Technology: Kakfwi The ties that bind
Science and technology will keep regions together
NNSL (OCT 21/96) - The government of the NWT and the four western provinces say the best way to turn technological change into profits is to co-operate.

Renewable Resources Minister Stephen Kakfwi said that a new memorandum of understanding between the five, signed Thursday, will enable the west to pool its resources.

The strategy, developed by a federal-provincial task force on science and technology, outlines methods of turning ideas and newly-developed technology into practical -- and commercial -- reality.

Kakfwi said it will become increasingly important to the NWT as regions in the territories acquire self-governments over the next few years.

Against this backdrop, he said that science and technology will be needed to bring the regions together.

He said the plan is particularly important for aboriginal business owners in the NWT.

"A recent forum for aboriginal business leaders revealed that there was a need for advances in science and technology," he said.

While he admits it's a time of fiscal restraint, he said the development of a high- speed digital teleconferencing system in the NWT is necessary to promote business in the area.

"It will help create more opportunities for business as well as new opportunity for growth," he said. "It will enable the NWT to compete in the 21st century."

Kakfwi said no GNWT funding is involved in the agreement.