Remembering Bob Simpson

Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC) would like to acknowledge the recent passing of Bob Simpson, who provided 25 years of service to the Inuvialuit. From his start as chief negotiator at the Beaufort Delta Self-Government offices to his most recent role as director of IRC’s Government Affairs Division, his outstanding skills in negotiation, leadership, mentorship, and advocacy have shaped the implementation of several key policies and frameworks for the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR).  

Since 1998, Bob advocated for Inuvialuit rights and recognition. He worked tirelessly on many major files including Inuvialuit self-government, the Mackenzie Gas Project, devolution, Arctic Policy Framework, Economics of an Inuvialuit Household, Beaufort Sea Strategic Regional Plan of Action, Inuvialuit Indicators and IFA 101.  

Beyond his work for IRC, Bob held various positions over his 55 years of living in the Beaufort Delta. He is well-known for his role as the chief negotiator for the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement and longtime chair of the Gwich’in Land Use Planning Board. He was also the mayor of Fort McPherson and the deputy mayor of the Town of Inuvik.  

Bob was instrumental in developing many resource management systems related to the devolution powers of the GNWT and Acts related to public co-management boards. He sat on various regional, territorial and national committees advocating for Inuvialuit and northern communities.  

Though his professional efforts were focused on government affairs at IRC and in the Northwest Territories, Bob enjoyed working in service of his community, leading to several lasting relationships with various community organizations. He offered his time to many ‘near and dear’ programs, including his time chairing the Beaufort-Delta Education Council and the Inuvik District Education Authority. He has remained steadfast in championing the integration of Inuvialuit history and self-determination into classrooms across the ISR. In May 2017, he was awarded the Commissioner’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration at the Premier’s Awards ceremony at the Legislative Assembly for his significant contributions to the public. 

In celebration of Inuvialuit culture and values, Bob co-authored a book titled Taimani – At the Time, Inuvialuit Timeline Visual Guide. Published in May 2011, Taimani shows Inuvialuit resilience, strength and perseverance. 

Please take a moment today to remember Bob and his years of service to IRC and our community.