Further to the response provided to the Member for Yellowknife North on the May 28, 2025, the following additional information is provided:
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has not identified specific areas that may be preferable for occupancy by those choosing to camp within the city. However, since individuals choosing to camp within city limits can find themselves in conflict with neighbourhood residents and business owners, the GNWT met with an advocate representing individuals choosing to camp and provided maps that depict Commissioner’s Land within city limits, where these conflicts would be minimized, as well as key landmarks and services. Information provided on the map included:
tenured Commissioners Land, including Commissioners Land identified/subject to land withdrawal agreements,
schools,
government buildings,
hospitals,
the RCMP,
municipal parks,
park benches,
public washrooms,
waste bins, and
trails.
People have camped in a dispersed manner for many years. While it is not an ideal solution to homelessness, the GNWT notes dispersed camping, rather than congregate encampments, reduces the potential for conflict with other users of Commissioner’s Land and minimizes potential conflicts with regulations and bylaws. The information provided offers an opportunity for those who choose to camp within the city to select sites that are close to public facilities, such as washrooms and garbage bins so that they can maintain clean, safe camp sites.
Our staff have maintained at minimum weekly communications with encamped individuals since they were first identified and have worked with them to meet immediate needs and safety, connect them to longer-term supports, and encourage them to access existing shelter spaces. Recognizing that people experiencing homelessness are in situations that are complex, challenging, and deserving respect, the GNWT is focusing on increasing transitional housing options and working with community partners to build long-term, person-centred solutions.
