The Tłı̨chǫ All-Season Road has passed an important milestone with approval of the report of Environmental Assessment by the Tłı̨chǫ Government

Behchokǫ̀, NT (October 30, 2018) - Last week, the Tłı̨chǫ Government approved the Report of Environmental Assessment for the Tłı̨chǫ All-Season Road, as did the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT). The project will now move forward to permitting with the Wek’èezhı̀i Land and Water Board. This is the second time the Tłı̨chǫ Government has approved an environmental assessment since signing of the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement in 2005.

The community of Whatì has been working collaboratively with the GNWT for almost 30 years to advance the construction of an all-season road to our community.

“This all-season road is a solution that will help advance our people on the journey to self-reliance and independence. We are pleased to see everyone working together to move this decision forward,” said Whatì Chief Alfonz Nitsiza.

The Tłı̨chǫ Government, the GNWT and our partners in the co-management system, worked together to consider various issues related to the road, including environmental, social and economic concerns. The Report of Environmental Assessment contained important measures that will protect land and wildlife from potential impacts, and will create benefits for our communities and Tłı̨chǫ people.

There are many positive changes that will accompany the road. An all-season road will encourage people to stay in the community by providing residents with meaningful employment, practical skills training, lowering the overall cost of living, creating opportunity for tourism ventures, and improving resident access to social services. At the same time, the Tłı̨chǫ Government is working with partners in the region to develop programs to prepare the people in the region for the changes that come along with an all-season road.

“This Tłı̨chǫ Government has worked hard in the consideration of this decision, thinking about all the different cultural, social and environmental issues. We are looking forward to the next steps in moving this important project forward,” said Grand Chief George Mackenzie.

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