NWT Premier RJ Simpson said northerners must be “full partners” as he responded to the election of Liberal Rebecca Alty and, more broadly, a Mark Carney-led federal government.
In a statement on Tuesday morning, Simpson said Alty – who has been Yellowknife’s mayor since 2018 – “brings a deep understanding of the territory’s people, challenges, and opportunities.”
“I look forward to working with her to deliver results for northerners in Ottawa,” Simpson wrote.
He also paid tribute to outgoing MP Michael McLeod, the territory’s Liberal representative since 2015, saying he had helped to “advance important priorities” for northerners.
Noting Carney’s connection to the NWT – the prime minister was born in Fort Smith – Simpson said the territory’s “leadership and potential have never been more important to Canada’s future.”
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“I look forward to building a strong and productive partnership focused on unlocking the full potential of the North for the benefit of all Canadians,” the premier wrote.
“The Northwest Territories stands ready to lead – securing Canada’s Arctic sovereignty, advancing critical minerals development, building critical infrastructure, and driving sustainable economic growth.
“I look forward to meeting with Prime Minister Carney and MP Alty in the coming weeks to begin the work ahead – ensuring that Northerners are full partners in shaping Canada’s future.”
