Northern Premiers discuss a resilient North

Premier Savikataaq, Premier Silver and Premier Cochrane met virtually this week for the 18th annual Northern Premiers’ Forum hosted by the Government of the Northwest Territories.

Premiers have collaborated extensively throughout the pandemic in addition to their annual meeting. During the Northern Premiers’ Forum, they continued their discussions on a number of issues including: health care, climate change response and the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework.

Premiers are thankful for the Government of Canada’s ongoing financial support during the pandemic and considerations of the unique challenges and circumstances of the territories. They stand united in raising Northern considerations as a priority for vaccine allocations and call on the federal government to rebalance the health care funding partnership. Adequate, long-term federal funding for health care is required to ensure the sustainable future of our health care system.

Premiers also discussed the growing challenges that climate change poses to the North and agreed on the importance of working with Indigenous governments for adequate, flexible federal support to address climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.

Premiers are pleased that the federal government is proceeding with the implementation of the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework and look forward to seeing robust investments in the distinct areas of need that have been identified.

Finally, Premiers discussed the resilience of Northerners, particularly in the face of this year’s many challenges. Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, Northerners have come together to support one another even while staying apart. With this same spirit, Premiers took the opportunity to renew their commitment to territorial collaboration and to delivering on northern-made mutual priorities.

Nunavut was confirmed as the host of the 2021 Northern Premiers’ Forum. The Northern Premiers’ Forum takes place each year and comprises the three territorial Premiers.