A focused and effective economic strategy is essential to economic growth in the Northwest Territories. The development of an economic strategy was attempted in the final year of the last government, but without success. There is a need for a coherent economic strategy for this government. A new strategy is in draft form and the department has agreed to supply the committee with a copy for its review prior to tabling. The committee looks forward to reviewing the strategy document.
The petroleum industry is developing a greater presence in the North. Committee members observed that this development represents an opportunity for increased employment and community development. Training for entry into the oil and gas sector will reduce out migration from smaller communities and the Northwest Territories overall.
The committee added that jobs should be located in the communities and regions where the development is taking place. More money and training must be made available for Northerners, especially in the smaller communities, to allow them to take full advantage of petroleum and other resource developments.
Furthermore, the committee encouraged the department to work with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment and industry to develop training programs for Northerners. The committee reminded the government that funding for oil and gas development and training could be found "from within", as the government has done with the diamond industry.
The committee also encourages the government to expend more effort on the traditional economy versus the new wage economy. The traditional economy based on hunting and harvesting, and arts and crafts are sometimes the only viable means of support in many communities. Many communities and regions do not have oil and gas or other large-scale projects in their regions to supply employment opportunities. In addition, many people do not wish to abandon their traditional lifestyle.
Committee members note the lack of an Agricultural policy that will guide the government and industry to effectively and economically harvest and manage our large tracts of arable lands. However, the government replied that until land claims and self-government issues are settled, the development of an effective Agricultural policy could not take place.
The committee supports consultation with stakeholders, especially communities in any policy development or licensing approval including forestry and other resource developments.