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 1105-20(1): Transboundary Water Agreements
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 85)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think I've spoken to this a few times in this House and, you know, currently we're working through the first phase of a phased approach to the Act and the regulations, and phase one being the update to the regulations, and we're -- you know, every day we're getting a little bit closer to being able to bring those final results forward. It's very difficult to speak to what the 21st Assembly may do but we are committed to that three-phased approach, and the second phase we'll be looking at the Act and that work will take place in the next Assembly. There is...

Question 1105-20(1): Transboundary Water Agreements
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 85)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as the Minister responsible for the sustainable development policy, I am fully committed and I fully stand behind and uphold the principles and the goals of this policy. And I think this is one of the key statements from the policy; it states that environmental conservation is essential to long-term economic prosperity. And, you know, as we look at that in the bigger picture, without development in the North, you know, that's one of the key tools that really contributes to our ability to meet those environmental goals and to achieve those conservation goals...

Recorded Vote
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 84)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Yellowknife South, that Bill 35, Miscellaneous Statute Law Amendment Act, 2026, be read for the third time. And Mr. Speaker, I request a recorded vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Member's Statement 928-20(1): Salt River First Nation Healing Centre
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 84)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize an inspiring example of Indigenous leadership and community strength in the North. The Salt River First Nation has transformed a former correction facility into a healing centre, turning a place once associated with confinement into a space dedicated to restoration, wellness, and hope.

This transformation is deeply symbolic. For generations, Indigenous people have been overrepresented in correctional systems. By reclaiming this building and repurposing it for healing, Salt River First Nation is sending a powerful message that our...

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 84)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize Mia Hudson, a long-time friend that used to live in Fort Smith, and to her class who are visiting the House today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Question 1081-20(1): Supreme Court Justices
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 83)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you know, as the Minister, always looking for opportunities to, you know, reduce budget across our department, you know, I think that the Member has brought forward something that I was unfamiliar with, and I am happy to consider his suggestions as we move forward. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Question 1081-20(1): Supreme Court Justices
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 83)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. No, I am not. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 83)

Yes, Mr. Chair.

Tabled Document 475-20(1): Waste Reduction and Recovery Program 2024-2025 Annual Report
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 83)

Mr. Speaker, I wish to table the following three documents: Government of the Northwest Territories Response to Committee Report 27-20(1), Report on Bill 23: An Act to Amend the Children's Law Act; and, Bill 24, An Act to Amend the Family Law Act; Government of the Northwest Territories Response to Committee Report 28-20(1), Report on Bill 27: An Act to Amend The Protection Against Family Violence Act; and, Waste Reduction and Recovery Program 2024-2025 Annual Report. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Question 1081-20(1): Supreme Court Justices
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 83)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will take the Member's suggestion away. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.