Jay Macdonald

Member Thebacha

Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister of Justice
Government House Leader

Jay Macdonald was elected to the 20th Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly to represent the constituency of Thebacha. Mr. Macdonald was elected to the Executive Council of the 20th Assembly.

Mr. Macdonald was born on June 26, 1964, in the town of Hay River, Northwest Territories. As an Indigenous Métis, Jay's roots run deep in the Northern Canadian landscape, and his journey has been marked by diverse experiences that have enriched both his personal and professional life.

Mr. Macdonald’s family relocated to Fort Smith in 1970. Mr. Macdonald successfully managed his small engine repair shop, providing essential services to the community and establishing himself as a reliable entrepreneur. Simultaneously, he delved into the intricacies of recreation facility management, overseeing operations at the local arena and golf course.

In his 13-year tenure as the Manager of Forest Management Services with the Environment and Conservation Division of the Government of the Northwest Territories, Mr. Macdonald demonstrated an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.

Mr. Macdonald’s dedication to youth development is evident in his 12-year role as the House Parent Program Coordinator for the Western Arctic Leadership Program. For five years, he served as a house parent, providing a nurturing environment for students from Lutsel Ke attending PWK High School. This experience not only showcased his compassion but also contributed significantly to the academic and personal growth of the students under his care.

Drawing on his expertise as a Journey Person Small Equipment Technician, Mr. Macdonald spent 13 years managing a Polaris dealership and served as an Instructor for Small Equipment Maintenance, Aviation Fuel Management, and Logistics disciplines under the Incident Command System.

Mr. Macdonald’s commitment to community extends beyond his professional roles. As a dedicated volunteer, he served as President and Coach of Fort Smith Minor Hockey, nurturing young talent and instilling the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. His coaching prowess extended to the national stage as he led Team NWT at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.

In his role as a representative of the Fort Smith Métis Nation on the local District Education Association Board, Mr. Macdonald contributed to shaping educational policies that reflect the unique needs of the community. Additionally, he served as a Board Member and Chair of the Northwest Territories Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification Board, advocating for the recognition and advancement of skilled trades.

Mr. Macdonald’s commitment to community welfare is further evidenced by his involvement in various local activities and events. Whether coaching minor sports or contributing to volunteer initiatives, he has consistently worked towards creating a vibrant and cohesive community fabric.

Outside of his professional and community engagements, Mr. Macdonald has a full family life. He is married to Karen, is a proud father to three children, and a doting grandfather to three grandchildren.

In his leisure time, Jay indulges in hobbies that reflect his love for the outdoors. Golfing, fishing, gardening, and enjoying the vast Northern landscapes are among his favorite pastimes.

Thebacha Electoral District:

Jay Macdonald
Thebacha
Member's Office

Yellowknife NT X1A 2L9
Canada

P.O. Box
1320
Email
Email
Phone
(867) 767-9143
Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Minister's Office
Email
Email

Statements in Debates

Question 1016-20(1): Crime and Public Safety
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think the Government of the Northwest Territories made significant investment within the RCMP contract program to ensure that we're getting all of the opportunities that we can to bring resources to the territory. There's been a significant number of items that have been added over the last number of years. We have general investigation section which has five investigators that are specifically dealing with fraud, controlled drugs and substances. We have added the special response unit. There's also the community policing officer which is a liaison with...

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Yeah, those questions would be more suitable later when we get into the section on policing. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We're happy to get back to the Member with that information; I don't have that in front of me. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will pass to the deputy minister.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will pass back to the director.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will pass to the deputy minister.

Question 1014-20(1): Municipal Land Transfers
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, maybe I will just go back a little bit to the process after devolution.

So during devolution, the delegation of administration and control of lands was delegated from the federal government to the Government of the Northwest Territories. So as part of that, we are an arm of the Crown and so part of that responsibility in the transfer of lands requires us that we must honour the rights of Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations therefore that requires the extensive consultation process that we do not really put a timeframe on. The other component...

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will pass to the deputy minister.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. There are a number of justice of the peace across the Northwest Territories. I don't have the specific locations of all of those judges. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. So the increase in resources are tied to a federal cost share agreement amendment, and I will have the deputy minister speak to some more detail. Thank you, Mr. Chair.