YELLOWKNIFE (December 6, 2013) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) confirmed today that 120 employees of the federal Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) have accepted offers of employment with the GNWT to provide the experience and knowledge required to administer public land and resources after devolution. The jobs will begin on April 1, 2014.
“This was an overwhelmingly positive response, and I welcome these dedicated federal staff to the GNWT,” said Premier Bob McLeod. “Their commitment and experience will help ensure a smooth transition as we responsibly develop the NWT’s significant natural resource potential and manage the land and environment according to Northern priorities and values.”
As part of the Devolution Agreement, the GNWT has committed to provide reasonable job offers to all permanent AANDC employees working in the NWT who will be affected by the transfer of programs and responsibilities. Federal employees working in Ottawa are not covered by this provision. On October 1 of this year, the GNWT issued offers of employment to 123 federal employees in the region, matching them as closely as possible with their federal responsibilities, authorities, and pay. Recipients had 60 days to indicate their acceptance. A further twelve offers of employment were also issued subsequent to October 1 which have later due dates for response.
In addition to positions being offered to federal employees as part of the Devolution Agreement, more than 100 new positions will be created to perform work currently being done in Ottawa and to provide additional support. These positions will be filled through other staffing processes, providing new opportunities for existing GNWT staff and other experienced job seekers. Early hiring has already begun and staffing of new positions will utilize the Careers website as they become available.
“This is an exciting time for the GNWT as we take on new legislative authorities, public programs and employees,” said Minister of Human Resources Tom Beaulieu. “Devolution will bring the significant knowledge of territorial and federal employees working in land management in the region under one roof, resulting in an experienced and effective public service with shared priorities working hand-in-hand to meet the needs of Northerners.”
Devolution has been a priority of the Legislative Assembly for many years and will mark the culmination of a political evolution that began with the creation of the GNWT in 1967. Through a strong working relationship with Aboriginal governments, the GNWT’s approach to resource development ensures meaningful involvement, control, and shared benefits to all residents. The GNWT was recently named one of Canada’s top 100 employers.
For more information on the devolution of land and resources in the NWT or to view the Northwest Territories Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement, visit devolution.gov.nt.ca or contact:
Megan Holsapple Media Liaison Office of the Premier and Executive Council Government of the Northwest Territories Tel: (867) 669-2302 Fax: (867) 873-0111