Minister Schumann in attendance as Inuvik Arctic Development Expo Debuts

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June 13, 2019

As the NWT’s largest annual energy tradeshow has evolved from the Inuvik Petroleum Show to the Arctic Energy and Emerging Technologies Conference, and now to the Arctic Development Expo, the GNWT’s participation and support has evolved along with it.

This year’s GNWT delegation was led by Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) Wally Schumann, who also holds responsibility for the infrastructure portfolio.

Minister Schumann’s keynote address focused on the future of energy security and economic prosperity for the NWT.

Wally Schumann- Arctic Development Expo Keynote Address

In addition to world-class mineral resources, the NWT has some of the world’s largest reserves of natural gas and oil, both onshore and offshore and these resources, developed safely and responsibly, will result in significant long-lasting benefits and returns for NWT residents – particularly in the Beaufort Delta.

Minister Schumann’s presentation set up a series of other presentations from the GNWT contingent.

Representatives from the Departments of ITI and Infrastructure presented on topics ranging from growing support for the minerals sector in the Gwich’in Settlement Area and Inuvialuit Settlement Region and new ideas for natural gas in the Arctic; to the emergence of a knowledge economy and alternative energy initiatives to enhance local resiliency.

The GNWT’s participation in events and forums like the Arctic Development Expo support efforts to encourage energy and mineral development and find new opportunities for local economic development and global trade.

While in Inuvik, Minister Schumann also finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the GNWT and the Gwich’in Tribal Council on Economic Development in the Gwich’in Settlement Area.

Link to News release

“Successes in our territory have come when we work collaboratively,” the Minister noted.

“Our economy will gain strength as it grows more diverse.  But, collaboration will always be our most powerful economic tool – and I look forward to continuing to build on our existing efforts and collaboration to improve the lives of the people of the Gwich’in settlement area and NWT residents.”

Red more of what the Minister had to say here