Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 6th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 83 Monday, May 27, 2024 Pages 5268 – 5321 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Tony Akoak, MLA

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. Tony Akoak (Gjoa Haven) Officers Clerk John Quirke Deputy Clerk Stephen Innuksuk Law Clerk Michael Chandler Sergeant-at-Arms John Topic Hansard Production Uqausirmit Uqausirmut Inc. Box 1200 Iqaluit, Nunavut, X0A 0H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Hon. David Akeeagok (Quttiktuq) Minister of Economic Development and Transportation; Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Hon. P.J.

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

David Joanasie (South Baffin) Government House Leader; Minister of Community and Government Services Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Mary Killiktee (Uqqummiut) Hon. Lorne Kusugak (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Finance, Chair of the Financial Management Board; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Adam Lightstone (Iqaluit-Manirajak) Hon. John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation; Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention Solomon Malliki (Aivilik) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (Pangnirtung) Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister responsible for the Status of Women Hon. Karen Nutarak (Tununiq) Minister of Justice; Minister responsible for Labour; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College Hon.

Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Environment; Minister of Energy; Minister of Languages Joanna Quassa (Aggu) Inagayuk Quqqiaq (Netsilik) Alexander Sammurtok (Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet) Joe Savikataaq (Arviat South) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Craig Simailak (Baker Lake) Website: www.assembly.nu.ca

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................5268 Speaker’s Statement ...................................................................................................................5268 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................5269 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................5272 Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ........................................................................................5277 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................5279 Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters .................................5300 Tabling of Documents ................................................................................................................5301 Second Reading of Bills .............................................................................................................5302 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................5305 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................5320 Third Reading of Bills ................................................................................................................5320 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................5321

A. Daily References Monday, May 27, 2024 ..............................................................................................................5268 B.

Ministers’ Statements 433 – 6(2): Engagement with Federal Ministers (Akeeagok, P) ................................................5269 434 – 6(2): South Baffin Island Caribou Abundance Survey (Qavvik) .....................................5270 435 – 6(2): National Nursing Week (Main) ...............................................................................5270 436 – 6(2): Elders’ Access to Country Food (Nakashuk)...........................................................5271 437 – 6(2): Qikiqtani Construction Project Advancements (Joanasie) ......................................5272 C.

Members’ Statements 579 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to Daughter (Quqqiaq) ..................................................................5273 580 – 6(2): Death in Constituency (Sammurtok) .......................................................................5273 581 – 6(2): Health Care Outreach in Naujaat (Malliki) ..............................................................5273 582 – 6(2): Recognizing Silas and Leah Attagutsiak (Quassa) ..................................................5273 583 – 6(2): Visit of Governor General to Qikiqtarjuaq (Killiktee) ............................................5274 584 – 6(2): Recent Volleyball Tournament in Iqaluit (Qavvik) .................................................5274 585 – 6(2): Recent Addition to Family (Gross) ..........................................................................5275 586 – 6(2): Amazon Discontinues Free Shipping to High Arctic (Akeeagok, D) ......................5275 587 – 6(2): Pond Inlet Participants at Volleyball Tournament (Nutarak) ..................................5276 588 – 6(2): Commissioner’s Awards in Baker Lake (Simailak) ................................................5276

D.

Oral Questions 857 – 6(2): Delayed Response to Correspondence from Representative for Children and Youth (Hickes) ................................................................................................................................5279 858 – 6(2): Fuel Tank at Arviat Airport (Savikataaq) ................................................................5280 859 – 6(2): NHC-Local Housing Organizations Initiatives (Quqqiaq) ......................................5282 860 – 6(2): Federal-Territorial Relations (Brewster) .................................................................5284 861 – 6(2): Status of Naja Isabelle Home (Sammurtok) ............................................................5286 862 – 6(2): Public Housing Rent Scale (Killiktee) .....................................................................5288 863 – 6(2): Water Infrastructure (Malliki) .................................................................................5290 864 – 6(2): Departmental Positions (Quassa) .............................................................................5291 865 – 6(2): Special Needs Washroom at Baker Lake School (Simailak) ...................................5293 866 – 6(2): Master Designated List for NAC (Hickes) ..............................................................5295 867 – 6(2): Status of Collective Bargaining (Brewster) .............................................................5297 868 – 6(2): Status of Caribou Populations (Savikataaq) ............................................................5298 E.

Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters Committee Report 028 – 6(2): Report on the Review of the 2022-23 Annual Report of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut (Savikataaq) ......................................5300 F.

Tabling of Documents 278 – 6(2): QEC Letter of Expectation (Kusugak).....................................................................5301 279 – 6(2): 2021-22 Tourism Act Annual Report (Akeeagok, D) .............................................5302 280 – 6(2): Correspondence from the Minister of Health: Follow-up from Committee of the Whole’s Consideration of the Department of Health’s 2024-25 Main Estimates (Hickes) .5302

281 – 6(2): Correspondence from the Minister of Community and Government Services: Follow- up from Committee of the Whole’s Consideration of the Department of Community and Government Services’ 2024-25 Main Estimates (Hickes) ...................................................5302 G. Committee Motions 006 – 6(2): Bill 38 Change the Scheduled Amounts (Kusugak) ................................................5306 H. Bills Bill 41 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act – Second Reading .......................................5302 Bill 42 –

An Act to Amend the Dental Profession Act – Second Reading ................................5303 Bill 43 –

An Act to Amend the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation Act – Second Reading .5303 Bill 44 –

An Act to Amend the Creditors Relief Act and the Public Service Garnishee Act – Second Reading ...................................................................................................................5304 Bill 45 –

An Act to Amend the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act – Second Reading ................................................................................................................................5304 Bill 46 –

An Act to Amend the Coroners Act – Second Reading ..............................................5304 Bill 38 – Supplementary Appropriation (Operations & Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 – Consideration in Committee ................................................................................................5305 Bill 47 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025 – Consideration in Committee ............................................................................................................................5316 Bill 38 – Supplementary Appropriation (Operations & Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 – Third Reading ......................................................................................................................5320 Bill 47 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025 – Third Reading ......5321

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5268 Iqaluit, Nunavut Monday, May 27, 2024 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Hon. P.J. Akeeagok, Hon. Tony Akoak, Mr. Bobby Anavilok, Ms. Janet Brewster, Hon. Pamela Gross, Mr. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Solomon Malliki, Hon. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Hon. Karen Nutarak, Hon. Daniel Qavvik, Ms. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Inagayuk Quqqiaq, Mr. Alexander Sammurtok, Mr. Joe Savikataaq, Mr. Craig Simailak. >>House commenced at 13:29 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon. Tony Akoak) (interpretation): Good day.

Before we begin, Ms. Quassa, can you say the opening prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Ms. Quassa. Speaker’s Statement (interpretation ends) Before we proceed with the orders of the day, I would like to first thank the Deputy Speaker for presiding over the House last week, while the Member for Netsilik and myself were unavoidably delayed due to weather. >>Applause I also extend a very warm welcome to elders and Nunavummiut who are following our proceedings on the radio, television, and Internet live stream.

Over the past few weeks since the conclusion of our winter sitting, members have been engaged in committee and constituency work. I am pleased to take this opportunity to note that two projects which are important to the community of Gjoa Haven are moving forward. >>Applause The Qulliq Energy Corporation has recently issued a request for proposals for the design and construction of a new power plant that will have a minimum 40-year lifecycle. The community’s current power plant was constructed close to half a century ago and is in need of replacement.

The Department of Economic Development and Transportation has recently awarded a contract for the installation of a barrier-free ramp on the airside of the Gjoa Haven Airport Terminal Building. This enhancement will make travelling easier for disabled residents and others facing mobility challenges. >>Applause I wish to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the members of the Municipal Council of Gjoa Haven, the district education authority, the hunters and trappers organization, and the Kikitak Housing Association for their commitment to the community.

I also wish to acknowledge and thank the community’s many volunteers who work tirelessly to address food insecurity, provide recreational opportunities for youth, offer spiritual

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5269 guidance, and many other important initiatives. As your MLA, I am proud to work with you on behalf of all our residents. We will now proceed with the orders of the day. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 433 – 6(2): Engagement with Federal Ministers (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s great to see you back in the House and I’m happy that our fellow MLAs are now in attendance. I say “good afternoon” to everyone in the House and there are many visitors in the gallery who have come from various communities outside of Iqaluit. I warmly welcome them to their House. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, on May 5, ahead of the Northern Premiers’ Forum, Premier Ranj Pillai, Premier R.J. Simpson, and I had met with three federal ministers here in Iqaluit.

The meetings with Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly, Minister of National Defence Bill Blair, and Minister of Northern Affairs Dan Vandal, as well as Parliamentary Secretary Yvonne Jones were an opportunity to jointly discuss the needs of the north. Minister Blair briefed us on the Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence, while Minister Joly updated us on the international Arctic strategy the Government of Canada is developing. Mr.

Speaker, considering the political turmoil in the circumpolar world and the rapidly melting of sea ice which is opening the Northwest Passage, Canada’s Arctic communities are central to our country’s future hopes of peace and prosperity. As northern premiers, we appreciated the federal ministers’ visit to the north and their focus on arctic issues. We know that any decisions about the north must be made in partnership with the people for whom the north is home. Mr.

Speaker, once again, as the three northern premiers, we asserted our commitment to collaborating with the federal government and emphasized the need for investing in multi-use infrastructure that will strengthen communities while addressing Canada’s sovereignty and security. We also emphasized the need for ongoing engagements with indigenous governments and organizations in all three territories.

Finally, we called for federal government investment in areas such as housing, telecommunication, clean energy, and transportation to ensure the well-being, resilience, and prosperity of northern communities and residents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5270 Minister’s Statement 434 – 6(2): South Baffin Island Caribou Abundance Survey (Qavvik) Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on a research program that our government is leading to monitor the recovery of Baffin Island caribou. An abundance survey of South Baffin Island caribou was completed in March 2024. This survey collected information on the distribution of caribou across South Baffin Island and will provide an updated abundance estimate for the South Baffin area.

This herd experienced a decline in numbers and the population was estimated to be around 4,600 in 2014. In response to the population decline, a total allowable harvest of 250 male-only tags was put in place in 2015. We have worked with our co-management partners to increase this harvest in recent years. For the 2024-25 harvest season, harvesters will be allowed to take up to 90 females from the total allowable harvest of 450.

We flew over 230 hours using helicopters and fixed wing aircraft and included observers chosen by hunters and trappers organizations in Iqaluit, Pangnirtung, Qikiqtarjuaq, Kimmirut, and Kinngait. I would like to thank these hunters and trappers organizations for their participation in this survey. An Hon. Member: Hear, hear! Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Incorporating local knowledge and working together is key when we design and implement these aerial surveys. Mr. Speaker, we are currently analyzing the data and will share the results when they are available.

Initial observations suggest continued positive signs of the herd. It is through our commitment to the guiding principle of Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq, respecting and caring for the land, animals, and our environment, and with the support of our harvesters and co-management partners that Baffin Island caribou have the best chance at recovery. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Minister’s Statement 435 – 6(2): National Nursing Week (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I’m glad that you were able to make it here along with our colleagues. Mr. Speaker, health centres are important to the well-being of every Nunavut community. Health centres are where we turn for medical care, vital vaccinations, advice on mental health, and many other needs. Our nurses play a critical role in maintaining positive health outcomes and providing access to inclusive patient care in all communities. Despite the unprecedented demands nurses face, they continue to persevere.

I would like to take this time to acknowledge the dedication, diligence, and resiliency of all nurses and supporting health staff across Nunavut.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5271 (interpretation ends) National Nursing Week 2024 was held from May 6 to May 12. The theme of this year’s Nursing Week was, “Changing Lives. Shaping Tomorrow.” It recognized the significance contributions of nurses to individuals, communities, and the future of health care. Health is dedicated to a comprehensive vision of health workforce development. With the approval of Bill 24, Health is working to bring forward critical staffing measures aimed at stabilizing our staffing through a variety of recruitment and retention initiatives.

Along with The Roadmap to Strengthen the Nunavut Nursing Workforce, these measures will boost staff resilience and retention by improving work environments to reduce staff burnout while improving patient access to care; offering flexible employment options and a competitive compensation package, especially for difficult-to-fill positions; and creating opportunities to recruit health care students before they enter the workforce. Ensuring we have a skilled and sufficient health workforce is necessary to deliver essential health care services in all communities.

Health plans to continue strengthening our staffing levels across Nunavut for the benefit of all Nunavummiut. Supporting, empowering, and training local nurses is a crucial component of the future generation of Nunavut’s nurses. Training local nurses will not only contribute to relieving the nursing shortage, but it will also provide culturally informed nurses who have been raised in Nunavut and provide them the opportunity to give back to their community. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk.

Minister’s Statement 436 – 6(2): Elders’ Access to Country Food (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to my fellow MLAs. Mr. Speaker, in the Katujjiluta mandate, Family Services is tasked with improving elders’ access to country food. In the past year, the department spent time meeting and talking with elders about their needs, and I am so grateful to them for sharing their stories, their needs, and their Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit.

Elders spoke to us about craving more country food, unequal distribution of country food, traditional customs of giving away country food, the importance of knowledge transfer, preferences for specific parts of animals and delicacies, concerns with the sale of country food, and providing salaries to hunters. We heard many of these same concerns from the Nunavut Food Security Coalition and the Nunavut Roundtable for Poverty Reduction. Mr. Speaker, the time has come to turn these words into actions.

I have tasked my officials to begin the work to create full-time hunter positions, young hunter mentorship programs, and community hunts to make country food more

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5272 accessible to elders. I look forward to updating my colleagues in this House on this important work in the fall. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Minister’s Statement 437 – 6(2): Qikiqtani Construction Project Advancements (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to Nunavummiut and my fellow MLAs. Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on important capital projects being managed by my department in the Qikiqtani region. Mr. Speaker, in September 2020 the Sanikiluaq hamlet office was damaged by a severe storm with high winds and torrential rain. Since that time, hamlet staff have been providing municipal programs and services at an interim office space. This summer we anticipate a newly constructed office will be opened in Sanikiluaq.

This new facility will enhance service delivery and accessibility in the community, as its design includes ample space for the administration of hamlet and Government of Nunavut programs to the residents of Sanikiluaq. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the work my department has done to expedite the design and construction of this project to meet the needs of the Hamlet of Sanikiluaq and the Nunavummiut we serve.

Additionally, over the next five years, my department will be advancing a series of water and wastewater treatment projects to ensure Nunavummiut have ongoing access to safe drinking water and that our wastewater is managed effectively. Mr. Speaker, this year we anticipate substantial completion of the Resolute Bay Water Treatment Plant Expansion project. This is a three-phase project plan to ensure residents of Resolute Bay have ongoing access to safe drinking water. (interpretation) Mr.

Speaker, my department continues to advance municipal and Government of Nunavut capital projects in large and small communities across Nunavut. My department continues to support the development of projects to benefit municipalities and I look forward to bringing forward more requests in the future to continue to advance critical infrastructure for the betterment of Nunavummiut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the opportunity to make this statement. >>Applause Speaker: Item 3. Members’ Statements. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Item 3: Members’ Statements

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5273 Member’s Statement 579 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to Daughter (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s great to be back in the House of Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today that on the date of May 24, 2024 was daddy’s girl’s birthday, so I would love to take this opportunity to say happy birthday to Charmaine Inukpaluk Quqqiaq. Happy birthday, panik, and we love you greatly, and let us join our day today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok.

Member’s Statement 580 – 6(2): Death in Constituency (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I rise today and I want to think about Evangeline Owpaluk and her children. They had a recent loss this morning. I send them my condolences. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Member’s Statement 581 – 6(2): Health Care Outreach in Naujaat (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day to my constituents.

I want to say a bit of gratitude for the community of Naujaat and prior to the TB screening that was going to happen and the team that arrived were not just there to examine if they have TB or not, but they also had a chance to look at any critical issues that patients may have or other health issues, so I’m filled with gratitude on that. I also want to recognize Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated for their efforts, as well as the Government of Canada, because it was a team effort by the three parties. I believe that 50 percent or beyond 50 percent the community’s population attended this event. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker (interpretation): Members’ Statements. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Member’s Statement 582 – 6(2): Recognizing Silas and Leah Attagutsiak (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day. Hello Nunavummiut, and my fellow residents. Mr. Speaker, you probably will recall, and particularly as it was on recent news, there was a married couple in Igloolik that were highly involved in the Nunavut Quest dog team race. They volunteered on their own and they were able to raise funds. They received Fulbright Canada’s Good Governance Award.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Silas and Leah Attagutsiak. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5274 Member’s Statement 583 – 6(2): Visit of Governor General to Qikiqtarjuaq (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you and hello to Nunavummiut. I am very happy and I want to say how proud I am, so I’m rising today to inform the House that the Governor General of Canada had a recent visit to Qikiqtarjuaq. Mr. Speaker, we’re all extremely proud of our nation’s first Indigenous Governor General. We are heartfelt about it, all of us. I have had the privilege of knowing Mary Simon and her husband for many years.

I’ve known them, and I know they selected Qikiqtarjuaq to be part of their visit to Nunavut as part of the 25th anniversary of our territory. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the official report on the visit indicated that the Governor General “Met and conversed with residents of Qikiqtarjuaq, including elders, hunters, sewers, carvers, search and rescue volunteers, and Canadian Rangers.” In the afternoon, she also met with students at the Inuksuit School. She engaged with students on one of the eight Inuit social values, specifically Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq. Mr.

Speaker, as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Uqqummiut, I can state clearly that it was a memorable, wonderful day, and I ask all members to join me in expressing appreciation for her Excellency’s service to the nation. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik. Member’s Statement 584 – 6(2): Recent Volleyball Tournament in Iqaluit (Qavvik) Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to recognize and I want to thank Volleyball Nunavut on behalf of my constituents for hosting a volleyball tournament here in our Nunavut capital city in Iqaluit during the weekend. There was a total of nine Nunavummiut communities competing at the tournament, and I’m happy my constituents from Hudson Bay participated in the tournament. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, it’s good to see our young athletes travel outside their communities. It brings our youth together, making friends.

Tournaments like volleyball creates healthy lifestyle, and most importantly seeing the youth smile, laugh, and having fun was the best part of the tournament. Mr. Speaker, there were two categories for female, and Sanikiluaq girls became third in the Pool A category, placing fifth. Mr. Speaker, the Sanikiluaq boys went to the finals to play for gold medal, and they became second place and won silver medal. Congratulations to the Iqaluit Huskies who brought home gold. On behalf of my constituents, we want to thank the family and the community of Iqaluit who honoured Sandy Oolayou,

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5275 who had the passion for playing volleyball. Each Nunavut community for boys and girls were awarded All Stars, and Nista Crow and Harley Kowcharlie from Sanikiluaq received the All Star award. At the appropriate time I will recognize the Sanikiluaq volleyball team athletes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Cambridge Bay, Ms. Gross. Member’s Statement 585 – 6(2): Recent Addition to Family (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker, and welcome back. Mr.

Speaker, I would like to say hello to my constituents in Cambridge Bay as well as everyone here in the House with us today. It’s nice to see a fine group of people, especially our young folks who participate in sport. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share a special announcement. Our family welcomed its newest little girl, Ariel Zara Maksaujaq Kaiyogana, to my sister-in-law Averi Kaiyogana and her partner Jonathan Eetoolook. Ariel was born this past Friday, May 24, at the Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife, weighing seven pounds, four ounces. Mr.

Speaker, I would like to share congratulations to my in-laws, Brenda Sitatak and Clarence Kaiyogana, Averi’s biological parents, Cala and Calvin Pedersen, great-grandparents John and Rosie Kaiyogana, as well as Jonathan’s parents, Kristen Eetoolook and Jackie Kameemalik and stepfather Simon Dean, as well as great grandparents James and Mary Eetoolook. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to say congratulations to the many aunts, uncles, great-aunts, uncles, and the families of both Averi and Jonathan on the arrival of our little bundle of joy. I know, Mr.

Speaker, that Devon, Qimniq and I are so excited to go home to meet our precious niece and cousin, and I know the rest of the families will be excited to meet and welcome baby Ariel, too. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 586 – 6(2): Amazon Discontinues Free Shipping to High Arctic (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my fellow MLAs, particularly all those who have now come back. Thank you. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my riding is full of very proud Canadians, and some of them are even considered Canadian human flag poles, and should deserve Canadian benefits. Just last month two major corporations made an abrupt decision that negatively affected my constituents in Grise Fiord, Resolute Bay, and Arctic Bay by not allowing free shipping to these communities, and even some of those orders were in the community but were

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5276 returned without any notice to customers. Over the past years, Canada Post has been accepting X0A 1J0, X0A 1B0, X0A 0A1, which has allowed Amazon to provide free shipping to these communities, and my constituents have been able to manage their shopping in community stores or online, and have made the affordability a reality to some of the products that were available to my communities. Mr. Speaker, Canada Post is a federal government agency that delivers mail to every community.

I urge my constituents to contact them directly and ask to reverse their decision and continue to allow them to use that postal code and allow for free shipping. I will do my part by writing letters also. I further urge Amazon Canada and Canada Post to work together to resolve their differences and focus on serving my constituents that they do to every Canadian in the southern part of our country. Mr. Speaker, we are equally Canadians, and we deserve those Canadian benefits. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak.

Member’s Statement 587 – 6(2): Pond Inlet Participants at Volleyball Tournament (Nutarak) Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just this weekend, an enjoyable event transpired where regional youth flew into Iqaluit to compete in a volleyball tournament. I want to acknowledge the athletes from Pond Inlet who came in to attend to this tournament. There was a girls’ team who was coached by Natasha Simonee and the participants were Alison Anaviapik, Lynn Kilukishak, Katherine Nutarak, Angela Ootoovak, Alison Anaviapaik, Janet Loressa Koonark, Trisha Killiktee, and Desiree Qamaniq.

Although they did not win any medals, the ladies had a great time. The boys who played also had a coach, Jassie Simonee, and they came in third. It became very exciting to watch them get their medals. They were Joshua Shappa, Royden Ootook, Cobain Merkosak, Brye-Jimmy Koonark, Alain Nutarak, Stanley Kautainuk, Joseph Koonoo, and Jason Singoorie. I would like to thank Volleyball Nunavut especially for organizing these tournaments that allow our youth to gather and meet new people, creating friendships and joy, and as parents, you swallow in the atmosphere and become immersed in the joyfulness of the youth.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Member’s Statement 588 – 6(2): Commissioner’s Awards in Baker Lake (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, all. I finally noticed Henry. Welcome back, Henry,

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5277 Inuinnaqtun interpreter, good to see you again. Mr. Speaker, last week, Tuesday in Baker Lake we had a wonderful evening, a community celebration as the Commissioner of Nunavut was able to come visit Baker Lake and present some awards. The first one she presented was to Nancy Pukirngnak Aupaluktuq. She received the Commissioner’s Arts Award. As some people may or may not know, her works have been spread out, featured all over several different galleries and exhibitions over the years. She also presented some awards.

It’s called the Knowledge Keepers, awards given to elders who are handing on Inuit knowledge. There was Timothy Kiligvak Evviuk, Peter Mamnguqsualuk, Susan Toolooktook, Nancy Pukirnak Aupaluktuq, John Avaala, and Joedee Joedee. Another category was the Junior Ranger Patrol Leaders Volunteerism Award. It was presented to Dominic Kinglik, Timothy Kiligvak, Scott Qiyuk, and Dody Qiyuk. The next category was for the Long- Term Community Service award, presented to Joan Qilluaq Killulark and Joan Annallunaaq Kashla.

The next category was for volunteerism, presented to Richard Paaka Aksawnee, long-time search and rescue leader; Jason Putumiraqtuq, long-time hockey coach for the youth minor hockey. The next two volunteerism awards were presented to Helen Depeuter and Mariele Depeuter, who have spent many years volunteering their time with the youth. The next category was for the humanitarian award, presented to two very young individuals, Dustin Niuqtuq and Peyton Niuqtuq. The Bravery Award went to Jimmy Nagyougalik.

Plaques were also presented to the Baker Lake Volunteer Firefighters, the Baker Lake Search and Rescue Team, and the Baker Lake Ranger Patrol. We also had a quick presentation of drills provided by the Baker Lake Junior Ranger Patrol. They were also recognized at the ceremony. I would like my colleagues to help me provide congratulations to all these worthy individuals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik. Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. We’ve got the whole Sanikiluaq community behind you. >>Laughter Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned in my member statement, I’m proud to

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5278 recognize Sanikiluaq volleyball team athletes and their coaches. Mr. Speaker, I would like the individuals to please stand up when I call your name. (interpretation) Please stand up when I call your name. (interpretation ends) Girls’ volleyball athletes from Sanikiluaq: Suapi Kavik. >>Applause Melanie Kavik. >>Applause Miranda Kudluarok. >>Applause Robin Emikotailak. >>Applause Louisa Kowcharlie. >>Applause Jenica Kuki. >>Applause Oloosie Ainalik. >>Applause Mr.

Speaker, if we can have the camera face to the other side. >>Laughter I wanted to mention the girls’ names first. On the other side we have Tina Novalinga. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, facing back to my area, >>Laughter boys volleyball athletes from Sanikiluaq: Kenny Takatak. >>Applause Leland Takatak. >>Applause Andrew Qavvik. >>Applause Devon Kowcharlie. >>Applause Nista Crow. He’s on the other side. >>Applause Moses Oqaituq. >>Applause Nickolai Cookie. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, they were escorted by two coaches from Sanikiluaq as well.

I would like to recognize Sappa Cookie. >>Applause One of the coaches was Mina Mannuk. She also happens to be my constituency assistant.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5279 >>Applause Nakurmiik. Mr. Speaker, I also would like to recognize that are no stranger to the House, my family. On the other side, first and foremost Margaret Qavvik, my wife. >>Applause Daniel Jamal Inuktaluk. >>Applause Kitty Inuktaluk. >>Applause Stella Inuktaluk. On the other, behind other members, Jacquinita Inuktaluk. >>Applause Rosalinda Inuktaluk. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, congratulations to all volleyball team athletes and I hope they all return to their home communities safe and sound. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly.

Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A person who lived in Grise Fiord and now living here, I would like to recognize Ross Pudluk to our House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. I have no more names. Item 6. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 857 – 6(2): Delayed Response to Correspondence from Representative for Children and Youth (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my question to the Premier. Mr. Speaker, as we’re all aware, we recently had some televised hearings specifically with the Representative for Children and Youth, and during that hearing it was noted that government departments were often very slow in responding to information requests from the office of the representative, and in some cases not responding at all.

For one specific case discussed during the hearing respecting the placement of a number of Nunavut children in an unlicensed group home outside of the territory, the representative noted that her initial correspondence to the government on this issue was sent on March 31, 2023. After learning from the media in February 2024 that a report had been completed in December 2023, the representative made a number of attempts to follow up with the government and finally received a copy of the report on March 7, nearly 49 weeks later.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5280 In the response the representative gave: “To answer your question, I did not think it was an acceptable length of time it took to

a) receive the report or even to complete the report, quite frankly.” Can the Premier explain why there was such a delayed response? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the member for his question. Children in care are of the utmost importance in terms of our responsibility, especially those that are vulnerable. With that, I would like to highlight the important work we do with Family Services and the responses we have provided to Ms. Jane Bates.

In particular, we are working on building a relationship with important work, the arm’s-length work that she does to keep us accountable. The issue of the Ever Bright issue that the member mentions is one where it did require us to fully look into and it did require us to investigate to ensure the processes were followed, and as such, I know, and talking with my deputy minister and my officials that we did reach out to the commissioner throughout the process and more improvements can be made, and I take that note. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. The Representative for Children and Youth only has two recourses where she’s not satisfied with the government’s actions, and that’s writing to the commissioner and writing to the Premier. Can the premier briefly describe the contents of the letter addressed to him and subsequent response made by his office? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The member is right that the letter did come to our attention and throughout this whole process our primary goal has been to rectify the historic shortcomings that we’ve seen with the department, and we have put in historic to address the issues that are before us, and as such the details, I am just in the midst of writing back to Ms. Jane Bates as we speak, and as such, I would like to take this question as notice to ensure that I have ample opportunity for me to provide the subsequent information. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Question taken as notice. Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq.

Question 858 – 6(2): Fuel Tank at Arviat Airport (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to the people of Arviat. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to direct my questions to the minister responsible for Arctic airports. Mr. Speaker, it has been in the news that there was a fuel spill at the air terminal building in Arviat and it had to be shut down. It inconvenienced my constituents

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5281 extremely. They had to wait outside, at times, but I’m very thankful for Calm Air for letting the passengers wait in their heated cargo warehouse in Calm Air; thank you. Mr. Speaker, I know the investigation might not be done yet, but as I was leaving Arviat to come here, the tank was outside and visible when I looked at it, and there was a lot of corrosion on the tank. I saw a hole in the tank. Just curious, Mr. Speaker: Does the minister know when was the last time that fuel tank was replaced in the air terminal building? Thank you. Speaker: Hon.

Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, thank the people of Arviarmiut for bearing with this fuel leak that has taken place in the terminal and thank Calm Air for that. In terms of how old that tank is, I don’t have that level of detail with me, but I will commit to providing that information to the member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As a homeowner, every time our metal fuel tank gets to be ten years old, we get a very nasty letter from the insurance agency, saying if you don’t buy a new fuel tank and have it professionally installed, that they will not cover your home insurance anymore. Your home insurance will be void if your fuel tank is more than ten years old. Is there any government policy in terms of, I can only speak to arctic airports, as I’m questioning the minister. I know the government owns a lot of buildings, a lot of fuel tanks. Does Arctic Airports have any policies about a set time to replace fuel tanks?

The minister says he would get back to me on the duration, how old that fuel tank is, but to the best of my recollection, it’s the original fuel tank since Nunavut has been in existence, since that air terminal building was built. Is there fully policy on fuel tank replacement time periods that arctic airport has? Thank you. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That tank has been in the building since it was built in the early 1990s.

In terms of when a fuel tank needs to be replaced or the maintenance portion of it, this is a group effort between Community and Government Services and us in terms of what needs to be replaced within buildings and the building maintenance side of things. I don’t know if there are actual years that needs for it to be replaced, but it’s one that our government has in place where both departments do assess each of the buildings and determine when and how to replace the fuel tanks. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5282 Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A little correction, the fuel tank is outside of the building. It’s next to the building but it’s outside of the building, it’s not in the building. The fuel spill was of such a large amount that it went under the air terminal building and contaminated the gravel, and fumes were in the building.

It appears that there’s no policy in terms of when fuel tanks have to be replaced, so I’ll ask the minister: Are they covered under insurance, an outside insurance company that would tell them that they have to replace fuel tanks like homeowners? As homeowners a metal tank is good for ten years and then we have to replace it. Is there a clause? Are the air terminal buildings insured with an outside insurance company, and do they have the same conditions, certain conditions have to be met for renewal options? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok.

Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m sure that we do have policies and procedures and manuals for any tank replacement and at what point do they get replaced, I’m sure those are in place for any of our government buildings. As for whether the buildings or whether that fuel tank and/or that building is insured, as member might know all of our government buildings are self- insured; therefore, it falls under our government when it comes to replace or to (interpretation) cleanup (interpretation ends) the fuel spills. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq.

Question 859 – 6(2): NHC-Local Housing Organizations Initiatives (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister responsible for Nunavut Housing Corporation. Mr. Speaker, as the Member of the Legislative Assembly representing the constituencies of Netsilik, I’m very concerned about situations where long- term government employees become homeless after retiring from their positions and vacating their staff housing units. Mr.

Speaker, I believe that these types of situations are also occurring in other communities, and I believe that it is mainly Inuit employees who are being impacted. Mr. Speaker, can the minister update the House today on what discussions the Nunavut Housing Corporation has been having with local housing organizations to identify ways of assisting individuals in these circumstances, especially in communities where there are very few private housing options available. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I appreciate the question. Mr. Speaker, it is a fact that there is growing concern from the government employees who are getting close to retirement, or ready to retire but lack housing.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5283 Mr. Speaker, I could assure my colleagues that there have been a number of meetings between the president of the Nunavut Housing Corporation and the deputy minister of human resources and other departments that would be affected by this. We are looking at ways to enable those that are in current government staff housing units to be able to access a public housing unit. There are a few other options within that realm, Mr.

Speaker, and I believe over the next four to six weeks we will come up with some strategy and present it to the cabinet to see if we can move forward on some of those steps, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s 2023-26 business plan indicated that it had “Engaged a consulting firm to produce a report on local housing organization governance models to see how the public housing allocation process and organizational structure can be improved.” Mr.

Speaker, could the minister confirm when the report from this work will be ready to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As soon as that report is available to be tabled I will be more than happy to table it in this House, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, minister, for your response. I will be looking forward to that report. Mr.

Speaker, can the minister indicate what specific changes to the local housing organization governance models and organizational structures are being actively considered? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are several tweaks or changes we might be able to make in terms of the housing management styles and in the policies, some of which may include looking at regional Inuit associations instead of all local ones.

In some communities it becomes a challenge to find local people who want to become part of the housing associations. There’s always a cause of different issues arising in different communities. We are taking a look at what possible solutions there may be; should we take a look at maybe regional housing associations and see what kind of benefit those might draw. There are a number of other issues and possibilities we are looking at, at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5284 Question 860 – 6(2): Federal- Territorial Relations (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and welcome back to the beautiful City of Iqaluit. It’s nice to see you. My questions are for the Premier and they concern the current state of federal- territorial relations. As the Premier will recall, I raised concerns during the winter sitting of the Legislative Assembly regarding the alarming number of vacancies in some of the most senior federally appointed positions in Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, we have been without a deputy commissioner since April of last year; we’ve been without a Senator since December of last year; and now we are without a permanent chief justice. Mr. Speaker, as I pointed out to the Premier very clearly, we are not Ontario or Quebec. We cannot continue indefinitely with only half of our federal Parliamentarians being in office, and we cannot continue to risk a vacuum here if the positions of commissioner, deputy commissioner and chief justice were all to be vacant at the same time. Mr.

Speaker can the Premier tell us today what explanations the Prime minister has given to the Premier for the long delays in filling these critical roles? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank my colleague for that question, and I couldn’t agree more, the importance and how vital these very important roles play. Every chance I have, my meetings with the Prime Minister as well the federal counterparts I do stress the importance of urgency.

We continue to impress these are federal processes that are there, but we continue to press from my office to ensure that Ottawa expedites the appointments, whether it’s the deputy commissioner, which I know I had sought the advice from the regular members to bring forward some names, and as such we do have weekly conversations with the Prime Minister’s Office to ensure that the appointments of that as well as the others are top of mind. Every channel we use we continue to promote the importance and urgency to do the appointments for Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms.

Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m still not clear on what the delay is. Mr. Speaker, on April 17 of this year the Premier issued a news release in which he reacted to the recent federal budget by publicly stating that the Government of Nunavut is eager for details on federal budget investments in housing and Arctic infrastructure, and is awaiting details on funding for housing, green energy, and infrastructure. Frankly, Mr. Speaker that does not sound like Ottawa has been keeping our government particularly well informed.

Can the Premier tell the house today if the federal government has now shared these budget details, and can he indicate

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5285 the extent to which the Government of Nunavut is satisfied with what was announced in the federal budget. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To be clear, the three different positions that the member had mentioned are going through different processes and specifically on the deputy commissioner, I could mention to the House that it’s going through the security processes at this moment, in terms of the review process.

The Senate piece obviously is one has a committee that will recommend to the Prime Minister, so I believe that they have been vetting through the individuals that are open to be there. We continue to urge Ottawa to ensure that they expedite the appointments because we know how vital these very important positions are. Mr. Speaker specific to the budget, we have been advocating, and as I had mentioned just in my minister’s statement, I had the opportunity to welcome not only one but three federal ministers here.

During that time, it was great to get a few updates in terms of the rollout, but in particular to housing, as the member just inquired, we had been advocating very hard to ensure that urban, rural northern housing, and I would like to recognize the incredible leadership of Minister Kusugak on that front. We have been advocating that we need to see more investments come to the territory, and now I am aware that they are preparing to ensure that the carve-out for the north is recognized through that process.

I’m very pleased in terms of the work that we’ve been able to do to lobby, and continue to work hard, but look forward to the actual details of the rollout that’s forthcoming. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On May 5 of this year the Government of Canada announced a number of major investments related to arctic and northern security and sovereignty.

The announcement indicated that the three territorial Premiers met with a number of federal ministers to discuss a number of issues, including the establishment of so- called northern operational support hubs and multiuse infrastructure that also meets the needs of territories’ Indigenous people and northern communities. In today’s statement the Premier did mention the call for federal investment in areas such as housing, telecommunication, clean energy, and transportation. However, Mr.

Speaker, when my colleague from Aggu asked questions during last Friday’s sitting of the House, the Minister responsible for Nunavut Emergency Management about this new infrastructure, the minister could not provide any substantive detail. Mr. Speaker the Premier met in person, as we know, with the federal ministers of defence and foreign affairs prior to this announcement.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5286 Can the Premier provide any substantive detail today about where these new northern operational support hubs and multiuse infrastructure will be located, and can he confirm what role if any the territorial government will have in their development? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again I thank my colleague for that very important question.

She is absolutely right, there’s a huge infrastructure gap, and we continue to lobby and advocate for more infrastructure to come up north, and the importance of the national defence policy to ensure it’s grounded and it’s directly putting investments into the communities that we serve for sovereignty and security purposes.

The invitation of Minister Blair to come and brief us strictly on the defence policy was very welcomed by all three premiers, including myself on that front, and the importance of seeing those investments to our parties that we outline right here in this House as well is something that we did share. There currently is no definitive definition of exactly what those look like, and the welcome news is we’re eager to participate and to define exactly what and where those operation hubs will be selected between the three territories.

We will continue to define and continue to work with my colleagues here to define exactly what that means moving forward with the federal government, as they start defining what they would like to see as well as what we would like to see as part of that defence policy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok. Question 861 – 6(2): Status of Naja Isabelle Home (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health. Mr.

Speaker, in February we learned that the government would not be renewing its contract for the operation of Naja Isabelle Home in Chesterfield Inlet. A number of clients at the home have medical issues and require daily care. Can the minister indicate whether his department was involved in ensuring that these individuals were placed in appropriate facilities after the Naja Isabelle Home was closed? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and I thank my colleague for raising the question. (interpretation ends) It’s possible that there might have been some involvement from my department, but I’m unable to speak in any detail on this. As the member knows, the clients in question are under the purview of Department of Family Services. However, in terms of the role of the Department of Health staff in

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5287 Chesterfield Inlet in the former operations or the previous operation of the facility in question, I can consult with my officials and commit to returning with additional detail, if that would be helpful. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Due to the type of care provided at Naja Isabelle Home there was a lot of specialized equipment and furniture in the facility.

While I recognize the new long-term care facility in Rankin Inlet will provide level 5 and dementia care, there’s still a need in the region for beds for level 1 and 2 care. The Naja Isabelle building would be an ideal site for the elders home providing low-level care. Can the minister advise this House if there has been any consideration of repurposing the Naja Isabelle Home into a level 1 and 2 elders’ care facility? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) The asset in question, the home, it’s an asset that belongs to Family Services, and so I think it would be inappropriate for me to answer these questions. I think those questions would be better answered by the Department of Family Services. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the people of Chesterfield Inlet are wondering what will happen to the Naja Isabelle Home.

It is my understanding that the building is getting painted this summer. I note that the old children’s group home in Rankin Inlet is also left empty, as the old resource centre at lot 104-21. There’s a great need for program spaces for services that can support the health and well-being of Nunavut residents. Can the minister tell this House how he works with his colleagues to access space to deliver more programming in the areas of mental health and counselling, substance abuse, recovery and elder care and whether the buildings I have just identified are being considered for any of these purposes. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) That’s a great question. That is a question that goes to the heart of I believe what we’ve been tasked with, which is to be creative, to use Qanuqtuurniq and to serve Nunavummiut as a team in terms of my colleagues here.

I can’t speak to any detail with regards to the Naja Isabelle facility, but my understanding of facilities in general, that when they become surplus to a department’s needs, then they are dealt with through the surplus asset policy, the exact name escapes me, which is a process through which our department of Community and Government Services

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5288 can take assets and then offer them up through that policy to either other government departments or to other organizations for use. A good example of use of surplus assets is looking at health centres that are no longer in use. When a new health centre is built in a community, Mr. Speaker, there are quite a few examples of old health centres being turned into office space. They continue to provide, in some cases, staff housing.

I think what I’m trying to say is that the surplus assets can be useful to the government as a whole, in my opinion, and to the Department of Health in some cases. It’s through that disposal, the surplus asset policy that those types of decisions are made. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Question 862 – 6(2): Public Housing Rent Scale (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister Responsible for Nunavut Housing concerning the issue of public housing rent scale.

As the minister is well aware, the current public housing rent scale was announced in January of 2013. It has been over a decade, Mr. Speaker, over ten years, Mr. Speaker. For this reason, I have a number of questions concerning from what I heard from my constituents in Qikiqtarjuaq and Clyde River, similarly saying the same thing, that the scale is not meeting the needs since the advent of the current rent scale. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that the current rent scale has not changed since it was introduced in 2013. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, can the minister confirm when the Nunavut Housing Corporation will be reviewing the current public housing rent scale, and will he commit to tabling the results of the review in the Legislative Assembly. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Member responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the line of questioning from my colleague. Mr. Speaker, my colleague is correct that the rent scale hasn’t been increased since 2014, Mr.

Speaker, and during the recent minimum wage increases that took place and those prior to the last one, there have been a number of minimum wage increases since 2014, and that has not affected the rent scale to date. At this time, during the last salary increases in minimum wage, the housing corporation decided that they would not increase rent prices. At this time the corporation is not looking at increasing or changing the current rent scale. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary. Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s unfortunate.

I think some should have been made, in view of those who don’t really make a salary.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5289 (interpretation ends) When the current public housing rent scale was announced in January 2013, the government indicated that one of its primary goals was to “Reduce disincentives to employment, and to support the goals of poverty reduction.” I have heard concerns from constituents that the rent scale is no longer achieving this important objective. Will the minister commit to working with the Minister responsible for Poverty Reduction to explore options in this area? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I believe the corporation has done well by not increasing the rent as people’s minimum wage salaries have increased. I think that was a way to pay attention to those that are struggling and need to have the increase in their salaries and not affect their house rent. Mr. Speaker, currently if you’re making under $34,000 a year, your monthly rent is $60 a month, based on that scale. If you’re making up to $40,000, it’s $171 a month, or 9 percent of your salary.

If you’re making $50,000, the rent is approximately $379 a month, or 9 percent of your salary; and if you’re making $80,000 your rent is currently $1,005 or 18 percent of your salary. That’s the current rent scale out there. Mr. Speaker, it’s a very generous rent scale, I believe, and if we were to look at decreasing the rent, Mr. Speaker, it would be one that we would have to look at very hard, I believe. It currently costs about $30,000 for housing unit to maintain a house in a year; so, you know, it’s hard.

I understand the struggles that people in public housing are going through in order to be able to keep up with the rent, but as of right now we don’t have any... . We’re not looking at increasing the rent scale at this time. I understand my colleague is wondering if we could reduce the rent scale and I will take a look and talk to the president and the board of directors to the Nunavut Housing Corporation to see if and when that could be looked at, and what kind of impact that would have. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms.

Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you for giving me that clarification. What I’m wondering is if there’s a uniform rate that you have in your department, and if there’s a clear understanding in terms of communicating to the tenant as to the amount of money they make, and if it’s $174 that they get from welfare, or if it’s $500, (interpretation ends) by saying that (interpretation). I’ll be moving on, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) Information published in Nunavut’s most recent annual report indicates that there are over 700 public housing tenants whose income exceed over $100,000 a year, per year. Can the minister indicate if Nunavut Housing Corporation is considering

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5290 increasing the maximum rent payable by higher income tenants, in order to decrease the maximum rent payable by middle and lower income tenants? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

When my colleague mentioned that when people get a salary increase or get extra money it affects their income. (interpretation) With respect to what you’re talking about, let’s say they have more income coming in and the rent will certainly rise following the amount of money they make, and that’s what’s set out in the tenants who are in public housing. If their salary increases, and sometimes over a course of four years there’s an amount set per year, that’s an increase.

For those with incomes that exceed $80,000 per year, they have to pay a higher amount of rent accordingly, as to how much they are making per year. So the tenant payments that they make, they’re trying to be more uniform in how we could better reflect, compared to other institutions. Mr. Speaker, also, my fellow MLA mentioned that. I will speak on that again at a later date. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Question 863 – 6(2): Water Infrastructure (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the minister of Community and Government Services. Mr. Speaker, I want to revisit the issue of water infrastructure in Coral Harbour and Naujaat. I want to begin by noting the Government of Canada announced $2 million in funding last Thursday for work to “Develop proposals for upgrading the drinking water treatment facility in Coral Harbour, Clyde River, and Igloolik.” Mr. Speaker, this fund is much appreciated. Mr.

Speaker, when I raised the question to the minister last week about the current state of water treatment infrastructure in my constituencies, I did not get clear answers, so I will try again today. My question for the minister is: Does the current water treatment infrastructure in Coral Harbour meet the current standard federal guideline for Canadian drinking water quality, yes or no? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker and thank you to the MLA, our fellow MLA for seeking further question with regard to the quality of water. We have always tried to make improvements in this area. We appreciate the Government of Canada’s funding that has been allocated to our regions. If you’ll recall, the initial time that this development occurred, and up to today, I could tell you, and we all know that, they are not meeting the standards; so I say no to the MLA, but we are working hard to ensure that we are improving the quality to ensure that

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5291 we have the highest quality water. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you for that. Yes, that’s what I would like to see in this House. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My next question for the minister is: Does the current treatment plan in Naujaat meet the current federal standard guideline for Canadian drinking water quality, yes or no? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon.

David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My department has been challenged with some of the water treatment facilities across our territory, and as we are currently addressing an operational issue identified in Naujaat, specifically on ongoing performance issue at the treatment plant, as there was an inspection carried out by an environmental health officer and maintenance issues were identified. We are currently reviewing these orders and are anticipating to rectify operational and maintenance issues to restore the performance at the Naujaat plant. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and thank you for the responsible minister. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, can the minister assure me that the drinking water supplies in both communities are tested regularly and are safe to drink, yes or no? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My department will continue to work with each municipality in both his riding to ensure that there are checks and balances regarding their potable drinking water. Mr. Speaker my department is trying to enhance tracking these chlorine levels and what have you, to ensure that it is safe to drink. Mr. Speaker, we’ll continue to work to ensure that we’re following the regulations around drinking water in the territory. I want to note that these standards that have been going up and up and up, and we’re trying to continue to meet them.

It’s going to continue to require heavy investments by my department and our government as a whole, so we hope to make progress over the coming years. I thank the member for that. Thank you. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Question 864 – 6(2): Departmental Positions (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to ask the question directly to the Minister of Environment. Mr. Speaker, this is something that I had asked at an earlier time. This was during the winter sitting of the Legislative Assembly.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5292 (interpretation ends) As the minister is aware, the government’s most recent quarterly employment report indicates that the Department of Environment has a total of nine positions located in my community of Igloolik. Only four of the positions are filled, and nine are vacant. This is a vacancy rate of close to 70 percent. Can the minister provide an update today on which positions are currently filled and which positions are currently vacant? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and I thank the member for following up in regard to the employment and vacancy rates within the Department of Environment. Mr. Speaker, the member is right in regard to the departmental vacancies in her riding. As of the notes in front of me, we do have a vacancy for the Conservation Officer 3 for the community of Igloolik. A job offer was rejected by an offer, and we’re working towards with Human Resources on next steps, what we will do in regard to the conservation officer position. Mr. Speaker, in regard to the research

section in the community of Igloolik, as a department we have been struggling to fill those vacancies, and we’re trying our very best to fill those vacancies so that we can employ our residents. Mr. Speaker, for the Igloolik positions, there are a number of vacancies.

For social science researcher, that has been vacant since 2017; wildlife database management system specialist II, vacant since 2019; ecosystem research coordinator and environmental assessment biologist, vacant since 2016; wildlife biologist II, polar bears, vacant since 2019; wildlife technician II, polar bears, vacant since 2021; polar bear biologist I, vacant since 2022; and wildlife technician II is also vacant. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you.

My apologies; there are quite a few that are still vacant. (interpretation ends) It is my understanding that a number of these vacant positions have remained unfilled for years, as you have indicated, and that a number of the positions are very technical in nature. Can the minister clarify what specific actions are being taken by his department to address the high vacancy elaborate in Igloolik? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank the member for her continuing advocacy in regards to the having the vacancies filled. We are doing our very best as a department to have those positions offered within her riding, and it has been difficult to access, to employ our vacancies in that department. Limited available housing has been a challenge. Variable access to reliable amenities, such as daycare and career development opportunities in

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5293 Igloolik are some various to staff dispositions and retaining qualified staff. We have also looked into discussions with the federal government to potentially move the division to the Canadian High Arctic Research Centre station facility in Cambridge Bay, but again, we’re committed to filling those vacancies within the community of Igloolik. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, minister, for explaining the challenges that have been faced. (interpretation ends) When I last raised this issue during the winter sitting I suggested that government should consider transferring some of these long- standing vacant positions to another community, where there would be a greater chance of them being filled by qualified applicants. In return, new positions would be transferred to Igloolik and efforts would be made to ensure that they were the types of positions that could be reasonably filled with local applicants.

Is the minister open to considering this suggestion? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for this question. Mr. Speaker, yes, I am certainly interested in the offer, but again, when we move more positions to a different community there’s a process within our government that we have to go through.

I can agree that there would need to be some transfer of positions to the community of Igloolik, and I can certainly direct my department, as they are listening in on our sitting, that the discussion around whether we can move these specialized positions to another community where there’s more access to southern connection flights that are available, that we use to go to southern Canada, for example. Yes, Mr. Speaker, when the day comes, if we decide to as a department we will need to decide what position would be offered to the community of Igloolik. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions.

Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Question 865 – 6(2): Special Needs Washroom at Baker Lake School (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today my questions are directed to the Minister of Education. Mr. Speaker, I’m sure the minister will recall my questions during our recent winter sitting when I asked about the need to properly address inclusivity in our schools, and specifically about the request for a special needs washroom at the Baker Lake high school.

At that time the minister indicated on two separate occasions that she would be looking into the concerns raised with respect to the inadequacy to the modifications made to a school washroom.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5294 Can the minister provide an update on what she has done to look further into this matter? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker, and Quana to the member for the question and for the work behind this that he’s advocating for. Mr. Speaker, I do know that the Baker Lake school washroom was an area that the Department of Education did work with Community and Government Services to expand the washroom.

I know that they did follow the guidelines, and the washroom did meet standards for a specialized washroom and they went within the perimeters of what was available for the space, and they utilized what they had and worked towards creating that washroom for the school. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would strongly suggest the department look into this again, because there is ample room to properly fix a special needs washroom in the area that’s specified in the high school. Mr.

Speaker, the Baker Lake District Education Authority had received a letter stating this this file is now closed and that the school washroom renovations were complete. Mr. Speaker, as I noted in February, the modifications did not expand the washroom space adequately to accommodate a wheelchair space for two staff members to lift an individual out of their chair as well as the toilet, the sink, and the change table. Can the minister describe what steps should be taken to reactivate this file to ensure that the appropriate renovations are made to properly accommodate students in wheelchairs? Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question. The department has taken a look at this situation, and from my understanding everything was cleared to go ahead. If the member is requesting it again, we can certainly look into it again, but from what I was given, the information from my officials, everything was good in terms of the work that was done towards meeting the needs for the washroom space. We can take a second look at that and get back to the member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There’s an obvious disconnect between the people on the ground and to when it gets to the minister’s position. Mr. Speaker, it’s very clear that the people in Baker Lake on the ground that necessary renovations and accommodations have not taken place. The special change table is still sitting in a wooden crate right in the middle of the washroom. This is since December. And

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5295 here they say the file was closed. They said the renovations are done, but yet there’s a wooden crate right in the middle of the washroom. This is since December. This is not promoting inclusivity to our schools where all children have the right to a safe and comfortable environment. Will the minister commit to addressing this matter herself; not through just your officials, see it for yourself? With today’s technology, you can do a Zoom meeting, have someone go in there with a camera to see a live feed of what they say is done. This is not a completed project.

Will the minister commit to actually looking at her herself? She doesn’t need to fly there. With today’s technology, she can see it online. I would like an answer, please, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to our colleague for that. Yes, we can commit to that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Question 866 – 6(2): Master Designated List for NAC (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my question to the Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College regarding return to oral question that was tabled this Thursday, regarding certification of educational institutes on accessing registered education savings plans. Mr. Speaker, in the response it is stated that a post-secondary institute can be placed on the master designated list as to apply to be placed on a province or territory’s master designated list or placed on the master certification list. Mr.

Speaker, also in the response it’s stated that discussions with the advanced education with the Department of Education and staff and employment and Social Development Canada and Canada Student Financial Assistance Program have resulted in the recommendation that Nunavut Arctic College were to be placed on a master designated list of a province or territory who participates in the Canada Student Loan Program. Can the minister give me a timeline whether this is expected to be completed? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College, Minister Nutarak. Hon.

Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you to my colleague for always bringing this up. (interpretation ends) We are flagging this matter for the college. His questions initiated countless conversations for the college to have this understanding of the situation and to find solutions. Payments of the school expenses can now be made by registered education savings plans. (interpretation) thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m a little unclear on that response. In

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5296 the response it states: “I can confirm the college has begun discussions with its university partner, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, to be placed on the master designated list,” as well as it was stated that Nunavut Arctic College was on Alberta’s master designation list but had lapsed in 2018. First, I would like to get confirmation that, as the minister just stated, that students can access their registered education savings plans currently, and is that available for all Nunavut Arctic College programs? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Nutarak. Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member for the question. (interpretation ends) Yes, these discussions have been completed since the return of the oral questions. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, I didn’t get the confirmation that all programs were available. But also in the response, Mr. Speaker, it states that there are two ways to access getting on a master list for Nunavut Arctic College.

The most common way is the province or territory that has students participating in the Canada Student Financial Assistance Program or Canada Student Loans attending Nunavut Arctic College. It is stated in the response that “As Nunavut has a robust student financial support system for Nunavummiut, the college appreciates that it does not have students applying for Canada Student Loans.” Mr. Speaker, while that may be true that most students do not access Canada Student Loan programs, we hear every year on delays of funding and some of the financial stresses that students go through.

I recognize that the work that the Department of Education does, as well as our regional Inuit organizations have programs that help support and supplement funding for students, but I know many parents that still struggle with student expenses for their children to access education, whether it be through the college or through outside post-secondary institutions. My final question, Mr. Speaker: What is stopping Nunavut from creating our own master designated list and adding all Nunavut Arctic College programs to it to be recognized? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Nutarak. Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that question. Going back to the previous question, (interpretation ends) we are on the master designated list for all programs. (interpretation) However, I will have to take this question as notice. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Question taken as notice. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5297 Question 867 – 6(2): Status of Collective Bargaining (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for recognizing me a second time today. I appreciate it. My questions are for the new Minister of Human Resources who is responsible for the government’s collective agreements with the Nunavut Employees Union and Nunavut Teachers Association. As the minister will be very much aware, the current collective agreement with the Nunavut Employees Union was signed in August of 2022 and expires in September of 2024, a little over four months from now. Mr.

Speaker, when I asked about the status of collective bargaining last fall, the minister’s predecessor indicated that there were no updates. Can the minister provide a clear update today on the status of negotiations between the government and the union? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are no active negotiations taking place at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Over the past year, the government has introduced a new-Nunavut wide hiring policy and a new out-of-territory remote hiring policy. Can the minister indicate what concerns, if any, have been raised by the unions in respect to the implementation of these policies, and can he clarify the extent to which matters covered by the policies will be subject to negotiation as part of the current round or upcoming round of collective bargaining? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I applaud my staff for working very hard with the unions on any new programs that do come that affect them, and there’s a good working relationship towards that. Those meetings do take place and do continue, and where areas that both feel that it will require negotiations between collective agreements, those will be put in as a placeholder for those. I encourage everyone to continue those discussions, as we roll out some of these programs that are most needed. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I’m still not clear on whether or not the union has raised any issues or concerns over those two policies. I’ll move on. As the minister will recall, the annual ceremony to mark the National Day of Mourning for Injured or Killed Workers was held here at the Legislative Assembly, and I joined with the families in mourning all of those who have been lost.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5298 Mr. Speaker, the new Minister of Human Resources is also the new Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission. Can one of those two ministers provide an update today concerning what new initiatives the Department of Human Resources is collaborating on with the Nunavut Employees Union, the Nunavut Teachers Association, and the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission to identify and enhance workplace safety in Nunavut as part of the overall negotiation and bargaining process? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Mr.

David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thought I responded by saying that the discussions are taking place between the union and our staff, and there are issues that they would put them in a place holder if they require bargaining, part of the bargaining. In terms of for safety and for workplace related to it, I thank the member for participating. There was a good turnout of members here, and I really applaud when it was the National Day of Mourning. As we all know one death is one too many in the workplace, and something that we continue to strive.

I’m very confident that our staff continue to look at workplace safety and workplace; there hasn’t been anything specific that comes out that requires a legislative or regulatory change, but those would fall within their perimeters of what needs to be changed. One of the key critical things that my department under human resources is doing is going and cleaning up a lot of our manuals. As you know, there’s a huge book of human resource manuals, and we’re going through each of those sections and to make sure that we update them, and if there’s areas of safety, that’s one of the priorities for that. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Question 868 – 6(2): Status of Caribou Populations (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to question the Minister of Environment on the minister’s statement of today about the South Baffin Island caribou abundance. Mr. Speaker, there’s many caribou populations that are on the decline in Nunavut, and a few of these have total allowable harvest. And I’m just wondering if the minister can clarify some lingering questions that I have here.

In the statement back in 2014, the abundance survey states that there was 4,600 caribou left on Baffin Island and a total allowable harvest and 250 males were issued, which comes out to 5.4 percent of the population. And back in 2020, the Dolphin Union had 3,800 caribou, and a total allowable harvest of 1 percent. For the Bluenose-East in 2021, the population estimate was 23,200 and they had a total allowable harvest of 170 caribou, which is roughly about 1 percent too.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5299 In the minister’s statement currently in 2024-25 the total allowable harvest for Baffin Island was 450. What percentage is that, roughly? Thank you. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to be really honest, I’m not good with mathematics. Based on there was a percentage in regards to how many percentage that are able to be harvested within the Baffin Island caribou harvest. For the region of Qikiqtaaluk, Mr.

Speaker, I would have to get back to the member in regards to the percentage the member is asking. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, will the minister also get back to the House here on what percentage harvest level should be when the total allowable harvest is issued to a caribou population? Can they confirm that there is a standard percentage, or will the minister get back to me on what percentage each caribou herd is for the total allowable harvest? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik.

Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the member for that question. Yes, I can commit to getting back to the member in regards to what percentage is required, that are set within the total allowable harvest, and once I have that information, I will share it with the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I believe that all Nunavut should be treated equally and, and the way caribou populations are given total allowable harvest to harvest them because they need the food, the Baffin Island caribou has been going up 50 animals per year without a survey being done. From 250 it’s up to 450 now. Without a population estimate survey being completed, will the minister treat the other total allowable harvest species, like the other caribou herds that have a total allowable harvest, will they be going up too at a certain amount per year just like Baffin did?

For example, Bluenose-East will it go up, South Hampton Island, will their total allowable harvest be going up yearly without a proper survey being done? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Qavvik. Hon. David Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for those good questions. For the Blue Nose East caribou herd has been recently surveyed, and the population for that herd have increased almost in double.

As a minister it will come to me for a final say whether the total harvest will increase, but I can certainly commit whether other populations will require an increasing total of allowable harvest. It’s based on population estimates.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5300 *See Appendix for full text of Committee Report 28 – 6(2). Once I have that information, I will share them with the member and to the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Members be aware time allotted for question period is now over. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to request unanimous consent to extend question period. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Speaker: The member is seeking unanimous consent to extend question period. Are there any nays? An Hon. Member: Nay. Speaker: There is a nay.

Item 7. Written Questions. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. Item 10. Petitions. Item 11. Responses to Petitions. Item 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. I recognize the Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Item 12: Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters Committee Report 028 – 6(2): Report on the Review of the 2022-23 Annual Report of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut (Savikataaq) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to present the Report of the Standing Committee on Oversight of Government Operations and Public Accounts on the Review of the 2022-23 Annual Report of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut. The Standing Committee on Oversight of Government Operations and Public Accounts held a televised hearing from April 19 to 20 on the 2022-23 Annual Report of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Nunavut. The standing committee’s hearing was held here in the Chamber of the Legislative Assembly and was televised live across the territory.

The hearing was open to the public and news media to observe from the Visitors’ Gallery, and was livestreamed on the Legislative Assembly’s website. The transcripts from the standing committee’s hearing are available from the Legislative Assembly’s website. Mr. Speaker, witnesses appearing before the standing committee included the Information and Privacy Commissioner and a number of Government of Nunavut officials representing the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, the Department of Community and Government Services, the Department of Health, and the Department of Justice.

The standing committee notes its appreciation to these witnesses. Mr. Speaker, the standing committee’s report contains a total of 20 sets of formal recommendations. Sixteen formal recommendations are directed to the Government of Nunavut. These cover a number of thematic areas, including: • Amendments to the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act;

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5301 • The Government of Nunavut’s annual reports to the Legislative Assembly concerning its administration of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act and related regulations and policies; • Capacity-building and centralization; • Privacy impact assessments; • Public sector salary disclosure; • Agreements between the Government of Nunavut and external entities under the Police Act; • Prosecutions under

section 59 of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act; • Information-sharing and protection of privacy in relation to missing persons legislation and other legislative initiatives; • Health privacy issues and the development of health-specific privacy legislation; • The application of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act to municipalities, district education authorities, and other entities; and • Information technology, cybersecurity, and the impact of artificial intelligence technology on access to information and protection of privacy. Mr.

Speaker, I wish to note for the record that the standing committee is requesting that the government provide a comprehensive response to this report, pursuant to Rule 91(5) of the Rules of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, the standing committee’s report also contains four sets of formal recommendations directed to the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner, including a recommendation that the office offer to provide advice and support to Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the three regional Inuit organizations regarding the establishment of access to information and protection of privacy systems that can be utilized by Nunavut Inuit in respect to information in the possession of these entities. Mr.

Speaker, I anticipate that the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner’s responses to the standing committee’s recommendations will be tabled in the House through you during our upcoming fall sitting. With that, I move that the report of the standing committee be received by the House and entered into the record as read. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The member has moved that the report of the standing committee be received by the House and entered into the record as read. Do members agree? Some Members: Agreed. Speaker: It is agreed. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr.

Kusugak. Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 278 – 6(2): QEC Response to 2023-24 Letter of Expectation (Kusugak) Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to table the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s [response to] the 2023-24 Letter of Expectation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5302 Speaker: Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Tabled Document 279 – 6(2): 2021-22 Tourism Act Annual Report (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to table the 2021-22 Tourism Act Annual Report. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 14. Notices of Motions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk. Tabling of Documents. Mr. Hickes.

Tabled Document 280 – 6(2): Correspondence from the Minister of Health: Follow-up from Committee of the Whole’s Consideration of the Department of Health’s 2024-25 Main Estimates (Hickes) Tabled Document 281 – 6(2): Correspondence from the Minister of Community and Government Services: Follow-up from Committee of the Whole’s Consideration of the Department of Community and Government Services’ 2024-25 Main Estimates (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have two documents to table today in my capacity as Chairperson of the Committee of the Whole.

The first document is a copy of the correspondence from the Minister of Health in response to questions that were asked during the consideration of the department’s 2024-25 main estimates during the proceedings of the Committee of the Whole during the recent winter 2024 sitting of the Legislative Assembly. Mr.

Speaker, the second document is a copy of the correspondence from the Minister of Community and Government Services in response to questions that were asked during the consideration of the department’s 2024-25 main estimates during the proceedings of the Committee of the Whole during the recent 2024 sitting of the Legislative Assembly. I encourage all members to review the documents with care. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Item 14. Notices of Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Item 18.

Second Reading of Bills. Hon. Minister of Justice, Ms. Nutarak. Item 18: Second Reading of Bills Bill 41 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act – Second Reading Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Hudson Bay, that Bill 41, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this bill repeals two defunct Acts and a number of defunct provisions of Acts, renames two Acts to conform to the standard naming conventions for Acts, repeals a number of

definitions that are already provided for in the Legislation Act, and makes other non-substantive improvements to certain Acts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5303 Speaker: The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Some Hon. Members (interpretation): Question. Speaker: All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried and the bill is referred to the Standing Committee on Legislation. Second Reading of Bills. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Bill 42 –

An Act to Amend the Dental Profession Act – Second Reading Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Quttiktuq, that Bill 42,

An Act to Amend the Dental Profession Act, be read for the second time. Uqaqtitsijii, this bill amends the Dental Profession Act to allow for appointment of a review officer by the minister. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Some Hon. Members (interpretation): Question. Speaker: All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried and the bill is referred to the Standing Committee on Legislation. Second Reading of Bills. Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Bill 43 –

An Act to Amend the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation Act – Second Reading Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Rankin Inlet South, that Bill 43,

An Act to Amend the Business Credit Corporation Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, the bill amends the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation Act to: (

a) eliminate the role of the minister in decision-making processes, (

b) eliminate regional boards and lending officers, (

c) allow for more types of financial instruments to be issued, (

d) remove onerous conditions of issuance of financial instruments to business enterprises, (

e) remove the ability for financial instruments to obtain loan guarantees and bonding companies to obtain indemnities, (

f) increase the aggregate loan limit for one business enterprise and related business enterprises to $5 million, (

g) require the inclusion of the names of businesses receiving loans and financial instruments in the corporation’s annual report, and (

h) make other changes to modernize the Act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Some Hon. Members (interpretation): Question.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5304 Speaker: All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried and the bill is referred to the Standing Committee on Legislation. Second Reading of Bills. Hon. Minister of Justice, Ms. Nutarak. Bill 44 –

An Act to Amend the Creditors Relief Act and the Public Service Garnishee Act – Second Reading Hon. Karen Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Hudson Bay, that Bill 44,

An Act to Amend Creditors Relief Act and the Public Service Garnishee Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, the bill amends the Creditors Relief Act and Public Service Garnishee Act to allow for continuing garnishment of wages and salaries. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Some Hon. Members (interpretation): Question. Speaker: All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried and the bill is referred to the Standing Committee on Legislation. Second Reading of Bills. Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Bill 45 –

An Act to Amend the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act – Second Reading Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Pangnirtung, that Bill 45,

An Act to Amend the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act, be read for the second time. Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act to: • apply the quorum rules at subsection 34(2) of the Legislation Act to municipal councils; and • permit municipal councils to appoint councillors when their membership falls below quorum. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Some Hon. Members (interpretation): Question. Speaker: All those in favour? Opposed?

The motion is carried and the bill is referred to the Standing Committee on Legislation. Second Reading of Bills. Hon. Minister of Justice, Ms. Nutarak. Bill 46 –

An Act to Amend the Coroners Act – Second Reading Hon. Karen Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Hudson Bay, that Bill 46,

An Act to Amend the Coroners Act, be read for the second time.

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5305 Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Coroners Act to add to the list of causes or circumstances of death that require notification, to allow for investigations without access to a body, to update the provisions related to interference with a body, to add procedures for the use of alternate jurors at an inquest, and to require the tabling of annual reports. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The motion is in order. To the principle of the bill. Some Hon. Members (interpretation): Question. Speaker: All those in favour? Opposed?

The motion is carried and the bill is referred to the Standing Committee on Legislation. Item 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Bills 38 and 47 with Mr. Malliki in the Chair. Before we proceed to the committee, we will take a 20-minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 15:44 and Committee resumed at 16:11 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairman (Mr. Malliki): I would like to call this committee to order. In Committee of the Whole, we have the following items to deal with: Bills 38 and 47.

What is the wish of the Committee of the Whole? Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We wish to recommence with the review of Bill 38 and the supporting documents, followed by Bill 47 and the supporting documents. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Are we in agreement that we first deal with Bill 38? Some Members: Agreed.

Bill 38 – Supplementary Appropriation (Operations & Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2023- 2024 – Consideration in Committee Chairman: I would like to ask Minister Kusugak: do you have officials that you would like to appear before the committee? Hon. Lorne Kusugak: I do, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Sergeant-at-Arms, please escort the witnesses in. For the record, Minister Kusugak, please introduce your officials and then proceed to your opening comments. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

To my left is Kyle Seeley, Deputy Minister of Community and

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5306 Government Services, and to my right is Dan Young, Deputy Minister of Finance. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I appear before you today to present Bill 38, Supplementary Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024. When I originally presented this bill in the winter sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the government was seeking $100.88 million in appropriations for 2023-24. I am pleased to provide a much smaller version of the bill today seeking $20,245,000.

Two items have been removed from the original bill: $76.1 million for the Department of Health and $4,533,000 for the Department of Community and Government Services. The Department of Health was successful in signing funding agreements with Canada which provided significant funding for the department in 2023-24: $15 million under the Territorial Health Investment Fund and $95 million for Non-Insured Health Benefits. We no longer anticipate needing a supplementary appropriation for the Department of Health for 2023-24.

The Department of Community and Government Services is still seeking $4,719,000 to bring the Petroleum Products Stabilization Fund back to its legislated limits and $409,000 for municipal governments, but it is no longer requesting $4,533,000 for its Infrastructure Branch. The request from Family Services remains unchanged from the original bill. The department is seeking an appropriation of $15.1 million to cover overspending in five areas, mainly the Family Wellness Division. About half of the overspending, $7.5 million, is attributable to increasing expenses for residential care contracts. Mr.

Chairman, there are more details in the briefing notes that you have been provided and in the letters that you received ahead of my appearance today, but I have brought officials from the affected departments to assist me in answering any questions that you may have. Committee Motion 006 – 6(2): Bill 38 Change the Scheduled Amounts (Kusugak) With that, Mr. Chairman, I move that the

schedule be amended by replacing the table with the following: Vote 1: Operations and Maintenance, Item 1, Community and Government Services, $5,128,000; Item 2, Family Services, $15,117,000; total operations and maintenance, $20,245,000; total supplementary appropriation, $20,245,000. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: The motion is in order. A copy of the motion has been given to all members. The mover of the motion speaks first. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have nothing to add, as per it is covered in my opening comments on the bill, Mr. Chairman. Thank you.

Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) To the motion. No. Question has been called. All those in favour? Motion carried. I have no more names under general comments. Page 4 of the supplementary

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5307 appropriation maintenance. Page 4. Community and Government Services. Operations and Maintenance. Not Previously Authorized. Total Government Services. $409,000. Questions? Total Directorate. $4,719,000. Questions? Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First, if the Chairman would allow, I would like to get a general question out of the way not specific to the $4.7 million being requested. I do have some questions on that.

With the reduction of the bill to the $20 million plus, what impact does that have on the Government of Nunavut’s fiscal position as far as deficit surplus from the ‘23-24 fiscal year? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. That puts us in a surplus position. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. If this bill today is approved, what amount would that surplus be approximately? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak.

Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. If I could allow my deputy to respond to those details, thank you, Mr. Chairman, through you. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Mr. Young, please proceed. Mr. Young: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for the question. The audit just started for the 2023-24 fiscal year, so we won’t have any specific numbers for quite a few months yet. A lot of it depends on how much capital is built and how a lot of those projects move forward, but as of right now, we expect it to be a fairly small surplus in the $10 million range.

Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you for allowing that question, Mr. Chairman. I would like to move on to the Petroleum Products Division amount being requested. Back when we were first discussing this bill, there were concerns that I personally raised and a number of my colleagues raised, was the perception that it’s putting the onus on the regular members’ caucus and in addition to the Assembly to deal with pricing, fuel pricing, which is the responsibility of Community and Government Services, as well as the Financial Management Board and cabinet.

So that was one of the purposes of deferring this bill, was to give the department time to express to us as regular members what type of mitigation measures are going to be taken to reduce the stabilization funds balance, if this money is approved, will bring to the $20 million threshold. I’ve seen no activity from the Department of Community and Government Services or the Petroleum

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5308 Products Division to edge that number down or to find a number to chip away from it. Even if we approved this 7.4 million today it still leaves the stabilization fund at its maximum allowable limit, which severely restricts any type of wiggle room as the stabilization fund is intended to provide Petroleum Products Division with their pricing. If the department or the minister can express to me what the plan is to chip away at that 20 million dollar stabilization fund balance. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon.

Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I appreciate the concern and frustrations that were brought by the regular members in terms of dealing with the price of fuel through the Assembly. The intention definitely by cabinet was not to put the onus on regular members to deal with this matter, but I think by default the way that the fuel pricing is currently done, even with previous and current government, puts it in such a way that the current mechanism puts responsibility on this House and regular members to feel like if they have to be the ones to say yes, we have to increase the price of fuel.

That’s one thing that we are currently looking at, to see if there could be a non- political, if I could use that term, way of dealing with the increase in cost of fuel. The current process that we use, Mr. Chairman, is to the actual cost of the fuel landed in Nunavut communities they estimate the cost of transportation and other resupply cost, estimate the cost of petroleum product divisions O&M and needs to supply the fuel in the communities, and that divided by the number of litres that we do re-sell back to the communities.

It is a very long process, but nonetheless it becomes a political decision, and this is one that I’m working with my deputy and other deputies to see if there’s a mechanism that could be done so that it’s something that automatically happens, whether it happens to go up or down. In terms of what the department of PPD is doing to mitigate the situation and seeing how we could deal with the current situation, I would like to invite the Deputy Minister Seeley to respond to that aspect, through you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Mr. Seeley, please proceed. Mr.

Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chair, thank you minister. The Petroleum Products Division has taken a couple of different measures to ensure that we are able to operate within the authorized limit. Those measures include staffing up professional services within the division to make sure that we’re charting our numbers and accounts accurately and consistently.

The other measures that have been taken is of course the approval of this House, increasing the authorized limit for the petroleum products revolving fund, in addition to some enhanced measures on collecting on accounts receivable, so with some of the bigger comments of

Monday, May 27, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5309 PPD, so the people that buy the most fuel. By having some additional measures in place to make sure that we’re collecting on our accounts receivable and increasing the total authorized limit for the revolving fund, we’re hoping to reconcile each year more consistently, as well