Nunavut Hansard — 10 March 2026 (Blues, English)

2026-03-10 Blues English

Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)

NUNA VUT HANSARD UNEDITED TRANSCRIPT TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026 IQALUIT, NUNA VUT Hansard is not a verbatim transcript of the debates of the House . It is a transcript in extenso. In the case of repetition or for a number of other reasons, such as more specific identification, it is acceptable to make changes so that anyone reading Hansard will get the meaning of what was said . Those who edit Hansard have an obligation to make a sentence more readable since there is a difference between the spoken and the written word. Debates, September 20, 1983, p. 27299. Beauchesne’s 6th edition, citation 55 Corrections: PLEASE RETURN ANY CORRECTIONS TO THE CLERK OR DEPUTY CLERK

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. David Joanasie (South Baffin) Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (Iqaluit-Manirajak) Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister responsible for Poverty Reduction; Minister responsible for the Status of Women Hon. David Akeeagok (Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu) Government House Leader; Minister of Education; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Arctic College Hannah Angootealuk (Aivilik) Edward Attagutaluk (Aggu) Hon.

Janet Brewster (Iqaluit-Sinaa) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention Hon. George Hickes (Iqaluit-Tasiluk) Deputy Premier of Nunavut; Minister of Justice; Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut; Minister responsible for the Labour Standards Board; Minister responsible for the Human Rights Tribunal Jamie Kablutsiak (Arviat South) Gordon Kautuk (Uqqummiut) Hon. Brian Koonoo (Tununiq) Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Languages; Minister of Environment; Minister of Energy Simon Kuliktana (Kugluktuk) Hon.

Cecile Nelvana Lyall (Netsilik) Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Hon.

John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Premier; Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs; Minister of Finance; Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs; Minister responsible for Immigration; Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council; Minister responsible for Seniors; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commission; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Board Johnny Mike (Pangnirtung) Fred Pedersen (Cambridge Bay) David Porter (Gjoa Haven) Abraham Qammaniq (Amittuq) Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Alexander Sammurtok (Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet) Craig Simailak (Baker Lake) Minister of Community Services; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation; Minister responsible for Mines; Minister responsible for Trade Hon.

Annie Tattuinee (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Steven Taqtu (Quttiktuq) Officers Clerk Deputy Clerk Stephen Innuksuk Wendy Bens Clerk’s Assistant Law Clerk Sergeant-at-Arms Hansard Production Kooyoo Nooshoota Michael Chandler John Topic Uqausirmit Uqausirmut Inc. 926 Sivumugiaq Street, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 3H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Website: www.assembly.nu.ca

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ................................................................................................................................ 1 Ministers’ Statements ...................................................................................................................... 1 Members’ Statements ...................................................................................................................... 8 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................... 10 Notices of Motion .......................................................................................................................... 30 Motions .......................................................................................................................................... 30 Second Reading of Bills ................................................................................................................ 31 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................... 37 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................... 38

A. Daily References Tuesday, March 10, 2026 ................................................................................................................ 1 B.

Ministers’ Statements 17 – 7(1): Remembrance of Alexina Kublu (Healey Akearok) ....................................................... 1 18 – 7(1): Annual Polar Bear Deterrence Program in Arviat (Koonoo) .......................................... 2 19 – 7(1): Federal Visit and Collaboration on Community Public Safety (Hickes) ........................ 3 20 – 7(1): Long Term Service Awards Gala for Qukiqtaaluk Employees (Tattuinee) ..................... 4 21 – 7(1): New Initiatives to Support Career Planning for Nunavut Students (Main/Akeeagok) ...................................................................................................................... 5 22 – 7(1): Progress Update on Community Power Plant Replacement Projects (Healey Akearok) ...................................................................................................................... 6 23 – 7(1): In Honour of Territorial Archivist, Edward Atkinson (Koonoo)..................................... 7 C.

Members’ Statements 34 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructur (Pedersen) ...................................................................................... 8 35 – 7(1): Remembering Jonas Allooloo (Koonoo) ........................................................................ 9 36 – 7(1): Arctic Winter Games Participants (Angootealuk)........................................................... 9

D.

Oral Questions 12 – 7(1): Medical Transient Centre in Rankin Inlet (Sammurtok)............................................... 10 13 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Pedersen) .................................................................................. 12 14 – 7(1): Grays Bay Road and Port Project (Kuliktana) .............................................................. 14 15 – 7(1): Airline Industry in Nunavut (Taqtu) ............................................................................. 16 16 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Kautuk) ..................................................................................... 17 17 – 7(1): Arctic Security Sovereignty (Quammaniq) ................................................................... 19 18 – 7(1): Human Resources Strategies and Policies (Attagutalak) .............................................. 21 19 – 7(1): Medical Boarding Home in Rankin Inlet (Angootealuk) ............................................ 23 20 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Porter) ....................................................................................... 24 21 – 7(1): The Role of Elders in Community Justice Committees (Angootealuk) ........................ 25 22 – 7(1): Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Hydro Project (Mike) .................................................................. 26 23 – 7(1): Medical Transient Centre in Rankin Inlet (Sammurtok)............................................... 29 E.

Motions Motion 17 – 7(1): Appointment of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut – Notice .................................................................................................................... 30 Motion 17 – 7(1): Appointment of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut ................................................................................................................................... 30 F.

Bills Bill 1 – Interim Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2026-2027 – Second Reading ...................................................................................................................... 31 Bill 3 – Supplementary Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2025-2026 – Second Reading ................................................................................................. 32 Bill 4 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 4, 2025-2026 – Second Reading ................................................................................................................................... 32 Bill 2 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2026-2027 – Consideration in Committee.......................... 33

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 1 Iqaluit, Nunavut Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Members Present: Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok, Ms. Hannah Angootealuk, Mr. Edward Attagutaluk, Hon. Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Hon. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Mr. Gordon Kautuk, Hon. Brian Koonoo, Mr. Simon Kuliktana, Hon. Cecile Nelvana Lyall, Hon. John Main, Mr. Johnny Mike, Mr. Fred Pedersen, Mr. David Porter, Mr. Abraham Qammaniq, Mr. Alexander Sammurtok, Mr. Steven Taqtu, Hon. Annie Tattuinee. >>House commenced at 13:30 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon. David Joanasie) (interpretation): Mr.

Attagutaluk, if you would lead us in prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker (interpretation): Thank you Mr. Attagutaluk. It’s a new day, colleagues. Following the Orders of the Day, item number 2, Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for Arctic College, Ms. Healey Akearok. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 17 – 7(1): Remembrance of Alexina Kublu (Healey Akearok) Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, in late December 2025 the territory said goodbye to Alexina Kublu.

To many who knew her, Alexina was a person of grace, self-awareness, and love for her family and community. A champion for the use of Inuit languages, she was steadfast in her passion for advocating, supporting, and celebrating Inuktut in all its forms, and sharing that with our people. Nunavut Arctic College was fortunate to work with Alexina for many years. She was instrumental in the creation of the Interviewing Inuit Elders book series, which explores important areas of Inuit life, including knowledge transmission, health, law, childrearing, and spirituality.

The series grew out of dynamic engagements between respected elders from across the territory and college students and staff, engagements that Alexina helped organize and facilitate. Alexina also worked to ensure the quality of Inuktut in the written form. Before her passing, Alexina was supporting the college to update its “Introduction to Inuktitut

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 2 Grammar” book. This effort was a continuation of the foundational Inuktut resources she, and her late husband, Mick Mallon, created for Inuktut learning. These resources continue to be pillars of the college’s Inuit culture and language programs, most notably its Interpreter/Translator program. Alexina acted on her commitment to serving her community. In addition to teaching many College students in Inuktut and Inuit culture courses across a wide range of programs, she also previously served as the Nunavut Languages Commissioner.

Most recently, she served as a member of the Iqaluit District Education Authority, and some students in Nunavut schools also knew her as a visiting elder. In all levels of her student engagement, her compassion, humility, integrity and humour in her practice created a caring and safe space for learning. Nunavut Arctic College and the Department of Education recognize the immense contributions Alexina made to languages and learning in Nunavut. We send love and support to her family members.

It is the shared wish of all who knew her that the respect, friendship, and care we held for Alexina will continue to surround and to support her loved ones, now and in the years to come. (interpretation) Thank you, Mister Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): We thank you and remember our late friend. Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Environment, Mr. Koonoo. Minister’s Statement 18 – 7(1): Annual Polar Bear Deterrence Program in Arviat (Koonoo) Hon. Brian Koonoo: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, I would like to inform the Legislative Assembly about the vital role that our conservation officers play in protecting Nunavut’s wildlife and communities. Today, I rise to highlight the remarkable efforts of the Annual Polar Bear Deterrence Program in Arviat. Fall freeze-up brings a significant seasonal movement of bears along western Hudson Bay, and delayed ice formation in 2025 resulted in unusually high bear presence near Arviat and a great deal of work for our dedicated Department of Environment staff and partners in the community.

Between mid-September and the end of December 2025, the Polar Bear Deterrence Program in Arviat managed an unprecedented 508 polar bear interactions, and the emergency polar bear line received 166 urgent calls, underscoring the critical role this initiative plays in ensuring community safety. (interpretation ends) The Annual Polar Bear Deterrence Program employs seasonal monitors who work alongside our local conservation officers and community members.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 3 This collaborative approach enhances public safety, mitigates human-wildlife conflict, and supports our ongoing commitment to conservation. As Nunavut manages the majority of the world’s polar bear population, the success of this program reflects the dedication of all those involved. Through their efforts, the community of Arviat can coexist with polar bears while safeguarding the welfare of both residents and upholding our commitment to sustainable, effective wildlife management. Qujannamiik, Mr. Speaker. >> Applause Speaker (interpretation): And thank you.

Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Justice, Mr. Hickes. Minister’s Statement 19 – 7(1): Federal Visit and Collaboration on Community Public Safety (Hickes) Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, our government is deeply concerned about drugs and alcohol entering Nunavut through airports and the mail, and the harm this causes to our communities. I raised this issue with federal Public Safety Minister, Gary Anandasangaree, and RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme during our Nunavut on the Hill meeting in January, and without hesitation, Mr.

Speaker, they not only agreed to work together on this issue, but planned a community visit to Cambridge Bay to see firsthand what can be done to address it. I’d like to thank them for taking Nunavut’s calls to action so seriously and with such immediate attention. Last week, myself, Minister Anandasangaree, Commissioner Duheme and senior officials from Public Safety Canada, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, Canada Border Services Agency, and RCMP “V” Division travelled to Yellowknife to better understand how illicit substances enter our northern communities.

We toured the Yellowknife airport with Northwest Territories ministers Vince Mackay and Jay Macdonald to review screening processes. Mr. Speaker, flight cancellations prevented us from continuing to Cambridge Bay, but we used the time to discuss improving passenger and mail screening. Strengthening screening requires coordination among agencies, such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canada Post, and may require regulatory or legislative changes. We are working with Public Safety Canada and the RCMP to identify what federal laws may need updating. Mr.

Speaker, I assure members that our government and our federal partners take this issue seriously and are committed to working together to reduce the flow of harmful substances into Nunavut and protect our communities.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 4 I would sincerely like to thank Minister Anandasangaree, Commissioner Duheme, and all of the representatives from federal public safety and enforcement agencies for travelling to Yellowknife with the hopes of continuing onto Cambridge Bay. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank Cambridge Bay MLA Fred Pedersen, Mayor Wayne Gregory, and the many organizations who had planned to host us in the community. We were very disappointed our visit was cancelled, but hope to have another opportunity to visit beautiful Cambridge Bay again soon. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Tattuinee. Minister’s Statement 20 – 7(1): Long Term Service Awards Gala for Qikiqtaaluk Employees (Tattuinee) Hon. Annie Tattuinee: Mr. Speaker, Long Term Service Awards are a way for the Government of Nunavut to acknowledge, celebrate, and show appreciation for the commitment and hard work of our employees.

The Department of Human Resources hosted an awards ceremony and gala dinner on February 12 in Iqaluit to honour Government of Nunavut employees from communities across the Qikiqtaaluk region who recently completed continuous service ranging for 20 to 45 years. During this celebration we recognized that service represents far more than time, it reflects commitment to our communities, resilience through change, and a deep belief in the importance of serving Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I would like to mention by name four individuals that received recognition of more than 40 years of service.

They are Gail Levi of Arctic Bay; Saimata Arlooktoo of Iqaluit; Tirak Parr of Kinngait; and Sam Willy Kilitktee of Qikiqtarjuaq. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank those members of this house who attended the event and were able to express their gratitude in person to the employees who have contributed so much to our territory and who carry out their work and serve Nunavummiut with professionalism and respect.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 5 I also wish to thank the employees who travelled to Iqaluit to be recognized. I am pleased to announce that my department is already looking ahead and will be hosting similar regional galas and ceremonies for the Kivalliq and Kitikmeot regions. I look forward to updating my colleagues on our plans at the appropriate time. Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in thanking this year’s long term service award recipients in the Qikiqtaaluk region. We are deeply grateful for your contribution and the positive impact you make each and every day. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. We congratulate the long service. Minister of Education, Mr. Main. Minister’s Statement 21 – 7(1): New Initiatives to Support Career Planning for Nunavut Students (Main/Akeeagok) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and good morning. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that the Department of Education is launching a new student platform, (interpretation ends) the Future Pathways Navigator, designed to support students as they explore post-secondary opportunities and plan for life after high school.

The platform is intended to assist guidance counsellors and teachers by helping students identify post-secondary programs and institutions that align with their interests and goals. It outlines the courses required for entry into various programs and highlights Inuit role models who have completed specific programs or are working in careers that students may wish to pursue. The platform supports course planning, understanding the credit system, career exploration, and résumé development.

As part of this initiative, a Pathways Advisor provides individualized and classroom- based support, helping students understand their interests, strengths, and aspirations, assisting them in setting goals, exploring opportunities, and developing personalized learning and transition plans. (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) we expect this tool to serve as a helpful resource for students and teachers, and will also be accessible to parents who wish to support their children’s educational planning.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 6 We are pleased to introduce the Future Pathways Navigator as a tool to help students prepare for their future and make informed decisions about their education and career pathways. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for Qulliq Energy. Minister’s Statement 22 – 7(1): Progress Update on Community Power Plant Replacement Projects (Healey Akearok) Ms. Healey Akearok (interpretation): Mr.

Speaker, I wish to provide an update on the progress of several major Qulliq Energy Corporation power plant replacement projects underway across Nunavut. These projects represent critical investments to ensure safe, reliable, and resilient energy systems for our communities. In Igloolik, work began at the end of August 2025 with land development and foundation activities. The 2025 sealift delivered the materials required to initiate construction, with future sealifts planned to support upcoming phases, including mechanical and electrical systems in 2026, and gensets and remaining equipment in 2027.

The project remains on track for completion by the end of 2028. Progress is also moving forward in Gjoa Haven. Construction began in August 2025. Materials delivered through the 2025 sealift allowed construction to proceed. Mechanical and electrical materials are scheduled for delivery in 2026, with commissioning expected to begin later that year. Full project completion is anticipated by the end of 2027. In Cambridge Bay, construction activities started in July 2025 after sealift. During early site work, buried contamination was identified, prompting Qulliq Energy Corporation to issue a stop-work order.

An independent environmental consultant was engaged, impacted soils were remediated, and construction resumed in August 2025. A risk assessment is underway to guide long-term site management, and the project continues to advance toward final completion in March 2029. Mr. Speaker, in Kugluktuk, key early milestones have been reached. The design-build contract for the new power plant was executed in September 2025, and the project is currently in the design phase.

This project will replace one of Qulliq Energy Corporation’s oldest facilities, and represents a critical step toward improving long-term system reliability for the community.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 7 Mr. Speaker, these projects represent an unprecedented level of infrastructure investment in Nunavut’s energy sector. Delivering projects of this scale simultaneously requires careful coordination, disciplined financial management, and strong collaboration between Qulliq Energy Corporation, communities, contractors, and our federal funding partners. I look forward to providing further updates as this work advances and continues to strengthen Nunavut’s energy future. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you.

Ministers’ Statements, item 2. Minister Koonoo, Culture and Heritage. Minister’s Statement 23 – 7(1): In Honour of Territorial Archivist, Edward Atkinson (Koonoo) Hon. Brian Koonoo (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Mr. Edward Atkinson, who retired in April last year after 25 years of service as Nunavut’s first territorial archivist. Unfortunately, he passed away surrounded by loved ones shortly after retiring.

Over 50 years ago in 1973, Edward first travelled to the north to work as an aircraft mechanic’s helper with Survair Limited at Frobisher Bay and Hall Beach. He later worked as a cargo loader in Kuujjuaq, Nunavik, with Air Inuit Limited. In the 1980s and 1990s, Edward worked at the National Archives of Canada as a government records archivist and a manuscript archivist, where he transcribed Inuit audio-visual material. Mr. Speaker, in the 1990s, Edward returned to Kuujjuaq as an Inuktitut instructor with the Kativik School Board. He then worked for the Makivik Corporation as their company archivist.

Edward returned to Ottawa as a research assistant in the office of the Honourable Senator Charlie Watt, promoting the well-being and economic advancement of Inuit. Edward’s archival work experience and his employment in Nunavik and Nunavut made him the ideal candidate to serve as Nunavut’s first territorial archivist in Igloolik.

His enduring efforts in preserving Nunavut’s documentary heritage can be measured by the Nunavut Archives’ diverse collection of photographic material, sound recordings, moving images, and textual records, created by Nunavummiut and key players who lived in the territory, which can be researched and accessed.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 8 Mr. Speaker, Edward was an archivist, historian, researcher, Inuktitut teacher, proponent of Inuit genealogy, and a proud cultural ambassador of the north. With that, I would like to thank Edward, iitua or Etuaq, for his contribution to Nunavut, to recognize and honour his work. Qujannamiik. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Item 3, Members’ Statements. Member Statement. Member for Cambridge Bay, MLA Mr. Pedersen. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 34 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructur (Pedersen) Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I’m giving notice to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut that later today I will be asking questions regarding safety and security of our airports. As you know, all our residents rely solely on air transportation to leave or return to our communities, whether that be for personal, business, medical or other travel reasons. Due to this reliance on our air travel, we need to be assured that air travel is both safe and secure. Most of our airports have gravel surfaces and limited infrastructure, which limits the types of aircraft can service our needs.

Due to this, many communities are seeing multiple flights each day, and even then, the airlines cannot take all passengers and have limited cargo space per flight. This causes delays and on occasion missed medical appointments. Because of these reasons, all airports in Nunavut should be the best in Canada in terms of surfaces, infrastructure, equipment, and lighting. If we had airports with these improvements, we would see less number of flights per day, less cancellations, and less passengers or cargo being bumped off.

And when we travel back to our home communities from Yellowknife, which you can get to any community in Nunavut from there via Cambridge Bay, Rankin Inlet, and Iqaluit, we do so without the need for security screening. Because of this lack of screening, Mr. Speaker, we are seeing the arrival of hard drugs and illegal firearms coming into our communities. That’s what is coming in today. It makes me worry what will be coming in next. We need to work with both the federal government and the NWT government to ensure we rectify this.

The sooner this is done, the sooner Nunavut will be a safer place to fly into and out of. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 9 Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Members’ Statements. Tununiq MLA, Mr. Koonoo. Member’s Statement 35 – 7(1): Remembering Jonas Allooloo (Koonoo) Hon. Brian Koonoo (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to mention Canon Jonas Allooloo who passed away. He was born in 1946 in the month of October. February 20 he died. Jonas Allooloo was a clergyman in Nunavut. Jonas was born close to Igloolik and grew up near Pond Inlet, and he learned from his father and kept the tradition of having services on Sundays.

He also went to Churchill and went on to a secondary school in Manitoba. Jonas did significant work in the mission and he was made a minister in the 1980s. From 2012 to 2018 he served in Iqaluit’s St. Joe’s Mission, and he did diligent work in the area of biblical translation. We remember the wife, our condolences to the wife Lena and the family. Today was planned for his funeral and I would like show my appreciation for his tireless effort for the church, and also having had past experience in education. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Our condolences also to the family.

Member’s Statement. Aivilik MLA, Ms. Angootealuk. Member’s Statement 36 – 7(1): Arctic Winter Games Participants (Angootealuk) Ms. Angootealuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize AWG participants from Coral Harbour. Most of them are my relatives. Aaron Natsuk (ph), Isaiah Heron (ph), Colin Etuk (ph), Michael Adamie (ph), Lillian Hale (ph), Kristen Avola (ph) Hannah Angootealuk, Cooper St. Mont (ph). These are the participants of the Arctic Winter Games. This past winter our hockey team went to Rankin Inlet. I would like to recognize the parents for raising the funds.

Although we live in a small community, and for the effort, they were able to go play hockey. And Arctic Traffic music team, Terence (ph) Tootoo, these are individuals who received gold, and youth 13 received a silver. I would like to show my appreciation to my fellow residents who are very good in athletics. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: (interpretation) Thank you. We’re very proud of the athletes hockey players and others. Members’ Statements. I don’t have any more list. Item 4, Returns to Oral Questions; 5, Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Welcome, visitors. Item 6, my apologies. Oral Questions.

Rankin Inlet North and Chesterfield MLA, Mr. Sammurtok.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 10 Item 6: Oral Questions Question 12 – 7(1): Medical Transient Centre in Rankin Inlet (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok: Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the new Minister of Health and they concern the need of a medical transient boarding home in Rankin Inlet. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, I had raised this issue on numerous occasions in the House. Mr. Speaker, when I last raised this issue in the previous Assembly, the previous minister indicated that there was a planning study underway for a medical transient boarding home in Rankin Inlet.

Can the new minister provide an update on the status of this important work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Health, Ms. Brewster. Hon. Janet Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In spring of 2025, utilization assessments found that there was a daily average of two travellers requiring rooms through Rankin Inlet, and one of the things that the department does is we reserve ten rooms with 20 beds for travellers who are going through Rankin Inlet, in case they have a layover, or if they need a room during the day. Right now our usage doesn’t call for a boarding home in that centre.

And what I would encourage medical travellers to do is, before they go on medical travel, let their health care provider know if they have any special needs, in case they have a layover, and they can plan for that layover. Once we have more services in Rankin Inlet then we’ll reconsider whether or not a boarding home is advisable. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): First supplementary to your question, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, during the previous Legislative Assembly, Kivalliq members received information from the previous Minister of Health which indicated that “between 2017 and 2021 there was an average of 3.6 medical travellers and escorts staying in Rankin Inlet per night.” Can the minister provide an updated number for medical travellers and escorts who overnight in Rankin Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Health, Ms. Brewster.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 11 Hon. Janet Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To date, as I said earlier, the spring 2025 utilization assessment found there was a daily average of two travellers requiring rooms in Rankin Inlet, and to date, 2025-2026, the utilization has increased to 24 per cent from 22 per cent. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Final supplementary question, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I wish the minister or your executive would be in Rankin Inlet when there actually are patients waiting in the airport due to weather or cancellation of a flight, but I’ll keep going. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, in the previous Legislative Assembly sitting of October 25, 2024 I tabled a resolution from the 2024 Kivalliq mayors meeting. One of the resolutions passed by the Kivalliq mayors called for the establishment of a medical transient centre in Rankin Inlet. Can the minister indicate what specific action her department has undertaken in response to the resolution from the Kivalliq mayors.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Health, Ms. Brewster. Hon. Janet Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to correct myself: the current average is three medical travellers staying per night in Rankin Inlet. As I said, health officials conducted a preliminary review and found that the average number of clients overnighting in Rankin was too low to make a boarding home feasible. Though it is not feasible right now, there is work being done to see what we can do to better support medical travellers who are passing through Rankin Inlet and who do get laid over.

I would like to let everybody know that the on-call number for medical travel in the Kivalliq region is 1-844-886-8020. If medical travellers run into any delays that amount to longer than what’s comfortable for them, they can always reach out to the medical travel staff who will come and support those travellers, whether it’s with food or blankets, or helping them to get a day room so that they can have a safe and warm place to stay during their layover. They are always willing to be there.

I would just like to remind members of the public that they can also, if they seen that there are medical travellers who seem to be stranded, that they can also call the on-call number, and to think twice about posting photos of medical travellers who are stranded, especially in light of the fact that some of them may be elders and it may put them at risk, or their belongings at risk if people know at home that they have left their home. Just to

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 12 have some respect for their privacy and take a moment to call on their behalf if you’ve got a phone handy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Uqsuqtuuq, Mr. Pedersen. Question 13 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Pedersen) Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is to Minister Hickes, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. Can the minister outline the plans of his department in terms of getting Nunavut’s airports up to better standards.

I mean this in terms of runway service upgrades, instrument manning systems, and additional infrastructure. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the member. I think it’s very important as he acknowledges that the safety of the airports is critical as we move forward. We do access federal funding to do runway improvements. We’ve got three current projects under way one in each region currently, in Kugluktuk, Pangnirtung, and Whale Cove that are underway right now.

And as recently as 11 o’clock last night we were still communicating with the Minister of Transportation’s office to look at further runway improvements that we can make. We do have some changes in the airport certification and regulations, so there are going to be future upgrades, especially with the lighting aspects of our airports. We are going to make sure that we are maintaining our code compliance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. First supplementary question, Mr. Pedersen. Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thanks for that response, Minister.

My next question is regarding airplane safety and security. Can the minister update us on what his department is doing in terms of working towards a security screening process, including a timeline for all passengers arriving in Nunavut via the Yellowknife airport. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it’s a very timely question, as my minister’s statement that I said earlier spoke to an earlier meeting with Minister Anandasangaree, with the RCMP, with the Canadian Border Services.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 13 We realize and we have realized for some time that society has changed. Mr. Speaker, when Nunavut was created, to have that interjurisdictional travel was something that was fought for, to make sure that the former NWT and now Nunavut were able to intertrade, intertravel. Society has changed. There are a heck of a lot more security concerns nowadays, especially with some of the illicit substances that are coming into our communities.

I can’t give the member a definite timeline, but I can assure and have had assurance from Public Safety Canada and the RCMP that we are going to work very seriously on this. Just the fact that the federal minister and the commissioner of the RCMP travelled to Nunavut with mere weeks after I requested them to do so shows how serious they are taking this issue. I will endeavour to keep the member informed as we progress in our discussions, and I wish I could give a definite timeline, Mr. Speaker, but I can assure the member that we are all working on it diligently. Thank you.

Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Pedersen. Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thanks again for the reply. Earlier in your statement you mentioned about working with agencies like the RCMP and Canada Post on checking mail and whatnot. I understand Bill C-2 is going through the process of being passed by the federal government, and that one is a bill regarding the searching of mail. In it, in the current legislation, letters are not allowed to be searched, apparently, and this new Bill C-2 will look at defining what types of mail can be searched, and putting a definition of a letter.

Small quantities of illicit drugs can be sent through letters, and right now Canada Post, until the legislation is changed, doesn’t have the authority to search those. They can search packages and parcels, but not letters, currently. I’m just wondering the bill at a stage of receiving written comments, if the Government of Nunavut will be submitting any comments to the federal government in regards to Bill C-2. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will put on my Justice hat more than my Transportation and Infrastructure hat. But that being said, Mr.

Speaker, we are aware of Bill 2, and we are analyzing it. From what I understood there is some discrepancy with the type of mail that could be searched; it is from international sources. We are looking into how.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 14 Maybe to give a little bit of a back story, Mr. Speaker, there was a pilot project done with Canada Post on searching with members of the RCMP, and there have been discussions of hoping to revitalize something on a longer term basis. We recognize there are four different points of entry with mail into Nunavut, so we are taking a look at that as one of the discussion items that I have had with Minister Anandasangaree, and I do look forward to further progress on that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: It’s good to see that you’re able to switch between hats so easily.

Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Kuliktana. Question 14 – 7(1): Grays Bay Road and Port Project (Kuliktana) Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question today is for the premier. As the premier will recall, the Government of Nunavut issued an announcement in November 2025 in which the Grays Bay Road and Port Project was identified as one of the four megaprojects being jointly advanced by the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. The other projects are the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link, the Qikiqtarjuaq Deep Sea Port, and the Iqaluit hydroelectric project.

Can the premier update the House today on what discussions he and his cabinet colleagues had with the prime minister and the other federal leaders about the Grays Bay Road and Port project during their recent trip to Ottawa. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Quana. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and I thank my colleague for his questions. (interpretation ends) Regarding the Inuit-led major projects of which the member summarized the four, in terms of Grays Bay, it is being lead by West Kitikmeot Resource Corporation and so our government supports these major projects but we’re not a proponent of the projects. Our role in terms of seeing these projects move forward, it’s a bit different because we’re not the proponent. the proponents of these major projects are leading the efforts around lobbying around building relationships towards seeing these projects come to fruition.

And so we’re more in a supporting role. We do see a lot of potential value in having Inuit lead major project development towards economic reconciliation, as well as nation building and it is incredible to see that they are Inuit-led. And so we see value to the approach and will continue to stay in touch with the proponents and to keep track as they develop. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Supplementary question, Mr. Kuliktana. Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Minister.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 15 As the premier will be aware, the project proponent has recently submitted its formal impact statement to the Nunavut Impact Review Board. I encourage my constituents to actively participate in the board’s upcoming review process. Can the premier describe how the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs will be coordinating the Government of Nunavut’s submissions to the Nunavut Impact Review Board. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the question.

In terms of the review process the Government of Nunavut takes a unified and coordinated approach to engaging, so in terms of environmental assessment of a major initiative such as the Grays Bay Road and Port, it would involve coordinating between experts within the Department of Environment, for example, who would have knowledge around caribou habitat, caribou migratory patterns et cetera, and other interests from within the government, not just Department of Environment also Department of Community Services which includes economic development aspect.

Our approach is to have a coordinated voice that can participate in the independent institutions of public government, notably the Nunavut Impact Review Board process. That has been our approach in the past, and that will continue to be the approach of this government. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Kuliktana. Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Premier, for that response. Can the premier indicate how the government is working with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association on this project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier Main. Hon.

John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) The Kitikmeot Inuit Association is an important partner to our government, not just in regards to this project, but we see a lot of value in working with both Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated as well as the regional Inuit associations. We have a lot of shared interests in terms of looking at issues like health, like housing, like infrastructure at the community level. So it is a relationship that we place a high value on.

In terms of the Kitikmeot Inuit association and Grays Bay, it is more of a case of keeping in touch at the political level and the, you know, the proponent, West Kitikmeot Resource

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 16 Corporation has a number of shareholders, of which Kitikmeot Inuit Association is one. So there is a bit of an arm’s-length aspect to that relationship, as I understand it. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Oral Questions. Member for the high Arctic, Mr. Taqtu. Question 15 – 7(1): Airline Industry in Nunavut (Taqtu) Mr. Taqtu: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions for you today are for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, as the member of the Legislative Assembly for Quttiktuq, I represent three of Nunavut’s most remote communities, and that is Grise Fiord, Resolute Bay, and Arctic Bay. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to raising concerns on behalf of all the three communities during my time in office. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, the Government of Nunavut announced in July 2025 that it had entered into a 10-year travel agreement regarding its contracted airline services for medical travel, duty travel, and Family Services client travel.

Can the minister describe what role the Department of Transportation has administering this agreement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, basically it in a nutshell, as the central agency on the procurement side of things, we work with our partner departments, in this case it would be Department of Health, Department of Human Resources, to set the parameters of what the contract obligations would be; and then we continue to monitor the airlines to make sure that they are fulfilling those obligations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): First supplementary question, Mr. Taqtu. Mr. Taqtu: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As the minister will also recall, the government’s announcement indicated that it had “acquired an option from Exchange Income Corporation to purchase an equity interest” in Canadian North. Mr. Speaker, that airline provides regular service both to Arctic Bay and Resolute Bay. Can the Minister indicate what the new government’s position is regarding the purchase of an ownership interest in Canadian North. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Mr. Hickes.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 17 Hon. George Hickes: Sorry, just to supplement my earlier response, Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs is the contract holder for the duty and medical travel contract. With regards to purchasing equity shares in an airline in whatever fashion, it is under current analysis. It was something that was brought up in the last Assembly, and we have to makers sure we do our due diligence to see if its a viable option to move forward with. It is under analysis right now. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Second and final supplementary question, Mr. Taqtu. Mr.

Taqtu: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Minister is aware, Grise Fiord is the most northerly and remote community in Canada. A return airfare from Grise Fiord to Ottawa can cost over $7,000. This is unaffordable for ordinary Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, Canadian North partners with Kenn Borek to offer passenger service to the community of Grise Fiord. Mr. Speaker, can the minister indicate how the government’s travel agreement addresses the issue of high airfares. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, when we negotiated this contract with the service provider, one of the conditions that we put in there was that economy fares would be available to the general public. So kind of in a nutshell, we agreed to pay a little more to make sure there were some economy fares available on each flight. That number I believe is limited, but it does give the opportunity, if you plan to travel far enough in advance you can actually achieve some fairly economical fares. thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Mr. Kautuk. Question 16 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Kautuk) Mr.

Kautuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. The Minister got off lightly in Committee of the Whole yesterday. Mr. Speaker, the department’s 2026-2027 capital estimates include $4.5 million for minor capital projects and the acquisition of airport maintenance equipment. Concerns have been expressed to me that the Clyde River airport requires new heavy equipment. As the Minister is aware, Clyde River receives some of the largest snowfalls of any community in Nunavut.

Can the Minister confirm if his department’s 2026-2027

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 18 capital estimates include any funding for new heavy equipment at the Clyde River airport. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for the question. I had to dig up a different binder that I had from yesterday ready to go. I will have to confirm this, but I do believe that there’s a piece of equipment. Sorry. I do apologize, Mr.

Speaker, I’ll have to dig up that information and provide it as a supplemental response to I’m sure the next question the member has. Speaker (interpretation): First supplementary question, Mr. Kautuk. Mr. Kautuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates include $1.45 million in funding for a new project to acquire aircraft boarding ramps. Can the Minister indicate which airports will receive the new ramps. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Transportation and infrastructure minister, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Sorry, I do apologize, Mr. Speaker.

I’m navigating through the wrong binder here. I will have to get back to the member on that question. My sincere apologies. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Second and final supplementary question, Mr. Kautuk. Mr. Kautuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) The department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates include $1.0 million in funding for a new Runway Maintenance and Improvement Fund. Can the Minister indicate what specific projects are planned for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, again I do apologize. I’m mixing up my binders here right now, and I’m very embarrassed by this right now. It’s not typically like me. But I’ll get back to the member with the detail of those questions through a Return to Oral Questions. Thank you.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 19 Speaker: We will expect the answers. Oral Questions. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Qammaniq. Question 17 – 7(1): Arctic Security Sovereignty (Quammaniq) Mr. Qammaniq (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the premier. As the premier will recall, his government has recently made a number of trips to Ottawa and expressed concerns about Arctic security and sovereignty. I support the government’s efforts to obtain new investments in our infrastructure.

As the premier will also recall, I tabled a document during yesterday’s sitting of the House concerning the need for the community of Sanirajak to be officially designated as the regional hub for emergency measures services in Nunavut. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Nunavut Association of Municipalities for having passed a formal resolution in support of this objective at its 2024 annual general meeting. Can the Premier indicate what his government’s position is on this issue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): The Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon.

John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my colleague for asking the question. Now, the community services department deals with emergency measures. It’s under their responsibility, first of all. So emergency measures whenever anybody needs to be searched for, for example, that department is very busy doing that, and we thank them for it. After having gone to Ottawa and met with the federal ministers and Prime Minister Mark Carney, we had discussions and meetings with them, and it was very useful.

It was the first time that we had that kind of meetings to get to know each other, where the ministers would get to know each other. There was not much requests that would go to one community; like, there was nothing, no discussion about Sanirajak being pointed out. However, they looked at all of Nunavut, and we told the federal government that they need to make investments in Nunavut, because Nunavut has many infrastructure needs. That was conveyed to them properly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Your first supplementary question, Mr. Qammaniq.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 20 Mr. Qammaniq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During yesterday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the premier made a statement about the cabinet’s recent trip to Ottawa to meet with the prime minister and other federal leaders. Can the premier indicate what specific commitments he received with respect to enhancing search and rescue capacity in Nunavut. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

We talked about a lot of issues, and we also had meetings with various cabinet ministers. As the premier of Nunavut I talked about various issues, including health, housing, infrastructure, travel, and Arctic security. We covered a variety of subjects during those meetings, and we wanted the federal government to understand what is needed in Nunavut. We need a lot of infrastructure in all of the communities. If the federal government is going to be funding some projects, the Nunavut government will also contribute to that pot of money.

I believe they were very helpful meetings, and we’re working with our colleagues with the federal government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Your last and final question, Mr. Qammaniq. Mr. Qammaniq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) As the premier will recall, the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated released a Nunavut Arctic Sovereignty and Security Strategy in September 2025. Can the Premier describe how he is working with Nunavut Tunngavik’s leadership to advance this strategy. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the question. The Nunavut Arctic Sovereignty and Security Strategy is an important document, and it’s also a very broad document. It touches on a number of different pillars. I think the most important thing that came out of that strategy, and it’s the same message we were sharing in Ottawa, is that at the heart of security and sovereignty in the Arctic are healthy communities in Nunavut.

And use Sanirajak or Igloolik, for example; those communities need to be healthy for Canada’s claim to the Arctic and Canadian sovereignty for it to be fully realized. What is needed to make Sanirajak or make Igloolik a healthy community, it’s going to take a lot of work. I think the member would agree with me that we had serious challenges on multiple fronts in almost every single one of our communities and we need a strong partner in the federal government. We can’t do it alone.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 21 And in terms of Nunavut Tunngavik, we see that same approach. There is a huge importance to the relationship that we have with Nunavut Tunngavik. I would like to thank acting president Paul Irngaut for being a steadfast partner throughout my time working with him in different roles. Between the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik and the strategy, the foundation of that relationship is strong communication and trust, and that’s what we’re building on our work with Nunavut Tunngavik on.

There are a lot of details that I could unpack, but unfortunately I don’t have time here to get into that. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Mr. Attagutaluk. Question 18 – 7(1): Human Resources Strategies and Policies (Attagutaluk) Mr. Attagutaluk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My question today is for Ms. Tattuinee, Minister of Human Resources.

As the minister is aware, the government’s most recent quarterly employment report indicates that there are a total of approximately 5,728 positions in its department and public agencies. Approximately 2,000 of these positions are vacant, which is a vacancy rate of almost 35 per cent. Can the minister describe how her department plans to address these situations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Tattuinee. Hon. Annie Tattuinee: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the member for the question. At this point in time, we do have 5,700 employees.

My apologies. I’ll have to find that information, and get back to the member. At this point I can’t find it immediately. I thought I had it, but I’m looking at the wrong briefing document. If you bear with me and you ask your next question, I’ll find it in the meantime. Thank you. Thank you to the member for the question. Speaker (interpretation): Your first supplementary question, Mr. Attagutaluk. Mr. Attagutaluk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

During yesterday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, I asked a question to the Minister of Environment about the positions that are being moved out of Igloolik, and it’s my understanding that the government’s practice has been that when it moves decentralized position out of a community, new positions are moved in or are created to make up for the loss.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 22 Can the Minister of Human Resources confirm what the new government’s policy is in situations like this. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Tattuinee. Hon. Annie Tattuinee: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question. In terms of the first question, we are working with each of the departments to identify the opportunities, to identify the positions that are required to be filled.

All moves of positions are being carefully reviewed to ensure that when a position is moved out of the community, to determine what positions might be able to be instituted in another community, and that requires input from the various departments and their priority areas, so I as the minister can answer that because it involves collaboration with the various departments that we work with. We’re a service department, and we provide that service when we’re informed by each of the departments what their capacity needs are.

We advertise the positions and determine how best we can fill those positions, either using a direct appointment process, term positions, and whatnot. In the long run, all the vacancies that require us to continue to provide capacity and service to Nunavummiut are addressed, and we have different formats available to us at our disposals. So thank you, Member, for the question, and thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Your second and final question, Mr. Attagutaluk. Mr. Attagutaluk: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) As the Minister is aware, the government’s most recent quarterly employment report indicates that there are a total of approximately 1,956 Nunavut Inuit employees in its departments and public agencies. In order to achieve an 85 per cent Inuit employment rate, the government will need to hire approximately 2,900 new Inuit employees. Can the minister indicate what her department considers to be a realistic timeline for achieving this goal. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Tattuinee. Hon. Annie Tattuinee: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and I thank the member for the question. The Government of Nunavut along with Nunavut Tunngavik and the Government of Canada have entered an implementation contract agreement, which lasts from 2024 to 2034. As part of that agreement, there are opportunities for pre-employment training and planning, which requires each of the departments to develop plans, Inuit employment plans, and submit them for review to coordinate all the training required to develop the capacity of Inuit to work in Nunavut.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 23 The immediate plan, as I indicated in a statement earlier, we recognize individuals with long service. We also are planning, we have on-the-job training processes. We have opportunities for Inuit to take education leave through programs and services that we provide. We also open the door for individuals to gain employment through casual employment, through direct appointment to term positions and whatnot.

And we also have developed a master Inuit employment plan which coordinates all the efforts for all the departments that is available for individuals, if they are interested in looking at that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Member, for your question. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Ms. Angootealuk. Question 19 – 7(1): Medical Boarding Home in Rankin Inlet (Angootealuk) Ms. Angootealuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My first question is for the Minister of Health.

In the Kivalliq, we have noticed the outlying communities who have to wait for a very long time at the airport, and the weather is not good most of the time. They do not have a place to stay as medical escorts. You indicated that there’s 10 beds in that particular a place you mentioned. It’s not very good for the people who are sick. They have to walk up the stairs, and their equipment is very old, and especially for the people who have cancer. And also the children are sent out for dental services, and they have to stay at the building.

We wait for a very long time at the air terminal, sometimes six hours to 12 hours. Who are those three that indicated to you that it’s not very good services for the people? We definitely need a medical boarding home in Rankin Inlet to house the patients. That was the wish of the people of Naujaat and Coral Harbour. There was one individual from my community who had to be billeted with one of her relatives. There she was staying there for six days because of inclement weather, and she had cancer and she was on her way home to die. The people of Kivalliq would need help.

I’m talking about six communities that gets stuck at the air terminal waiting for a very long time and not getting food vouchers. I’m sure it’s a very uncomfortable feeling, when you’re ill. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Ms. Angootealuk, I believe that is a question for the Minister of Health. Is that your question? Mr. Attagutaluk (interpretation): It’s my support to Alex’s position. This is for the Minister of Justice. My apologies.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 24 Speaker: You could perhaps mention that under Members’ Statements, but if you have a question at this time, you would ask the question. As per my name, Gjoa Haven MLA, Mr. Porter. Question 20 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Porter) Mr. Porter: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. As the Minister is aware, his department’s 2026-2027 capital estimates include funding to undertake an airfield lighting replacements, assessment project and an airfield overlay assessment project at Gjoa Haven’s airport.

I am pleased that the department is undertaking this work. Can the Minister indicate when the work is expected to begin. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: I had the right binder out, now I’ve got to find the right page. My apologies, Mr. Speaker. Maybe if the member wanted to ask his next question and then I’ll find it. Speaker (interpretation): Mr. Porter. Gjoa Haven MLA, Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My supplementary question: As the minister will recall, the government issued a request for proposals in July 2024 for the design of new mobile equipment shelters at a number of Nunavut airports, including Gjoa Haven. Can the Minister provide an update today on the status of the Gjoa Haven project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Just to go back to the first question, the contract has been awarded and the construction will start this summer. We are looking at the gravel resupply.

With regards to the mobile equipment, those tenders, once our budget is approved, finally we will be able to move forward with tendering for that project. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Second and your last question, Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter: Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, the Nunavut Airports 20-Year Capital Needs Assessment Update was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on March 10, 2023. Can the Minister indicate when his department plans to publish the next update. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 25 Speaker: Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member for that question. I’ll have to talk with my officials to see where we are on updating that list, and I’ll provide it to members as soon as it’s available, or at the very least be able to provide an update on a timeline for when it can be expected. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Aivilik MLA, Mr. Angootealuk.

Question 21 – 7(1): The Role of Elders in Community Justice Committees (Angootealuk) Ms. Angootealuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions today are for Minister of Justice and concern the role of elders in Community Justice Committee. As a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Aivilik representing the communities of Coral Harbour and Naujaat, I am a strong advocate for the involvement of elders and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit justice within the justice system. Mr.

Speaker, I understand and recognize that the Department of Justice program provided an alternative to the criminal court process by referring eligible cases to the local community justice committee. Can the minister explain how this department provides support to the elders and other committee members who serve on community justice committee. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Justice, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, whenever elders are a topic, we always have to make sure that we’re advocating on behalf of the elders in our communities, and especially if they are in a vulnerable situation. Mr. Speaker, when we have community justice outreach workers at work within the community in many different facets, we’ll deal with the family work with the elders, try to makers sure that the supports that are provided. Depending upon the situation, Victim Services could also get involved and insist that manner. In a nutshell, that kind of sums it up, but if the member has further questions, I’m happy to answer them. Thank you.

Speaker (interpretation): First supplementary to your question. My apologies, I called you Mr. Angootealuk. Ms. Angootealuk. Ms. Angootealuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Justice issued a call-out for community justice committee members ending December 28, 2025. Can the minister provide an update on how many Community Justice Committee members were appointed in response to this public service announcement, and if any are located in Coral Harbour and Naujaat. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 26 Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister of Justice, Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. According to the information that I have, all 21 community justice outreach workers are Nunavut Inuit. I would have to check the status of the member’s specific communities, but right now, so there’s 26 positions that are filled right now. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Second and your final supplementary, Ms. Angootealuk. Ms. Angootealuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Nunavummiut who have served as Community Justice Committee members for the important role they undertake within the justice system. Can the minister explain how his department supports elders with the application process to join their local community justice committee. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Justice, Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, just to respond to the previous question, from the information that I have, both of her communities have Community Justice Outreach Worker positions filled. Mr. Speaker, with regards to filling out the forms, I would have to look at what type of services would be available. I would assume that the government liaison officer would be able to be available to assist with that, but I can reach out to my officials, and if there’s another more appropriate person, I can forward that information to the member. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Oral Questions. Pangnirtung MLA, Mr. Mike.

Question 22 – 7(1): Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Hydro Project (Mike) Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Great that I can now rise here. My question will be for minister of Qulliq Energy Corporation, concerning the Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Hydro Project, as it’s called. As the minister will recall, Qulliq issued an announcement in November 2025 concerning the Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Hydro Project in Kugaaruk. The announcement indicated that the Qulliq Energy Corporation welcomed Canada’s decision to fast-track the project through the federal major projects office.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 27 My question here: Perhaps the minister can clearly explain how much role the Qulliq Energy Corporation should play in the Kugaaruk Hydro project for generating electricity. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Qulliq Energy minister, Ms. Healey Akearok. Ms. Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the question.

Qulliq Energy Corporation is committed to working across governments, with the Government of Canada and within our own government with our regional Inuit associations and our communities to enhance energy security and affordability and clear energy as a whole. For many years the Government of Nunavut has been working toward a pathway away from our reliance on diesel fuel, and so we’re looking at a number of initiatives that support renewable and alternative energies. I can clarify that Qulliq Energy Corporation is not the proponent for this project.

The project is lead by Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation, as you identified already, and QEC is providing technical information and regulatory and public support for the project at this time. Qujannamiik, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. First supplementary, Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the minister for clarifying that.

As the minister must be aware, the choice to have hydro in Kugaaruk is very much opposed by the residents of Pangnirtung, the actual site and the river flows to the Cumberland Sound, and for years the river has been an area for commercial fishing to date. Many concerns have been raised in Pangnirtung when selection was made to dam Kugaaruk, and what negative impact has had. And how it was chosen is the question asked by locals. Yes, it will affect the wildlife, the land, and the commercial fishery is an important economic source.

Our resident Billy Etongat (ph) last week presented at a QIA meeting that Pangnirtung and he in particular were not opposed to generating electrical power. What we oppose is it’s in Kugaaruk. The actual site is just too important of significance to Inuit. It is an important commercial site, and it’s an area where the river flows to the river is heavily utilized. QIA seems to be divided on the issue now, and concerns have been raised so Qikiqtani seem to be divided here. My concern to the minister, my question will be (interpretation ends) for the record, does the minister support the current site location?

Yes or no? Thank you.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 28 Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Qulliq Energy Corporation, Ms. Healey Akearok. Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for his supplementary question.

It is my understanding that of course we appreciate and have heard the voices of Pangnirtungmmuit on this issue, and it’s my understanding that the Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation has been consulting with the residents of Pangnirtung and continues to, and has heard the concerns raised about this project, and is taking them into consideration as part of the work. I would like to also confirm that Qulliq Energy Corporation does not play a role in site selection, and those concerns are being investigated by the lead for the project, which is Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Second supplementary question and final question, Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike (interpretation): I’m very pleased. I’m very happy, thank you. Yes, it’s understandable and it’s clear. But also explain further, Mr. Speaker, that the community of Pangnirtung residents through the municipal council, hamlet council, and hunters and trappers organization have just attended the meeting of those, and they say that they are in support of.

So Nukkiksautiit, what they say is not entirely true, because Nukkiksautiit I believe in January, they found out that when Pangnirtung residents were involved in a meeting of the proposed hydro project, Pangnirtung had made a resolution opposing this site for hydro project. But Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the minister: will the minister commit to meeting with the Pangnirtung municipal council and hunters and trappers organization to discuss their concerns for the hydro project site, the proposed hydro project by Nukkiksautiit Corporation? That’s my question.

If he can commit with the Pangnirtung municipal council and HTO to discuss their concerns. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Qulliq Energy Corporation, Ms. Healey Akearok. Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the follow-up question.

Yes, as the member said, on January 30 of this year in response to concerns raised by Pangnirtungmmuit, Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation did state that they were studying all these issues, and that a decision point hasn’t been reached, and they are also seeking direction from Qikiqtani Inuit Association and Qikiqtaaluk Corporation before moving forward.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 29 As those conversations take place, Qulliq Energy will continue to monitor as those initiatives move forward. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Oral Questions. Member for Chesterfield and Rankin Inlet South, Mr. Sammurtok. Question 23 – 7(1): Medical Transient Centre in Rankin Inlet (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

During my question to the Minister of Health, the last question of my question was not responded to so, therefore I would like to ask another question to the Minister of Health. (interpretation ends) I will repeat the supplementary question that I posed to you earlier. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall from the previous Legislative Assembly sitting of October 25, 2024, I tabled resolutions from the 2024 Kivalliq mayors meeting. One of the resolutions passed by the Kivalliq mayors called for the establishment of a medical transient centre in Rankin Inlet.

Can the minister indicate what specific action her department has undertaken in response to the resolution from the Kivalliq mayors. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Health, Ms. Brewster. Hon. Janet Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I appreciate the member following up with that question again. I admit that I missed that part of the question while I was writing something else down. I can tell you that most definitely mayors are important stakeholders, and it’s really important to be responsive to their requests.

What I’m aware of is that within the department we’re open to considering what we can do to make people stay in Rankin Inlet while they are on medical travel, whether they’re travelling through or staying overnight, better and safer for them. Currently Siniktarvik provides rooms, meals and transportation, which is part of the reason that we are contracting them to provide those rooms.

As people are aware, there isn’t a lot of private transportation available in Rankin Inlet, so we have to make the best choices possible in a service provider that is a little bit more wholistic than simply providing rooms and space. Mr. Speaker, I commit to going back and talking to my colleagues at Health to see how far we’ve advanced in those discussions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. I have no more names on my list.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 30 Back to Orders of the Day. Item number 7, Written Questions. Item 8, Return to Written Questions. Item number 9, Replies to Opening Address. Item 10, Petitions. Item 11, Responses to Petitions. Item 12, Reports of Standing and Special Committee on Bills and Other Matters. Item 13, Tabling of Documents. Item 14, Notices of Motion. Member for Uqqummiut, Mr. Kautuk. Item 14: Notices of Motion Motion 17 – 7(1): Appointment of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut – Notice Mr. Kautuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I give notice that on Thursday, March 12, 2026, I will move the following motion:

NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, that the Legislative Assembly recommends to the Commissioner of Nunavut that Mr. J. Richard W. Hall be appointed as Information and Privacy Commissioner, effective March 23, 2026. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time I will seek unanimous consent to deal with my motion today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you as well. Item 15, Notice of Motion of First Reading of Bills. Item 16, Motions. Mr. Kautuk. Item 16: Motions Mr. Kautuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to deal with my motion today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to deal with his motion today. Are there any nays? I don’t hear any nays. Please proceed, Mr. Kautuk. Motion 17 – 7(1): Appointment of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut Mr. Kautuk:

WHEREAS

section 61 of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act provides that the Information and Privacy Commissioner is appointed by the Commissioner of Nunavut on the recommendation of the Legislative Assembly to hold office for a term of five years during good behaviour; AND

WHEREAS the Legislative Assembly’s Management and Services Board has undertaken a merit-based selection process for this position;

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 31 AND

WHEREAS the Legislative Assembly is prepared to recommend an appointment to this position;

NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, that the Legislative Assembly recommends to the Commissioner of Nunavut that Mr. J. Richard W. Hall be appointed as Information and Privacy Commissioner, effective March 23, 2026. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you as well. The motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried. Mr. Hall will be appointed as Information and Privacy Commissioner effective March 23, 2026. Back to Orders of the Day. Item number 17, First Reading of Bills. Item 18, Second Reading of Bills. Minister of Finance.

Item 18: Second Reading of Bills Bill 1 – Interim Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2026-2027 – Second Reading Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, that Bill 1, Interim Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2026-2027 be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this Bill authorizes the Government of Nunavut to make interim Operations and Maintenance expenditures for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) To the principle of the bill. A Member: Question. Speaker: Question has been called. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion is carried and Bill 1 is immediately referred to Committee of the Whole. Second Reading of Bills. Taima. Minister of Finance, Minister Main.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 32 Bill 3 – Supplementary Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2025-2026 – Second Reading Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My apologies I didn’t raise my hand again. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Rankin Inlet South, that Bill 3, Supplementary Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2025-2026 be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this Bill makes supplementary appropriations to defray the operations and maintenance expenses of the Government of Nunavut for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): (No

interpretation) (interpretation ends) Motion carried, and Bill 3 can be given to the Committee of the Whole. Bill 4 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 4, 2025-2026 – Second Reading Hon. John Main: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move seconded by the Hon. Member for Tununiq, that Bill 4, Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 4, 2025-2026, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this Bill makes supplementary appropriations to defray the capital expenditures of the Government of Nunavut for the it fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. To the Bill. Request to vote. All those in favour? Not in favour? Motion is carried and Bill 4 can be given to Committee of the Whole. Item number 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Bill 1, 2, 3 and 4 with Chairman Pedersen chairing. Before we get to the Committee of the Whole, we will take a 20-minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 15:18 and Committee commenced at 15:47 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairman (Mr. Fred Pedersen): We recognize we have quorum.

I call the committee meeting to order.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 33 In Committee of the Whole today we have the following items to deal with: Bills 1, 2, 3, and 4. What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Taqtu. Mr. Taqtu: Thank you, Chair. The committee wishes to commence their review of the proposed capital budget for the Department of Education, and if time permits, the Department of Health. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Taqtu. So are we in agreement that we deal with Bill 2? Some Members: Agreed.

Bill 2 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2026-2027 – Consideration in Committee Chairman: I would like to ask Acting Minister Main: Do you have any officials you would like to have appear before you in the committee? Hon. John Main (interpretation): Yes, I do, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Does the committee agree to have the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms, please escort them in. For the record, Acting Minister Main, please introduce your officials and then you can proceed with your opening comments. Thank you. Hon.

John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) With me today I have Deputy Minister Rebecca Hainu, Manager of Capital Planning, Barry Cornthwaite. Also here in the House supporting are Matthew Loosemoore, Director of Corporate Services, and Arielle Stockdale, who is our Director of Policy and Planning. First of all, Mr. Chair, I send well wishes to Minister Akeeagok, who would do a much better job than myself, I’m sure, if he was here today to represent the Department of Education. (interpretation) Mr.

Chair, (interpretation ends) I am pleased to be here today to present the Department of Education’s proposed 2026–2027 Capital Estimates, which total $32,180,000. The 45 schools across Nunavut represent a significant capital investment and commitment to education. Our schools host 11,170 students from kindergarten to Grade 12, with 2,091 in the Kitikmeot region, 3,556 in the Kivalliq region and 5,523 in the Qikiqtani region.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 34 (interpretation) Chair, (interpretation ends) the following capital projects will continue to progress during the 2026–2027 fiscal year across Nunavut. The construction phase of the renovations and addition at the Sakku School in Coral Harbour will continue. The project will give Coral Harbour access to a healthy, code- compliant building, a large gym, and more services for young children and their parents. The anticipated completion date is October 2028. Taloyoak’s new high school project will also continue in the construction phase.

The project is scheduled to be completed by July 2026. The new high school will be a great addition to the community, and will eliminate the current overcrowding at the school. Our department will continue to upgrade its information technology infrastructure. There is a need to replace or repair intrusion alarms, closed circuit TV cameras, paging systems, and telephone systems. There is also an additional need to replace internet-capable devices such as computers, modems, routers, smart boards and printers to ensure they are compatible with current software.

Our department will continue with its ongoing life cycle repairs. Life cycle items include major components of a building, such as foundations, boilers, generators, roofs, siding, flooring, wall finishes, windows, and air handling units. These components require periodic repairs or replacement if they have met or exceeded their intended lifespan. This budget allows us to prioritize our capital projects, and those in collaboration with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut.

Additionally, this budget also prepares us for any needed repairs or replacements to help minimize potential impacts to the delivery of school programs. (interpretation) Mr. Chair, (interpretation ends) the Department of Education also has various minor capital projects which will continue in 2026-2027. This budget covers projects that are often health- and safety-related, and small projects such as wheelchair ramps, chairlifts, and mould remediation. Lastly, each year, we review requests for school buses and departmental vehicles.

In 2026-2027, we will continue to prioritize bussing needs across the territory. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am sure my colleagues will have questions about the capital estimates for 2026–2027. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 35 Chairman: Minister Main. Does a member of the regular members caucus have any opening comments? Please proceed, Mr. Taqtu. Mr. Taqtu: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to provide opening comments on behalf of the Regular Members Caucus on its review of the proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates of the Department of Education. The department’s proposed capital budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year is $32.18 million.

The department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates include funding for ongoing major capital projects to renovate the Sakku School in Coral Harbour and to construct a new high school in Taloyoak. The department’s five-year capital plan indicates that construction of a new K to 12 school in Arctic Bay will begin during the 2029-2030 fiscal year. The department’s 2024-2025 capital estimates included $1.5 million towards planning and design. Members recognize that the department considers a number of factors in its capital planning process, including school utilization rates.

Members encourage the Minister to regularly update and publish these rates in the department’s statutorily required annual report under the Education Act. During its winter 2025 sitting, the Legislative Assembly approved $23.058 million in capital carryover funding for a number of school renovations, repair and replacement projects. The supplementary appropriation also included $1.472 million in capital carryover funding for the department’s Full Day Kindergarten Pilot Project.

In September of 2023, the department announced that the schools in Apex, Chesterfield Inlet, Kimmirut, Kugluktuk and Whale Cove would be participating in the pilot project. The announcement indicated that “lessons learned from the pilot will be used to inform the department’s long-term plan and ensure the sustainable implementation of full-day kindergarten across all Nunavut schools.” Members look forward to ongoing updates on the status of this important initiative. The department’s proposed capital budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year includes $500,000 for the acquisition of school busses.

Members note that the lack of storage for school busses to protect them from the elements and from vandalism continues to be an ongoing issue. Members encourage the department to work with district education authorities and municipalities to identify suitable garage space in those communities where the lack of such space is impacting the delivery of school bus services, especially during the coldest and darkest months of the year. That concludes my opening comments on the proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates of the Department of Education. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 36 Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Taqtu. Do members have any general comments before we proceed to detailed questions? Seeing none, we will now proceed to a page by page review of the capital estimates starting on page G-3. Department of Education, Corporate Services. Total capital expenditures $32,180,000. Any questions from the members? I’ll just remind the members that you can ask any questions on the Department of Education, as long as it’s capital-related, as this is just a one page under the capital items. Thank you. Mr. Attagutaluk. Mr. Attagutaluk: Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. My question is what is the department’s current timetable for expanding full-day kindergarten to all Nunavut schools. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you to the member for the question. Acting Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) I thank you for the question. Looking at the schools across Nunavut right now, we have 13 schools that have already implemented full-day kindergarten, and so there are 15 schools that currently remain without full day kindergarten.

What the department is looking at is a phased implementation of the full day kindergarten to the remaining schools, and the timeline stretches, the specific timeline is dependent on available resources, because there are capital components to having full day kindergarten roll out in some of the remaining schools. If you’ll allow Deputy Minister Hainnu to respond to the timeline, she can provide some additional detail. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Ms. Hainnu. Ms. Hainnu (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you for the question.

Following the budget and resources available, the kindergarten pilot project will be starting in the schools, but right now we don’t have enough funding. We can only do one community in Arviat. We’ll have to find out how much it’s going to cost to implement it all, and once we do that we’ll be able to show you results for all of Nunavut. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you, Ms. Hainnu. Next is Mr. Qammaniq. Mr. Qammaniq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have a question regarding bus shelters or bus garages.

Our community got a very nice big school bus, but there’s no shelter for that vehicle, and because it’s too cold out this winter, it hasn’t been running

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 37 lately. I don’t know whether there was proper planning to get housing for that vehicle, but there’s none. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Qammaniq. Acting Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In regards to the busses, the funding for operations and maintenance, there’s no money set aside for shelters or garages for the school busses. We have heard that from the communities, but due to lack of funding, we don’t have any money set aside to house those vehicles. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman: Thank you, Acting Minister Main. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Sorry to interrupt proceedings. As Government House Leader, I’d ask for a Rule 46, I move that we adjourn for the day, given that the city of Iqaluit has closed the roads due to inclement weather. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Hickes. The motion is in order. All those agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Any opposed? The motion is carried. I will now rise to report progress. Sergeant-at-Arms, you can escort the officials out, thank you.

When we resume again, we will continue on with Mr. Qammaniq for his supplementary questions when we continue. Thank you. >>Committee adjourned at 16:04 and House resumed at 16:05 Speaker: Report of the Committee of the Whole, item 20. Mr. Pedersen. Item 20: Report of the Committee of the Whole Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Your committee has been considering Bill 2, and I would like to report progress. Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of the Committee of the Whole be agreed to. Speaker: Thank you. There’s a motion on the floor. Is there a seconder? Mr. Main. All those in favour? All those opposed?

Motion is carried. Item 21, Third Reading of Bills. Item 22, Orders of the Day. Mr. Clerk.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 38 Item 22: Orders of the Day Clerk: Thank you. Just a reminder there’s a meeting of the regular members caucus in the morning at 9 a.m., weather permitting. It depends on if the city opens the roads or not, depending on the weather. (interpretation) Orders of the Day for Wednesday: 1. Prayer 2. Ministers’ Statements 3. Members’ Statements 4. Returns to Oral Questions 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery 6. Oral Questions 7. Written Questions 8. Returns to Written Questions 9. Replies to the Opening Address 10. Petitions 11. Responses to Petitions 12.

Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters 13. Tabling of Documents 14. Notices of Motion 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills 16. Motions 17. First Reading of Bills 18. Second Reading of Bills 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters: Bills 1, 2, 3, and 4 20. Report of the Committee of the Whole 21. Third Reading of Bills 22. Orders of the Day. Thank you. >>Applause

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 39 Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. This House stands adjourned until Wednesday, March 11 at 1:30 p.m. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House adjourned at 16:07

Document details

Collection	Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	2026-03-10 Blues English
Type	statute
Volume / chapter	20260310 Blues English
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	TERRITORIAL
Identifier	25343deab765d91fc0e47f2256b4e3516fe1eeae

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