We have put a focus on education. Our schools across the territory contribute to the development of some of Canada’s most promising young people. Our government has expanded access to Aurora College teacher Our new NWT Film Commission is education programs in communities to train particularly exciting, with investments more Northern teachers in large and small productions and Aboriginal language and cultural instructors. around the territory, including the We are developing a Dene new CBC drama Arctic Air. Language curriculum to benefit all of our regions. And our Aboriginal Student Achievement program focuses on improving Aboriginal students’ graduation rates. This year, five new community libraries have opened in schools in small communities. The territory now has 20 public libraries.
provides support using a team approach. Our new downtown primary community care clinic in Yellowknife is a great example of doctors, nurses, wellness workers and non-government organizations working together in the best interests of their clients. For more information about the Government of the Northwest Territories, visit www.gov.nt.ca
Housing continues to be a priority for our government. The NWT Housing Corporation has more than 2300 units, which are managed by local housing organizations operating across the NWT. In the past few years, the federal and territorial governments have invested nearly $120 million in new construction and repair programs for public housing. Access to affordable housing continues to be an issue, however, and our Shelter Policy Review will provide a long-term strategic framework for delivering housing in the NWT. The review will be completed early in the life of the 17th Assembly and will provide the basis for undertaking specific actions to address housing needs in communities throughout the NWT. We want to strengthen and diversify our economy, providing all communities and regions with opportunities and choices. This will also have the effect of increasing employment opportunities where they are most needed. Our economy has grown rapidly because of significant investment in diamonds, oil and gas. And small businesses across the territory provide goods and services to residents, businesses, tourists and southern markets. In the interests of developing and sustaining a healthy business community in the NWT, our government is promoting continued investment and maintains regional offices dedicated to delivering business programs and services in all sectors, including arts and crafts, tourism, and traditional harvesting. Our new NWT Film Commission is particularly exciting, with investments in large and small productions around the territory, including the new CBC drama Arctic Air. Our unique landscape, natural environment and vibrant cultural essence offers a spectacular backdrop for film and television production. Finally, our government will work towards a fair and sustainable health care system. We will invest in prevention, education and awareness, and will enhance our addictions treatment programs. We cannot have a health model that is based on treating people after they get sick. Simple preventative measures will have longlasting positive results. We must give residents the help they need to have better diets, to exercise more, and to deal with addictions including smoking. Our network of health professionals hope for the future.ca
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