Debate Intensifies Over NWT Government’s Presence at London Mining Conference

Northwest Territories (NWT) Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Caitlin Cleveland has described the government’s presence at the international mining conference Resourcing Tomorrow in London as “critically important.” Three NWT delegates attended the five-day event, with estimated travel and participation costs of approximately $21,000.

According to Minister Cleveland, global industry forums like this provide valuable opportunities to build direct relationships with investors. She emphasized the need to position the Northwest Territories as a stable, profitable, and attractive destination for international mining companies looking to expand their operations.

However, the overseas trip has sparked political and public debate. Range Lake MLA Kieron Testart questioned whether promoting investment abroad is a wise use of public funds while the territory still lacks a clear and reliable mining regulatory framework. He argued that investors are primarily concerned with how straightforward it is to do business in a jurisdiction.

Although the Northwest Territories passed the Mineral Resources Act in 2019, the accompanying regulations have yet to be implemented. The territorial government expects the legislation to come fully into force in 2027.

Former ITI minister Wally Schumann said attracting new investment has become increasingly urgent as the territory’s three diamond mines approach closure. At the same time, he stressed that marketing alone is not enough. Resolving land claims and aligning Indigenous governments, territorial authorities, municipalities, and communities around a shared development vision are equally essential.

The conference also featured participation from Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty, who promoted Indigenous leadership, environmental stewardship, and partnership-based development. He delivered a clear message that Indigenous communities no longer wish to be passive observers, but active participants in decision-making processes affecting their lands.