Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I want to talk about the Government of the Northwest Territories' new approach to addressing climate change. From community resilience to economic opportunities, the challenges posed by climate change are urgent, complex, and interconnected with many other aspects of life here in the Northwest Territories. That is why the GNWT is moving to a joint approach that brings together climate change and energy strategies, with the aim of taking more efficient, coherent, and impactful actions across government.

Mr. Speaker, climate change is a reality that is affecting NWT residents, ecosystems, and northern ways of life. The territory currently experiences climate change effects through thawing permafrost and shifting weather patterns that will likely change even more over the coming decades. Through an integrated approach to energy and climate change,l we will develop a better coordinated response that tackles both present-day impacts and future risks in the North.

Climate change and energy security are connected in a way that cannot be separated. We need to ensure that as we transition to a cleaner, net zero future, we are also preparing communities and residents to withstand the impacts of climate change. The interconnectedness of climate with energy, infrastructure, public health, environmental protection, and the economy requires that we align our efforts and resources.

Within this joint strategy, the Department of Environment and Climate Change's primary responsibility is to lead and work with other departments to build climate knowledge and implement climate change adaptation actions to enhance the territorial resilience against climate-related risk and disruption. The department is also exploring ways to reduce land-based greenhouse gas emissions. Important considerations for all GNWT climate change-related actions include:

• Maintaining affordability and security by addressing climate change-related supply chain disruptions, emergency management costs, and impacts on infrastructure and housing;
• Maintaining and growing our economy by supporting resource development that is consistent with our net zero commitment and advancing economic diversification opportunities like agriculture, tourism and the potential market for carbon offsets.
• Supporting safe, healthy, and resilient communities by addressing the impacts of a changing climate on public safety, culture, ecosystems, health, and traditional ways of life; and,
• Continuing to collaborate with Indigenous governments, Indigenous organizations, and community governments to coordinate adaptation actions.

The joint strategy will recognize that Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations are developing and executing their own adaptation solutions that reflect their specific priorities and provides ways for us to advocate for and efficiently use resources together. The strategy will acknowledge that federal investment will be key to implementing the many climate change related actions that are needed.

Mr. Speaker, the GNWT's ongoing commitment to engage with Indigenous governments, Indigenous organizations, and other stakeholders through the Council of Leaders, NWT Climate Change Council, NWT Climate Change Youth Council, and other forums will continue to guide our efforts to advance climate action in the North. We are committed to regularly updating the public on the progress of this joint strategy and to working together with all partners to address the urgent need for climate adaptation. We anticipate the final integrated strategy will be released in spring 2026, along with a revised climate change action plan based on extensive engagement and feedback we have received from Northerners. The GNWT remains committed to preparing the Northwest Territories to face the challenges and opportunities from climate change. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.