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Speaker to MLAs: ‘We were not elected to quarrel and bicker’

Shane Thompson admonishes NWT Assembly after two MLA complaints in one week over conduct of their peers


Open and respectful communication between all Members is the most essential feature of consensus government. While it is impossible to reach unanimous agreement on all issues, the opportunity for all Members to have meaningful input into important decisions is fundamental. – From Consensus Government in the NWT Guiding Principles The…


Security officer threatened with firearm outside Stanton Hospital

25-year-old Brenden Qirngnirq of Yellowknife has been charged with several offences


A security officer was threatened with a firearm outside Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife on Saturday afternoon, say RCMP. “A person entered the facility in a hostile state,” stated a public notice from the NWT Health and Social Services Authority. The suspect fled the scene before police arrived but was…




Cell service dead zones, cash for communities and another upset MLA round out the week

The availability of consumer cell phones with emergency satellite connectivity could alleviate some drivers' concerns, says Minister Wawzonek


On Friday, Dehcho MLA Sheryl Yakeleya raised the longstanding issue of cell reception dead zones along major highways, especially the busy stretch between Fort Providence-Behchokǫ̀-Yellowkife. “People have safety concerns regarding the inability to call for help if something were to happen while travelling on our highways,” said Yakeleya. “Some people…



Norman Wells is ‘a community living in fear,’ says Sahtu MLA

NWT Assembly passes motion declaring a humanitarian state of emergency for the regional centre


The Sahtu region’s hub of Norman Wells is in a dire situation, with residents living in fear and some already choosing to move away, says MLA Danny McNeely. The MLA presented a motion declaring a state of emergency for Norman Wells due to severe impacts from climate change, including rising…


Two Fort Smith residents awarded King Charles III Coronation Medal

Lois Firth Lafferty and Meika McDonald recognized for lifelong contributions


Two Fort Smith residents have been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for their lifelong contributions to education and traditional sports. Lois Firth Lafferty and Meika McDonald received their medals during a ceremony in the community on Tuesday. Lafferty, a Métis of Gwich’in and Scottish heritage, has dedicated 48…



Bullying on rise beyond our borders thanks to ‘odious’ American president, says MLA

As NWT Assembly marks Pink Shirt Day, calls made to speak up for equality and acceptance of everyone


Education, Culture and Employment Minister Caitlin Cleveland issued a statement on Pink Shirt Day about how important it is for everyone to feel safe and accepted for who they are. “By wearing pink, we promote safe environments, free from bullying and harassment, for everyone. It is a call to take…