Member Thebacha

Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister of Justice
Government House Leader

Jay Macdonald was elected to the 20th Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly to represent the constituency of Thebacha. Mr. Macdonald was elected to the Executive Council of the 20th Assembly.

Mr. Macdonald was born on June 26, 1964, in the town of Hay River, Northwest Territories. As an Indigenous Métis, Jay's roots run deep in the Northern Canadian landscape, and his journey has been marked by diverse experiences that have enriched both his personal and professional life.

Mr. Macdonald’s family relocated to Fort Smith in 1970. Mr. Macdonald successfully managed his small engine repair shop, providing essential services to the community and establishing himself as a reliable entrepreneur. Simultaneously, he delved into the intricacies of recreation facility management, overseeing operations at the local arena and golf course.

In his 13-year tenure as the Manager of Forest Management Services with the Environment and Conservation Division of the Government of the Northwest Territories, Mr. Macdonald demonstrated an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.

Mr. Macdonald’s dedication to youth development is evident in his 12-year role as the House Parent Program Coordinator for the Western Arctic Leadership Program. For five years, he served as a house parent, providing a nurturing environment for students from Lutsel Ke attending PWK High School. This experience not only showcased his compassion but also contributed significantly to the academic and personal growth of the students under his care.

Drawing on his expertise as a Journey Person Small Equipment Technician, Mr. Macdonald spent 13 years managing a Polaris dealership and served as an Instructor for Small Equipment Maintenance, Aviation Fuel Management, and Logistics disciplines under the Incident Command System.

Mr. Macdonald’s commitment to community extends beyond his professional roles. As a dedicated volunteer, he served as President and Coach of Fort Smith Minor Hockey, nurturing young talent and instilling the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. His coaching prowess extended to the national stage as he led Team NWT at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.

In his role as a representative of the Fort Smith Métis Nation on the local District Education Association Board, Mr. Macdonald contributed to shaping educational policies that reflect the unique needs of the community. Additionally, he served as a Board Member and Chair of the Northwest Territories Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification Board, advocating for the recognition and advancement of skilled trades.

Mr. Macdonald’s commitment to community welfare is further evidenced by his involvement in various local activities and events. Whether coaching minor sports or contributing to volunteer initiatives, he has consistently worked towards creating a vibrant and cohesive community fabric.

Outside of his professional and community engagements, Mr. Macdonald has a full family life. He is married to Karen, is a proud father to three children, and a doting grandfather to three grandchildren.

In his leisure time, Jay indulges in hobbies that reflect his love for the outdoors. Golfing, fishing, gardening, and enjoying the vast Northern landscapes are among his favorite pastimes.

Thebacha Electoral District:

Committees

Jay Macdonald
Thebacha
Member's Office

Yellowknife NT X1A 2L9
Canada

P.O. Box
1320
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister

Statements in Debates

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the federal government has just sworn in their new Cabinet. Our indications are that they are in favour of -- or continuing with this initiative, and as I said, Cabinet will be visiting Ottawa in the coming weeks to continue the discussion and ensure that we get this very important funding approved. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Our Land for the Future project has had a lot of significant work done. From the partners' table, all of the preparatory work in order to advance this initiative at the federal level has been complete, and we are currently waiting on an opportunity to meet with the federal government in the coming weeks. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I indicated in my answer last week on Thursday, I committed to sharing an update on the current process and where we were at which the department did share with all of the Members of this House on Friday. I am happy to be able to stand up here today and say that I've had a conversation with the Department of Justice this morning, and we have -- I've directed them to advance the Trespass Act on a more aggressive timeline than I had proposed last week and that work is underway. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, that is still requesting a legal opinion from me as the attorney general, and I am unable to answer that question. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Mr. Speaker, the 2025 wildfire season is now underway, and our team is ready to respond. Response is just one part of the equation. Readiness and preparedness are equally critical.

Following the 2023 season, the GNWT has enhanced its wildfire management program through strategic investments and initiatives. Today, I will update Members on the investments we have made that are helping us build a more prepared and resilient territory.

Mr. Speaker, for the first time, in partnership with the NWT Association of Communities, we sponsored all Indigenous governments and community governments to attend...

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Mr. Speaker, I wish to table the following two documents: Northwest Territories Law Foundation 42nd Annual Report and Legal Aid Commission of the Northwest Territories Annual Report 2023-2024. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 59)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this initiative has had significant conversation with the Indigenous leaders and Indigenous governments across the Northwest Territories as well as our Cabinet table. I did speak with our new MP, and she was very aware of the importance of this initiative to the Northwest Territories in general, to conservation, and to our Indigenous governments and organizations that are our partners in this endeavour, and we are certainly -- have this top of mind and will continue to lobby for its completion through the treasury board. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 58)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, ECC is following the stepped approach outlined in the legislative developmental protocol and that is agreed to with the Intergovernmental Council. There's been several meetings to date. The most recent meeting of the technical working group happened actually earlier this week, and progress is certainly being made.

Now as the Minister of ECC, I can't directly lay out when this is going to be completed. This is a collaborative effort. It involves Indigenous governments, Indigenous organizations, the water boards, etcetera. So, you know, ensuring that we all...

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 58)

Yes, please.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 58)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I give notice that on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025, I will present Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Protection Against Family Violence Act, to be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.