Overview

2014 marked a new era for the Northwest Territories’ land and resource management regime.

Devolution shifted authority over these resources from the federal government to the territorial government — bringing control of the minerals resource industries home for the first time since NWT production began in the 1930’s.

Now, with Devolution a reality, we are preparing to develop a leading-edge, made-in-the-North Mineral Resources Act — and we want your input!

Mission

The Mineral Resources Act will be designed to meet the Northwest Territories’ unique needs, increase competitiveness in the mining sector, promote a sustainable and diversified economy, protect the natural environment, and respect the rights and traditions of Indigenous peoples.

How will we get there?

This legislation will follow a six-step process.

1. Initial Scoping: Research in collaboration with stakeholders and experts to set the stage for the project
2. Public Engagement: Getting input from Indigenous governments and organizations, industry, other stakeholders, and the public. Continuing through December 1, 2017
3. Development of Draft Act: Based on input from engagement. Proposed for completion Summer 2018
4. Section 35 Consultation: Consultation on potential impact to Aboriginal or Treaty rights. Proposed for Fall 2018.
5. Introduction to Passage: The Bill will be introduced and debated in the Legislative Assembly. Proposed for completion Fall 2019.
6. Implementation: Once the Bill is passed, steps will be taken to implement the Act, including the development of supporting regulations, training materials and public awareness content

Opportunities and Limitations

What It Could Do

The Act would, at minimum, govern:

• Benefits to residents (e.g., royalties)
• Reporting on mineral types and locations
• Rights to explore and mine
• Rules for staking and maintaining mineral claims

The current Mining Regulations will be replaced by the proposed Act. This will be informed by input from Indigenous governments and organizations, stakeholders, and members of the public.

What It Can’t Do

The Act will not alter the following laws, regulations, and agreements already in place affecting mining and exploration in the NWT:

• Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act
• Northwest Territories Lands Act
• Mine Health and Safety Act
• Fisheries Act
• Species at Risk Act
• Waters Act

Indigenous Land Settlement Agreements

No land settlement agreements or ongoing land claim negotiations will be affected by the proposed Act.

Regional Land and Water Boards

The authorities of the regional land and water boards are established under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act. The Act will be designed to complement their functions.