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 1030-20(1): Transboundary Water Agreements
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this question is really a hypothetical question. There has been no decision made, so we would have to wait until the decision is completed in order to respond. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Large items start at $150,000. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Question 1030-20(1): Transboundary Water Agreements
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So this has been an ongoing issue that we have certainly addressed at the federal level through conversations with the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, as well as the provincial level with Alberta, and we have also put out two written statements that clearly define our position when it comes to treat and release that we don't believe that under current conditions the science supports that as an approach. We've also encouraged both the federal and Alberta government to look at alternatives to treat and release as a potential solution for this issue. Thank you...

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Yeah, so some investments that have been made for the emergency response team, so two members were phased in 2024-2025; two additional members were phased in in 2025-2026; and two additional members will be brought in in 2026-2027, for a total of nine members in the unit. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Question 1024-20(1): Crime and Public Safety
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, To date we've had no requests from any community to pursue an avenue in this regard. Certainly, our office is always willing to have those conversations with communities if there is a desire to look at potential funding opportunities. So happy to entertain those if someone wants to reach out. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, to my left, I have deputy minister of Justice Charlene Doolittle, deputy attorney general. And to my right, I have James Bancroft, director of corporate services. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Question 1035-20(1): Capacity of North Slave Correctional Facility
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 80)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this change to the security will not change the overall capacity of the facility. That number will remain the same. The change will allow a different level of inmate to be housed in the facility and participate in the programming. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Question 1010-20(1): Crime and Public Safety
Debates of , 20th Assembly, 1st Session (day 79)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I previously stated, I am happy to accept an invitation from a community to attend a community meeting and speak on behalf of my portfolio as the Minister of Justice, so welcome any invitation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Yeah, this is a pilot program, and it's funded under the guns and gangs funding. And we'll have to have a look at the program once the pilot is complete. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

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

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I mean, I am a big supporter of, you know, having that data type of collection as part of our processes to ensure, you know, we can actually see those things, trends over time. I think that's a little perhaps deep into the workflow of the proposed bills that are coming forward to be able to give a real true comment on that at this time. Thank you, Mr. Chair.