Press Release - September 5th, 2008

Two discussion documents on Northwest Territories (NWT) revenue options, to guide discussions on how the Northwest Territories can best increase its revenues, were released today by the Honourable J. Michael Miltenberger, Minister of Finance.

In Budget 2008, the Government of the Northwest Territories announced its commitment to putting its fiscal house in order, including raising new revenue, starting in the 2009-10 fiscal year. This money will provide additional resources to fund investments in programs and services and infrastructure for NWT residents.

"It's important that we carefully examine our options, and take a measured and balanced approach that is consistent with the NWT's long-term vision and goals", said Minister Miltenberger. "Because the results will affect all NWT residents, having the input of Northerners is vital. No decisions have been made yet. I hope all NWT residents will provide their comments."

The discussion documents are available on the Department of Finance's web site here. In addition, Minister Miltenberger will be inviting representatives from a wide spectrum of NWT organizations to a 2-day round table meeting to be held in late September.

NWT residents are encouraged to provide comments to the Minister by October 15, 2008 so their views can be incorporated into the Government's 2009-10 budget process. Comments can be sent electronically to Revenue_Options@gov.nt.ca or by mailing:

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

For technical information, please contact:

John Monroe
Department of Finance
(867) 920-6436
John_Monroe@gov.nt.ca

Otherwise contact:

Julia Mott
Cabinet Communications
(867) 669-2304
(867) 445-5669 cell