The Minister suggested that the Government of the Northwest Territories take over the Lupin ice road from Echo Bay Mines after their license expires. The department supported their argument by stating that a Nunavut company currently constructs the ice road and any benefits accrued will stay in Nunavut. Control of the ice road, according to the Minister, will ensure benefits go to the NWT. The department added that control would also result in equal access for all residents.
The committee replied that although they can appreciate the economic benefits and equal access, they questioned whether the regulatory hurdles and potential liabilities arising from its ownership are worth it.
Committee members also pointed out that global warming would have an increasingly detrimental effect upon the ice road resulting in a shorter season and sporadic closures throughout the winter. Furthermore, if the power grid is extended to the mine site, the need for an ice road would be diminished as most of the cargo is fuel. The committee suggested that the government revisit its intent to take over the ice road.