In Budget 2008, the GNWT committed to taking a number of measures necessary to put its fiscal house in order, including raising new revenues, starting in the 2009-10 fiscal year. This revenue will provide additional resources to fund important programs and services for Northerners.

How should additional revenues be raised?

The question is more complex than you might think. We can raise revenues simply by increasing taxes or creating new fees; however, the way it's done can have significant consequences for individuals, families, and businesses. An approach that's not well thought out can hurt the economy, discourage investment, or even push people into leaving the territory. It's important that the GNWT carefully examines options, and takes a measured and balanced approach that is consistent with the NWT’s long-term vision and goals.

Please find below the links to two documents - Revenue Options and its summary - which form the basis for our consultation process. This document identifies different approaches that could be used, and discusses their pros and cons. Because the options the GNWT adopts will affect all NWT residents, having the input of Northerners is important. No decisions have yet been made. I encourage you to provide your comments by October 15th to the contacts listed below.

Hon. J. Michael Miltenberger
Minister of Finance

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You can submit your comments on NWT revenue options:

By mail to:

Revenue Options Consultations
Fiscal Policy Division
Department of Finance
PO Box 1320
Yellowknife NT
X1A 2L9

Or by e-mail to:

Revenue_Options@gov.nt.ca