says people returning to the N.W.T. need to have a plan in place that's...

Mentions: Lesa Semmler, Diane Thom

NWT Power Corporation confirms ransomware attack Cabin Radio - April 30, 2020

...for suspicious activity and continues to do what is needed to protect the information in our custody and control.” In March, industry minister Katrina Nokleby had urged people to “please be vigilant about scams involving Covid-19” as she shared a link to a report featuring the use of ransomware against...

Mentions: Rylund Johnson, Katrina Nokleby

MLAs tell Cabinet to focus on small business while rebuilding NWT economy NNSL Media - April 30, 2020

...most MLAs lauded the effort but criticized the draft’s lack of concrete solutions for NWT businesses caught in the pandemic economic downturn. Rylund Johnson, MLA for Yellowknife North, said the Three Phases of Planning are fine but the recovery plan is missing funding commitments. “I’m concerned...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Frieda Martselos, Jackie Jacobson, Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane, Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly, Katrina Nokleby

Race to solve deafening problem of MLAs who can’t hit mute Cabin Radio - April 30, 2020

...line left a whole half-hour or more of the conversation barely intelligible, including comments from Premier Caroline Cochrane and her ministers, Caroline Wawzonek and Katrina Nokleby. The meeting was supposed to be a public unveiling of the NWT’s broad-brushstrokes economic and social recovery plan, with a...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane, Rylund Johnson, Katrina Nokleby

NWT unveils ’emerge stronger’ plan for economic recovery Cabin Radio - April 29, 2020

...presentation has zero dollars attached to it. I really want to see some economic stimulus spending. When is the GNWT going to spend some money?” Caroline Wawzonek, the finance minister, insisted: “It’s not the lack of wanting to spend money.” Instead, Wawzonek said, the work being presented on Wednesday...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Rocky Simpson, Caroline Cochrane, Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly

N.W.T. unveils broad stroke economic and social COVID-19 recovery plan CBC North - April 29, 2020

...for continued and strengthened programs, services and supports ahead," she said. The plan does not include a timeline. Plan slim on specifics Rylund Johnson, MLA for Yellowknife North, was concerned about the lack of detail in the plan. "I'm concerned that this presentation has zero dollars attached to...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane, Rylund Johnson

No money, few details presented in GNWT social and economic recovery plan CKLB 101.9 - April 29, 2020

Improving connectivity was one of several goals that Premier Caroline Cochrane touched upon while presenting her government’s COVID-19 recovery plan to regular MLAs. Pandemic pinpoints social challengesMartin Goldney is the secretary to cabinet and led the presentation on the plan. No money for stalled economyNor did the plan outline any money to jumpstart the economy. (The last session of the legislative assembly was cut short to free up resources to respond to the pandemic, MLAs are to reconvene in late May.) Profit needed, not loansHay River South MLA Rocky Simpson criticized the government’s response so far to help small businesses through loans and deferring payments.

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Rocky Simpson, Caroline Cochrane, Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly

Northwest Territories MLA pension funds hit by pandemic CBC North - April 29, 2020

...to a CBC request for comment on MLA pensions. (Sidney Cohen/CBC) On Friday CBC sent an email to Blake and the four other MLAs on the board — Diane Thom, Caitlin Cleveland, Jackie Jacobson and Paulie Chinna — asking why it was necessary for the entire board and four staff to travel to Vancouver,...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Jackie Jacobson, Diane Thom, Caitlin Cleveland

Fort Simpson council at standstill over how to fill empty seat Cabin Radio - April 29, 2020

...option is appointing whichever unsuccessful candidate from the 2018 election got the most votes, though he cautioned against that option, too. Randy Sibbeston would be that appointee, having garnered 199 votes – only 13 behind councillors Kirby Groat and Clayton Moreau. “While that’s totally legal,...

Mentions: Mike Drake, Randy Sibbeston

Both NWT emergency orders extended to May 12 My Yellowknife Now - April 28, 2020

...Emergency under the Northwest Territories’ Public Health Act on the recommendation of Chief Public Health Officer Kami Kandola. And Premier Caroline Cochrane, in her capacity as Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, extended the territory-wide state of emergency under the Emergency Management Act. ...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

Kandola says tighter border measures may allow eased restrictions in NWT NNSL Media - April 28, 2020

...health officer, on Monday. But if all goes well, there could be some easing of the restrictions already put in place. Kandola, along with Premier Caroline Cochrane and Diane Thom, minister of Health and Social Services, held a press conference to talk about why the new requirements were laid down. Through those...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. will extend state of emergency and public health emergency CBC North - April 28, 2020

...emergency and its public health emergency until May 12, according to a press release from the territorial government issued Tuesday. N.W.T. Premier Caroline Cochrane will use her powers as the minister of the Municipal and Community Affairs Department to extend the state of emergency. Health Minister Diane Thom...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

Public Health Emergency, State of Emergency extended across NWT NNSL Media - April 28, 2020

...under the Northwest Territories’ Public Health Act based on the recommendation of Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) Kami Kandola. Premier Caroline Cochrane, as Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, extended the state of emergency under the Emergency Management Act. A Public Health Emergency...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. officials to hold briefing on new restrictions on essential workers CBC North - April 28, 2020

...about its new restrictions on residents returning to the territory and exemptions on essential workers under the COVID-19 travel ban. Premier Caroline Cochrane, Health Minister Diane Thom and Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Kami Kandola will hold a live press conference at 11:05 a.m. MT. The broadcast will...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. mines are COVID-19 time bombs — let’s put people over profit CBC North - April 28, 2020

...has filed for insolvency protection last week. (Dominion Diamond Corporation) I empathize with the hard decisions that Dr. Kandola and Premier Caroline Cochrane have had to make under pressure. And while I urge them to reconsider this particular one, it is a symptom of a larger issue. It's time to put...

Mentions: Caroline Cochrane, Katrina Nokleby

Setting out separate plans, chambers battle for small businesses Cabin Radio - April 28, 2020

...funding from Yellowknife’s downtown and using it to combat Covid-19’s economic impacts was wise. “How do we pay for this?” asked Councillor Niels Konge, repeating a refrain he has used several times in recent weeks as the City fields requests for financial support, the waiving of fees and charges,...

Mentions: Niels Konge, Katrina Nokleby

In message to staff, Dominion boss says no danger of bankruptcy Cabin Radio - April 24, 2020

...doing everything we can to support our resource sector so that, when we get through Covid-19, we have an industry to come back to.” Premier Caroline Cochrane earlier told Cabin Radio a request for the territory’s mining industry to receive more federal support would come as part of a “strategic”...

Mentions: Caroline Cochrane, Katrina Nokleby

Hoping for help with your NWT power bill? Here’s the latest Cabin Radio - April 24, 2020

...doing? In March, the NWT Power Corporation stopped using power-limiting equipment on homes until further notice after being told to do so by Shane Thompson, the territorial minister responsible for the corporation. Limiters are used by the corporation to restrict the flow of electricity to households...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Shane Thompson, Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane, Rylund Johnson

Small communities struggle to get emergency dental care, MLA says NNSL Media - April 23, 2020

...treatment for a toothache can be a major hurdle for residents of the NWT’s 27 communities without a dentist, according to Inuvik Twin Lakes MLA Lesa Semmler. That’s because residents in pain who go to a health centre may be told dental care isn’t available in the community since Covid-19 has put an...

Mentions: Lesa Semmler, Diane Thom

Dominion Diamond Mines files for insolvency protection Cabin Radio - April 22, 2020

...that loss,” said Hoefer. “That doesn’t change, Diavik’s on that trajectory. Now we have this ahead of it, so it’s a double whammy.” Julie Green, the Yellowknife Centre MLA, described a “feeling of dread as our economy takes another step down” on Twitter. “We are already reeling from...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Julie Green

N.W.T. hands out $1.6M for COVID-19 business loans, but rejects nearly a third of applicants CBC North - April 21, 2020

...Business Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC) were approved. The next deadline to apply for that program is April 24. Industry Minister Katrina Nokleby and Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek announced the loan and deferral program last month, as part of the government's first wave of economic relief...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Katrina Nokleby

Civil liberties organization says N.W.T. public health orders may be unconstitutional CBC North - April 21, 2020

...said Abby Deshman, director of the criminal justice program with the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA). Deshman wrote to Justice Minister Caroline Wawzonek on April 17, asking the government to address "significant concerns" with the April 10 public health orders , which it says are overly broad and...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Rylund Johnson

‘Vague’ NWT health orders draw ire of civil liberties watchdog NNSL Media - April 20, 2020

...creates confusion, and opens the door to arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.” Sharing the letter on social media, Yellowknife North MLA Rylund Johnson wrote that the concerns weren’t the “highest priority for our government at this time, however they are still extremely important.” Minister...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Diane Thom, Rylund Johnson

COMMUNITY REPORT: New liquor restrictions don’t go far enough, says Tuk Mayor NNSL Media - April 20, 2020

...there is at the liquor store.” However, Elias said was far happier with the government this week than in previous weeks, noting Justice Minister Caroline Wawzonek and Premier Caroline Cochrane both joined in a weekly teleconference of Mayors and Chiefs. Elias said he hoped the GNWT now understood that any...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane

‘We weren’t prepared’: N.W.T. economy in a battle for survival amid COVID-19 pandemic CBC North - April 20, 2020

...its $1.3-billion limit. Interested in how the debt cap works? Learn all about it and how it affects government spending . N.W.T. Industry Minister Katrina Nokleby recognizes that if left too long, the territory's economy may not recover from the coma it's in now. She describes her work as triage, as she...

Mentions: Dave Ramsay, Katrina Nokleby

Editorial: A friend in need NNSL Media - April 19, 2020

...and to help them seek out other funding sources. In response to the contribution not making the cut in the GNWT’s 2020-21 budget, Deh Cho MLA Ronald Bonnetrouge asked cabinet for crisis funding to support the friendship centres facing down the pandemic. “There’s no other organization in our community...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Ronald Bonnetrouge, Caroline Cochrane

Are the NWT’s public health orders justified? Cabin Radio - April 18, 2020

...it opens the door to potential discriminatory or abusive enforcement. Deshman outlined these concerns in a letter to the NWT’s justice minister, Caroline Wawzonek, on Friday. As for whether the order is too restrictive given the territory’s current situation, Deshman said that will only be answered with...

Mentions: Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane

How did we get here? A timeline of COVID-19 in the N.W.T. CBC North - April 18, 2020

...allocates a "one-time" bonus payment of $500 ($1,000 for couples) to people on social assistance. Watch: Kandola, Cochrane and Health Minister Diane Thom respond to questions about the two cases of COVID-19 confirmed April 2. April 3: Kandola says the territory is expanding its public health officer...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Yukon, Paulie Chinna, Caroline Wawzonek, Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane, Katrina Nokleby

GNWT’s Taiga Lab now producing hand sanitizer for frontline workers CKLB 101.9 - April 17, 2020

...and we all have a role to play in protecting our families, our elders and our communities,” Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Shane Thompson said. The new product and lab have also received a site licence and a product licence from Health Canada. Taiga Lab is the second to start...

Mentions: Shane Thompson, Diane Thom

New liquor restrictions not a perfect solution, says NWT minister Cabin Radio - April 17, 2020

... Liquor Act ‘is archaic’ Several community leaders had called for territory-wide restrictions on alcohol, including Tu Nedhé-Wiilideh MLA Steve Norn, the Dene Nation and the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation. They cited concerns with bootlegging and partying in communities as potential risk factors...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Wawzonek

New liquor restrictions in N.W.T. limit purchase to $200 per day CBC North - April 16, 2020

People in the Northwest Territories now have limits on how much alcohol they're allowed to buy each day. According to a memo sent to a distribution list within the government of the Northwest Territories, the new liquor restrictions came into effect Thursday, and include limiting people's purchases to $200 at a time. They do not apply to the liquor store in Fort Simpson because, according to the memo, that community has already put liquor restrictions in place. The government of the Northwest Territories did not immediately answer questions from CBC, but the restrictions are now included in the territory's Liquor Act under section 115. The memo also says if an individual buys one bottle of alcohol that, on its own, costs more than the $200 limit, that purchase would be exempt from the restrictions.

Mentions: Lesa Semmler, Caroline Wawzonek, Kevin O’Reilly

NWT liquor stores introduce $200/day, six-mickey restriction Cabin Radio - April 16, 2020

...will still be allowed to buy it. “I struggle to see a reasonable situation where this would affect someone unless they are bootlegging,” said Rylund Johnson, the Yellowknife North MLA, referring to the newly announced $200 daily limit. “That being said,” he added, “I suspect bootleggers will...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Wawzonek, Rylund Johnson

NWT Finance Minister announces Residential Tenancies (COVID-19) Regulations My Yellowknife Now - April 15, 2020

Caroline Wawzonek announced today the after you have provided your written notice is provided by the tenant, landlords will not be able to terminate tenancies for any of following reasons either. All rent would still be payable by the tenant when their circumstances change, or when the current pandemic circumstances ease and the temporary regulation is revoked. In addition to non-payment of rent, the temporary regulation also suspends a landlord’s ability to evict a tenant for a number of other reasons outlined in the NWT’s Residential Tenancies Act. The statement does note the temporary regulation will allow some tenants to defer their rent, but they will still have to pay it after the regulation is repealed. “This temporary regulation will ensure they are still able to stay in their housing.

Mentions: Lesa Semmler, Caroline Wawzonek, Kevin O’Reilly

GNWT extends territorial and health emergencies to April 28th My Yellowknife Now - April 15, 2020

...both the Territorial Public Health Emergency and State of Emergency. Both extensions take effect as of April 15, 2020 and expire April 28, 2020. Diane Thom, Minister of Health and Social Services extended the territory-wide Public Health Emergency which was first extended on April 1 under the Northwest...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. leaders welcome millions in federal funding, but say it’s not enough CBC North - April 15, 2020

...can go back to as it was a month ago? Will residents have the income they had a month ago? No, I'm afraid they won't," Northwest Territories Premier Caroline Cochrane said. "But hopefully it will sustain them, so all of us can stay afloat, all businesses can stay afloat going forward." Health care funding More...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Caroline Cochrane

MLA calls for sobering centre to return to intended use Cabin Radio - April 15, 2020

...on 50 Street was converted into an isolation centre for 30 high-risk homeless adults. It will remain so until early May. Yellowknife Centre MLA Julie Green says that has left the city and territory without a sobering centre – a place where intoxicated people can sober up under medical supervision. ...

Mentions: Frieda Martselos, Julie Green, Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly, Caitlin Cleveland

NWT extends emergency declarations NNSL Media - April 15, 2020

...Cochrane, in her new position as minister of municipal and community affairs, re-issued the state of emergency on Wednesday. Health minister Diane Thom did the same for the public health emergency. “These extensions are due to the continued need for response to the COVID-19 global pandemic to...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. extends its state of emergency and public health emergency CBC North - April 15, 2020

...prices on essential goods. Last week, Cochrane shuffled her cabinet to take over Municipal and Community Affairs, a portfolio previously held by Paulie Chinna. She said at the time, the move would allow her to better manage the territory's response to COVID-19. On Tuesday, Kandola told CBC News that...

Mentions: Paulie Chinna, Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

N.W.T. MLAs debate whether to call on Yellowknife sobering centre to reopen CBC North - April 15, 2020

...Frame Lake MLA Kevin O'Reilly said he supports the intent behind the motion, but believed it should instead be directed at Health Minister Diane Thom. Following a brief discussion, Green stated that she would work with MLAs to draft the specific wording of the motion. That motion is set to be...

Mentions: Frieda Martselos, Diane Thom, Julie Green, Rylund Johnson, Kevin O’Reilly

Yellowknifer editorial: New federal funding for NWT gives hope NNSL Media - April 14, 2020

...Trudeau’s announcement may well have to come from the GNWT, since most or all of the funding will flow through the territorial government. Premier Caroline Cochrane, who took over the territory’s Covid-19 response when she absorbed the role of minister of municipal and community affairs, must ensure this...

Mentions: Caroline Yukon, Caroline Cochrane

Fort Resolution still needs more support from territorial government, mayor says CBC North - April 14, 2020

...fear and anguish. Have you heard back from the government about your concerns? I did speak with [former Municipal and Community Affairs] Minister Paulie Chinna briefly and she kind of helped in a way. But then things have changed. And since then I had no reach down from territorial leaders. None at all. I...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Paulie Chinna

NWT temporarily bars evictions for non-payment of rent NNSL Media - April 13, 2020

...show a temporary change that will allow renters to defer rent until they’re able to pay, according to screen shots shared by Inuvik Twin Lakes MLA Lesa Semmler and Frame Lake MLA Kevin O’Reilly. Under the change, renters can’t be evicted as long as they provide written notice to their landlords. The...

Mentions: Lesa Semmler, Diane Thom, Kevin O’Reilly

NWT amends eviction rules to let tenants defer rent in pandemic Cabin Radio - April 13, 2020

New regulations shared online by NWT MLAs will make it easier for renters to stay in their homes during the Covid-19 pandemic, even if they can’t pay their rent. Documents shared by two MLAs show that tenants may now use a new process to demonstrate they cannot pay. Here’s one storyOnce you send that written notice to your landlord, they can no longer evict you for non-payment of rent. If a landlord doesn’t believe the information provided in a written notice, they can ask a tenant for evidence to back it up. However, it is understood tenants are now able to take advantage of the legislation by drafting a written notice to their landlord, which begins the process of deferring rent.

Mentions: Lesa Semmler, Caroline Wawzonek, Caroline Cochrane, Julie Green, Kevin O’Reilly

Can’t pay rent because of COVID-19? N.W.T. will let you pay later, say MLAs CBC North - April 13, 2020

According to the documents, tenants who have confirmed to the landlord that they cannot pay, cannot be evicted for non-payment. On Saturday the CBC requested confirmation and comment from the Northwest Territories government. (Mario De Ciccio/Radio-Canada)Green wants the territorial government to come up with a grant system to pay off the rental arrears for tenants who can't pay their landlords. "If you have no business and you can't pay your rent ... you can't make the money out of air," she said. Previously the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation had announced it would defer payments on rent for those in public housing whose income had been affected the the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mentions: Julie Green, Kevin O’Reilly

NWT bans all indoor gatherings, orders closure of many businesses Cabin Radio - April 10, 2020

...strong before they let up,” said Diane Thom, the health minister. “If you don’t respond to education warnings, we’re coming for you.” Katrina Nokleby, the industry minister, said: “I’m a firm believer in public shaming and I think we need to get to that point. It’s not a great feeling,...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Katrina Nokleby

No house parties, no funerals: all indoor gatherings banned in NWT NNSL Media - April 10, 2020

...in the NWT and when they depart, and follow-up calls with those that leave the territory, according to Industry, Tourism and Investment Minister Katrina Nokleby said. She added that southern workers would be segregated from Northern workers where possible. “We are in this for months, not weeks, and if...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Katrina Nokleby

N.W.T. government bans indoor gatherings, gives strict new orders on physical distancing CBC North - April 10, 2020

...defined these gatherings as when "any amount of people get together in the same indoor space" when they don't live together. Health Minister Diane Thom spoke at a press conference on Friday, saying "the public health measures will get stronger before they let up", adding the territory is setting up...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Katrina Nokleby

N.W.T. government bans indoor gatherings, gives strict new orders on physical distancing CBC North - April 10, 2020

...defined these gatherings as when "any amount of people get together in the same indoor space" when they don't live together. Health Minister Diane Thom spoke at a press conference on Friday, saying "the public health measures will get stronger before they let up", adding the territory is setting up...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Katrina Nokleby

NWT friendship centres soldier through crisis with lost funding NNSL Media - April 10, 2020

...request for comment by press time. Funding wasn’t meant to be long-term Responding to concerned MLAs in budget talks on March 4, Premier Caroline Cochrane said “that we need to care for the friendship centres. They do provide valuable services.” Additionally, deputy minister of Executive and...

Mentions: Frieda Martselos, Ronald Bonnetrouge, Rocky Simpson, Caroline Cochrane

Is the NWT’s pandemic plan for vulnerable people a backward step? Cabin Radio - April 10, 2020

...sobering centre. In a letter posted to her Facebook page on Tuesday, Green raised these concerns with NWT Minister of Health and Social Services Diane Thom and Yellowknife Mayor Rebecca Alty. “It’s as if we have gone back in time,” she wrote. Green later told Cabin Radio: “Those issues have...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Julie Green

Government of NWT announces enforcement task force My Yellowknife Now - April 9, 2020

...health enforcement actions to protect the public health of all NWT residents. Premier Caroline Cochrane, Minister of Health and Social Services Diane Thom, and NWT Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Kami Kandola made the announcement in a media brief the afternoon of Wednesday April 8th. As additional...

Mentions: Diane Thom, Caroline Cochrane

IRC joins those calling for alcohol restrictions in NWT Cabin Radio - April 8, 2020

...of liquor and cannabis sales. Chief Norman Yakeleya added he was seeking funds to help people manage alcohol withdrawal. Tu Nedhé-Wiilideh MLA Steve Norn has said he will lobby for liquor restrictions. NWT may consider case-by-case solutions Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek told Cabin Radio last...

Mentions: Steve Norn, Caroline Wawzonek