Members of the Legislative Assembly have approved the main estimates for the 2024–25 fiscal year.
The main estimates, presented on May 24, proposed spending $2.2 billion on Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) programs and services in 2024–25. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight subsequently reviewed the main estimates and identified areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure where enhanced funding was recommended to further align programs and services with the needs of Northwest Territories (NWT) residents and businesses.
As a result, Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek has committed to an additional $13.3 million in spending for 2024–25 that will be included in a supplementary appropriation during the Fall 2024 sitting. This additional funding will enhance programs and services for all residents and communities in the Northwest Territories all while still fulfilling the GNWT’s commitment to fiscal sustainability.
The commitments include new funding for:
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- increased compensation for early childhood instructors ($3.5 million ongoing)
- maintenance and repair of public housing ($3 million)
- transportation of materials required to build 10 housing units in Łutselkʼe ($580,000)
- increased support for respite services for families in the NWT ($240,000 ongoing)
These commitments will also restore funding for:
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- the Small Community Employment Program ($1 million ongoing)
- support transition activities for Aurora College ($500,000)
- reinstatement of positions for the midwifery program ($331,000 ongoing)
- the Community Access Program ($1.5 million ongoing)
- continued operation of the Fort Smith Correctional Centre for 2024–25.
The minister also committed to:
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- Aligning housing supports with income assistance changes so that public housing benefits for seniors and people with disabilities can be provided without monthly reporting.
- Phasing the rollout of the Extended Health Benefits program. For the program’s first year, applicants who fall below Band 10 of the income thresholds will see their contributions held at zero. This phased approach will allow the department to gather data on who is accessing this program and for what services, ensuring the program’s sustainability and effectiveness.Ongoing support for the expansion of midwifery to communities where access to birthing services is not otherwise available.
An interim budget was approved in February 2024 to fund government operations from April to June 2024. This option of using an interim budget after a territorial election allows the government to operate for a set period without committing to a full year of spending before priorities are set. It ensures that the new government has the flexibility to align its spending with its policy objectives.
