October 25, 2018
The Resources and Energy Development Information (REDI) Tradeshow has hit another region of the Northwest Territories.
Residents of Fort Simpson and the surrounding communities were invited to stop by, ask questions and have discussions with subject matter experts on several themes, including: alternative energy, mineral exploration and mining, petroleum exploration and development, geoscience, environment and natural resources, regulatory and enforcement, and Indigenous affairs.
Students talking rocks with a NWT Geological Survey team member
Team REDI touched down in Fort Simpson on October 23 to set-up and touch-base with community members and the session kicked off at 2:30pm the following day.
A stream of people, including a number of classes from local schools, showed up with excellent questions for the team of experts from across GNWT departments, and from relevant partner organizations.
A packed house at the Fort Simpson Recreation Centre
Partner organizations in attendance included the Mackenzie Valley Review Board, Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board, Mine training Society, and the Office of the Regulator of Oil and Gas Operations.
“It was encouraging to see the enthusiasm of people who came by,” says Valerie Gordon — the REDI project coordinator. “I think people do understand that these questions are important to our territory’s future. We’re happy to be here answering them.”
Interpretation was available in the local Indigenous language
REDI provides fact-based information about the benefits, risks and potential for resource and energy development in the territory. The intent of the tradeshow-style information is to equip residents with the information they need to make decisions regarding natural resource development.
The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment’s Client Services and Community relations leads this cross-government initiative.
