The territorial government says it recognizes that moving a homeless encampment next to a museum is a complex issue. Beyond that, it seems it will not be commenting any further on the situation.
On June 6, the GNWT moved a homeless encampment to sit next to the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, from where it was previously in the downtown core. SA国际影视传媒 tried asking Industry, Tourism and Investment Minister Caitlin Cleveland about her thoughts on how this move might impact tourists or residents who could feel uncomfortable visiting the museum, but she declined to comment.
"The minister wonSA国际影视传媒檛 be commenting directly on this request," said Chantelle Masson, who works in cabinet communications.
Instead, the GNWT provided the following statement:
"Our approach to homelessness and encampments has not changed. We continue to work with partners to provide safe, supported shelter options, while taking a compassionate, person-centered approach that respects individual choice and prioritizes public safety."
Masson said that statement reflects the GNWT's position and was issued on behalf of cabinet communications. She added the GNWT has nothing further to say.
Matt Halliday, president of the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce, also said the chamber won't be commenting on the encampment situation.
"It's not something that we'd comment on at this point in time," said Halliday, asked about the chamber's thoughts on moving the encampment next to the museum.
Coun. Cat McGurk said having a homeless encampment next to a museum will have an impact, but to what extent, she cannot say.
"There will be an impact, but I don't know what that impact will be," said McGurk. "I believe that the encampment residents are people and people are self aware, and they're going to do the best that they can with what is provided to them."
McGurk said she does not know much about the new location or how residents will use it. But, she also said encampment residents have previously voiced how they value their privacy, so she assumes whatever they do with their new space will likely reflect that.
