The transfer of province-like responsibilities has been a longstanding Government of Canada policy objective shared with the Territorial governments.
Since the 1970s, the federal government has been transferring its decision-making powers to northern governments. This means greater local control and accountability by northerners for decisions central to the future of the Territories.
Improving and devolving governance, so that Northerners have greater control over their destinies, is an important element of Canada's Northern Strategy.