Mr. Speaker, the oil and gas industry has been at the heart of our economy for many years. As one of our enduring industries, we have always recognized the need to work not only with the companies that want to tap into our vast resources but also with those who live and work in the regions so that the economic benefits remain exactly where they should: in the North.
This past September, representatives from industry, government, Aboriginal organizations and corporations, community leaders and small business gathered together in Norman Wells for the Sahtu Exploration Readiness Session. The two-day workshop was an opportunity to discuss and identify the best ways to capitalize on the opportunities in the region over the coming years. We talked about the many opportunities and possible challenges related to Sahtu development.
We also heard from industry. They shared their experiences working in the region last winter and their plans for the increased exploration this upcoming winter season.
I attended this session, along with my colleague Mr. Norman Yakeleya, and we were both pleased with the level of engagement. We are confident that the people of the Sahtu are well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. They are ready to roll up their sleeves and do the work needed to ensure this coming winter exploration season goes smoothly for everyone.
We are continuing our work in the Sahtu as it moves into this new development phase and we will continue to work together to translate the potential in the Sahtu into jobs, investment, business growth, training opportunities, infrastructure development and growth for our communities and Aboriginal corporations.
The prospect of long-term, sustainable economic development in the Sahtu and the potential for spinoff benefits for other regions is a reason to celebrate. Consultations are underway with stakeholders to address any concerns that could limit future progress. The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment is working closely with other departments to ensure development takes place in a manner that brings economic benefits to our residents, while protecting the environment. We are, for example, working with other regulators and industry to ensure that valuable baseline information is collected in the area during exploration. In addition, we are working with these partners to explore the possibility of launching a regional study to help ensure developments are undertaken in a manner that considers the economic, social and environmental well-being of the area.
While we focus on the activity in the Sahtu, we are not forgetting that vast untapped resources remain in practically every part of the NWT. In particular, interest in the Beaufort Sea continues to grow, and this region will also be a focus of exploration activity in the coming years.
The economy of the NWT had always relied heavily upon development of its vast resources. As we prepare for the day when we will have the authority to make the decisions that affect us, we must take bold steps to work towards creating the sustainable economy that will position the NWT as one of Canada’s primary economic engines for years to come. This will strengthen and diversify our economy, a key goal of the 17th Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Ramsay. The honourable Minister of Education, Mr. Lafferty.
