Legislative Assembly approves 2024-25 budget

Press Release

June 13, 2024

Members of the 20th Legislative Assembly have approved the Main Estimates for the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Initially presented on May 24, the Main Estimates proposed to spend $2.2 billion on Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) programs and services in 2024-25. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight subsequently reviewed the Main Estimates and identified areas where enhanced funding was recommended to further align programs and services with the needs of Northwest Territories (NWT) residents and businesses, and with the priorities of the 20th Legislative Assembly.

As a result, Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek has committed to an additional $13.3 million in spending for 2024-25 that will be included in a supplementary appropriation during the October 2024 sitting. This additional funding will enhance programs and services for all residents and communities in the Northwest Territories while still fulfilling the GNWT’s commitment to fiscal sustainability.

Quote(s)

“The proposed Budget 2024 was the culmination of valuable input from the territorial public service as we aim to regain territorial fiscal capacity. The Budget that was passed today is a further result of extensive review, consideration and discussion within the consensus government processes of the Legislative Assembly. Through these processes, this Budget makes positive steps forward in collaboration towards achievement of the Assembly’s priorities.”

– Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance

Quick facts

The commitments include new funding for:
- increased compensation for early childhood instructors ($3.5 million ongoing)
- maintenance and repair of public housing ($3 million)
- transportation of materials required to build 10 housing units in Łutselkʼe ($580,000)
- increased support for respite services for families in the NWT ($240,000 ongoing)
These commitments will also restore funding for:
- the Small Community Employment Program ($1 million ongoing)
- support transition activities for Aurora College ($500,000)
- reinstatement of positions for the midwifery program ($331,000 ongoing)
- the Community Access Program ($1.5 million ongoing)
- continued operation of the Fort Smith Correctional Centre for 2024-25
The Minister also committed to:
- aligning housing supports to income assistance changes so that public housing benefits for seniors and people with disabilities can be provided without monthly reporting.
- phasing the roll out of the Extended Health Benefits program. For the first year of the program, applicants who fall below Band 10 of the income thresholds will see their contributions held at zero while the department gathers data on who is accessing this program and for what services.
- ongoing support for the expansion of midwifery to communities where access to birthing services is not otherwise available.
An interim budget was approved in February 2024 to fund government operations from April to June 2024. Following a territorial election, the option of using an interim budget allows the government to operate for a set period without committing to a full year of spending before priorities are set.