Please sign our petition in support of our current crisis

Summary:

• For several years, our beloved Mackenzie River has seen troubling declines in water levels, leaving communities like Norman Wells unable to resupply via barge. This situation has become dire.
• In May 2024, MTS made the difficult decision to cancel barge deliveries of fuel, meaning that our only option for resupply would be during the 2025 winter road season.
• In the meantime, fuel is being flown into our communities, with costs soaring to between $4.65/L for gasoline and $5.19/L for stove oil (as of October 9, 2024). This burden is unsustainable for many families.
• The rising costs create a devastating domino effect, impacting not just transportation and heating, but also food prices and everyday essentials, making it harder for our residents to make ends meet.
• Many residents are now faced with the heartbreaking decision to leave their homes and communities in search of more affordable living conditions. Other Sahtu communities have managed to receive fuel deliveries through winter roads or have had some costs covered by the GNWT, highlighting the urgent need for equitable support.

This petition will be presented to the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories

• Declare a state of emergency, recognizing the humanitarian crisis faced by the residents of Norman Wells. This aligns with the definition of “emergency” under the Emergency Management Act, which describes a situation that necessitates prompt coordination of action to safeguard the health and welfare of our people.
• Provide much-needed rebates to offset the exorbitant diesel shipping costs that have caused significant hardship for Norman Wells residents, amounting to $1.84 million in the month of October alone.
• Collaborate with the Government of Canada to deliver immediate relief from these overwhelming shipping costs from the date of this petition until the winter road opens to heavy traffic. This support could come in the form of direct funding or in-kind assistance.

We appeal to your sense of compassion and urgency. Our communities depend on your leadership during this critical time.