Nunavut Hansard — 12 March 2026 (Blues, English)

2026-03-12 Blues English

Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)

NUNA VUT HANSARD UNEDITED TRANSCRIPT THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 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) Hon.

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 ...................................................................................................................... 9 Returns to Oral Questions ............................................................................................................. 12 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................... 13 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................... 29 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................... 46 Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ........................................................................................... 46 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................... 47

A. Daily References Thursday, March 12, 2026 ............................................................................................................... 1 B.

Ministers’ Statements 28 – 7(1): Council of the Federation and First Ministers’ Meetings (Main) ................................... 1 29 – 7(1): Office of the Auditor General (Healey Akearok) ............................................................ 2 30 – 7(1): Community Corrections Mental Health Programs (Hickes) ........................................... 3 31 – 7(1): Tiktaalik Roseae Model New Exhibit Centrepiece (Koonoo) ........................................ 4 32 – 7(1): Internal Trade and the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (Simailak) ............................... 5 33 – 7(1): National Nutrition Month: Nourish to Flourish (Brewster) ............................................ 6 34 – 7(1): Diverse Learning (Healey Akearok/Akeeagok) .............................................................. 8 C.

Members’ Statements 44 – 7(1): Arctic Winter Games Participants (Kablutsiaq) ............. Error! Bookmark not defined. 45 – 7(1): High Arctic Dog Team Race (Taqtu) ............................. Error! Bookmark not defined. 46 – 7(1): Chesterfield Inlet Athletes (Sammurtok) ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 47 – 7(1): Inuinnaqtun Language (Kuliktana) ................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. 48 – 7(1): Igloolike to Pond Inlet Dog Team Race (Koonoo) ........ Error! Bookmark not defined. 49 – 7(1): Kugaaluk Hydro Project (Mike) .................................... Error!

Bookmark not defined. 50 – 7(1): Arctic Winter Games Athletes (Simailak) ...................... Error! Bookmark not defined. D. Returns to Oral Questions 5 – 7(1): Naja Isabelle Facility (Healey Akearok) ......................................................................... 12

E.

Oral Questions 30 – 7(1): Post-Secondary Education Institutions in Nunavut (Kablutsiak) ................................. 13 31 – 7(1): Idlout Member of Parliament – NDP to Liberal (Pedersen) ......................................... 15 32 – 7(1): Inuinnaqtun Dialect (Kuliktana) ................................................................................... 17 33 – 7(1): Water and Sewage Subsidy Program (Angootealuk) .................................................... 19 34 – 7(1): Mining in Nunavut (Porter) .......................................................................................... 21 35 – 7(1): Water Infrastructure (Taqtu).......................................................................................... 22 36 – 7(1): Resolutions Passed by Kivalliq Mayors (Sammurtok) ................................................. 23 37 – 7(1): Snow Fence for Clyde River (Kautuk) ......................................................................... 26 38 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Attagutaluk).............................................................................. 27 F.

Bills Bill 2 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2026-2027 – Consideration in Committee.......................... 29

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 1 Iqaluit, Nunavut Thursday, March 12, 2026 Members Present: Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok, Ms. Hannah Angootealuk, Mr. Edward Attagutaluk, Hon. Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster, Hon. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Mr. Jamie Kablutsiak, 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, Hon. Craig Simailak, Mr. Steven Taqtu, Hon. Annie Tattuinee. >>House commenced at 13:30 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon.

David Joanasie) (interpretation): Good afternoon, all. I would like to ask Mr. Attagutaluk to open the meeting with a prayer. >>Prayer Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Item 2, Ministers’ Statements. Premier of Nunavut Mr. Main. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 28 – 7(1): Council of the Federation and First Ministers’ Meetings (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to my colleagues, and also the members who went to watch Arctic Winter Games and came back, and were pleased. Mr.

Speaker, I wish to provide an update in regard to two recent, beneficial meetings I attended with my premier colleagues from across the country. (interpretation ends) On January 28, all of Canada’s premiers met for our winter Council of the Federation meeting. This was an opportunity to discuss the most pressing issues facing Canadians, especially around our relations with the United States and the international community. The Council of the Federation promotes interprovincial-territorial cooperation and close ties between premiers.

The Council of the Federation is actively engaged in national developments, and Nunavut is a strong participant, ensuring our unique interests are represented.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 2 The next day, all premiers met with Prime Minister Mark Carney at the First Ministers’ Meeting. During the meeting, we focused on one Canadian economy, national security, internal trade barriers, international relations and trade, defence, electricity and public safety. (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) meeting with my first minister colleagues gives me the distinct opportunity to push for Nunavut’s needs and realities with our country’s leadership.

During my first face-to-face meetings with the premiers, I was able to provide urgent, relevant information about Nunavut’s human security needs as we navigate current geopolitical uncertainty and the need to strengthen Arctic security and sovereignty. The Council of the Federation will meet again this July in Prince Edward Island, and I am prepared to meet with the first ministers whenever Prime Minister Carney calls upon us. I thank my colleagues for their warm welcome, and for their genuine support for and attention to Nunavummiut and our priorities. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker.. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you as well. Ms. Healey Akearok. Minister’s Statement 29 – 7(1): Office of the Auditor General (Healey Akearok) Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform this House that the Office of the Auditor General of Canada has initiated a follow-up audit of the Department of Family Services’ Family Wellness Division. The oversight of the Auditor General’s office ensures that our progress is measured, and that we can demonstrate meaningful improvement.

The work of the Family Wellness Division is essential to the safety and well-being of Nunavummiut and the strength of our communities. Our social workers support families through crises, and make the difficult decisions to step in when children and youth are not safe. They also support foster families, oversee adoption services, and ensure safe and stable environments for children and youth in care. Because this work is so critical, we welcome the Office of the Auditor General’s recommendations and continued oversight. Mr.

Speaker, our Ilagiitsiarniq Strategic Action Plan responds directly to the Auditor General’s past recommendations. Family Services is implementing key actions under the plan to strengthen oversight, improve reporting systems, and enhancing accountability. This includes the adoption of a new centralized reporting framework called Matrix,

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 3 which is improving data collection, analysis, and reporting. This system directly addresses important recommendations from the Auditor General. Improved child and family services data is now available, and adoption and out-of-territory data integration is underway. We are also ensuring social workers and support staff receive regular training to use Matrix effectively for tracking and reporting. This system is essential for ensuring staff have access to timely and accurate information to make decisions in the best interests of children and families.

Family Services is also conducting internal quality‑assurance file audits to identify and address gaps where our practice and reporting do not meet required standards. This work is strengthening how we document casework, collect and use data, and respond to child‑abuse referrals. The actions we are taking are improving Family Wellness services and how we measure progress on our commitments to Nunavummiut. I look forward to continuing our important relationship with the Office of the Auditor General. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements.

Minister of Justice, Mr. Hickes. Minister’s Statement 30 – 7(1): Community Corrections Mental Health Programs (Hickes) Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Welcome back my colleagues from Baker Lake. Mr. Speaker, our government remains committed to strengthening public safety and ensuring accountability, while also supporting the well-being of individuals as they reintegrate our communities. Today, I am pleased to share two important initiatives within Community Corrections that demonstrate this commitment. Mr.

Speaker, the Imminit Makigiarvik pilot project, funded in part by the Community Justice Division and delivered in partnership with Northern Counselling and Therapeutic Services, is the first program of its kind for Nunavut Corrections. Rooted in IQ, the program provides culturally informed, trauma‑sensitive mental-health supports directly to Community Corrections clients across the territory. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, Community Corrections officers also develop individualized plans designed to promote healing and healthy choices, strengthen family and community connections, and support safe reintegration.

Territory-wide client engagement for the program began in October 2025.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 4 Mr. Speaker, Community Corrections staff also participate in monthly mental-health training seminars led by Northern Counselling and Therapeutic Services. These sessions deepen staff understanding of the mental-health challenges clients may face, and ensure staff are equipped to manage complex files in a client‑centred, trauma‑informed way. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, together, these initiatives advance public safety across Nunavut by helping clients address their individual needs and supporting their safe and healthy reintegration. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Family Services, Mr. Koonoo. Minister’s Statement 31 – 7(1): Tiktaalik Roseae Model New Exhibit Centrepiece (Koonoo) Hon. Brian Koonoo (interpretation): Culture and Heritage. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Welcome, Mr. Minister. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to speak about the 375-million-year-old Tiktaalik fossil that was found on Ellesmere Island. The first part of the fossil was found in 2004, and the full body specimen was uncovered in 2024.

Tiktaalik represents the transition of an animal that lived in the water to one that could live on the land. Mr. Speaker, this completed specimen puts Nunavut at the centre of scientific study of this animal and the development of land-based animals. As this is one of the most significant paleontological specimens uncovered in Nunavut, having an accurate model available for display, loan and study would allow Nunavut to share and expand this knowledge. Mr.

Speaker, the model will become part of the Government of Nunavut’s palaeontologic holdings where it will be accessible to for viewing at the Canadian Museum of Nature. Mr. Speaker, the new model is the centrepiece of the Canadian Museum of Nature’s new exhibit, Life onto the Land, which opened in December 2025 and will run until October 2026. This is in Winnipeg. This marks the first time that the model has been on public display in Canada.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 5 (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, in 2004, a Tiktaalik fossil lived approximately 375 million years ago during the Devonian Period, and represents a transitional stage in the evolution of an animal going from a fish-like form to the earliest animals with limbs that could walk on land. Tiktaalik was named in 2006, and comes from an Inuktitut word referring to a “large, fresh-water fish seen in the shallows.” (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Ministers’ Statement. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr.

Simailak. Minister’s Statement 32 – 7(1): Internal Trade and the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (Simailak) Hon. Craig Simailak (interpretation): Thank you. I’m very pleased to be back, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. It was enjoyable, but I had to come back. I’m not going to mention the person’s name who wanted me to come back to the session. I’m sorry for my hoarsey voice, because I was screaming and yelling during the Arctic Winter Games with Mr. Kaludjak. It was good to watch the Arctic Winter Games, but my voice changed because of that. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to inform Members that Nunavut has assumed a national leadership role in advancing internal trade and labour mobility across Canada. In 2026, Nunavut is chair of the Committee on Internal Trade, the internal trade ministers’ table that advances priorities under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. This is an important opportunity for our territory. Internal trade is not an abstract concept. It affects the cost of goods in our communities. It affects labour mobility for skilled workers. It affects the ability of Nunavut businesses to access southern markets.

It affects how we reduce barriers that drive up prices for Nunavummiut. By chairing the Committee on Internal Trade, Nunavut is helping to shape discussions among the federal, provincial, and territorial governments. This work aims to reduce regulatory barriers, improve alignment of standards, and strengthen labour mobility across jurisdictions. For Nunavut, this work is particularly important. As a northern jurisdiction with high transportation costs and capacity challenges, we understand deeply how interjurisdictional barriers can compound affordability pressures.

Our perspective ensures that national trade discussions reflect the realities of remote and northern communities.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 6 Through our continued participation in and current leadership of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, we are actively supporting work to advance conversations aimed at practical solutions. This includes developing streamlined certification processes, improving procurement transparency, and developing more ways in which small and medium enterprises, including Inuit-owned businesses, can better participate in cross-Canada markets. Mr. Speaker, in late August 2026, Nunavut will host a Committee on Internal Trade meeting here in our territory.

This will bring federal, provincial and territorial counterparts together under Nunavut’s leadership. Hosting these meetings provides us with an opportunity to highlight the northern experience and demonstrate our commitment to consensus-based collaboration. It also reinforces that Nunavut is not simply participating in national conversations; we are leading them. This leadership aligns with our broader commitment to strengthening economic resilience, supporting local businesses, and reducing costs for families.

Internal trade reform will not solve every affordability challenge overnight, but practical improvements in labour mobility, procurement access, and regulatory alignment can have meaningful impact over time. Mr. Speaker, we are proud to represent Nunavummiut at the national table. We will continue to advocate for fairer, more efficient trade practices that strengthen our economy and benefit our communities. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Health, Ms. Brewster.

Minister’s Statement 33 – 7(1): National Nutrition Month: Nourish to Flourish (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the month of March marks National Nutrition Month in Canada, with this year’s theme being “Nourish to Flourish”. Food is deeply connected to our physical, mental, and social well‑being. In Nunavut, these connections are strengthened through Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, where food is not only nourishment but a source of identity, belonging, and knowledge.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 7 When families and communities come together to harvest, prepare, and share food, they strengthen relationships and create supportive spaces. Country foods are nutrient-dense and play an important role in maintaining good health. These moments also allow traditional knowledge to be passed on to younger generations, helping ensure that cultural practices remain strong. When country foods are not available or difficult to access, choosing healthy store- bought foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains supports good health.

At the same time, we recognize that the high cost of food and challenges with access remain some of the realities for many Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, every day Nunavummiut make choices about the foods they eat, and these choices have a meaningful impact on overall health. Eating well can increase energy, improve mood, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, some cancers, and osteoporosis.

The Department of Health encourages Nunavummiut to support their well‑being through nutrition in ways that honour culture, respect individual needs, and strengthen community, including by: • Harvesting, preparing, and eating inuksiutiit together; • Enjoying a variety of foods when available, and introducing children to local foods at a young age; • By choosing nutritious store-bought foods; and • By recognizing that food choices vary, based on cultural needs, health conditions, food access, and individual nutrition requirements.

Throughout March, Nutrition Month workshops will be offered in communities across Nunavut. I encourage residents to speak with their Community Health Representative for local information. Mr. Speaker, in Iqaluit, several events will be held, including a cooking class on March 20 at the Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre, a Youth Food Zone Workshop on March 25 at the Makkuttukkuvik Youth Centre, and nutrition booths at Qikiqtani General Hospital on March 30 and 31. Mr. Speaker, National Nutrition Month reminds us that when we nourish ourselves, we flourish as individuals, families, and communities.

We encourage all Nunavummiut to support one another in making choices that promote lifelong health. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 8 Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Healey Akearok. Minister’s Statement 34 – 7(1): Diverse Learning (Healey Akearok/Akeeagok) Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok: Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the announcement made by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami last month, that the headquarters of the Inuit Nunangat University will be home in our beautiful territory. I celebrate with the community of Arviat, and all Inuit regions, in hearing this wonderful news.

Having this university in Nunavut creates another option for Inuit wishing to pursue post-secondary learning. Ensuring Nunavummiut have diverse learning options is a goal of the Nunavut Arctic College. Over the past five years, the College has been adapting its presence in the territory by diversifying it program delivery models. Funding from the Government of Nunavut, Government of Canada, and Inuit organizations has allowed the College to develop and deliver more programming across the territory. Although the current academic year is more than halfway completed, I wish to recognize these efforts.

The Nunavut Teacher Education Program continues to offer years 1 through 5 in 15 communities outside its regional campuses. It does so through blended learning options, including in-person, online and remote learning. Year 1 of Inuit Studies is being offered in Qikiqtarjuaq and Naujaat, with the support of local instructors. Year 1 of the Applied Early Childhood Education program is being offered in Baker Lake and Pangnirtung. Finally, the College continues to offer online learning to eligible employees of the Department of Health, employees that are enrolled in Personal Support Worker courses.

This is in addition to the adult education options offered in community learning centres. Mr. Speaker, our territory needs diverse post-secondary learning options. Whether students choose to learn within our territory or outside it, the territory benefits when Inuit and Nunavummiut invest in themselves through ongoing learning and training. The Nunavut Arctic College is proud to be an option for Nunavummiut wishing to pursue post-secondary learning in our territory. (interpretation) Thank you, Mister Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Thank you.

Going to the Orders of the Day at number 3, Members’ Statements. I would start with Arviat, Mr. Kablutsiak.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 9 Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 44 – 7(1): Arctic Winter Games Participants (Kablutsiaq) Mr. Kablutsiak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m sorry if I called you at first Mr. Chairman. I would like to thank Mr.

Simailak for participating with him at the Nunavut Arctic Winter Games. (interpretation ends) Ashleigh Ollie, Hockey, U19 Female; Joey Komakjuak, Arctic Sports, Open, Male; Don Ikakhik, Hockey, U18, Male; Dexter Kalluak, Hockey, U18, Male; Gilbert Pameolik, Hockey, U18, Male; June Savikataaq, Hockey, U19, Female; Samson Emiktowt, Wrestling, Male; Gail Kuksuk, Wrestling, Female; Curtis John Taleriktok, Wrestling, Male; Samantha Komak, Wrestling, Female; (interpretation) and Jade Borden-Lee, Mission Staff. And last participant from Arviat, Cam Kalukjuk, U18, male. Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. >>Applause Speaker: And I thank you also. Members’ Statements. Member for High Arctic, Mr. Taqtu. Member’s Statement 45 – 7(1): High Arctic Dog Team Race (Taqtu) Mr. Taqtu (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I just want to say that there’s a high Arctic dog team race and there’s a lot of preparation in order to have those dog team races. I’ll say their names so you’ll know who they Pangaggujjiniq team is: Tom Naqitarvik; Marie Naqitarvik; Leah Iginia Kearns (ph); Valerie Qaunaq (ph); Michael Qaunaq; Rhoda Natinai (ph); Ashley Taqtu; Apaaq Taqtu (ph); and Jinneal Uttak.

They have been doing volunteer work for the high Arctic dog team racing tirelessly, and I just wanted to make that statement. Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. For Chesterfield Inlet-Rankin Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok. Member’s Statement 46 – 7(1): Chesterfield Inlet Athletes (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to Chesterfield Inlet and Rankin Inlet, and to my colleagues. I would like to congratulate the athletes that went to Arctic Winter Games that are from Chesterfield Inlet, for winning medals in wrestling. The person are Sal Sammurtok, gold;

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 10 Navia Sammurtok, silver. (interpretation ends) I congratulate them for winning those medals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Kuliktana. Member’s Statement 47 – 7(1): Inuinnaqtun Language (Kuliktana) Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise in the House to recognize Susan Idloutailaq and my late wife Millie Kuliktana for being trail blazers in Inuinnaqtun revitalization.

Susan and Millie have been very strong advocates in the revitalization of Inuinnaqtun language, and today we are seeing some results of their effort. We need to continue their dreams to ensure the language is not lost, and for that reason I would like the House and myself to congratulate them on their vision and their determination. And also I would like to recognize all the Inuinnaqtun Inuktitut speakers here today. Without them the language would certainly be lost, so for them I would like the House to recognize all the Inuinnaqtun and Inuktitut speakers in our territory to ensure that our language is not lost.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): And, yes, we thank the interpreter translators in all the regions so that we can understand one another. There are also some people who are unilingual in whatever language, and they can listen and participate. Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Mr. Koonoo. Member’s Statement 48 – 7(1): Igloolike to Pond Inlet Dog Team Race (Koonoo) Hon. Brian Koonoo: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would also like to add a comment that was made by the member for Quttiktuq in regards to the Pangaggujjiniq dog team racing.

It will be held from April 7 to April 14, from Igloolik to Pond Inlet. It is teaching experience for the younger generation about dog teaming and participating in races. I thank them all. It will be from April 7 that it will begin, and it’s an event we hold annually. You have an opportunity to participate until March 21. I support them fully. At the same time they usually hold the Qamutiq Cup, the hockey tournament, and that will be held in Pond Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 11 Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. That sounds like a very joyful event, with the dog team racing and the tournaments being held. Item number 3, Members’ Statements. Member for Pangnirtung, Mr. Mike. Member’s Statement 49 – 7(1): Kugaaluk Hydro Project (Mike) Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My constituents, good afternoon in Pangnirtung, and Nunavummiut. In upcoming days I will be tabling a document that is a priority in Pangnirtung concerning Kuugaluk Hydro Project. At this time as Pang residents, via community meetings, from my understanding, Mr.

Chairman, before the advent of Nunavut we used to have decisions made in the community from outside community. We have seen this reoccurring this past year. Pang residents were not given opportunity in 2024 by QIA, or Qikiqtani Inuit Association, with regards to Kuugaluk Hydro Project before the community in Pang knew about it. We had an agreement, and Nunavut being created, and today what we pursued by QIA and their pursuit is not good for the community. This project is planned to be fast-tracked before we have even been given more information.

It seems to be that the communities are not, we’re going back to a time when communities are ignored, and it’s happening again. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my comments. My apologies, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): The member is asking to extend his statements. Any nays? Not hearing any. Mr. Mike, proceed. Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m not ashamed of what I’m saying. We tried to leave our past, but now we are the ones practicing this as Inuit to our fellow Inuit.

As I said, I will be tabling here in the House the objections of Pangnirtungmmuit to the project and that they want to be given opportunity. The survey, when it was raised in Pangnirtung, it was opposed. It was supposed to be a, the study had to be taken place through QIA. QIA is also supposed to represent the community, but at the moment the leadership doesn’t seem to reflect these. I received letters and comments concerning the project.

Perhaps the QIA leadership, in an area called Aukuniliq, which is an important summer camp, an important fishing ground, and when commercial fishing opens, I think it would be the best time to visit the site when commercial fishing starts.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 12 Mr. Speaker, I will be tabling again the opposition made by the community of Pangnirtung on paper in the days coming, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Qamani’tuaq, Mr. Simailak. Member’s Statement 50 – 7(1): Arctic Winter Games Athletes (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and good afternoon Quamani’tuaq Baker Lake residents. Mr. Speaker, I rise today. At this time our athletes are in Whitehorse for the event and they are there to play.

The names: Kyle Putumiraqtuq, Hockey, U15, Male; Jayna Kingunkotok, Basketball, U19, Female; Kaylie Grace Niuqtuq, Wrestling, Female; Alex Tookanachiak, Basketball, U19, Male; Kanina Duval, Basketball, U19, Female; Eleanore Aupaluktuq, Basketball, U19, Female; Harriet Amitnaaq, Basketball, U19, Female; Andre Mikkungwak, Basketball, U19, Male; coaches Olivia Tapatai, Coach, Basketball, U19, Female; Megan Hachey, Coach, Basketball, U19, Female; and April Niego, Mission staff.

Maria Diputer (ph) and Director Ilirtuq Simiulaq, but she is director for sport and recreation from Baker Lake. (interpretation) I would like to congratulate parents, grandparents, teachers, and coaches in Baker Lake and those who are supporting our youth, the hamlet in particular, who have given their support to the athletes. The whole community of Baker Lake is supporting you, supporting the athletes who are in Yukon at the moment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Members’ Statements. I have no more names on my list. Item 4, Return to Oral Questions. Family Services minister, Ms.

Healey Akearok. Item 4: Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 5 – 7(1): Naja Isabelle Facility (Healey Akearok) Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to supplement an answer I gave today on Question Period on March 9, 2026. The member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet asked how many bids were received to repair the building that formerly housed the Naja Isabelle facility. Mr. Speaker, a total of three bids were submitted.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 13 Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Item 5, Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Item 6, Oral Questions. We start with Arviat South, Mr. Kablutsiak. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 30 – 7(1): Post-Secondary Education Institutions in Nunavut (Kablutsiak) Mr. Kablutsiak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll be speaking in English. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College. Mr.

Speaker, as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Arviat South, I was very pleased to hear the recent announcement that the new Inuit Nunangat University will be located in the community. This decision has been very much welcomed by our residents. As the Minister will recall, the government’s official statement regarding this decision indicated that it is “committed to ensuring that the complementary efforts” of both Nunavut Arctic College and the new Inuit Nunangat University “meet the needs of Nunavut.” Mr. Speaker, I welcome this commitment.

Can the Minister describe what role Nunavut Arctic College will have in the planning process for the new Inuit Nunangat University. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Acting Minister of Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Healey Akearok. Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Congratulations again to the member’s community for being selected to host the headquarters of the university.

The Nunavut Arctic College supports all opportunities for training and education in the territory, and recognizes that no one single institution can meet the diverse needs and opportunities of our territory. Inuit Nunangat University is separate from Nunavut Arctic College, and the college does not have a role in planning at this time. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 14 Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. First supplementary question, Mr. Kablutsiak. Mr. Kablutsiak: As a former educator, I strongly support efforts to increase the number of Nunavut Inuit who have become certified teachers.

The government’s official statement regarding the new Inuit Nunangat University indicates that it will “build local capacity in critical sectors such as education, health care, governance, and environmental stewardship.” As the minister is very aware, one of Nunavut Arctic College’s longstanding offerings is the Nunavut teacher certification program, which is commonly referred to as NTEP. Can the minister describe how NTEP is envisioned to be coordinated with the new university’s education programs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister for Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Healey Akearok. Hon.

Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the supplementary question and appreciate the attention to the Nunavut Teacher Education Program. The Pathfinder agreement was recently extended that allows the continued delivery of the NTEP program until June 2029. The goal, as the member knows of this program, is to graduate more bilingual teachers to work within our education system.

We look forward to continuing the delivery in 17 more communities. further to that we have no more information at this time, but do look forward to keeping the member informed as we go forward. Qujannamiik. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Second and final supplementary, Mr. Kablutsiak. Mr. Kablutsiak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Minister is aware, the government’s most recent quarterly employment report indicates that there is a total of approximately 21 positions at Nunavut Arctic College’s headquarters office in Arviat.

I am concerned that the report indicates that approximately seven of the positions are filled and 13 are vacant. This is a vacancy rate of over 60 per cent. Mr. Speaker, it will be challenging for the college to help plan for the new Inuit Nunangat University if it is struggling with a high vacancy rate.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 15 Can the Minister indicate what factors are contributing to the high vacancy rate, and can the Minister describe how the college is working to fill the positions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Interim Minister for Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Healey Akearok. Hon. Gwen Healey Akearok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the supplementary question. Vacancies continue to be a challenge across our government, and recruitment efforts do continue.

I would be happy to follow up with the member with specific information for Arviat at a later date. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Cambridge Bay, Mr. Pedersen. Question 31 – 7(1): Idlout Member of Parliament – NDP to Liberal (Pedersen) Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today my questions are for the premier. I noted that the premier issued a statement yesterday concerning the floor-crossing of our member of Parliament, Ms. Idlout, from the New Democratic Party to the Liberal Party.

Can the premier confirm whether or not he had discussions with our member of Parliament prior to her crossing the floor prior to joining the Liberal government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): The Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the question. I can confirm that yes, I’ve had discussions with Ms. Idlout prior to the news that she was joining the Liberal Party. I’ve had discussions with her, ongoing discussions with her for a number of years on a number of topics.

In my previous role as health minister, I was fortunate to have Ms. Idlout as a partner and an ally in Ottawa, and when I stepped into the role as premier, the communication between her and I continued. I very much look forward to continuing to work with Ms. Idlout in her new, I guess it will be a bit of a different dynamic now that she’s joined the Liberal Party, but she has been a strong voice for Nunavut in Ottawa. As the member knows she’s our only MP, and our government is committed to continuing the dialogue with her and her office, to advance the needs of Nunavummiut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker.)

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 16 Speaker: First supplementary question, Mr. Pedersen. Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We’re all aware that the Grays Bay Road and Port Project is being considered by the Prime Minister to be placed on the fast track list for the Federal Major Projects Office. We’re all aware that its routing is close to many potential projects that have known critical mineral reserves. Can the premier confirm whether or not his government is supportive of having the Grays Bay Road and Port Project included on the fast track list of major projects. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) That’s a question that I believe is one that hasn’t been posed to us. Ultimately it’s not our decision, as to whether projects are placed on any list or given any special designation; that’s a federal government’s purview.

Our position with regards to Grays Bay and with regards to the other three Inuit-led major projects, our position is one of conditional support in terms of the conditional portion comes to things like environmental assessment and the need for communities to be consulted and community voices to be heard. We will continue to provide that support at a high level to these four Inuit-led projects, but ultimately, as I mentioned, whether they are given special designation by federal parties, those are decisions made by federal parties. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Pedersen. Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the premier for that response. It has been no secret that when our member of Parliament was a part of the NDP caucus, she was very critical of mining-related projects in Nunavut. Now that she is part of the Liberal government, I’m hoping that her stance may have changed.

Can the premier indicate whether or not he has had direct communication with our member of Parliament regarding her support for getting the Grays Bay Road and Port Project to be included as a project that should be placed on the prime minister’s major projects list for fast tracking. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 17 Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) As I indicated in my first response, in terms of the relationship with our MP’s office, it is one of coordination and communication. In terms of the specific items that we may or may not have communicated on, I’m not going to divulge that here. I can summarize our discussions at a higher level in terms of we, I, as premier, will continue to bring issues of interest to our MP’s attention, and continue to have that strong dialogue between our MP and the territorial government.

It is very important that we work with our partners. Our MP is one of them; our senator is another; Inuit organizations. We really see value in working together, whether it’s the federal government, whether it’s Inuit organizations, whether it’s municipalities. Partnerships that are grounded in trust and open communication, those are the ways that we are going to achieve success on behalf of Nunavummiut, and look forward to working with our MP on a variety of issues in her new – I don’t want to say role.

She has the same role, just on a different side of the House, and continue to look forward to working with her. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Kuliktana. Question 32 – 7(1): Inuinnaqtun Dialect (Kuliktana) Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Languages, and they concern the issue of the Inuinnaqtun dialect. Mr. Speaker, as the Member of the Legislative Assembly representing the constituency of Kugluktuk, I am an advocate for the strengthening and promotion of the Inuinnaqtun dialect. Mr.

Speaker, during the previous Legislative Assembly’s sitting of March 10, 2023, the Minister’s predecessor indicated that “we are proposing shifting the focus of Inuinnaqtun translations to prioritize areas that are either likely to improve revitalization or directly support access to service.” Can the Minister provide the House with a substantive update on what specific new resources his department has created to promote the revitalization of Inuinnaqtun. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister of Languages, Mr. Koonoo. Hon. Brian Koonoo (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and thank you to my colleague. (interpretation ends) It has been a challenge, but that’s on the plans for Culture and Heritage for languages, and there is some funding set aside for Inuinnaqtun. It’s part

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 18 of the Culture and Heritage priority to promote Inuktut, and also the Inuinnaqtun as part of the priority in Nunavut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary question, Mr. Kuliktana. Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to take this opportunity to kindly encourage my constituents to continue speaking Inuinnaqtun in our homes, at school, and in our community. Our language helps keep us rooted in our cultural knowledge, traditions, and identity. Mr.

Speaker, the department’s approved 2025-2026 business plan indicates that the department’s new translation policy is placing a clear emphasis for Inuktitut for internal communications, and focussing Inuinnaqtun efforts on legal obligations and language revitalization. Can the minister provide a clear update today on the status of this important work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister of Languages, Mr. Koonoo. Hon. Brian Koonoo (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my colleague.

The Inuinnaqtun, from what we understand, the number of people who can speak Inuinnaqtun is diminishing in number, and it’s very important that it be revitalized. (interpretation ends) The funding that has been set up for it. I’ll respond in English. (interpretation ends) We have a revitalization officer in Kugluktuk, and we will continue to work with our partners at Kitikmeot Inuit Association. We are still reviewing, and we will update after consulting with Kitikmeot Inuit Association. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Second and final supplementary question, Mr. Kuliktana.

Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Statistics Canada recently published the Languages in Nunavut study, based on statistics from the calendar year 2021. This study was conducted in collaboration with the Government of Nunavut Department of Culture and Heritage. Mr. Speaker, this study highlights the knowledge and use of the official languages in Nunavut. The study indicates “half the people with Inuinnaqtun as their mother tongue are aged 55 and over, signalling potential challenges for the sustained use for the language.”

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 19 Can the minister explain what specific actions his department has undertaken to address this important issue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): The Minister for Languages, Mr. Koonoo. Hon. Brian Koonoo (interpretation): It would be nice if I was the Commissioner. And I thank the colleague for the question. The language bureau, Department of Culture and Heritage has worked hard to try to revitalize Inuinnaqtun.

They have Microsoft apps that they used to help in the revitalization that people can use on computer, using the Inuinnaqtun language or dialect. (interpretation ends) They are the experts, and we need their support and are more than welcome to use our funds for revitalization. We would like to get update on your plans in submitting the annual plans for the 2018 through 2025 revitalization project. We are willing to help support the Kitikmeot and Kugluktuk, and we want their support as well so they can encourage and contribute to the revitalization of the Kitikmeot. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Ms. Angootealuk. Question 33 – 7(1): Water and Sewage Subsidy Program (Angootealuk) Ms. Angootealuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s great to see Minister Simailak back here again. (interpretation ends) My question today are for the Minister of Community Services. As the minister will be aware, the Municipal Council of Coral Harbour passed amendments to its Water and Sewage Rates bylaw in January of this year. I pay tribute to the mayor and council for their hard work. Mr.

Speaker, my understanding is that the bylaw is waiting for the Minister’s approval, as required under the Hamlets Act. Can the minister confirm when the revised bylaw will be approved. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: (interpretation) Thank you. Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for the question, and for welcoming me back. It’s good to be back here.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 20 Currently it’s going through the processes right now. The staff is looking into it to see, make sure all the “I”s are dotted and “T”s are crossed, and go through the processes. But I can commit to getting back to the member with a more refined date as to when we can look at it and process it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Don’t forget the “O”s are owed. >>Laughter Speaker: First supplementary question, Ms. Angootealuk. Ms. Angootealuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I have been informed that the municipality has had to increase water and sewage rates due to various cost pressures on the municipality. As the minister is aware, his department is responsible for administering the Water and Sewage Subsidy Program. The purpose of the program is to “provide financial support to municipal corporations to assist with the provision of water and sewage services and to subsidize costs and reduce user fees for these services.” Mr. Speaker, the program provides a maximum of $2 million per year to municipalities.

Can the minister indicate if his department is considering increasing this amount. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question there. The department is constantly looking at the dollar amounts to formalize to see if each community is meeting the needs of, their needs. It’s constantly happening, and we will continue to do that. And if we need to increase it more, we will look at it and bring it here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker (interpretation): Second and final supplementary question, Ms. Angootealuk. Ms. Angootealuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the minister will be aware, his department’s Community Development Grant and Contribution Policy was last updated in November 2024. Can the minister indicate if his department is currently planning to make any changes to the Water and Sewage Subsidy Program.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 21 Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, thank you to the member for the question. If there needs to be an increase, we can look at doing an increase again and if it’s on the community’s needs. Each community has different budget processing, different needs, and different cost of living expenses. If we need to look at increasing it, we can look at it going through budget processes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Oral Questions.

Member for Uqsuqtuuq, Mr. Porter. Question 34 – 7(1): Mining in Nunavut (Porter) Mr. Porter: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister responsible for Mines. Earlier this month, the Minister participated in a Pan-Northern meeting of ministers responsible for mining to discuss critical minerals and other topics. Can the Minister highlight what Nunavut’s priorities were at this meeting. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Mines, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for his question.

Regarding the pan-territorial ministers meetings in mining, it had to do with critical minerals and voicing our needs and infrastructure deficiencies as well to have access to reaching those critical minerals. Those are all critical minerals that this meeting was for. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Your first supplementary question, Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. the minister is aware, the Government of Nunavut signed a memorandum of understanding last year with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association and B2Gold.

The purpose of the agreement is to “strengthen collaboration on economic development, training and community well-being in the Kitikmeot.” Can the minister provide an update today on the implementation of this agreement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister responsible for Mines, Mr. Simailak.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 22 Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member for the question. It’s a continued collaboration with the mining sectors, and we also thank them for helping us out with the housing money, helping us out over there in the Kitikmeot region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Second supplementary question, Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Grays Bay Road and Port Project will have significant impact on mining in the Kitikmeot region.

As the minister will be aware, the project proponent has recently submitted its formal impact statement to the Nunavut Impact Review Board. Can the Minister highlight some of the critical mineral projects that will be impacted by the Grays Bay Road and Port. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister responsible for Mines, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again I thank the member for his question. It will help us out with the economy, the climate. Over there there is the Izok Lake.

There is copper and nickel that could be mined over there, so we are open to the idea of the Grays Bay Road and Port being developed, as long as it is done sustainably and environmentally and helps benefit Nunavummiut, especially the Kitikmeot Inuit, as it’s their region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for High Arctic, Mr. Taqtu. Question 35 – 7(1): Water Infrastructure (Taqtu) Mr. Taqtu: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Community Services.

As the minister is aware, the government issued a request for proposals in June 2021 to develop a business case for the new water treatment plant facilities in Arctic Bay and Grise Fiord. The previous Legislative Assembly approved capital funding for the construction of the Arctic Bay water treatment plan upgrade. Can the minister provide an update today on the status of this project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for his question.

Regarding the Arctic Bay water treatment plant update, the planning design phases were

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 23 completed, and my latest information is construction activities began in the late summer of 2025. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary question, Mr. Taqtu. Mr. Taqtu: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The previous Legislative Assembly approved capital funding for the construction of the Grise Fiord water treatment plant upgrade. Can the minister provide an update today on the status of this project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

With regards to Grise Fiord, I believe it’s subject to appropriation, and soon to be moving to construction phase later this year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Second and final question, Mr. Taqtu. Mr. Taqtu (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) As the minister will be aware, Grise Fiord realized on glacier melt for the community’s drinking water supply. As glaciers recede across the world, climate change has raised concerns about the long-term future of this supply. Mr.

Speaker, it is my understanding that a previous government undertook a study on the long-term water supply for Grise Fiord. Can the Minister highlight the findings and recommendations from the study. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for his question. Access to safe drinking water and effective waste water treatment is vital to the health, safety and resilience of our communities across Nunavut.

With regards to the glacier study and long term study for Grise Fiord, I don’t have that level of detail with me on hand, but I will commit to getting back to the member with more information on that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): We shall expect. Oral Questions. Member of Rankin Inlet North and Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok. Question 36 – 7(1): Resolutions Passed by Kivalliq Mayors (Sammurtok)

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 24 Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the premier, who is the Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs. As the premier will recall from yesterday’s sitting of the House, I had the honour of tabling the formal resolutions that were recently passed by Kivalliq mayors. One of the recommendations concerned the proposed Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link.

As the premier will also recall, he recently had a meeting in Winnipeg with the Premier of Manitoba and the President of the Kivalliq Inuit Association to discuss this project and other topics. Can the premier provide an update today on the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Premier and Minister of EIA, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the question.

In terms of the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link, we are not a proponent as a Government of Nunavut, of course, as the member knows, and so the project is being lead by Nukkik Corporation a subsidiary underneath Sakku Investment, which is of course owned by Kivalliq Inuit Association. So my understanding is that the project continues to proceed through the design, and has recently entered into regulatory processes. The meeting with Premier Kinew was one where we touched on a number of different subjects. The Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link was an interest that was raised at the table, but amongst others.

We see a lot of value in collaborating with government of Manitoba, whether it’s on economic development, whether it’s on health care, whether it’s on transportation corridors, so that meeting was a valuable use of our time and I look forward to future meetings with Premier Kinew. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Your first supplementary question, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Another resolution that was passed by Kivalliq mayors called for the reinstatement of the Hudson Bay Regional Roundtable.

I believe that the last meeting under the roundtable took place back in 2018.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 25 Can the premier indicate if this topic was discussed during his recent meeting with the Premier of Manitoba. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) The Hudson Bay Roundtable specifically did not come up during our discussion; however, we were discussing ways to strengthen collaboration between our jurisdictions.

Looking at the government of Manitoba and Government of Nunavut specifically, we were looking at renewing our memorandum of understanding between our two governments. I very much look forward to welcoming Premier Kinew, and potentially members of his cabinet, to Nunavut. It has been quite some time, in my understanding, there’s been a visit from sitting members of executive council or cabinet from Manitoba to come north into Kivalliq region, so we’re looking forward to setting that up or seeing that happen.

Like I mentioned, we see so much value in partnerships, whether it’s with stakeholders like Kivalliq Inuit Association or government of Manitoba. We can do a lot when we work together. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Your second and final supplementary question, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Another resolution that was passed by the Kivalliq mayors addressed the issue of devolution and the need for a process to provide employment opportunities for Nunavut Inuit.

Can the premier indicate approximately how many new positions are expected to be transferred to the territorial government as part of the devolution process, and can he indicate how many of these positions will be located in Kivalliq. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) In terms of the positions that will come over from federal parties to Nunavut, the number the member is looking for is 104.

Right now, in terms of where those positions are located, they are located in Iqaluit, they are located in Rankin Inlet, Cambridge Bay and also Kugluktuk. A vast majority of them are here in Iqaluit. Post-devolution, in terms of the breakdown per region and where the positions would end up, there are a number of different factors that could influence that, and part of it is I believe what the mayors resolution was trying to get at. Part of it is around decentralization.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 26 I can’t give the number, a specific number to the member at this moment, but I can work with my staff on establishing a range within which we expect specifically for Kivalliq region. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Mr. Kautuk. Question 37 – 7(1): Snow Fence for Clyde River (Kautuk) Mr. Kautuk: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Community Services.

As the minister is aware, Clyde River gets a lot of snow, and our municipality of Clyde River is seeking help to get snow fence up around town. Could they get help in funding to set up snow fence built up around town. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister Simailak, Community Services. Hon. Craig Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I can tell that the members missed me in my absence. >>Laughter (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question.

The question regarding snow fencing, which is I believe a need in of community across Nunavut, through the hamlet an integrated sustainability plan, we can look at it as an infrastructure like that, and perhaps through the municipal block funding, we can tackle it through that. I can look into that some more. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary question, Mr. Kautuk. Mr. Kautuk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I believe every community needs one. But it would help alleviate the use of diesel fuel with the heavy equipment in our town.

Would you know if our town will be considered to be helped any time soon? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Community Services, Mr. Simailak. Hon. Craig Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Yes, we can definitely look into that. Our department is happy to work with any hamlet to meet their needs, so we can try to make life easier in each community. Having less snow would definitely help with getting our vehicles up and around easier, especially our water and sewage trucks and garbage trucks.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 27 The hamlet could also help advance a capital project with them. We would be able to help them out with that. As long as they prioritize it, the hamlet through their municipal capital block funding, we may be able to expedite that a bit. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Mr. Attagutaluk. Question 38 – 7(1): Airport Infrastructure (Attagutaluk) Mr. Attagutaluk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, I was pleased to note that the department’s 2026-2027 capital estimates include funding to undertake an assessment of Igloolik’s airport terminal building. Can the minister indicate if his department is considering constructing a new airport terminal building to replace the current facility. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, whenever we’re having an evaluation on a piece of infrastructure, it’s always kind of a – how do I put it – there is a lot of discussion that goes into whether you’re either going to replace or renovate something, and that analysis hasn’t been complete yet. But I do look forward to seeing that completion and being able to inform the member formally. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Your first supplementary question, Mr. Attagutaluk. Mr. Attagutaluk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) I was pleased to note that the department’s 2026-2027 capital estimates also include funding to produce engineered drawings design related to the Igloolik airfield overlay. Can the minister indicate if his department is considering any new runway paving projects at Nunavut’s airports. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, whenever we are doing resurfacing of airstrips across the territory, there is a lot of evaluation that goes into identifying priorities.

I don’t remember exactly where Igloolik is on that plan, but I will

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 28 return to the member to see exactly where they are in the sequence of resurfacing the Igloolik runway. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Your second and final supplementary question, Mr. Attagutaluk. Mr. Attagutaluk: In March of this year, the federal Minister of Transport announced the launch of the call for proposals under the new $1 billion Arctic Infrastructure Fund.

Information published by the federal government indicates that it will consider proposals for infrastructure initiatives that will “enhance community connectivity and access to essential goods, services and emergency response.” Can the minister indicate what proposals the Government of Nunavut will be submitting under the new Arctic Infrastructure Fund. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I’m actually glad the member raised this.

With our discussions with our federal colleagues on how some of these new funds are being brought forward and what some of the perimeters of approval is, there are still a lot of questions. Again, just as recently as just a few days ago, I’ve been talking to some of my federal colleagues on exactly how the application process is going to work to access these funds. There’s a lot of promotion behind it. There’s been a lot of, again, just a lot of support I think, across the north, recognizing that it’s Arctic, even as far as recognizing that northern parts of some of the provinces are not eligible.

The focus is very succinct in saying that it’s for Arctic support. I do look forward to getting a little bit more information from my federal colleagues on how exactly these programs are going to be rolled out and how we can prioritize our needs. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Oral Questions. Item number 7, Written Questions. Number 8, Return to Written Questions. Item number 9, Replies to Opening Address. Item number 10, Petitions. Item number 11, Responses to Petitions. Item 12, Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and other Matters. Item 13, Tabling of Documents.

Item 14, Notices of Motions. Item 15, Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item number 16, Motions. Item 17, First Reading of Bills. Item 18, Second Reading of Bills. Item number 19, Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters, Bills 1, 2, 3 and 4 with Mr. Pedersen in the chair. But before that, we’ll take a 20 minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at14:59 and Committee commenced at 15:26

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 29 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairman (Mr. Fred Pedersen): Thank you for returning. I would like to call the committee meeting to order. In Committee of the Whole 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. We wish to continue with the review of Bill 2, with the Department of Justice, and if time permits the Department of Finance, thank you, Mr. Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Taqtu. Are we in agreed we deal with Bill 2?

Some Members: Agreed. Bill 2 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2026-2027 – Consideration in Committee Chairman: Thank you. I would like to ask Minister Hickes: Do you have officials you would like to have appear before the committee? Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chair. If the committee will allow, yes. Chairman: Thank you. Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms, please escort them in. For the record, Minister Hickes, please introduce your officials and proceed with your opening comments. Hon.

George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman and the members. I appear before the Committee today to present the Department of Justice’s 2026-2027 capital estimates. We are seeking approval of $14,955,000 for the Department of Justice’s capital expenditures for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Joining me here today are: • Christine Ellsworth, Deputy Minister; and • Mubashir Mahmood, Director of Corporate Services. Mr. Chair and members, Justice has five capital projects: • Kugluktuk Illavut Centre renovation, Phase 2; • Nunavut Courthouse building renovation;

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 30 • Justice and Corrections Information System, acronym, JaCIN; • Ongoing life cycle funding for repairs and maintenance, and; • Minor capital Mr. Chairman, $6.6 million is requested for the Kugluktuk Illavut Centre Phase 2 renovations to replace the aging exterior structural envelope, provide additional office space for facility staff and local community corrections staff, and improve kitchen infrastructure.

The first phase of the project was substantially completed in December 2025, and the facility has re-opened and is now housing clients. $1 million is required for safety and security upgrades to the Nunavut courthouse building here in Iqaluit. The renovations include constructing an additional cell, an extra secure interview room for lawyers to meet safely with clients, and a secure hallway, to separating clients from the court staff and lawyers’ areas. Mr.

Chairman, $4.2 million is requested for the digital Justice and Corrections Information System project, which will modernize the courts’ and Corrections’ tracking system to improve data collection, management, and overall administration of justice. The project will upgrade client‑management systems and strengthen integration between Courts and Corrections. The project is progressing with staff from Corrections, courts, and the project team participating in a Government of Saskatchewan demonstration to assess the proposed solution and validate requirements. Mr.

Chairman, we are requesting $2 million for ongoing life cycle funding to address aging infrastructure across all eight Government of Nunavut-owned facilities operated by the Department of Justice, and to renovate programming and administrative spaces to improve service delivery and accommodate staffing increases over the years.

Finally, the Department of Justice is also seeking $1.1 million under the minor capital budget, which includes the following items: • $370,000 to purchase eight vehicles to replace outdated models that require high maintenance costs to maintain, and an additional $100,000 for regular maintenance and repairs for all Justice’s vehicles; • $300,000 to improve our Information Technology Systems and Infrastructure through a bulk purchase of approximately 100 computer systems to replace aging staff computers, and to meet the costs of necessary fiber-optics connections within leased buildings.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 31 • And finally, at the Aaqqigiarvik Correctional Healing Facility: ᵒ $155,000 to install security panels for windows to prevent damage to windows and contraband entering the facility. The facility has already tested and installed a sample with positive results; ᵒ $100,000 for a new digital entry and verification access system to enhance security and safety of clients, staff and visitors; and ᵒ $75,000 to install three network‑connected key control safes, replacing the manual key‑tracking process with a more reliable, integrated key‑management system. Mr.

Chair, this concludes my opening comments. I would be pleased to answer questions from committee members. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Hickes. Does a member of the Regular Members’ Caucus have any opening comments? Please proceed, Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to provide opening comments on behalf of the Regular Members’ Caucus concerning its review of the proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates Department of Justice. The department’s proposed capital budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year is $14.955 million.

This represents an increase of 115.4 per cent from 2026 primary budgets the primary increase is due to the department’s phase 2 renovation of Kugluktuk’s Illavut Centre. Members note that the department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates includes $6.623 million in capital funding for the phase 2 renovation of the Kugluktuk Ilavut Centre. During the minister’s recent appearance, members asked for an update on the status of this work.

Members also note that the department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates include $4.232 million in capital funding for its Courts and Corrections information technology system. Members note that this multi-year project is intended to modernize the processes and technology that supports the administration of the courts and corrections departments. Members look forward to receiving ongoing updates on this important project. Members note that the department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates includes $2 million in capital funding for its ongoing life cycle funding.

Members also note that in this this ongoing life funding is intended to address repairs required to maintain the

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 32 department’s seven correctional facilities, and the Nunavut Court of Justice building. Members look forward to receiving ongoing updates on the status of this work. Members also note that the department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates also includes $1.1 million in funding for a number of minor capital projects. That concludes my opening comments on the proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates of the Department of Justice. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Porter. Do members have any generals comments before we proceed to detailed questions? Mr. Taqtu. Mr.

Taqtu: Thank you, Chair. This is a question for Minister of Justice and his colleagues. Your department’s draft for 2026-2027 capital estimates includes $155,000 in minor capital funding for a window replacement project at the Aaqqigiarvik Healing Facility. Your department’s substantiation sheet indicates that existing windows “have seen extensive breakage due to vandalism, to have contraband brought into the facility.” It is suggested to install stainless steel metal plates in front of existing windows.” In total, how many windows will be renovated? Thank you, Chair. Chairman: Thank you.

I think you’re asking that question too early. We’re going to go page by page into the department’s submission for capital expenditures, and we’re going to start on page E3, which is for their directorate. After that we’ll be going to E5, which is Registries and Court Services, and after that we will be going to E7 which is under corrections. So if you could wait to ask your question under the correct part of the department, okay? Thank you. We’ll now proceed to the page-by-page review of the capital estimates, starting on page E3, Department of Justice, directorate branch.

Total capital expenditures of $3.1 million. Under that heading of directorate, it shows what it comprises, three divisions, director of corporate services and policy and planning, so please ensure your questions are related to that. Do the members have any questions? I see no questions. Do members agree with the Department of Justice branch total capital expenditure of $3.1 million? Some Members: Agreed.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 33 Chairman: Thank you. We’ll move on to page E5, Department of Justice Registries and Court Services Branch. total capital expenditures $5.232 million. Do members have any questions? Mr. Taqtu. Mr. Taqtu: Thank you for clarifying that, Mr. Chair. I’ll ask the same question I just read a minute ago. Is that fine? Your department’s draft for 2026 and 2027 capital estimates included a $155,000 in minor capital funding for window replacement project at the Aaqqigiarvik Correctional Healing Facility.

Your department’s substantiation sheet indicates that existing windows “have seen extensive breakage due to vandalism due to contraband brought into the facility. It is suggested to install stainless steel metal plates in front of existing windows.” In total, how many windows will be renovated? Thank you, Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Taqtu. Minister Hickes, I guess we should have asked that under the last one that we did, but I’ll allow you to answer the question now. Thank you. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I appreciate the question.

Between 70 and 80 windows will have these coverings installed over them. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Hickes. Any other questions regarding Registries and Court Services capital budget? Seeing none, do members agree with the Department of Justice Registries and Court Services Branch total expenditures of $5,232,000? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Now we will go to page E7. Department of Justice, Corrections Branch. Total capital expenditures, $6,623,000. Do members have any questions regarding this part? Mr. Kuliktana. Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Chair.

In regards to the Kugluktuk-Ilavut Centre renovations, I just wanted to point out that the last major renovations done, I was one of the two general electricians that completed that initial. That is just for your information. But on that, your department’s approved 2025-2026 substantiation sheet indicates that the Ilavut Centre renovation phase 1 was projected to be completed December 5, 2025. What is the status of this work? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Kuliktana. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Phase 1 was completed in December of 2025. Thank you.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 34 Chairman: Thank you, Minister Hickes. Mr. Kuliktana. Mr. Kuliktana: Thank you, Mr. Chair, and thank you, Minister, for your response. Your department’s draft 2026-2027 substantiation sheet for the Kugluktuk-Ilavut Centre renovation project indicated at this stage a detailed cost estimate for phase 2 of the project cannot be provided, as the issue for tender drawings and post scope of work have not yet been developed.

Your department’s substantiation sheet for the project also indicates that the consultant will undertake a re-design of phase 2, to establish the full scope of work. What is the expected timeline for the completion of this work? Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Kuliktana. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chair. To supplement my first response, there were a couple of outstanding things to be completed. Their HRV ducting and some nosing on some of the stairs have yet to be completed, which will be done later this year.

To answer the member’s second question, the work is to be done December 2027. Some of the planned scope of work is construction of additional office space for facility and Community Corrections staff, as well as kitchen renovation and the exterior. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Hickes. Mr. Kuliktana, are you done? Any other questions? Seeing none, do members agree with total capital expenditures of $6,623,000? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. We’ll now go to page E2. Department of Justice, total capital expenditures, $14,955,000.

Do members agree with the Department of Justice total capital expenditures of $14,955,000? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Do members agree we have concluded with the Department of Justice? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. I would like to thank the minister and his officials. Minister Hickes, do you have brief closing comments? Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I will keep it very brief. I was expecting some questions from Mr. Kuliktana, but I didn’t actually realize you actually participated

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 35 in that construction of that building. So it’s a good little tidbit for the public as well as myself. I do want to thank all the officials working behind the scenes to put together these capital budgets. There is a lot, an extraordinary amount of work that goes into the planning of some of these projects. It may seem simple when you’re just looking at four or five modifications on a piece of infrastructure, but there’s a lot of work.

There is a lot of planning, and a lot of dedication from people not just at this table, but the many people behind us that are working very hard every day. So thank you. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Hickes. Sergeant-at-Arms, if you can escort the witnesses out. Thank you. Now we’ll take a 10- minute break and get ready for the Department of Finance next. Thank you. >>Committee recessed at 15:46 and resumed at 15:57 Chairman: Thank you for returning, members. We have quorum, so I’ll reconvene this committee meeting.

I would like to ask Minister Main: Do you have officials you would like to have appear you before the committee? Hon. John Main (interpretation): Yes, I do, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Sergeant-at-Arms, please escort them in. For the record, Minister Main, please introduce your officials and proceed with your opening comments. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) To my right, your left, I have Dan Young, who’s Deputy Minister Finance.

And to my left, your right, we have Abraham Suleiman, who’s our Comptroller General. (interpretation) Mr. Chair and members of the committee. I am here to discuss the Department of Finance’s capital request for 2026-27. (interpretation ends) Through the capital estimates, the Department of Finance is seeking $20 million to complete the work needed to modernize the Government of Nunavut’s financial, human resource, and payroll systems. The request is split into two fiscal years: $10.3 million in 2026–27, and $9.7 million in 2027–28.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 36 The Departments of Finance, Human Resources, and Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut are co-leading this important initiative. Through previous capital budgets, the Legislative Assembly approved $41.55 million to implement the new system, called Oracle Fusion Cloud. If additional funding is approved, the revised capital budget for the Oracle project will be $61.55 million. The Oracle project was scoped into two releases. Release 1 included Finance and Core HR components. Release 2 was to include all compensation and benefits components.

Release 1 has been implemented. However, as per our original Oracle implementation timelines, Release 2 should now also have been implemented, but the GN, Government of Nunavut, has experienced significant challenges due to vendor performance issues and associated project delays, including a restructuring of two departments, which pulled resources from the core project and added significant costs. As a result, significant work remains to complete the configuration efforts and business changes required to successfully enable the GN’s payroll function within Oracle Fusion.

The key drivers for the increase in costs in this project are: • Oracle’s own implementation teams accountable to deploy the Oracle Fusion platform failed to adequately account for Government of Nunavut business requirements, resulting in requests for timeline extensions and additional funds; • The previous government’s decision to reorganize two departments added direct costs and delays; • The complexities of dealing with multiple collective agreements, employment assignment types, and schedules required more development time than originally anticipated to ensure staff are paid appropriately.

We learned a lot from Release 1. Our employees need time to adjust to change and the way that they do their jobs. For that reason, we have stretched the implementation timeline by splitting the second release into two parts, to ensure that employees have time to adopt new required processes and that there are no interruptions to employee pay. We have also hired a large international firm to review the roll out of Release 1 to ensure subsequent releases are as successful as possible. Another anticipated complication is the upcoming release of a major Oracle system upgrade known as Redwood.

While the Government of Nunavut knew about this upgrade, it was originally supposed to be rolled-out after the full Oracle implementation. However, due to the implementation delays, this is no longer possible and the Government of Nunavut must adjust its project scope and timelines; this will require additional effort and funds.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 37 (interpretation) Mr. Chairman, (interpretation ends) Government of Nunavut has developed a plan to move forward with the Oracle project. This approach was identified as the most expedient and cost-effective option. Rather than starting from zero, we have started to extract and improve upon the work completed to date by the previous contractors, while supporting the Government of Nunavut in the next steps towards full implementation of Oracle.

In terms of immediate next steps, the Government of Nunavut’s team have begun system integration testing on key HR functions, specifically relating to employees’ time and absence, currently planned to be deployed in September 2026, as well as the technical configuration work on the remaining payroll functions which is scheduled for deployment in September 2027. This additional $20 million investment is necessary for the Government of Nunavut to be able continue and go live with these key deployments.

If this funding is not approved, the human resources and payroll functions would remain outside of Oracle, and Government of Nunavut staff would continue to rely on existing systems and paper-based processes. (interpretation) Mr. Chairman, (interpretation ends) the Government of Nunavut has significant work ahead of us. We appreciate your support as we continue to move this important project forward. (interpretation) Thank you. My officials and I are available to answer your questions. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Does the chair of the standing committee have opening comments?

Please proceed, Mr. Attagutaluk. Mr. Attagutaluk: Thank you, 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 Finance. Between the 2022-2023 and 2025-2026 fiscal years, the Legislative Assembly approved $41.55 million in capital funding for the government’s new “Fusion Cloud” Enterprise Resource Planning System platform. The department’s proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates consist of $10.3 million in additional funding for the project.

Information provided by the department indicates that the total cost of the project is now expected to be approximately $61 million. Members are concerned that the total cost of the project has increased by almost 50 per cent over its original estimates.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 38 Members note that the scope of this project has been expanding. In its response to a recommendation contained in the Auditor General’s report on COVID-19 vaccines, the Department of Health indicated that it would “work with other Government of Nunavut departments on the design of the human resource modules within the newly-procured Enterprise Resource Planning system.

The system will track the completion of orientation and training programs for health care staff, monitor whether their licences and certifications are up to date, and provide regular reports of overdue training and expired licences or certifications.” During its winter 2025 sitting, the Legislative Assembly approved $5 million in supplementary capital funding for “work towards improving digital services of the Enterprise Resource Planning System project.” Members encourage the minister to provide regular updates on the implementation of these initiatives, in addition to updates on the usage of the system by the government’s public agencies, including the Nunavut Housing Corporation, the Nunavut Arctic College, and the Qulliq Energy Corporation.

Members note that a number of departments and public agencies have been working to procure and implement new information technology systems and infrastructure. These include the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s Housing Management System Replacement project, the Department of Justice’s JaCIN Courts and Corrections Information Technology project, the Department of Family Services’ Matrix Case Management System and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure’s Kivalliq Baffin Connector Fibre project.

Members suggest that the government’s overall management of its information technology procurement initiatives is an area that could be the subject of a future performance audit by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada. That concludes my opening comments on the proposed 2026-2027 capital estimates of the Department of Finance. Thank you, Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Attagutaluk. We’ll now proceed to page-by-page review of the capital estimates, starting on page C3. Department of Finance, Centrally Administered Funds Branch, total capital expenditures $12,600,000.

Just for the members’ information, the Centrally Administered Funds Branch includes employee benefits, capital lease insurance, energy subsidy, and Nunavut child benefit programs. Do members have any questions? Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The question I would like to ask about the Oracle, Mr. Chairman. I’m not sure if this question fits under C3, but it’s about Oracle, about a subcontractor. Can I ask that question about the subcontractor for Oracle, Mr. Chairman?

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 39 Chairman: Yes, you may, Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Finance on what the finance department has been doing. It is explained here that they will need more funding, that it requires additional capital funding due to several factors outside of its control, (interpretation ends) including vendor quality, Oracle preferred subcontractor, and later Oracle consulting services have consumed over 13,800,000 without delivering useable results on the payroll stream of the program.

Does your department consider the company to be in breach of its contract? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for the question. So the contractor in question did fail to deliver upon objectives, and so that’s why the contractor is no longer working on the project. We’re no longer working with them.

Right now we’re working with a company called Attain, and we are getting much better performance out of that contractor, and we are pleased with the progress to date. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you for the response, Minister. That $13 million even, there is always a lack of money for other programs, and $13 million, someone got paid $13 million for something useless, and it seems like it’s okay, the government is just okay with this.

Has there been any thoughts about that, where contractors – like we always use contractors, and when they’re not doing their job properly – is it possible to come up with some contingencies in case something like this happens again? That’s my other question. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. (interpretation ends) In terms of the contract and the way that we structure contracts, we have learned from the experience over the last couple years, in terms of how the contracts were structured around the deliverables and milestones. There was some useable work out of that expenditure that the member is referring to, so we want to clarify that although the end product wasn’t what was desired, there was some work, some value that came out of that

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 40 amount of work, and the folks that are working on the project now are using some of what was produced through that $13 million expenditure the member is referencing. So there were issues; we fully agree upon that. There were issues and things did not go as the department wanted, and where we’re sitting now is we’re on a much stronger footing. We’re working with a contractor that is delivering, and we have a realistic timeline to see these important components move forward over the next couple years with funding support. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Minister. I’ll read it in English. There’s still couple more. (interpretation ends) Your department’s substantiation sheet for this project indicates that Oracle made decision in January 2025 to cease all work on all release 213 module without notice or warning. This decision has significantly extended the project programs’ timelines and costs, and has required GN to engage new implementation partners to salvage these system configurations. What reason did Oracle provide for this decision? Thank you. Chairman: Thank you Mr.

Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) Looking at the history of the project, my understanding is that the pause in work that happened that the member is referring to, that was a result of a legal disagreement between Government of Nunavut legal representation and Oracle legal representation. That’s what contributed to decision on the contractor’s part to pause work. From the Department of Finance’s perspective, we wanted the work to continue. We didn’t want to see delays.

We’re seeing numerous benefits from the Oracle system as it’s being used right now across the government. This is a needed upgrade. These are needed tools to have a modern functioning government; not just Department of Finance, but management of public dollars. And so we are really keen to see this work continue, and to have what we’re referring to as R1 and R3 phases or rollouts, releases implemented for our staff. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Mr. Mike.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 41 Mr. Mike (interpretation): I apologize. Thank you, Mr. Minister. (interpretation ends) Your department’s substantiation sheet for this project indicates that completing the modernization mandate now requires an additional $20 million. How will this funding be spent? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) If you’ll allow, Mr. Suleiman is prepared to respond. Mat’na. Chairman: Go ahead, Mr. Suleiman. Mr.

Suleiman: Thank you, Chair, and I thank the member for the question. As my minister mentioned, the $20 million will be spent over two years. The first chunk of money in 2026-2027 of 10.3 is going to be spent on rolling out release 2. Release 2 captures even attendance, which captures the department’s employees’ time sheets. And then the 9.7 in 2027-2028 will look to role out payroll and benefits compensation in September 2027. Thank you, Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Suleiman. Mr. Mike. Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. My last question.

The department’s five-year capital plan indicates that the total cost of the new (interpretation ends) enterprise resource planning system will be $61,500,000. How confident are you that this amount will not increase further? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) We’re confident in these numbers. We have made improvements to how we are managing this project.

Looking at the lessons learned from release 1, we have a third-party review that has been done, and there’s recommendations that came out of that third-party review that we’ve implemented. Just briefly, we have cross-departmental working committee who are working on decision-making testing and change management. We now have a dedicated project manager reporting directly to the Government of Nunavut. We are also, I think, given additional confidence by the way that we’ve split up what was originally going to be one release, in terms of leave and attendance and payroll.

We split that in half, realizing that these are absolutely critical functions. We want our hard- working and dedicated Government of Nunavut staff to not see any negative impacts from the leave and attendance, or the payroll functions switching over to Oracle. We

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 42 want to get this right on behalf of our employees. That’s our intention. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you Minister Main. Mr. Mike, do you have another question? Mr. Mike (interpretation): Thank you. My question was in regards to the government operations, but in regards to corporations, to what extent the public agencies and corporations including the Nunavut Housing Corporation, the Qulliq Energy Corporation, and Nunavut Arctic College utilize the new system? To what extent will these corporations be utilizing the new system? Thank you.

Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) So it’s a great question. Looking at the entities, Nunavut Arctic College, Nunavut Housing Corporation and Qulliq Energy Corporation. Nunavut Arctic College is currently within the scope of the project to be part of the leave and attendance and payroll components, and that’s because the Government of Nunavut, currently we do manage their payroll and leave and attendance. The housing corporation and the Qulliq Energy Corporation are currently outside the scope of the project.

It’s possible that they would indicate an interest in joining the system, or making use of the system, but as its scoped right now and as it is presented to members, they are currently not part of it. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Next on my list is Ms. Angootealuk. Ms. Angootealuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. On page C3 I have a question. I want to get clarification. I apologize if I don’t understand it.

In regards to the benefits payments, would the increase in payment and also for children’s programs, Nunavut Child Benefit program with the increase, and also employee benefits with the increase. I don’t know if I understand this correctly. If you can explain this further. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you, Ms. Angootealuk. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you. We’re not proposing any changes to any benefits as part of this capital ask. We have one project in terms of the capital estimates, and it’s the Enterprise Resource Planning system.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 43 Certainly open to discussions around other Department of Finance programs and operations, maybe in a different venue, but we have one project, and it’s the Oracle Fusion Cloud project right now. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Taima? Okay, thank you. Next on my list, I have Mr. Kablutsiak. Mr. Kablutsiak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This was released few days ago in English.

It’s called “Government of Canada launches calls for proposals for the $5 billion Trade Diversification Corridors Fund and the $1 billion Arctic Infrastructure Fund.” For those of us of Nunavut territory, are we impacted? Are we part of this? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Mr. Kablutsiak, I believe that question is outside of the scope of what we’re dealing with today, the capital expenditures request by the Department of Finance. Would you like to answer, Minister Main? Okay, go ahead. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. (interpretation ends) I think this is maybe an opportunity for me to mention that although we’re proposing this project to be funded with Government of Nunavut dollars, so V ote 2 dollars, we are very interested in things that we can do in the future around information technology and software, whether there are ways for us to lower our costs. Part of that could be looking to our federal partners, whether it’s the federal Department of Finance in terms of joining a buyers club, if one should be established.

We recognize that we’re a very small jurisdiction, so in terms of information technology and software such as Oracle, Oracle is a massive company. We’re a very small customer for them. When we look at things like discounts that we might be able to access, we’re always looking to stretch government dollars as far as they can go. That is something that we’re very interested in. It’s not currently within the plans of this Oracle Fusion Cloud project, but it’s something that we are interested in pursuing, should opportunities become available. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman: Thank you for your response, Minister Main. Mr. Kablutsiak. Mr. Kablutsiak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And again, I have another question that’s outside of this area. I will be asking another question, and this will be the last one. In English it’s called geopolitical war, and we are focussing on the Arctic. Our communities are very far from each other, and since Arctic sovereignty has become a topic today, how are we doing with accessing funds from the federal government?

Are they going to be increasing the amount of dollars that we receive to enhance the hospitals, the health centres, community conflicts, airport supports, sports, and the high

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 44 cost of living? There are a lot of things that are needed. Does that mean there’s going to be an increase in the amount of dollars that we receive, or was it discussed when you went to go see your counterparts a few days ago? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Kablutsiak. Minister Main, are you prepared to answer that question? Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In terms of the Oral Fusion Cloud, I have admit I’m not prepared to talk at any length around geopolitics.

I understand where the member is coming from, and those are important issues, indeed, I agree; but in terms of this request, the request is for the additional funds for the Fusion Cloud project. We do see a lot of benefits that would come from this project for the Government of Nunavut and for our staff, and that’s why we’re hoping to move forward with it with your committee’s approval. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you for that response, Minister Main. At this time I don’t have any other questions, unless there are any more. Mr. Mike. Mr.

Mike (interpretation): First of all, I would like to ask a question regarding capital projects. I don’t believe it was brought up here, but I had another question regarding the Qulliq Energy Corporation. In 2025 the highest 1.50 billion. That’s my question, if it’s okay. Chairman: Thank you Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (Interpretation ends) I didn’t quite get the question. If the member could maybe repeat it. Mat’na. Chairman: Mr. Mike, if you could clarify your question, please. Mr.

Mike: Okay, well I mentioned that 2025 the Government of Canada announced that the Government of Nunavut’s borrowing limit will be increased to 1.05 billion. That was my question. Maybe I can ask you that, minister, right now. And if so, how does the government intend to utilize this additional borrowing capacity? Thank you, Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Mike. Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. (interpretation ends) So we very much appreciate the increase to our borrowing limit set by our federal partners.

And in terms of the government’s financials and the Oracle Fusion Cloud project, right now we’re seeing benefits to how government dollars are managed, and so that’s why we’re so excited about the project.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 45 In terms of the debt limit and the potential uses for those funds, if you’ll allow Mr. Young to maybe elaborate on some of the potential uses. Mat’na. Chairman: Thank you. Go ahead, Mr. Young. Mr. Young: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you for the question. We requested an increase to our debt cap in late 2024, mostly because our territorial counterparts were requesting at the same time, and we generally partner together to do these requests. It was a recognition from Canada that we’ve manage our debt very well, and they saw fit to give us an increase above what we had.

The previous limit was 750 million, but we’re only using about half of that 750 million. We don’t need the additional debt room yet; it was more of a plan for future, in case we needed to use it to build infrastructure or to manage deficits. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chairman: Thank you, Mr. Young, for your reply. I have no other questions at this time. Do members agree with the Department of Finance total capital expenditures $12,600,000? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Do members agree that we have concluded with the Department of Finance? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you.

Sergeant-at-Arms, you can escort. Sorry, before that, any closing comments from Minister Main? Thank you. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman, (interpretation ends) and thank you to the committee members for the questions. We’re really excited about the Fusion Cloud project, and I would like to thank the folks who are here with me today as well as the folks who are not.

A lot of hard-working staff within the Department of Finance, and also within our partner departments have been working on this, and we really look forward to the benefits that will go to our staff right across the GN. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you, Minister Main. Sergeant-at-Arms, you can escort the witnesses out. As the committee business is concluded for the day, I will now rise and report progress to the Speaker. Thank you.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 46 >>Committee adjourned at 16:37 and House resumed at 16:38 Speaker (interpretation): Please be seated. Item number 20, Report of the Committee of the Whole. 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 we would like to report progress. Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of the Committee of the Whole be agreed to. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. There’s a motion on the floor. Seconder? Mr. Attagutaluk. All in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried.

Item number 21, Third Reading of Bills. Ms. Lyall. Hon. Cecile Lyall (interpretation): Thank you, (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker. I request unanimous consent to return to item 5. Thank you. Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to return to item number 5. Are there any nays? Ms. Lyall, go ahead. Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Hon. Cecile Lyall (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I rise today to recognize a visitor in our gallery, Mr. Raymond Kayaksak, one of my constituents from Kugaaruk.

For decades, Raymond has been a steadfast advocate for Inuit in our communities. Through his work at the Kitikmeot Inuit Association, Kitikmeot District Education Board, and other numerous other boards that would take up the whole day to name for Mr. Kayaksak. Raymond has contributed greatly to the advancement of our communities, the community of Kugaaruk, Kitikmeot, and Nunavut as a whole. Raymond was a great friend of my late father, and a regular figure in our home and many homes across the region, and has been a great inspiration to many youth in the Kitikmeot and Nunavut.

Thank you, Raymond, for being such an inspiration to our communities, and welcome to your House. Quana, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 47 Speaker (interpretation): Please welcome to the Legislative Assembly, and we welcome all of Nunavummiut to come visit the House while you’re in town and watch our proceedings. Item number 22, Orders of the Day. Item 22: Orders of the Day Deputy Clerk: March 13, 2026, 9 a.m.: 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

Thursday, March 12, 2026 Nunavut Hansard 48 Speaker (interpretation): The meeting is adjourned until tomorrow, Friday, March 13, Friday the 13th, at 9 o’clock in the morning. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House adjourned at 16:42

Document details

Collection	Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	2026-03-12 Blues English
Type	statute
Volume / chapter	20260312 Blues English
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	TERRITORIAL
Identifier	44d834330b9632c3000c5067f865d6d0ce3c0ed6

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