The GNWT’s policy papers on the long-overdue regulations for the Mineral Resources Act show progress — but there are major gaps in transparency, weak environmental protections, and far more engagement with industry than with civil society. Alternatives North and Ecology North are calling for stronger public notice requirements, clearer decision-making rules, and real accountability to ensure the MRA serves the public interest, not just mineral developers.
Below is a joint submission responding to the GNWT’s proposed regulations for the Mineral Resources Act by Alternatives North and Ecology North. Its intent is to highlight major gaps in transparency, public notice, environmental safeguards, and regulatory consistency during the development of the new mining regime. Our comments aim to ensure the regulations genuinely serve the public interest by calling out disproportionate engagement with industry, unclear decision-making powers, weak environmental requirements, and insufficient support for sustainable land use. Our intent is to push for a fair, accountable, and transparent system aligned with the MRA’s stated goals.
Engagement 1: Mineral resources administration policy, drill cores, and removal of minerals. https://haveyoursay.nwt-tno.ca/mineral-resource-act-policy-intentions-1 Closed: December 3, 2025
Here is our covering letter responding to the first engagement.
Click on there image below or here to read the submission with our comments for Engagement 1: Mineral resources administration policy, drill cores, and removal of minerals:
ITI Minister’s Response Letter December 23, 2025
Engagement 2: Benefit Agreements and socio-economic policy https://haveyoursay.nwt-tno.ca/mineral-resource-act-policy-intentions-part-2-of-3 Closed January 5, 2026
Here is our covering letter responding to the second engagement.
Click on there image below or here to read the submission with our comments for
Engagement 2: Benefit Agreements and socio-economic policy.
Engagement 3: Mineral Rights Review Board, and transition of existing Interests https://haveyoursay.nwt-tno.ca/mineral-resource-act-policy-intentions-part-3-of-3
Here is our covering letter responding to the third engagement.
Click on there image below or here to read the submission with our comments for
Engagement 3: Mineral Rights Review Board, and transition of existing Interests.
