Nunavut Hansard — 12 March 2024 (6th Assembly, 2nd Session, Day 80, Official Report, pp. 5136–5195)

2024-03-12, 6th Assembly 2nd Session, Day 80

Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)

Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 6th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 80 Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Pages 5136 – 5195 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Tony Akoak, MLA

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. Tony Akoak (Gjoa Haven) Officers Clerk John Quirke Deputy Clerk Stephen Innuksuk Law Clerk Michael Chandler Sergeant-at-Arms John Topic Hansard Production Innirvik Support Services Box 1200 Iqaluit, Nunavut, X0A 0H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Website: www.assembly.nu.ca Hon. David Akeeagok (Quttiktuq) Minister of Economic Development and Transportation; Minister of Justice; Minister responsible for Labour Hon. P.J.

Akeeagok (Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu) Premier; Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs; Minister responsible for Immigration; Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs Bobby Anavilok (Kugluktuk) Janet Brewster (Iqaluit-Sinaa) Hon. Pamela Gross (Cambridge Bay) Deputy Premier; Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Education; Minister of Languages; Minister responsible for Seniors George Hickes (Iqaluit-Tasiluk) Deputy Speaker and Chair of the Committee of the Whole Hon.

David Joanasie (South Baffin) Government House Leader; Minister of Community and Government Services; Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Mary Killiktee (Uqqummiut) Hon. Lorne Kusugak (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Finance, Chair of the Financial Management Board; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Adam Lightstone (Iqaluit-Manirajak) Hon.

John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation; Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention Solomon Malliki (Aivilik) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (Pangnirtung) Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for the Status of Women; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Hon. Karen Nutarak (Tununiq) Hon.

Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Minister of Environment; Minister of Energy; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College Joanna Quassa (Aggu) Inagayuk Quqqiaq (Netsilik) Alexander Sammurtok (Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet) Joe Savikataaq (Arviat South) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Craig Simailak (Baker Lake)

Table of Contents Opening Prayer .......................................................................................................................... 5136 Ministers’ Statements ................................................................................................................ 5136 Members’ Statements ................................................................................................................ 5140 Returns to Oral Questions ......................................................................................................... 5146 Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ....................................................................................... 5147 Oral Questions ........................................................................................................................... 5152 Written Questions ...................................................................................................................... 5172 Tabling of Documents ............................................................................................................... 5173 Notices of Motions .................................................................................................................... 5174 Motions ...................................................................................................................................... 5174 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ..................................... 5176 Report of the Committee of the Whole ..................................................................................... 5193 Third Reading of Bills ............................................................................................................... 5193 Orders of the Day ...................................................................................................................... 5193

A. Daily References Tuesday, March 12, 2024 .......................................................................................................... 5136 B.

Ministers’ Statements 414 – 6(2): Minister Absent from the House (Akeeagok, D) .................................................... 5136 415 – 6(2): Family Wellness Centre Opens (Nakashuk) ........................................................... 5136 416 – 6(2): Corrections Act Coming into Force (Akeeagok, D) ............................................... 5137 417 – 6(2): Recruitment for Legislative Committees (Nakashuk) ............................................ 5138 418 – 6(2): Working Together and Aging with Dignity Agreements (Main) ........................... 5138 419 – 6(2): Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Conference in Iqaluit (Gross) .......................................... 5139 C.

Members’ Statements 546 – 6(2): Tribute to the Late Pat Lyall (Quqqiaq) .................................................................. 5140 547 – 6(2): Recognizing Eva Noah (Simailak) ......................................................................... 5140 548 – 6(2): Grateful for Qikiqtani General Hospital Health Staff (Quassa) .............................. 5141 549 – 6(2): Concerns with Coppermine River (Anavilok) ........................................................ 5141 550 – 6(2): 2024 Nunavut Quest (Nutarak) ............................................................................... 5142 551 – 6(2): Arctic Bay Participants at Arctic Winter Games (Akeeagok, D) ........................... 5142 552 – 6(2): Recognizing Akutaq Williamson-Bathory for Speed Skating (Akeeagok, P) ........ 5143 553 – 6(2): Welcoming Paisley Adalee (Nakashuk) ................................................................. 5143 554 – 6(2): Cambridge Bay Participants at Arctic Winter Games (Gross) ............................... 5143 555 – 6(2): Concerns with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (Lightstone) ............. 5144 556 – 6(2): Nunavut Success at Arctic Winter Games (Brewster) ............................................ 5144 557 – 6(2): The Spirit of Cooperation and Support (Killiktee) ................................................. 5145 558 – 6(2): Sanikiluaq Participants at Arctic Winter Games (Qavvik) ..................................... 5145

D. Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 806 – 6(2): Ottawa Medical Boarding Home (Main) ......................... 5146 Return to Oral Question 807 – 6(2): Response to Report of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (Akeeagok, P) ............................................................................................. 5147 Return to Oral Question 792 – 6(2): Direct Appointments (Nakashuk) .................................... 5147 E.

Oral Questions 828 – 6(2): Housing in Iqaluit (Lightstone)............................................................................... 5152 829 – 6(2): Baffin Island Caribou Management (Killiktee) ...................................................... 5154 830 – 6(2): Elder Abuse (Hickes) .............................................................................................. 5155 831 – 6(2): Public Housing Construction (Savikataaq) ............................................................. 5157 832 – 6(2): Suicide Prevention (Brewster) ................................................................................ 5158 833 – 6(2): Coppermine River (Anavilok) ................................................................................ 5161 834 – 6(2): Upcoming Student Career Fair (Quassa) ................................................................ 5162 835 – 6(2): Supporting Elders at Home (Quqqiaq) ................................................................... 5164 836 – 6(2): Therapeutic Justice Program (Killiktee) ................................................................. 5166 837 – 6(2): Qulliq Energy Corporation Capital Plan (Simailak) ............................................... 5168 838 – 6(2): Support for Nunavut Arts and Creative Sector (Brewster) ..................................... 5170 F.

Written Questions 007 – 6(2): Suicide Rates and the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy (Brewster) ................ 5172

G.

Tabling of Documents 262 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Arctic College (Kusugak) ........ 5173 263 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Business Credit Corporation (Kusugak) ............................................................................................................................ 5173 264 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Development Corporation (Kusugak) ............................................................................................................................ 5173 265 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Housing Corporation (Kusugak) ............................................................................................................................................ 5173 266 – 6(2): Petition Concerning Arctic Winter Games (Lightstone) ........................................ 5173 267 – 6(2): Speaker’s List of Outstanding Statutory Tabling Requirements (Speaker) ............ 5174 H.

Motions 032 – 6(2): Extended Adjournment – Notice (Savikataaq) ....................................................... 5174 032 – 6(2): Extended Adjournment (Savikataaq) ...................................................................... 5174 I. Committee Motions 005 – 6(2): Deferral of Bill 38, Supplementary Appropriation (Operations & Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 (Hickes) .................................................................................................. 5188 J.

Bills Bill 40 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 1, 2024-2025 – Consideration in Committee ........................................................................................................................... 5176 Bill 38 – Supplementary Appropriation (Operations & Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 – Consideration in Committee ............................................................................................... 5182

Bill 39 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 4, 2023-2024 – Consideration in Committee ........................................................................................................................... 5190 Bill 40 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 1, 2024-2025 – Third Reading ..... 5193 Bill 39 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 4, 2023-2024 – Third Reading ..... 5193

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5136 Iqaluit, Nunavut Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Hon. P.J. Akeeagok, Hon. Tony Akoak, Mr. Bobby Anavilok, Ms. Janet Brewster, Hon. Pamela Gross, Mr. George Hickes, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Adam Lightstone, Hon. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Hon. Karen Nutarak, Hon. Daniel Qavvik, Ms. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Inagayuk Quqqiaq, Mr. Joe Savikataaq, Mr. Craig Simailak. >>House commenced at 10:00 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon. Tony Akoak) (interpretation): Ms.

Quassa, can you say the opening prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker (interpretation): Good morning, my colleagues. Welcome to the House. I’m glad that it is our last sitting day. Thank you. Welcome to the visitors in the gallery. Welcome to the people who are watching the televised proceedings and listening to the radio broadcast. (interpretation ends) No. 2. (interpretation) Ministers’ Statements. (interpretation ends) Hon. Government House Leader, Mr. David Akeeagok. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 414 – 6(2): Minister Absent from the House (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s great to see many visitors in the gallery and our beloved elders are here. I warmly welcome you. Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise members that the Hon. David Joanasie will be absent from the House today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk. Minister’s Statement 415 – 6(2): Family Wellness Centre Opens (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning.

Welcome to the visitors in the gallery and Nunavummiut. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the Department of Family Services is dedicated to developing programs that cater to the needs of families and children in our communities. To that end, I am happy to announce that we are repurposing one of our facilities and opening the Family Wellness Centre in Iqaluit this week.

With seven bedrooms, programming space, and office facilities, the Family Wellness Centre is a valuable and safe resource that will provide emergency foster placement for children when needed. >>Applause The building will also be used to facilitate visits between children in care and their parents or guardians. The space is designed to create a homelike atmosphere, where family resource workers and community social services

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5137 workers collaborate with families on life and parenting skills. Mr. Speaker, a more appropriate name for the Family Wellness Centre will be chosen once the department discusses the building’s purpose with elders and selects a more meaningful name. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 416 – 6(2): Corrections Act Coming into Force (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) For more than ten years, the Department of Justice and the Corrections Division have been working to transform the vision and infrastructure of correctional services in our territory. Although this work was already underway, the Office of the Corrections Investigator and the Office of the Auditor General made important recommendations that helped to shape this undertaking and the direction of reforms. A major milestone was the design and construction of the new Aaqqigiarvik Correctional Healing Facility in Iqaluit.

Of equal importance was the need for legislative reform. In 2019 the Legislative Assembly passed the new modern Corrections Act, which represented a complete overhaul of Nunavut’s corrections legislation. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that after completing comprehensive regulations, the Government of Nunavut brought into force the new Corrections Act on January 22 of this year. Bringing the Act into force helps to increase accountability and transparency by establishing the Independent Investigations Officer.

This position’s mandate is to ensure the fair treatment of clients by investigating client complaints, as well as practices, policies, and decisions at Nunavut Corrections. I am pleased to advise that the department has retained Kim Cholette as Investigations Officer. Ms. Chollette is an experienced administrative law lawyer with extensive correctional investigative experience in Yukon, and experience conducting investigations for the Government of Nunavut.

Additional highlights to bringing the Act into force include: • new measures to support clients with mental health issues; • modern protections for client safety and rights; • a mandated corrections annual report; and • the creation of an Inuit Societal Values Committee made up of elders, nominated from the Inuit organizations, to advise on issues respecting Inuit culture, values, languages, and programming into Nunavut Corrections. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5138 Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission, Ms. Nakashuk. Minister’s Statement 417 – 6(2): Recruitment for Legislative Committees (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for recognizing me again. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission is looking for qualified candidates for two legislative committees, the Safety Advisory Committee and the Mine Occupational Health and Safety Legislation Committee.

The role of committee members is to make recommendations for updates and changes to Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission legislation in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. The ideal candidates will demonstrate an understanding of workplace safety, have high ethical standards, be reliable, and have a respect and appreciation of the diverse stakeholders’ interests. Interested individuals should reach out to my office for more information by March 22, 2024. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main.

Minister’s Statement 418 – 6(2): Working Together and Aging with Dignity Agreements (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, my colleagues and visitors in the gallery. Mr. Speaker, on March 5, I was honoured to host the Hon. Mark Holland, Canadian Minister of Health, here in Iqaluit. On that day I was pleased to announce the signing of two crucial bilateral agreements, one called “Working Together” and the other “Aging with Dignity,” between Nunavut and the Government of Canada.

With Nunavut Tunngavik President Aluki Kotierk in attendance, we jointly celebrated the investment of over $35.6 million into Nunavut health care. (interpretation ends) Through the “Working Together” agreement, we will focus on enhancing primary care and increasing Inuit representation in health care roles, including a new radiological technician program and midwifery training. Need assessments will take place in our communities, aiding in the enhancement of our existing health care teams. The paramedic program will expand, and the Qikiqtani General Hospital will see improvements in various medical services.

Additionally, efforts will also enhance recruitment of health care professionals and expand culturally relevant mental health and addiction services, including training for paraprofessionals and the continuation of trauma symposiums. (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, the “Aging with Dignity” agreement will support work to meet elders’ needs in Nunavut. We will be reviewing and expanding

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5139 home and community care programs to help elders who are aging in place. This funding will be focused on increasing Inuit staff, service hours, and workforce skills through training for nursing students. It will support our work with Nunavut Arctic College’s Personal Support Worker Program, help enhance care worker skills, and implement virtual care by nurse practitioners for long-term facilities. Additionally, it supports aligning with national long-term care standards, emphasizing culturally appropriate care and Inuit-specific counselling.

While in town, Minister Holland took the time to tour the Qikiqtani General Hospital and we discussed how these agreements would benefit health care not just in Iqaluit but in every community. We also had time for a meaningful discussion with our partners at Nunavut Tunngavik about health care needs and supporting the dignified aging of elders. I expressed my sincere gratitude to Minister Holland for this additional funding which will enable accessible, culturally attuned health care, and strengthen in-territory health resources for Nunavummiut. Mr.

Speaker, the coming years will see this important funding in action and supporting improved care across Nunavut. These agreements embody our dedication to accessible, quality health care and the principle of aging with dignity. I look forward to further opportunities to collaborate with our federal partners to move health priorities ahead for Nunavummiut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Culture and Heritage, Ms. Gross. Minister’s Statement 419 – 6(2): Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Conference in Iqaluit (Gross) Hon.

Pamela Gross (interpretation): Good morning, Nunavummiut. (interpretation ends) It’s so lovely to see everyone here in the House with us today. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform my colleagues about the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Katimajiit conference that was held here in Iqaluit from November 16 to 17, 2023. The theme of this conference was “Inuusiqattiarniq,” where a variety of topics were discussed. More than 67 participants attended and shared feedback related to learning Inuktitut terminology, child-rearing, and Inuit counselling. Mr.

Speaker, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and Inuit societal values are integral to our society. In the spirit of Ikajuqtigiinniq and Piliriqatigiinniq, we continue to work with our partners to integrate Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit into the design of policies, legislation, programs, and services. The Government of Nunavut’s interdepartmental Tuttarviit group members also participated. Today I ask all Members of this House to join me in thanking the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Katimajiit members and the Tuttarviit members for their commitment to collaborating and promoting the use of

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5140 Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. Quana, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 3. (interpretation) Members’ Statements. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 546 – 6(2): Tribute to the Late Pat Lyall (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today because I feel that unsung heroes have to be mentioned in the House, Mr. Speaker, so here it goes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to acknowledge that Alex Ittimangnaq Jr. of Kugaaruk, who is the Tuugaalik Cup senior men’s hockey tournament organizer, has made an announcement on Saturday, March 9, 2024 that the Game Changer Award is renamed to the “Pat Lyall Award.” Mr. Speaker, last year the Tuugaalik Cup created the Game Changer Award to recognize and give thanks to individuals who have volunteered their time to give back to their communities through hockey. Mr. Speaker, Jesse Ulliaq Apsaktaun was the first recipient of the award. Mr.

Speaker, the Tuugaalik Cup recognizes the immense hockey talent throughout the Nattilik region, and we cannot imagine having the Tuugaalik Cup without our fellow Nattilingmiut. Mr. Speaker, we want our region to shine together so that we can all move forward together. With that in mind, the Tuugaalik Cup is proud to rename the “Game Changer Award” to the “Pat Lyall Award.” Mr. Speaker, late Pat Napachee Lyall was a huge supporter of hockey in Taloyoak. He worked tirelessly to fundraise to ensure that the team could attend tournaments.

He donated team jerseys and inspired many youth from his community to step up to the plate. Mr. Speaker, he is a huge part of the Taloyoak Trailblazers. He inspired them to become multi-time Nattilik Cup and Kitikmeot Cup champions. Mr. Speaker, late Pat Napachee Lyall was the shining example of how being a big supporter can ensure the success of a team. Mr. Speaker, this year, this award will be given to late Pat Napachee Lyall’s family to recognize him for all that he has done for hockey in Taloyoak. Mr.

Speaker, the Tuugaalik Cup would like to thank the Lyall family for giving us the honour of naming this award after the late Pat Napachee Lyall. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Member’s Statement 547 – 6(2): Recognizing Eva Noah (Simailak) Mr. Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning. Good morning to the people of Baker Lake and have a great day. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, this morning I would like to recognize one of my constituents, Eva Noah. Eva began artwork in 1990 with sewing duffle wall

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5141 hangings, art with felt figures, and she followed the inspiration from Inuit traditional legends, such as the snowy owls. Mr. Speaker, Eva has artwork at the high society of Canada in London, England, art pieces in New York, and last summer, Eva applied for the artist in residency to be held at the Winnipeg Art Gallery Qaumajuq section. The artist residency was from January 20 to February 20 of this year. She was there for one month along with a couple of other artists from Nunavut.

The selection committee was from the culture, language, youth and elders, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and the people at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Going based on Eva’s work from the last 30 years, they made a great selection. Congratulations, Eva. We look forward to seeing more of your artwork in the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Member’s Statement 548 – 6(2): Grateful for Qikiqtani General Hospital Health Staff (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to show my gratitude to the nurse in Igloolik, which I have mentioned earlier in the House. I would also like to thank the nurses, doctors, and the health professionals here in Iqaluit who work tirelessly to provide medical services and also looking at other options so that people can heal. Simon and I show our gratitude to the health professionals. Yesterday was his last day of treatment. On behalf of Simon, my husband, I show our gratitude. We celebrated our 41st anniversary. >>Applause Both of us just learned about patience.

We thought that we wouldn’t be able to complete the treatment, but we were provided services by health professionals for 12 weeks, so (interpretation ends) I think we graduated. (interpretation) Thank you. >>Laughter >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok. Member’s Statement 549 – 6(2): Concerns with Coppermine River (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, colleagues, and I recognize visitors in the gallery. I want to speak about an issue that I have spoken about in the House before, the Coppermine River.

It has been 20 years since the Diavik and Ekati mines were opened. When they first opened, the Coppermine River is the place where we were always fishing. Today our river doesn’t have that many fish. It has been a while now. We used to use fish nets. I got only three fish.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5142 I want to discuss it again to the Minister of Environment. I will meet with him regarding our Coppermine River. I will speak to the Minister of Environment and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the World Wildlife Fund because they help with fish and wildlife. I have been planning to have a meeting with them regarding our Coppermine River because it doesn’t have as many fish as it did before. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak. Member’s Statement 550 – 6(2): 2024 Nunavut Quest (Nutarak) Hon.

Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to welcome all the people in the gallery. I say “good morning” to the people of Pond Inlet and Nunavut. The dog team quest for Pond Inlet has been set from April 19 to 22. At that time, I welcome everyone to go to Pond Inlet to watch the dog sledding race from Arctic Bay to Pond Inlet. I welcome everyone to Pond Inlet. They will start the trek on April 15 from Arctic Bay and trek their way to Pond Inlet. There will be a huge dance, where they will have a dancing contest. Remember to bring proper shoes.

There is also going to be a hockey tournament to get the Qamutik Cup. There will also be women and possibly men who will win prizes for wearing the best attire. I welcome everyone to Pond Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 551 – 6(2): Arctic Bay Participants at Arctic Winter Games (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We had very good news yesterday for the athletes who went to the Dene games. I’m proud of the third place winner, Marcus Kigutaq from Arctic Bay, and I look forward to more wins. I talked about the athletes attending the Dene games, but there are other athletes from Arctic Bay and I hope that they have a very good experience. There are some athletes who are playing ping pong from Arctic Bay and they are Trudy Qaunaq, Keegan Qamaniq, and Puka Allurut from Arctic Bay. I’m sure that they will represent Nunavut well.

The coach for the Dene games is Rex Willie, who is also at the Arctic Winter Games. There are quite a few people from my constituency who are attending the Arctic Winter Games, and I urge my constituency communities of Grise Fiord and Resolute Bay to practise and attend the Arctic Winter Games. I congratulate all of the athletes who are in Alaska. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit- Niaqunnguu, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5143 Member’s Statement 552 – 6(2): Recognizing Akutaq Williamson- Bathory for Speed Skating (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to the visitors in the gallery, especially our elders. A very good morning to you and we will also be recognizing visitors who are here in the gallery. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I am rising to recognize an incredible leader of my riding who was the first individual to bring the first gold at the Arctic Winter Games.

Akutaq Williamson Bathory brought home the gold at the 1,000-metre speed skating. >>Applause It is truly inspiring to see the incredible youth and athletes that work so hard for their whole lives to represent us, and they’re representing us with so much pride in Alaska this year. I just wanted to mention that there are approximately 126 Iqalummiut, whether they’re athletes, ambassadors, or officials, serving our beautiful city here in Iqaluit.

With Akutaq bringing home the gold, I couldn’t be prouder with the strong leadership that she has shown and the true great role model that she is not only to her peers but to all Nunavummiut about aspiring to obtain your education, but to always be dedicated. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize again the gold and the incredible athletes that are all at the Arctic Winter Games. We are cheering them on right here in this House and we couldn’t be any prouder of the strong ambassadors that we do have with athletes from all of our communities. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Member’s Statement 553 – 6(2): Welcoming Paisley Adalee (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning. I have good news which I’m very proud to announce. Paisley Adalee was born on March 10, who is our new grandchild, Andrew and I, as well as Seporah and Mosesee Akulujuk. The new parents are my son, A.J., and Tina. I would like to congratulate them.

My new grandchild was adopted and we are pleased and we would like to welcome them to our family, as I have a grandson and now I have a granddaughter as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Cambridge Bay, Ms. Gross. Member’s Statement 554 – 6(2): Cambridge Bay Participants at Arctic Winter Games (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to everybody listening. Mr. Speaker, as we know, our athletes headed to Alaska this past weekend and I really want to wish those from

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5144 Iqaluktuuttiaq all the best as they are participating. I want to recognize the female basketball players of Willow Harvey, Simone Mala-McCallum, and Keira Tikhak- Kaomayok, as well as the male athletes, Iola Buchan, Waylon Ipeelie-Gunn, Lex Klengenberg, and Wyatt Klengenberg, as well as their coaches, Zachary Cziranka-Crooks and Gavin Greenley. We also have a wrestling athlete who is also there, Jusipi Dimitruk, and I also want to thank his coaches and the coaches for the wrestling team that are there, Christopher Crooks, Loryn Muswagon, and Haley Heffel.

I wish all of the athletes from Nunavut all the best and I look forward to watching them compete. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit- Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Member’s Statement 555 – 6(2): Concerns with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to express my concerns once again regarding the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, or CMHC, annual report on northern housing. Mr.

Speaker, the CMHC has identified that the vacancy rate in Iqaluit has remained at near zero for the fifth consecutive year. Mr. Speaker, the report indicated that there were only six vacant units identified in Iqaluit in 2023. Mr. Speaker, this is a serious problem with serious consequences. These extreme market conditions led to steep rental increases as high as 8 percent. I would like to hereby give notice to the Minister of the Nunavut Housing Corporation that I will be raising this matter at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements.

Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Member’s Statement 556 – 6(2): Nunavut Success at Arctic Winter Games (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Welcome to the elders, friends, and some family in the House today. It’s very nice to see you. Mr. Speaker, I wasn’t going to stand and make a member’s statement until my neighbour from Tasiluk told me I had to. Mr. Speaker, I would like to join everybody in cheering on the athletes at the Arctic Winter Games and specifically the speed skating club, which has brought home three medals.

We have heard of Akutaq’s accomplishment of the gold medal, young Gregor Paterson won the under 15 juvenile in the 1,000-metre race. We’ve had over 20 personal best times in our club. Mr. Speaker, I have to recognize one of my constituents, Napatsi Miles Brewster, who won the bronze medal and I am very proud of him.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5145 >>Applause Mr. Speaker, I do have another family member, Iola Buchan, who is at the Arctic Winter Games, and I wish him and all of the athletes great success and much joy in the Games. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Member’s Statement 557 – 6(2): The Spirit of Cooperation and Support (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning. I am very pleased to see all the visitors in the gallery. Welcome.

Yesterday I had a small child with me and it was my son’s daughter and she asked me, “Why do you keep saying ‘thank you’ to the Chairman?” This was when we were saying, “Thank you, Mr. Chairman.” She said to me, “You are so good that you should be thanked as well.” She noticed that when she was listening to us and (interpretation ends) she picked up something. (interpretation) That was my first comment. I rise today to state my appreciation for correcting me, for advising me not to give up, giving me suggestions on what to do and say in the House with the rest of the Members of Legislative Assembly.

Although I was not so proud of myself, I’m proud of the fact that I am agreeing and accepting the advice. It feels good to learn and that I was being brought up to take part on behalf of our representatives. Thank you for giving me strength, especially for those people who give me advice and give me constructive criticism, and also for providing me strength. I thank God for helping me. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik. Member’s Statement 558 – 6(2): Sanikiluaq Participants at Arctic Winter Games (Qavvik) Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Good morning, colleagues and everyone in this House. Mr. Speaker, I, too, would like to recognize three of my constituents from Sanikiluaq who are participating in the Arctic Winter Games at Mat-su, Alaska. Three of my constituents are Kenny Takatak, Andrew Qavvik, ammalu Nickolai Cookie. They are participating in the badminton sport. I wish them good luck and everyone else at the Mat-su, Alaska Arctic Winter Games. Mr. Speaker, it is our efforts as a government, as parents, and community members that we make our youth thrive and make their dreams come true.

I believe that dreams do really come true if anyone works hard for anything that they would like to achieve. (interpretation) That’s it. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5146 Item 4: Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 806 – 6(2): Ottawa Medical Boarding Home (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I rise today to supplement an answer I gave during oral questions on March 7, 2024. The Member for Aggu requested information on the Ottawa Medical Boarding Home contract and the recent request for proposals. The Department of Community and Government Services plays a lead role in meeting the Government of Nunavut’s requirements for goods and services.

In particular, it is recognized as a contract authority for securing goods and most services needed by the Government of Nunavut. With this expertise, Community and Government Services works closely with Government of Nunavut departments to provide advice and guidance on procurement and contracting practices. For this request for proposals, the Department of Health is the client department and is working with Community and Government Services to ensure that fair and ethical practices are carried out in its procurement responsibilities.

This is accomplished through effective policies and procedures aimed at: • Obtaining the best value for Nunavummiut; • Creating an open, fair and transparent environment for suppliers; • Providing appropriate recognition of Inuit, local and Nunavut interests; • Setting high standards for its service delivery; • Maintaining current and accurate information on costs, availability, and industry trends; and • Establishing and maintaining efficient systems and processes for timely delivery of quality products and services.

The Department of Health issued a request for proposals on March 6, 2024 for service provisions of an Ottawa medical boarding home, closing on May 3, 2024. The current Ottawa Medical Boarding Home is operated by Larga Baffin Ltd. This contract ends March 31, 2028. Although there are several years remaining on this contract, the Department of Health has begun planning an open, fair and transparent procurement process to ensure a subsequent contract is in place to continue operations when the current contract expires. The Larga Baffin Boarding Home consists of 170 beds.

The Department of Health is aware that the boarding home is often at capacity. This new request for proposals requires a facility that will provide a minimum of 300 beds. It is common practice to issue a request for proposals several years in advance to ensure all requirements are met for continued service provisions. The term of the new contract is 20 years with the option of two five-year renewal periods, for a total potential contract length of 30 years. A long-term contract

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5147 is required to provide financing ability for vendors to secure or construct a new facility that meets the capacity requirements. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Return to Oral Question 807 – 6(2): Response to Report of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to provide an answer to a question I received on March 7, 2024 from the Member of Iqaluit-Sinaa, who enquired about the confidential investigation report into the placement of eight children with Ever Bright Complex Needs Support Services in Alberta, specifically with whom I shared the report. Mr. Speaker, I would like to confirm that the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs shared the report with senior officials from the Department of Family Services and the Department of Justice.

In addition, a copy was provided to the Representative for Children and Youth. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Return to Oral Question 792 – 6(2): Direct Appointments (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This question was asked on March 5; Question 792 – 6(2), asked by Ms.

Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, and the question was regarding direct appointments. (interpretation ends) Since April 1, 2023, 143 expedited Inuit direct appointments were approved, 106 of which were completed using the new process implemented by the Department of Human Resources in August 2024. Of the 143 Inuit direct appointments, 39 were in Iqaluit and 104 in the communities outside Iqaluit. Eighty-five of the appointments were for administrative support, 36 paraprofessional, 14 professional, 4 middle management, 1 senior manager, and 3 executives.

Of the 104 expedited direct appointments outside Iqaluit, 54 were in decentralized communities and 50 in non-decentralized. It is not common practice to hire non- Inuit using direct appointments. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 5. (interpretation) Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Gjoa Haven, Mr. Akoak. >>Laughter Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. I would like to recognize an elder from Gjoa Haven who is here in the gallery.

I would like to thank her for being a role model and she is always available when someone wants to speak with her. Before I came here for the sitting, this garment was made by her and she made it in just one night. I would like to thank her very much. She teaches the younger

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5148 generation. I recognize Gjoa Haven resident Miriam Aglukkaq. >>Applause Thank you. Her adopted son, who is a fellow resident of Gjoa Haven, John Aglukkaq, is also in the gallery and I thank him for that. >>Applause Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Cambridge Bay, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to introduce these wonderful people that are here with us that are on the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Katimajiit, the members that are in the House.

Please join me in welcoming: Willie Nakoolak, Chair, from Coral Harbour. >>Applause Lew Philip of Iqaluit, Vice-chair. >>Applause Miriam Aglukkaq of Gjoa Haven. >>Applause Marie Anguti of Kugaaruk. >>Applause Mary Voisey of Whale Cove. >>Applause Abraham Ullalaaq of Sanirajak. >>Applause Ootoovah Audlakiak of Clyde River. >>Applause I would also like to acknowledge two other members who could not be present today, Celine Ningark of Kugaaruk and Jean Simailak of Baker Lake. >>Applause Mr.

Speaker, our Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit guests are accompanied by Susan Enuaraq, Director of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. >>Applause As well as Teresa Hughes, Deputy Minister. >>Applause Jeannie Arreak-Kullualik, Assistant Deputy Minister. >>Applause I would also like to recognize Raigelee Alorut, Tuttarviit board member and also a staff member with the Department of Education. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, I would like to say a huge thank you to all the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit members for their commitment to guiding the integration of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit within the Government of Nunavut.

We value their advice and guidance in support of improved government operations and policies. Quana, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5149 >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would also like to recognize the elders that my colleague recognized. Welcome. I see some familiar faces. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, as the Minister of Human Resources, I stand today to acknowledge a significant accomplishment of an employee in my department. As my colleagues are aware, we celebrated Black History Month in the month of February.

During those celebrations, the Government of Canada’s Department of Canadian Heritage recognized Stephanie Bernard as a trailblazer who broke down barriers by founding the Nunavut Black History Society when she moved to Iqaluit in 2013. Eleven years later, the organization has blossomed into a vibrant and inclusive social advocacy group that focuses on the protection, celebration, research, and conservation of black arts, history, and culture. Mr. Speaker, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a statement recently commending Ms. Bernard’s work and said, “Black excellence is all around us.” Mr.

Speaker, today in the House, we celebrate black excellence. Please join me in congratulating Ms. Bernard and her supporters, including Cheick Cisse, Shanna Zwennes, Charles Zwennes, Mariama Fofana, Maya Jelali, Murielle Jassinthe, Rannva Erlingsdottir, Julian Oyukuluk, Rotimi Lawal, Akintayo Edmund, Selam Mekonen, Natalie Howell, Tedwordros Haileysus, Aramide Owaoaje, Melissa Alexander, Helen Hoang, and Kristie Cronin. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr.

Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to acknowledge and welcome two of my constituents from Kugaaruk, Marie Anguti and Jennifer Anguti. Also, I would like to recognize Miriam Aglukkaq and John Aglukkaq from Gjoa Haven. Mr. Speaker, Mariam Aglukkaq is my auntie and John Aglukkaq is my cousin. Mr. Speaker, Mariam is a great part of the reason why I am here today, who had taught me well since the day I was born, and I thank her greatly. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, Marie Anguti and Miriam Aglukkaq are board members of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. I want them to feel welcome in the House, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Welcome to the Assembly. (interpretation ends) Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Mr. Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize the

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5150 students and instructors of the Social Service Worker Program. This cohort of students is in their second year of the diploma program and is set to complete their program on March 31, 2024. I am very happy they could come to the House and be recognized.

I would like to recognize the students of the Social Service Worker Program: Wanda Alookie. >>Applause Julia Angoo. >>Applause Joy Angutikjuaq. >>Applause Elisapi Inuquq Ashoona. >>Applause Nina Irniq. >>Applause Eva Mackpa. >>Applause Emily Ukalik. >>Applause Lexie Upaktauyak. >>Applause Carmen Roswell. >>Applause (interpretation) Is she not here? (interpretation ends) The instructors, Shiela Higdon, and also... >>Applause …Ruth Luca. She is not here. (interpretation) She is not here? (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, as March is Social Work Month, I am proud to welcome this group into this House.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Welcome to everyone here. I would like to welcome and recognize an individual who supported much of the young people in Sanirajak and who provides immense support. I warmly welcome Abraham Ullalaaq. >>Applause When I worked for the government, I met with some of these individuals and sometimes I miss individuals like Miriam Aglukkaq and Marie Anguti. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Welcome to the Assembly. (interpretation ends) Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also rise to recognize

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5151 my constituent from Clyde River, Ootoovah Audlakiak. Welcome to this House. I would like you to feel welcome. Another former hamlet council member and fellow mayor is Willie Nakoolak. We have come a long way. Feel very welcome. >>Applause Also, I want Inuit culture and language to be alive through my voice in serving you while you are here. I feel enlightened because our language is beautiful and when you practise it, it becomes more joyful and it really unfolds our culture. We are much better for that. Welcome here and thank you. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Rankin Inlet North, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) I am pleased that I am the MLA for Rankin Inlet South. Mr. Speaker, when we have visitors come in, I sometimes feel I am one of the elders. >>Laughter Today I feel young, so it’s great. Elders, welcome. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Rankin Inlet delegates here, Nina Irniq and Lexi Upaktauyak. Welcome to the Assembly. I also welcome the other individuals who were recognized. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to the Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Arviat North-Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There is an individual here from Whale Cove, which is great. This morning I would like to recognize Mary Voisey Kanayuk. >>Applause Welcome. Ever since I started serving the community of Whale Cove, she has always been very welcoming, even though I don’t live in Whale Cove. I thank her for that.

She has often given me advice on how the smaller communities go through different obstacles and difficulties, and we have to think, in the smaller communities, there doesn’t seem to be that many emergencies and whatnot, but as a small community, Whale Cove has a totally different lifestyle. I would like to recognize Kanayuk and welcome her here. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to welcome everyone here and our elders in particular.

Miriam welcomed my wife when she visited her and I would like to thank her while she’s here. When my

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5152 wife worked in her community, she was welcomed in her home, and I would like to thank everyone there. There are individuals here who are originally from Quttiktuq. This person was working as a part of my staff and she is now a deputy minister who works hard on behalf of our elders and that is Teresa Hughes. Thank you. Also, the person who I call my son but is older than me is Lew Philip. When we went through difficulties here, he watched us all the time. He comes over to talk to me and sometimes scolding me, but I am always pleased.

When you deal with difficult issues, when you have an elder talking to you, it lightens you up completely. When I think we’re not doing much work, he is there to advise me and we are able to communicate. Sometimes he is a little intimidating, but I’m not that intimidated because he is my son. Mr. Philip has always given me a lot of support. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Item 6. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 828 – 6(2): Housing in Iqaluit (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Good morning, everybody. It’s great to see so many Nunavummiut joining us in the Chamber today. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation and are regarding the leasing activities of the corporation. Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned in my member’s statement, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, also known as CMHC, has identified that Iqaluit had a near zero percent vacancy rate in the housing market and, at the time of the report, only had six vacant units across the city. Mr.

Speaker, these extreme market conditions have led to steep increases of the rental rate on the residential market as high as 8 percent. Iqaluit residents are not just being priced out of the market; they are being forced out of the market before they can even get their foot in the door. Mr. Speaker, the federal government leases approximately 500 units and the last figure that I had seen from the Nunavut Housing Corporation, the NHC had leased in excess of 700 units here in Iqaluit.

I would like to ask the minister to provide an update today on how many units that the Nunavut Housing Corporation is leasing for public housing and staff housing units here in Iqaluit. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the question. It is a sad fact that there are probably zero houses available, not just in Iqaluit but across the territory, and it’s a battle that we are committed to fight and we can fight that battle together.

In Iqaluit in terms of staff housing units, there are approximately 707 staff housing units, of

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5153 which around 665 are leased from the private market. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s no secret that leasing activities of large organizations will have an impact on the market rates, such as the amount of staff housing leased and the amount of public housing leased, but also the number of transient housing units being leased in a specific community.

As the Nunavut Housing Corporation is responsible for creating these lease agreements for transient housing for all Government of Nunavut departments, I would like to ask the minister to provide an update today on the number of transient housing units currently being leased here in Iqaluit. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In terms of the public housing units, we have about 600 public housing units that are currently occupied.

We have about 700 private homeowners in Iqaluit on top of the other close to 700 units that the government is leasing. Mr. Speaker, in terms of transient and transition housing units, I don’t have the particular details on those, but we continue to try to find more housing units. It’s a battle that is ongoing. When a city like Iqaluit is going through a boom, we have to try to find as many land lots available to be able to build more housing units. It is a battle, Mr. Speaker. I understand the frustrations of my colleague. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr.

Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the minister’s response and sharing frustrations with myself and other Iqalummiut. I would like to ask the minister to express those same concerns to our Member of Parliament and his federal counterpart at the CMHC. Mr. Speaker, every unit that is leased is a unit that’s taken away from residents that desperately need housing. Mr. Speaker, the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s annual report has identified the challenges of having an imbalance in the amount of leased versus owned units and recognized the need to rebalance the staff housing and public housing portfolio.

I would like to ask: when will the Nunavut Housing Corporation begin to allocate the construction of public housing and staff housing units in Iqaluit to alleviate the situation? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We’re doing that now. We are continuing to build public housing units. We are continuing to build staff housing units. We just cannot keep up with it. Mr. Speaker, it’s important to realize that it’s not easy. You can build many

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5154 houses, but you need the land to put them on. You need the infrastructure surrounding the house to be able to build a house. The corporation has to keep up with the infrastructure required to build the housing units, so we are trying to keep on top of that. Mr. Speaker, one of the other things that the corporation is currently working on is to see if there is, and we know there is, but to see how can transform some of the public housing units into private homeownership and see if there are any leased units that can be transformed into private homeownership.

We do have different programs out there within the corporation that are coming up in the upcoming months and new envelopes of affordable housing, homeownership programs, and other programs we hope the public will take advantage of so we could begin to continue to tackle the shortage of homes. Mr. Speaker, I just want to reiterate this is being felt here in Iqaluit, but it’s also being felt in Whale Cove, Coral Harbour, Chesterfield Inlet, and all the communities across the territory, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee.

Question 829 – 6(2): Baffin Island Caribou Management (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to ask questions I had previously asked, but I wanted to get back to this to the Minister of Environment. I had mentioned that I would refer back to it. It has been circulating in my mind for quite some time, so I would like to ask this question once again this morning to the Minister of Environment. Mr. Speaker, I did not receive a clear answer last week when I asked the minister questions about Baffin Island caribou management, so I will try again today.

As the minister will recall, his department issued a public service announcement on February 12 of this year concerning the closure of the 2023- 24 Baffin Island caribou harvest. The public service announcement indicated that the total allowable harvest of 400 caribou had been reached. It had gone over 400 to 421, as you stated. However, I will ask the minister again: how many caribou were harvested in areas that fall under the jurisdiction of the Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq hunters and trappers organizations? That’s the question that I had asked you.

I want to get a more specific answer to that for those two communities and not the whole of Baffin Island. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, member, for the question. In terms of the member from Uqqummiut’s riding, for the communities of Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq, their total allowable harvest for those two communities; Clyde River has 41 and Qikiqtarjuaq has a total allowable harvest at three, based on the information in front of me. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5155 Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is quite clear.

Thank you, minister, for mentioning that. (interpretation ends) As the minister will recall, he made a statement here in the Legislative Assembly at its sitting of February 28, 2024, this year, in which he indicated that there are “positive and encouraging signs of possible recovery in some South Baffin areas.” When I asked the minister about this work, he indicated that a final report will be “distributed to all co-management partners in early 2024.” Can the minister confirm today when this will happen? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon.

Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to take this opportunity to clarify my first response. Qikiqtarjuaq has a total allowable harvest of 20, not three, so Clyde River, 41 and Qikiqtarjuaq, 20. During my member’s statement in regard to the identified Baffin Island caribou harvest that will be taking place this calendar year, my department is currently working with co-management partners to plan a southern Baffin Island caribou abundance survey for March 2024, this month. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms.

Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that clarification because the number sounded a little bit too low earlier. In his statement, the minister also indicated that “An abundance survey of South Baffin Island is planned for March 2024, and we are planning similar surveys for North and Central Baffin in the coming years.” Can you describe how your department will work with the hunters and trappers organizations to utilize Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit in this work? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank the member for that question. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Environment works very closely with the hunters and trappers organizations to identify areas where caribou integrate and roam about the environment. The Department of Environment incorporates Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and also the scientific portion of the study and combines those two together to have a better report. The Department of Environment definitely incorporates Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit in consultation with the elders in the communities and also other stakeholders within the community that the study is taking place. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Question 830 – 6(2): Elder Abuse (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m glad that the Minister of Health made a statement today on aging with dignity.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5156 My question today is for the Minister responsible for Seniors and it’s regarding elder abuse. Mr. Speaker, what work is being done to support seniors and promote services that are available to help address elder abuse in the territory? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for Seniors, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the member for that question. I know that there are a number of different avenues that our departments within the government serve and support our elders and seniors across the territory.

There is important work that does happen in many different departments, but the Department of Justice really has a number of different services and initiatives targeted for our Nunavut elders and seniors, which also includes a commitment to including elders in programming and decision- making. The department is committed to ensuring that programs and legislation includes protections for individuals experiencing elder abuse. Quana, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Financial abuse is one of the most common forms of abuse.

What are some ways in which this government helps elders and families address elder financial abuse? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for Seniors, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for that question. Elder abuse is something that was brought up in the Elder Care Strategy and I know it will be looked at in depth more to support the elders. Our hearts always feel compassion for those that might be experiencing any type of abuse and I do know that there are ways and avenues that can be supported directly to our elders.

If they are going through a hard time, I would recommend that they go speak to the Department of Justice community justice outreach workers, which are in our communities, as well as the RCMP and go support, if it’s a younger person there to support the elder, to bring them there and have them work through the situation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My final question is I would like to know how many departments or government organizations have accessed New Horizons for Seniors funding, which program objectives include promoting volunteerism among seniors and other generations; engaging seniors in the community through mentoring of others; expanding awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse; supporting the social participation and inclusion of seniors; and providing capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors, like vans as an example, Mr. Speaker.

Some of the funding priorities include supporting healthy aging; preventing senior abuse; celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion; and supporting financial security. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5157 Speaker: Minister responsible for Seniors, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the member for that question. That is a federal funded program and when I did meet with our federal Minister responsible for Seniors last year, they indicated that, I believe, one not-for-profit, the Pitquhirnikkut Ilihautini, the Kitikmeot Heritage Society, would be a recipient of that New Horizons for Seniors funding. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq.

Question 831 – 6(2): Public Housing Construction (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to the people of Arviat. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to question the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation this morning. Mr. Speaker, in the government’s mandate, it is mandated to build a minimum of 1,000 public and staff housing units. In the first summer of this Assembly, in 2022, zero construction was started.

On April 23, 2023, 150 units were announced to start construction, and then there was another announcement in 2024, January 31 of this year, that 166 units will be built this coming summer. Mr. Speaker, it’s just simple math and I know that the Minister of the Housing Corporation has deep conversations with the Minister of Finance, so the math should be easy for the minister. Those total builds come out to 316 units. My first question is: will 684 units start construction in the last construction season of this government’s mandate? Thank you. Speaker: Hon.

Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our target is to have at least a thousand by 2030. That’s still our target, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, those houses that my colleague is talking about are public housing units. In our plan for the Nunavut 3000, it includes private and public housing builds and I believe that if we continue down the path we are, we will be able to accomplish the number of houses we have targeted before the completion of 2030. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr.

Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was talking about this government’s mandate, not the Nunavut 3000. I don’t want to muddy the issues, but I’ll go on to my next line of questioning. In Arviat there are 20 public housing units being built. In the old form of tendering, companies used to have to stay in commercial establishments, hotels or otherwise, in the communities to help the local community’s economy. In Arviat we had a company that did have a bunkhouse that used to be leased out or rented out to construction companies building houses and it helped

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5158 the local economy. Currently, the Nunavut Housing Corporation is providing free accommodations in Arviat for the Nunavut Development Corporation. In the old system, there was a minimum percentage of Inuit employment that had to be fulfilled for construction in the community. In Arviat there, does the minister know what the percentage of Inuit employment by the NCC in Arviat is with the current public housing unit builds? Thank you. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The percentage of Inuit employment fluctuates. Sometimes it goes up and sometimes the numbers might decrease, but the plan with all communities to build is where they’re looking at about a 30 percent Inuit employment rate throughout the communities where construction is happening. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I guess it does fluctuate. It seems like near the end of the construction phases, there is generally less Inuit employment, and I understand that.

Are there any penalty clauses within the sole-source contract that has been issued to the NCC if they don’t meet the minimum requirement of 30 percent employment at the end of a job? Is there a penalty requirement for the NCC to the Nunavut Housing Corporation? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would have to double-check if there is a penalty clause in the agreement with Nunavut Construction, but there definitely is a plan to hire as many Inuit as they can.

In fact, there was a training program done in the communities to attract and get as many Inuit working within the Nunavut Construction Company as we can. I’ll double-check with the penalty clause if there is one and get back to my colleagues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 832 – 6(2): Suicide Prevention (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, Nunavummiut. It’s a beautiful last day of sitting. Mr. Speaker, I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Health and Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention. Mr.

Speaker, it has been 14 years since the Suicide Prevention Strategy was first introduced in Nunavut. It has now been two years since the completion of the government’s third suicide prevention plan, “Inuusivut Anninaqtuq,” and last May, the minister tabled its final report. Mr. Speaker, the final report lists many activities and initiatives that were undertaken under the auspices of the Suicide Prevention Action Plan. However, it does not include any

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5159 numbers, statistics, or measures that could inform us of how successful the action plan has been in achieving its objective and actually reducing the number of suicides in Nunavut. Can the minister provide an update on the current rate of suicide in the territory and clarify whether or not Nunavut’s suicide rate has decreased, stayed the same, or risen since the implementation of the Suicide Prevention Strategy and Action Plan? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I also thank the member for asking that question. Although it’s a difficult topic, suicide prevention in Nunavut needs to be talked about and questioned. There have been some changes that we have noticed, but as to actual statistics, we don’t have any information from a statistician. However, I can say that looking at the numbers, more work needs to be done. We need to work harder on suicide prevention. Even if one person commits suicide, that is one too many. It’s obvious that more work needs to be done on the matter and we are starting to complete our plan.

It will probably be rolled out in April or May. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, in terms of the action plan, I believe one of the only statistically proven ways to reduce suicide is through means restriction, and I can assure the member that that will be a component of the updated action plan. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I agree; it is a very difficult subject indeed and it is important that we continue to talk about it.

I would also like to add that my thoughts are with anybody who is either contemplating taking their own lives or to family members who are dealing with that loss. Mr. Speaker, as you will recall, I asked the government to consider declaring suicide in Nunavut a public health emergency. The minister’s response to my request dated February 19, 2024, which I tabled in this House on February 22, 2024, indicated that declaring a public health emergency is not recommended at this time. The minister’s letter also notes that “previous action plans on the issue have made some progress but not enough.” Mr.

Speaker, taking into account the minister’s declaration that the department currently does not have a statistician, can the minister clearly describe what measures, statistics, or other indicators were evaluated to determine whether progress was or was not made by the government’s previous action plans? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for the question again.

In terms of the previous action plans, one of the previous action plans under the Suicide Prevention Strategy, one of the big issues was impacted by a bunch of different factors in terms of the

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5160 effectiveness. One of the big issues we ran into was, of course, the pandemic, COVID. Many of the partners, including the Department of Health, for a period of years had existing work plans and action items kind of upended by the pandemic. That had a big footprint. Looking at the previous action plan, there was some success. These were some definite gaps in terms of accountabilities.

It’s fine to have action items and have ideas for things that need to happen, but we have learned that the accountability of who is going to do what and when is key if we want to have effective implementation. In terms of the indicators that we’re looking at, it’s not just the numbers of suicides completed. We also look at numbers of suicide attempts. We also look at other indicators, such as mental health related medevacs, and numbers of Nunavummiut sent out of territory for specialized mental health care.

There are a number of different indicators that are looked at in terms of analyzing the needs as well as analyzing effectiveness. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster, Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thankfully, the minister actually responded to my final question, which is a request for ensuring that every action and initiative included in the new Suicide Prevention Action Plan will have specific measures to track and evaluate its progress towards reducing the number of suicides. I heard that clearly in the minister’s response.

Can the minister ensure that there will be an implementation plan that clearly defines the responsibilities of partners, especially within the Government of Nunavut, and to ensure that there is actually funding that goes with that action plan and implementation plan to ensure that those intergovernmental partners are able to action the plan successfully? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I can commit to the member that the action plan will be comprehensive.

It will have sufficient detail in it in terms of setting up those accountabilities as well as being able to measure progress. However, I do have to add the comment that some of the root issues on suicide that we look at in Nunavut and trying to get at the root issues, some of them, if we address the root issue today, we might not see a payoff in terms of statistics 15 years down the road.

If we’re looking at child sexual abuse, which is a major risk factor for suicidal ideation later in life or mental health issues, it’s a huge issue that we’re dealing with as a territory, and there’s no doubt that it is contributing to the issues around people taking their own lives. That’s where I have to commend my colleagues for raising this issue on a regular basis and shedding light on it because there are many different things that can contribute to that feeling of hopelessness or the impulse to harm one’s self. Another of the root issues that we are committed to developing protection

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5161 around or trying to bring more support around is support for individuals in Nunavut who have different sexualities. A young person who feels like they can’t tell their family that they’re gay is unacceptable and that is also another risk factor for suicidal ideation and mental health issues. That is one that I can share with the member that it will be a component, specifically developing more supports for LGBTQ2+ individuals, particularly youth in Nunavut. That will be a component in the upcoming action plan. We’re trying to get at some deep-seeded root issues.

It’s going to take a lot of sustained effort from partners, and I look forward to involving regular members in the review and the rollout of the upcoming action plan. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok. Question 833 – 6(2): Coppermine River (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Environment. Mr. Speaker, I did not receive clear answers last month when I asked the minister questions about the Coppermine River, so I will try again today.

As the minister is aware, the Coppermine River has always been a source of drinking water and food for Inuit, and it is essential that the river be clean, healthy, and free from pollution and contaminants. Mr.

Speaker, I’ll ask these questions in English. (interpretation ends) When I raised this concern with the minister, he stated that “water testing from time to time is a challenge when trying to reach the federal government.” Can the minister clarify what he meant by those comments and can he confirm how often the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans shares the results of Coppermine River water testing with his officials? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. Minister Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank the member for getting back to the question. Mr. Speaker, as I noted, the water testing requires 24-hour transportation from the community being tested to a laboratory in southern Canada. That’s a challenge for any testing requirement to submit to laboratory testing as it requires a timely manner to be tested. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you for the response. (interpretation ends) As the minister will be aware, the federal government made a decision in the year 2015 to reject a request by the Kitikmeot Inuit Association for the Nunavut Impact Review Board to conduct a review of a project related to diamond mining in the Northwest Territories. Concerns have been raised with me that mining activity in the region is adversely impacting the health of the Coppermine River. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5162 Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Government of Northwest Territories holds responsibility for their mining activities in their jurisdiction, and the Government of Nunavut does not play a role in the diamond mine activities within the Northwest Territories. I do recognize the concerns from the member.

The river leading from the diamond mine flows to our bordering area along the Lac de Gras River in Kugluktuk, but the responsibilities for the diamond mine in the Northwest Territories does not fall under the Government of Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) With my questions there, there seems to be a mistake, but I’ll read them anyway and go to the last question.

When I asked the minister to describe how his department works with relevant environmental monitoring and regulatory agencies to address transboundary impacts of mining in the Kitikmeot, he simply stated that the “Government of the Northwest Territories is responsible for environmental assessment.” The one question for that is: can the minister clarify how often his officials meet with their counterparts in the Northwest Territories to discuss transboundary impacts of mining in the Kitikmeot? Mr.

Speaker, I want to again take this opportunity to extend an invitation to the minister to personally come to Kugluktuk to meet with the hunters and trappers organization and the community. This would be preferred in June as a good time. Can the minister tell me today if he will accept my invitation? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Department of Environment is looking into how better to collaborate with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the Government of the Northwest Territories, and stakeholders when it comes to the effects of the Northwest Territories’ Diavik mine. I accept the member’s invitation. June is the best time of the year when the snow starts to melt and best time for hunting. I’ll expect the member’s invitation in writing and map out our possible visit to Kugluktuk. I would be more than happy to go to Kugluktuk as I never been to the far west. That is something I will commit to getting into. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Question 834 – 6(2): Upcoming Student Career Fair (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5163 (interpretation ends) I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Human Resources. Mr. Speaker, the government recently announced an upcoming student career fair that will be held in Iqaluit on March 22, 2024. Can the minister provide an overview of which departments will be participating in the career fair and what types of occupations and jobs will be promoted? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank you for that question. (interpretation ends) It’s very exciting to have a career fair for our youth in the territory as well as the public in general, just to share and promote our positions within the territory. I don’t have the details as to what departments will be included or if there are any others outside of the department, but I could certainly get back to the member on the details of that career fair that’s coming up. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister.

I will await your response. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the career fair will be taking place at the Aqsarniit Hotel in Iqaluit, which will be very accessible to Iqaluit students but not so much to students in other communities. The public service announcement indicates that a number of speaker panels and presentations will be streamed live on the Government of Nunavut’s website and social media.

Can the minister provide further detail on how her department works with schools and communities outside of Iqaluit to inform high school students about this career fair to ensure that they will also be able to watch the live streams and access the information? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking that question. (interpretation ends) I could certainly work with the Minister of Education in terms of how we can promote that into the schools.

I think it’s very good that we can now do more virtual visits outside of where we’re sitting. I certainly would like to ensure that there are students involved in looking at some career fairs from different departments that will be at this career fair, and I just did get confirmation that all departments will be at the career fair. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister. I am very pleased that the career fair will be available through a website and social media.

I hope all the schools take

part in this career fair, even though they’re not physically present.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5164 (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the Summer Student Employment Equity Program seems a very good opportunity to get on-the-job work experience and hopefully an early start on a career path. Can the minister provide an update on how many summer student employment opportunities will be made available for students to apply for and can she assure me that these positions will be available in all communities across Nunavut, including the community of Igloolik? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that question. (interpretation ends) In the recent times, as I had stated in the House, the Government of Nunavut has been recognized as the number one employer for youth. It’s really because the Summer Student Employment Equity Program has been very successful within HR. We certainly encourage all departments to contact the Department of Human Resources to ensure that youth are applying or have summer student employment within the communities throughout Nunavut.

To date, we’ve had 504 students that have been employed under the Summer Student Employment Equity Program and 447 are Inuit. We certainly want to increase more summer student employment with the Government of Nunavut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Question 835 – 6(2): Supporting Elders at Home (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Health. Mr.

Speaker, there are a number of elders in my constituency who are still quite independent, even though they may need some support and assistance from time to time. Mr. Speaker, can the minister provide an update on how his department identifies and keeps track of elders in the communities who may need extra services and support? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank the member for that question. (interpretation ends) It’s through our Home and Community Care Program that we provide most assistance for elders who are still living on their own, as the member outlined. There are different ways that elders or their families can come into that program. They can be referred in. If a care provider recognizes that some additional assistance with daily living would be beneficial, there can be a referral into the program, or family or elders themselves can sign themselves up or enquire and be added to the roster of clients.

That’s the main avenue that we would be keeping track of the clients in each community. Mr. Speaker, if you look at year over year, I’m happy to report that the number of clients through our Home and

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5165 Community Care Program is increasing year over year. That’s right across Nunavut. When I see those increasing numbers, I see more Nunavummiut getting supports. Through our bilateral agreement with the federal government that I mentioned earlier, we’re looking at ways to expand home care and to strengthen our supports for elders across Nunavut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Some of our elders are on strong medications.

When they do not take the right dose, especially if they take too much medication, it can have other serious impacts on their health. Mr. Speaker, can the minister describe what specific supports are available to assist elders in making sure they take the correct medications at the right times? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) When we look at the supports that are provided through the Home and Community Care Program, it can vary depending on the client’s needs.

It’s everything from nursing care to rehabilitation to home making. In this case, I believe the member is asking specifically about medical issues or issues related to pharmaceuticals. The way that those individuals could be assisted would be working with a clinician. It would be either a nurse or it could be one of our nurse practitioners that would help them to better track their medications. There are ways that elders can be assisted with keeping track, particularly if they’re on multiple medications. It can get confusing for anyone, let alone an elder.

That’s where we have like blister packs, which are pre-packaged doses of medicine that some of our seniors prefer in terms of being able to keep track of their medications. I would encourage anyone, if it’s a family member or an elder themselves and they want additional support or they have questions around drugs that they have been prescribed, feel free to reach out to one of our nurses or one of our clinicians at health centres across Nunavut for a consult just to discuss any questions or any concerns they might have. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr.

Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday the Premier tabled the government’s “Aging with Dignity Elders and Seniors Strategy.” Mr. Speaker, one of the government’s commitments published in this strategy is to “Make a wider range of home care programs and services available, 24 hours a day, when needed.” Mr. Speaker, can the minister clarify when his department will be providing these additional home care supports in our communities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank the member for that question. (interpretation ends) Part of the work that will be done

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5166 in this area will be funded through the Aging with Dignity Action Plan that we recently signed with Minister Holland here in Iqaluit. Before we can make expansions to the home care program, there are a couple of things that are needed; first is an analysis of what types of resources would be needed to make those expansions. Do we need additional staff? Do we need additional equipment? Do we need additional training to happen? Through the Aging with Dignity Action Plan, we’re looking at all the building blocks of the program.

One of the big components that we see as being key is more training. That’s where we’re working with Nunavut Arctic College on the Personal Support Worker Program or other training initiatives. It’s going to be a major part of any expansion that’s going to come down the line. I don’t have a date for when we will be turning the key on or announcing the expansions, but it is something that has been identified. There are funding resources behind it, so we’re now focused on pushing this forward and making it happen.

In terms of the senior strategy which the member mentioned, the Department of Health is fully committed to seeing those incredibly important actions and building blocks for elders in Nunavut made a reality. We are very thankful to Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs for leading the work on this incredibly important area. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members, we will break for lunch and report back at 1:30 and continue with question period. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 11:58 and resumed at 13:30 Speaker: Good afternoon, everyone. Welcome back.

When we left, we were still at question period. Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Question 836 – 6(2): Therapeutic Justice Program (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to direct my questions to the Minister of Justice and they concern the issue of his department’s Therapeutic Justice Program. Mr.

Speaker, the minister indicated that “the Therapeutic Justice Program provides a community-focused, Inuit-led alternative to the criminal justice system based on Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit knowledge, principles, and values. (interpretation ends) The program integrates cultural and mental health services to focus on addressing the root causes of an accused person’s criminal behaviour.” Mr. Speaker, I applaud the minister and his department for their continued efforts to provide support and assistance to individuals who have come into conflict with the law and require support to avoid reoffending. Mr.

Speaker, the Therapeutic Justice Program continually operates in Arviat and Cambridge Bay. Can the minister clearly explain what factors his department will take into consideration when deciding into which communities his department will expand this

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5167 important program? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s great that she raises this issue. We will want to expand the program to other communities. There are different aspects of it like which community will be chosen to see how many clients can take the program as an alternative to incarceration. Perhaps the communities, what programs they may have, and any support that may be offered with different programs will be identified there.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that. Yes, we really believe that when they are able and it’s great you realized that in your response. Mr. Speaker, I strongly believe that there is a need for more Inuit counsellors who are able to provide counselling services in Inuktut. Mr. Speaker, as such, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the important work of Ilisaqsivik in Clyde River.

Ilisaqsivik is an Inuit-led, not-for-profit society that delivers a number of programs in Inuktut, including counselling services. Will the Minister of Justice commit to working with the Minister of Health to create a program to help train Inuit to become counsellors for the Therapeutic Justice Program? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Speaker: Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, Ilisaqsivik has many responsibilities. We appreciate them and are proud of them. They’re able to provide programming in different communities.

They are quite well advanced and show leadership in social wellness. When communities are struggling, Ilisaqsivik is asked to come in. When there is distress in communities, as ministers in cabinet, we look at what further supports we may provide by giving directions, and Ilisaqsivik is very much part of the team in this area. The Qikiqtani Inuit Association also provides support for communities in distress. We will continue with that programming.

As the Minister of Justice, we will continue to look at other means of providing programming to people who are or will be incarcerated with our staff in our communities for this particular purpose. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister, for outlining your efforts. Mr.

Speaker, the minister also indicated that “services are tailored to the individual client’s needs and may include traditional Inuit counselling and cultural skills development, such as toolmaking, on- the-land hunting trips, and sewing traditional clothing, as well as clinical mental health support.”

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5168 Mr. Speaker, diversion programs such as the Therapeutic Justice Program would be very successful in my communities of Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq, but not just those communities. Can the minister commit to expanding this program into the communities of Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Speaker: Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I like the member’s comments. We constantly strive for that and we will continue to do so.

There are two areas where we can visit communities, not just in this area but also our probation officers in our communities who service those who are incarcerated, as does the justice committee with their staff. We continue to look at what courses we can provide and what funding they can access. Our staff will definitely find funding for them and provide workshops. Also, we continue to encourage the utilization of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. I appreciate that my colleague is raising this issue. This is the only way to progress. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak.

Question 837 – 6(2): Qulliq Energy Corporation Capital Plan (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This afternoon, my questions are for the Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation. Mr. Speaker, I hope that the minister recognizes that he is the luckiest minister of all, given that he now gets to travel to Baker Lake on a regular basis to meet the head office staff there in Baker Lake. Mr. Speaker, I want to follow up today on issues related to the corporation’s capital plan.

I listened with interest to the minister’s responses to questions that have been asked by my colleagues during our current sitting concerning new power plants and generator set replacements in Chesterfield Inlet, Kugaaruk, and Kugluktuk. I want to make it crystal clear that I do fully support all necessary investments to ensure that power generation infrastructure in all 25 communities is safe and reliable. However, as the minister is well aware, I do have concerns about the extent to which the cost of new power generation infrastructure will ultimately be paid by ordinary Nunavut ratepayers.

I would also like to point out that we do have a very small customer base here in Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, can the minister provide an update today on the status of the Utility Rates Review Council regulatory process in respect to the generator set projects? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague for raising this issue on the infrastructure that needs upgrading,

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5169 power generators, and so forth. It is a difficult area, but when a community needs it, we recognize it. (interpretation ends) In terms of responding to that question from the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s perspective, the review through the Utility Rates Review Council is ongoing and we haven’t yet received a response regarding the gen. set replacement application. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

When my colleague from Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet was questioning the minister during this sitting, he was informed that the federal Arctic Energy Fund is no longer sufficient to fund power plant replacements in a number of communities. Can the minister clarify what specific discussions he has had with federal authorities to identify new sources of funding for essential energy projects in Nunavut? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I also thank my colleague for that supplementary question. I have not personally had discussions on this issue where funds may be accessed. However, the Qulliq Energy Corporation staff is in constant discussion and constantly looking for other sources of funding. They have very capable staff at the corporation. I have not personally had discussions, but we know that there are many power plants that are beyond their lifespan in Nunavut, as there are currently 10 of them. (interpretation ends) Right now we have power plants that are beyond their lifespan in, unfortunately, many communities, Mr. Speaker.

It’s a factor tied to inflationary pressures that has meant that originally, the number of power plants that would have been replaced using the Arctic Energy Fund contribution of $175 million in federal funding, the number of plants has come down as a result of the inflationary pressures, but we know that we are at increased risks of things like fires or catastrophic failures in communities that have plants that are beyond their life. Looking at communities like Kugaaruk, Chesterfield Inlet, Sanirajak, Arviat, Rankin Inlet, as well as Resolute Bay, those are the power plants that are next in the priority listing.

We certainly intend to look under every rock and every nook and cranny for that elusive federal support to help us to deliver more reliable, cleaner and safer power in those communities through power plant replacements. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, he recently confirmed that the Qulliq Energy Corporation has entered into negotiations with the Kitikmeot Corporation to enable the Kugluktuk power plant project to move forward.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5170 I’m wondering now if the minister can clarify if the corporation has also had any discussions with the Inuit development corporations in the Kivalliq with respect to partnering on major power infrastructure projects in our region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Currently there haven’t been any discussions in the Kivalliq region along the lines of what the member is asking.

The Qulliq Energy Corporation has a relationship with regard to the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link project where the Qulliq Energy Corporation officials are in ongoing communication with the officials from Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link. With regard to the Kugluktuk power plant, the key piece that allowed us to enter into discussions with Kitikmeot Corporation was approval from the Executive Council. We haven’t sought that approval for any other projects at this point in time. Mr.

Speaker, with regard to the plants in Cambridge Bay, Igloolik, and Gjoa Haven, we do anticipate putting out public tenders for those projects to initiate the work for those projects in the next few months. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 838 – 6(2): Support for Nunavut Arts and Creative Sector (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you for recognizing me a second time today, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation. Mr.

Speaker, circumstances didn’t permit me to be here until the end of Saturday’s sitting, so I will take this opportunity to explore some important issues with the minister today. As the minister is aware, my background in the arts has afforded me the privilege of working with and learning from some of the most creative and talented people in Nunavut. I strongly believe that a healthy and vibrant arts sector is critical for Nunavut’s economy and society. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister aware, his department’s current business plan indicates that it has been working to develop a new Arts and Creative Industries Strategy, which is “anticipated for release by the end of the 2023-24 fiscal year.” Mr. Speaker, can the minister confirm that he will be tabling the new strategy in the Legislative Assembly during our upcoming spring sitting and can he highlight some of the main ways in which it is expected to differ from the department’s current approach to supporting the sector? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr.

David Akeeagok.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5171 Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The work is progressing on that strategy and it’s something that I’ll be able to table it in this House once it’s done and put it out for the public. I don’t have a firm timeline on this, but the strategy is focused on key values identified through our consultative process, which is Nunavut first, innovation adaptation, artist-centred, and collaborative growth, which are the four pillars that are part of this strategy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Those sound like very interesting pillars and I look forward to hearing more about the strategy. Mr. Speaker, as the minister is aware, his department’s current business plan also indicates that one of its priorities for the upcoming 2024-25 fiscal year is to “Host an arts summit in the territory to discuss how a territorial organization for artists could be structured and more inclusive for all forms of art.” Mr.

Speaker, can the minister clarify if he is looking to establish an entity that will have its board of directors appointed by the government, or is he looking to facilitate the creation of an organization that will be constituted under the Societies Act and which will elect its own senior leadership? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the summit is being planned and being shaped into how it’s going to be, we haven’t predetermined what kind of entity it will be.

The entity that we currently used to have under the Societies Act is no longer functioning, so we need to look at options. It’s something that I’m confident that if that arts summit does proceed, then those that are participating will have a huge influence in terms of how it should be shaped. As the department and as the minister, I’m quite open in terms of how to do it. We need to do it from our perspective because artists are crucial to our economic sector and something that I think we need to provide more support towards. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms.

Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m very excited at the prospect of another entity being pulled together to concentrate on the arts in Nunavut. It’s my sincere hope that the entity is afforded a great deal of support in its governance and in any actions that it takes. Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned yesterday, when Kenojuak Ashevak’s iconic piece, The Enchanted Owl, was first released, it sold for less than $25. All too often in our history, Inuit artists have had to grapple with an exploitative economic system. Mr.

Speaker, I was happy to note that the department’s business plan also indicates that it plans to “Develop a curriculum for ‘business skills for artists.’” Can the minister elaborate today on how he sees

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5172 this initiative rolling out? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With the artists being trained in terms of proper business, a lot of these intellectual properties and how to ensure that you keep what you deserve are all part of the business plans that are taken into account when they’re provided training.

On that, there are a number of fronts that would play into this factor, but the emphasis is that we want to train our artists on how to value their products and also how to keep benefitting from them. If there are ways that we can help out, I’m definitely open for that. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Speaker: Thank you. Members, be aware that the time allotted for question period is now over. Item 7. Written Questions. Ms. Brewster. Item 7: Written Questions Written Question 007 – 6(2): Suicide Rates and the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My written questions today are for the Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention and they concern the subject of suicide rates and the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy. Mr. Speaker, my written questions are very detailed, so I ask that they be entered into the record as read.

Preamble: The Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on October 26, 2010. The Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy Action Plan - September 2, 2011 - March 21, 2012, was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on September 28, 2011. The Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy Progress Report 2013-14 was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on March 16, 2015. The Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy Evaluation Report Executive

Summary was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on October 30, 2015. The Nunavut Suicide Prevention Partners Inuusivut Anninaqtuq Action Plan 2017-2022 Final Report was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on May 29, 2023. 1. Between October 27, 2010, and March 11, 2024, broken down by calendar year and month: a. How many residents of Nunavut died by suicide within Nunavut? I. How many of these suicides were committed by Inuit? II. How many of these suicides were committed by non- Inuit? b. With respect to suicides committed by Inuit, please disaggregate the data by: I. Sex; II. 10-year age cohorts; III. Method; IV.

Presence of intoxicating substances in body at time of death; V. History of substance abuse;

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5173 VI. Engagement with counselling services from the Department of Health or other Government of Nunavut entity within the 12 months prior to death; and VII. Previous reported suicide attempts. 1 Within the meaning of subsection 8(1)(

a) of the Coroners Act Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Do members agree that the written question be entered into the record as read? Some Members: Agreed. Speaker: There is agreement. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. Item 10. Petitions. Item 11. Responses to Petitions. Item 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak.

Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 262 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Arctic College (Kusugak) Tabled Document 263 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Business Credit Corporation (Kusugak) Tabled Document 264 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Development Corporation (Kusugak) Tabled Document 265 – 6(2): Response to Letter of Expectation from Nunavut Housing Corporation (Kusugak) Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I am pleased to table the response to letters of expectation for Nunavut Arctic College, the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation, the Nunavut Development Corporation, and the Nunavut Housing Corporation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Mr. Lightstone. Tabled Document 266 – 6(2): Petition Concerning Arctic Winter Games (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I wish to table correspondence that contains the names and signatures of 165 Iqalummiut who are calling on the Legislative Assembly to “Advocate for the inclusion of male figure skaters at the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.” Mr. Speaker, although this document does not strictly conform to formal petitions under Rule 43, it clearly demonstrates the position of many Iqaluit residents on this issue. I strongly support the position taken by the concerned residents and I will be raising this issue in an appropriate manner at the appropriate time with the minister. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5174 Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Mr. Quqqiaq. No? Tabling of Documents. Tabled Document 267 – 6(2): Speaker’s List of Outstanding Statutory Tabling Requirements (Speaker) I have one document to table today, which is a list of outstanding statutory tabling requirements. Thank you. Item 14. Notices of Motions. I will recognize the Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Item 14: Notices of Motions Motion 032 – 6(2): Extended Adjournment – Notice (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I give notice that on Thursday, March 14, 2024, I will move the following motion: I MOVE, seconded Hon. Member for Quttiktuq, that pursuant to the provisions of Rule 3, that when the House concludes its present sitting, it shall be adjourned until May 23, 2024. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time, I will seek unanimous consent to deal with my motion. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. I recognize the Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Item 16: Motions Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I seek unanimous consent to deal with my motion today. Thank you. Speaker: The member is seeking unanimous consent to deal with his motion today. Are there any nays? There are none. Please proceed, Mr. Savikataaq. Motion 032 – 6(2): Extended Adjournment (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and my colleagues. I MOVE, seconded by the Hon. Member for Quttiktuq, that pursuant to the provisions of Rule 3, that when the House concludes its present sitting, it shall be adjourned until May 23, 2024. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The motion is in order. To the motion. Mr.

Hickes, Member for Iqaluit- Tasiluk. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the MLA for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, I feel obligated to voice concerns that I have regarding the government’s current management of its legislative agenda. Mr. Speaker, this winter sitting marks the first time in my memory that no substantive bills, other than appropriation acts, have been introduced. Mr. Speaker, neither the House nor the general public has heard a clear explanation for why this is the case. Mr.

Speaker, this current session, although without new legislation, at least had the government’s operations and maintenance budget to create the need for Committee of the Whole work for the past two weeks. It is also the reason for these 10 a.m. starts that we’ve had,

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5175 as there has not been work for the committees to meet in the mornings. Mr. Speaker, I recognize that a number of substantive regulations have been published in recent months, but I am concerned that we may be faced with a situation where the government dumps a large number of lengthy and complex bills on us within the final few months of the life of the Legislative Assembly and expect us to rubber-stamp them without due consideration and scrutiny. Mr.

Speaker, the government may choose to speak to this motion and state that they may have legislation to introduce in the spring sitting. However, all that means is that the first and second reading would occur, adding maybe a minute or two to a day’s agenda. Mr. Speaker, other than that, we’re looking at meeting as little as two and a half to three hours a day with little or no work for the committee meetings to fill the rest of the day’s agenda. I have to question the value of bringing the Assembly together for likely two or three days for the subsequent spring sitting. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: To the motion. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the motion, with respect to the concerns raised by my colleague there in terms of the piece of the legislative activity within our government, despite encountering capacity challenges, I want to ensure the members that due diligence efforts are underway to advance different legislations and our officials are continuing to work and bring forward different bills.

To date, our government has successfully passed several critical pieces of legislation, including the Nursing Professions Act, the Mental Health Act, the Liquor Act, the Income Tax Act, the Commissioner’s Land Act, as well as the Opioid Recovery Act. Further to this, additional legislative initiatives are in the pipeline that are nearing completion in terms of the policy and the legislative development. These measures relate to the privacy of health records, the protection of our parks, vehicle safety, support of post- secondary students, child care, as well as administration of our communities.

As legislative proposals are completed and approved on each of these items, I will be able to share further details on the specific Acts and amendments that are being planned. With just two years remaining in our term, there is significant work ahead. However, I am confident that through collaborative efforts with the members, we can make real progress in moving forward on the legislative front. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: To the motion. All those in favour. Opposed. The motion is carried. Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Item 18. Second Reading of Bills. Item 19.

Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Bills 38, 39, and 40, with Mr. Savikataaq in the Chair. In accordance to the authority provided to me by Motion 29 – 6(2), the

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5176 committee will remain in session until it reports itself out. I ask that members remain at their desks so that we can immediately proceed to the Committee of the Whole. Sergeant-at-Arms. Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairman (Mr. Savikataaq): Good afternoon. I would like to start our Committee of the Whole meeting. Sorry; just a moment here. Good afternoon. Let’s have a fresh start. I would like to start our Committee of the Whole meeting.

In Committee of the Whole, we have the following items to deal with: Bills 38, 39, and 40. What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We wish to commence with the review of the following bills along with the supporting financial documents: Bill 40, Bill 39, and Bill 38. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Are we in agreement to first deal with Bill 40? Some Members: Agreed.

Document details

Collection	Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	2024-03-12, 6th Assembly 2nd Session, Day 80
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	20240312 Hansard
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	TERRITORIAL
Identifier	b8825fb0ae18b91f1c0aa342e5a566e7cbfac26f

Source file is stored in the law ingest library (pdf).