NWT Premier RJ Simpson says he has created a new associate deputy minister position within the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment focused on economic strategy and policy.
In a Monday press release, the premier announced he appointed Melissa Cyr to serve as the department’s new associate minister of economic strategy and policy.
In the role, Simpson said Cyr will be responsible for coordinating economic policy across GNWT departments and leading the development of a five to 10 year territorial economic strategy.
Monday’s release states the new role “comes at a pivotal time” for the territory, citing changes in the diamond sector, Imperial Oil’s plan to end operations in Norman Wells and promised federal investments in Arctic defence and infrastructure.
“The Northwest Territories is facing real economic challenges today, and those pressures have been building for some time. At the same time, we are entering a period of significant opportunity,” Premier Simpson stated.
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He said the GNWT is focused on ensuring growing interest in Canada’s North translates into opportunities for northerners.
“That means supporting businesses, preparing our workforce, and making sure the right infrastructure and policies are in place to attract investment and grow our economy,” Simpson continued.
“This new role will help ensure our public service is aligned, focused, and ready to do that work.”
According to Monday’s release, Cyr has served as the NWT’s assistant deputy minister of economic development since 2023 and has previously held other senior positions within the GNWT.
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