On Thursday April 7, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland introduced the 2022 Budget A Plan to Grow Our Economy and Make Life More Affordable. Michael McLeod, the Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories, was glad to see the Government of Canada’s commitments toward improving quality of life and opportunities in the North.
“With a strong emphasis on affordable housing, reconciliation, and economic development, Budget 2022 provides much-needed investments towards the priorities of Northerners,” said McLeod.
On the housing front, Budget 2022 invests $60 million in NWT housing and infrastructure through the territorial government, in addition to $565 million for housing with Self-Governments and Modern Treaty Holders, and $300 million towards an Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy
Regarding reconciliation, Budget 2022 provides $2 million support the implementation of a Collaborative Process Protocol Agreement respecting the historical impacts of the operation of Giant Mine on the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. It also features $275 million to address the shameful legacy of residential schools, and $29.6 million towards the co-development of an Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda.
When it comes to economic development, Budget 2022 invests $3.8 billion to support a Critical Mineral Strategy, including through infrastructure investments and a new 30% Critical Mineral Exploration Tax Credit. There is also $24.8 million to support the Indigenous tourism industry, and $15 million for Indigenous economic development in the North via CanNor.
Other highlights include:
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Office of Michael McLeod, M.P.
