Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed has called for Indigenous leaders to be included in ongoing decision-making and discussions on sovereignty and economic development in the Arctic. The call came after Indigenous leadership was reportedly left out of decision-making meetings in Ottawa last week between the premiers and the prime minister.
A group of scientists working out of the territory say that while it is safe there are some “low” risks associated with growing local produce. Their project focusses on examining garden soils and vegetables, testing for arsenic and other metals associated with regional mining activity.
Two more schools in the territory have tested positive for elevated levels of lead in a number of their water fixtures. According to the report issued today by the GNWT, two schools in Fort Smith will undergo remediation measures for the affected water fixtures. Paul William Kaeser High School and Joseph Burr Tyrrell School in Fort Smith join a list of 12 schools, bringing the tally to 14 schools out of 18 in the N.W.T. that have tested positive for elevated lead in drinking water.
The Dene Nation has expressed their strong support for First Nations of Alberta Treaty 6, 7, and 8, as they oppose the proposed referendum on Alberta’s sovereignty.
“The Community Government of Hay River reported monthly results of THMs, and the current annual running average has come below 100 µg/L. The drinking water now meets the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. Normal use of drinking water may resume.The Environmental Health Unit will continue to monitor results from the Town of Hay River Water Treatment Plant,” read a message issued by the department.
“A key resolution was passed to initiate a revised constitutional development plan, aimed at engaging in comprehensive consultations with Chiefs and community members concerning the constitution’s evolution. This initiative will allow communities to re-engage on constitutional priorities and ensure all leaders and communities are involved,” said Chief Mackenzie.
Recently released public data from 2023 shows that while green house gas emissions fluctuated across the N.W.T in response to economic activity and climate conditions, there was an “overall decline” in emissions since 2005. While the results show progress towards net zero goals, the N.W.T. continues to rely mainly on fossil fuels, which continue to be the source of nearly 100 per cent of its energy supply.