Premier Simpson thanks Mary Simon for her work advancing Northern priorities as Governor General

Press Release

June 3, 2026

As Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon prepares to conclude her service as Governor General of Canada, Premier Simpson extends his thanks for her leadership and lifelong dedication to Canada and the North.

“For people across the Northwest Territories and the Arctic, Mary Simon’s appointment as Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General carried deep meaning. Throughout her life and her time in office, she brought northern and Indigenous perspectives to the centre of national conversations and reminded Canadians that the North is a vital part of who we are as a country.

“Her Excellency has been a tireless advocate for reconciliation, for Indigenous languages and cultures, and for the health and well-being of northern and Indigenous communities. Her Mental Health Learning and Listening Tour helped shine a national spotlight on challenges that many Northerners know all too well, while also elevating the strength, resilience, and leadership that exist within our communities.

“Her visit to Tuktoyaktuk with the President of Germany was particularly appreciated in the NWT, bringing focus to the community and the Beaufort Delta.

“Throughout her time as Governor General, Mary Simon led with dignity, humility, and compassion. She understood the realities of life in the North and used her platform to ensure northern voices were heard at the highest levels. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders across Canada.

“I also want to acknowledge His Excellency Whit Fraser, whose own connection to the North is longstanding and deeply valued. As a former Northwest Territories resident and respected journalist, he spent decades helping tell the stories of the North and championing Indigenous and northern voices. His commitment to thoughtful and respectful storytelling helped many Canadians better understand the people, cultures, and realities of northern life.

“On behalf of the people and Government of the Northwest Territories, I thank Her Excellency Mary Simon and His Excellency Whit Fraser for their service to Canada and for their enduring contributions to the North.

“I also look forward to working with Canada’s next Governor General, the Right Honourable Louise Arbour. At a time when the North is increasingly important to Canada’s future, I welcome the opportunity to continue strengthening the relationship between the Northwest Territories and the Crown through shared purpose and collaboration.”

ILR5