Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 6th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 56 Friday, October 27, 2023 Pages 3497 – 3540 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Tony Akoak, MLA

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

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

Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Languages; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation 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 Suicide Prevention Solomon Malliki (Aivilik) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (Pangnirtung) Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for the Status of Women; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Karen Nutarak (Tununiq) Hon. Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Minister of Environment; Minister of Energy; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College Joanna Quassa (Aggu) Inagayuk Quqqiaq (Netsilik) Alexander Sammurtok (Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet) Joe Savikataaq (Arviat South) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Craig Simailak (Baker Lake)

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................3497 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................3497 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................3501 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................3506 Tabling of Documents ................................................................................................................3526 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................3526 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................3539 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................3539

A. Daily References Friday, October 27, 2023 ............................................................................................................3497 B.

Ministers’ Statements 304 – 6(2): National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Akeeagok, P) .....................................3497 305 – 6(2): Nunavut Women’s Correctional Centre Town Crew Program (Akeeagok, D) .......3498 306 – 6(2): Implementation of the Nunavut-wide Hiring Policy (Nakashuk) ............................3498 307 – 6(2): Health Centre Closures (Main) ................................................................................3499 308 – 6(2): Nunavut Principals’ Conference (Gross) .................................................................3499 309 – 6(2): Sanikiluaq Wind Energy IPP Project Signing with QEC (Kaernerk) ......................3500 C.

Members’ Statements 412 – 6(2): Food Accessibility Research Study in Taloyoak (Quqqiaq) ....................................3501 413 – 6(2): Recognizing Noah and Sarah Matoo (Malliki) ........................................................3501 414 – 6(2): Staff Housing for Inuit Employees (Lightstone) .....................................................3502 415 – 6(2): Recognizing Hannah Quaraq (Nutarak) ..................................................................3502 416 – 6(2): Recognizing Loasie Kooneeloosie (Killiktee) .........................................................3503 417 – 6(2): Message to Mother Dear (Akeeagok, D) .................................................................3504 418 – 6(2): Sanikiluaq Wind Energy Project (Qavvik) ..............................................................3504 419 – 6(2): Message to Young Politicians (Kaernerk) ...............................................................3505 D.

Oral Questions 586 – 6(2): Carbon Tax on Home Heating Fuel (Hickes) ..........................................................3506 587 – 6(2): Ilinniarvimmi Inuusilirijiit (Nutarak).......................................................................3507

588 – 6(2): LED Street Lighting for Naujaat (Malliki) ..............................................................3509 589 – 6(2): Qulliq Energy Corporation Policies (Quassa) .........................................................3510 590 – 6(2): Office Closure Policy (Sammurtok) ........................................................................3511 591 – 6(2): Abandoned and Vacant Buildings (Killiktee) ..........................................................3513 592 – 6(2): Operation and Maintenance of Netsilik Airports (Quqqiaq) ...................................3514 593 – 6(2): Nunavut 3000 Strategy (Anavilok) ..........................................................................3516 594 – 6(2): Administration of Lotteries (Brewster) ....................................................................3517 595 – 6(2): QEC Billing Practices (Lightstone) .........................................................................3519 596 – 6(2): Staff Housing for Non-Inuit Employees (Savikataaq) .............................................3521 597 – 6(2): Cost of Construction (Hickes) .................................................................................3522 598 – 6(2): Iqaluit Marine Infrastructure (Brewster) ..................................................................3523 599 – 6(2): Building Permit Requirements (Savikataaq) ...........................................................3524 E.

Tabling of Documents 175 – 6(2): NEBS Actuarial 2019 (Joanasie) .............................................................................3526 176 – 6(2): NEBS Actuarial 2022 (Joanasie) .............................................................................3526 177 – 6(2): NEBS Pension Plan 2020 Annual Report (Joanasie) ...............................................3526 178 – 6(2): NEBS Pension Plan 2021 Annual Report (Joanasie) ...............................................3526 179 – 6(2): NEBS Pension Plan 2022 Annual Report (Joanasie) ...............................................3526 F.

Bills Bill 31 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2024-2025 – Economic Development and Transportation – Consideration in Committee ................................................................................................3527 Bill 31 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2024-2025 – Education – Consideration in Committee 3528

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3497 Iqaluit, Nunavut Friday, October 27, 2023 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, Hon. Joelie Kaernerk, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Adam Lightstone, Mr. Solomon Malliki, Hon. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Ms. Karen Nutarak, Hon. Daniel Qavvik, Ms. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Inagayuk Quqqiaq, Mr. Alexander Sammurtok, Mr. Joe Savikataaq. >>House commenced at 9:00 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon.

Tony Akoak) (interpretation): Good morning. Before we begin, Ms. Killiktee, can you say the opening prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker: Thank you, Ms. Killiktee. Welcome, everyone. It’s Friday morning; enjoy the day and have fun. Item 2. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 304 – 6(2): National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Good morning and thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to my fellow members and Nunavummiut who are listening to the proceedings on a Friday. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, on September 30, several ministers and I attended the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events here in Iqaluit organized by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association. I rise today to honour the children who were taken and placed in Canada’s numerous residential schools, as well as their families and communities.

Here in the capital and across the territory, we now officially observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This government passed legislation in 2022 to ensure September 30 receives equal weight with other designated statutory days. Mr. Speaker, before the Canadian government moved to declare National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we knew it as Orange Shirt Day. It’s important to remember and recognize the courage demonstrated by the survivors. Now, indigenous and non- indigenous people continue to wear orange shirts on September 30. Phyllis Webstad laid the foundation for this day of commemoration.

She is a First Nations Indian Residential School survivor. Her orange shirt was a gift from her grandmother, which was taken from her on her first day of school. The orange shirt signifies, among other things, tremendous loss. Mr. Speaker, in Webstad’s words, “When you wear an orange shirt, it’s like a little bit of justice for us survivors in our lifetime — and recognition of a system we can never allow again.”

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3498 The more people know what happened in residential schools and beyond, the more we can guard against history repeating. Orange shirts also say that “Every child matters.” Mr. Speaker, gathering with others, young and old, as we did again this September 30, reminds our children that they matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 305 – 6(2): Nunavut Women’s Correctional Centre Town Crew Program (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am happy to share that the Nunavut Corrections Division and the City of Iqaluit have created a new town crew program for clients at the Nunavut Women’s Correctional Centre. The women’s town crew started in August 2023 with a cleanup at the Nakasuk School playground and was quickly greeted by Iqalummiut stopping and giving thanks for cleaning up our city. Since August, the women’s town crew has cleaned in many locations around the city, including the elders centre.

The program promotes a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and belonging as the clients become active contributors to their community. The clients feel proud, a sense of accomplishment, and a boost of self-esteem, which helps with their rehabilitation. The new Women’s Town Crew program and its “clean up the City” initiative provides an opportunity for the clients to make a positive impact on their surroundings through meaningful work and community engagement so they can emerge better equipped to reintegrate into society, while Iqalummiut benefit from a cleaner and greener city. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Minister’s Statement 306 – 6(2): Implementation of the Nunavut- wide Hiring Policy (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, Nunavummiut and my fellow members. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, in June I advised members the Department of Human Resources had finalized the Nunavut-wide Hiring Policy, formerly called the Flexible Workplace Policy.

This policy allows eligible Government of Nunavut positions to be advertised with multiple potential work locations within Nunavut. The successful candidate can choose to work in a Nunavut community where there is available office space rather than the position’s designated home community. Mr. Speaker, the Nunavut-wide Hiring Policy demonstrates my department’s commitment to Qanuqtuurniq. It is a unique way to staff vacant positions while managing office space and housing needs. By facilitating

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3499 opportunities for further decentralization of government operations, this policy fully supports our Katujjiluta mandate. Mr. Speaker, the Nunavut-wide Hiring Policy’s guidelines, training resources, and other supporting tools are now in place. This hiring option is available for Government of Nunavut departments to use if they have suitable positions and office space for this type of hiring. The Department of Human Resources is actively exploring opportunities to advertise its first position under this new policy. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Minister’s Statement 307 – 6(2): Health Centre Closures (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, my colleagues and Nunavummiut. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, this past June, Health was in a difficult situation. Due to nursing staff shortages, the Department of Health was forecasting 350 days of closures across 12 health centres over the summer.

While Health had contingencies in place to ensure emergency services were available during closures, the forecasts were a significant concern and represented thousands of lost service hours. I want to express my sincere gratitude, ma’natsiamiaq, to Health’s operations team. In response to the projected staff shortages, they worked extremely hard on recruiting, resourcing, and reassigning staff. The team managed to cut the health centre closure time to just nine days between two facilities. Strengthening staffing is a critical priority for the Department of Health.

We want longer-term staffing solutions so Nunavummiut have access to stable and continuous care. Mitigation strategies and tools, such as our five- year Roadmap to Strengthen the Nunavut Nursing Workforce, contribute to a sustainable and skilled workforce. The Department of Health is also ensuring Nunavut remains competitive in the current labour market and supporting the recruitment and retention of nurses through comprehensive critical staffing measure packages.

Through both of these initiatives, Health wants to enhance compensation and benefits and develop flexible, creative employment models to attract and retain health care professionals. Uqaqtitsijii, Nunavummiut need a strong and consistent nursing workforce, and Health is working hard to make that a reality. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Minister’s Statement 308 – 6(2): Nunavut Principals’ Conference (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to our colleagues and Nunavummiut. Mr.

Speaker, last month, my department hosted our first face-to-face principals’

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3500 conference since 2019, welcoming leaders from 30 schools to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and engage in informative workshops. This year the principals’ conference theme focused on Inuuqatigiitsiarniq, respecting others, relationships, and caring for people. Mr. Speaker, our school leaders focused their time and discussions on exploring what it means to lead schools that reflect Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. I am proud of our department’s commitment to sharing the values that Inuit culture and language bring to our students, teachers, and schools. Mr.

Speaker, through this conference, Nunavut principals took the opportunity to enhance their instructional leadership while learning alongside their peers. Our department presented information on early learning and child care, information technology, and finance, among others. We also invited elders and youth to participate in thoughtful and productive discussions. I want to thank our school principals for investing their time to build relationships with their peers, exchange knowledge, and deepen their awareness of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit to enhance our education system.

I wish all our principals, students, teachers, and staff the best for a wonderful school year. Quana, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Minister’s Statement 309 – 6(2): Sanikiluaq Wind Energy IPP Project Signing with QEC (Kaernerk) Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, my fellow members and Nunavummiut. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, we mark a monumental step forward in Nunavut’s journey towards a sustainable energy future.

It is with great pleasure that I announce the formal signing of the Energy Purchase Agreement (Ikumamik Niuvirunnautiup Angirutinga) between the Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation and the Qulliq Energy Corporation. The official signing of this agreement took place on September 29, 2023 in the Hamlet of Sanikiluaq… >>Applause …and I was pleased to be in attendance for this event, Mr. Speaker. This agreement marks the development of the Anuriqjuak Nukkiksautiit Project, anurirjuaq meaning “big wind” in Inuktitut, the first wind-generated independent power producer agreement for the territory of Nunavut.

This official signing showcases the spirit of partnership and innovation, enabling Nunavut towards a sustainable future, which is a vision both the Qulliq Energy Corporation and the Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation share. In the spirit of our Katujjiluta mandate, this independent power producer agreement is more than just a contract; it is a pledge to our communities that we will work together to invest in our territory’s renewable resources and continue to develop and utilize Nunavut’s workforce

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3501 and expertise to power our homes, businesses, and industries. In closing, I must extend my sincere gratitude to Mayor Kattuk and the community of Sanikiluaq for its dedication and contributions to making the vision of an energy purchase agreement between the Qulliq Energy Corporation and the Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation a reality. I would also like to acknowledge the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s employees for their continued support in making this sustainable energy milestone come into fruition. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 3.

Members’ Statements. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 412 – 6(2): Food Accessibility Research Study in Taloyoak (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to inform my colleagues about an important food accessibility research study which is being undertaken by the University of Toronto in close collaboration with the Hamlet of Taloyoak and Whati, Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, on June 6, 2023 the federal Minister of Northern Affairs announced five indigenous-led projects to study food security and inequity in northern communities.

These projects are being funded under the federal Food Security Research Grant fund. The project is called “Learning about Indigenous Concepts Relevant to Food Security Intervention in Northern Communities.” Mr. Speaker, the project will “use land- based conversational interviewing and concept mapping to reveal the core ideas through which Inuit living in Taloyoak experience food sufficiency, security and affordability.” Mr. Speaker, I look forward to updating the House on this exciting work as it progresses. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki.

Member’s Statement 413 – 6(2): Recognizing Noah and Sarah Matoo (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues and Nunavummiut, as well as my constituents in Coral Harbour and Naujaat. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my pride in the people of Coral Harbour. They held a 44-kilometre suicide prevention walk from August 14th to the 19th, this past summer. The organizers were Noah and Sarah Matoo, who began volunteering in preparation for this suicide prevention walk back in 2005.

This past summer the walk included youth as young as 14 years all the way up to 60-year-olds. They had a walk for six and half hours to the river called Igluralaaq. Once they made it to Igluralaaq, they had a feast

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3502 and they worked together and they did some healing programs over there. Since 2005 they have been working in other communities, such as Whale Cove, and now that they have moved to Rankin Inlet, they have been asked if they can organize another suicide prevention walk in the community. Last summer, the Kivalliq Inuit Association provided funding for the walk and they were able to go ahead. Coral Harbour residents helped out by cooking food outside for the people, and I would like to congratulate the people and I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our in them.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Member’s Statement 414 – 6(2): Staff Housing for Inuit Employees (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues and those watching the proceedings. I would like to wish a happy Friday to you all. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my appreciation for the minister’s statement provided yesterday by Minister Nakashuk regarding the staff housing allocation to Inuit employees. Mr.

Speaker, for the majority of the term of the Fifth Assembly, I had raised concern that roughly 75 percent of Government of Nunavut staff housing was provided to non-Inuit employees while across Nunavut, Inuit are living in overcrowded housing. I applaud Minister Nakashuk and the Department of HR for their effort to improve the allocation of staff housing in an effort to rebalance the distribution and provide a home for Inuit employees. Mr. Speaker, I recognize that for many of these Inuit employees, this might be their very first time living independently and having a home that they can call their own. Mr.

Speaker, it is very gratifying when the government acts on concerns and recommendations made by members. I look forward to seeing further improvement in this area and again, I would like to thank Minister Nakashuk for this initiative and I look forward to seeing further improvements in the distribution and allocation of staff housing. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak. Member’s Statement 415 – 6(2): Recognizing Hannah Quaraq (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I say “good morning” to the people of Pond Inlet and Nunavummiut. My family in Pond Inlet are especially in my thoughts today as I am missing them. I hastily rose this morning because I really wanted to acknowledge Hannah Quaraq, whom I had previously acknowledged. I spoke with her earlier, and I always really enjoy our

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3503 conversations. I again wanted to recognize her dedication. Hannah, who is now 74 years old and will be turning 75 later this year, continues to work really hard to this day. She originally started working as a cleaner at Polaris Mine on Little Cornwallis Island. She also previously worked for the government, but currently works at Baffinland, having started out as a dishwasher, later becoming a cleaner, and is now a cultural consultant advising the human resources division at Baffinland.

I asked her if she was considering retirement now that she is in her golden years, and she answered, “I’m just starting my administrative career now.” Hannah is someone I have always looked up to as a role model and she continues to demonstrate her abilities as an elder, and continues to show great care, attention, and effort in all she does. She is a very fine example for our youth. She began working in entry-level positions, but over the years, she graduated to more senior positions demonstrating that anyone can move up provided they persevere and work to the best of their abilities.

When we commit ourselves to a job, we can start at the bottom but grow into higher positions. I believe Hannah is listening since I wrote to her this morning. I send my greetings to her and wish her the best moving forward. I wish her and her husband, Ookookoo, a wonderful day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Member’s Statement 416 – 6(2): Recognizing Loasie Kooneeloosie (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Today, I will keep an eye on my hearing piece, just so you are aware. Good morning, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to express my pride and extend my congratulations to Loasie Kooneeloosie, from Qikiqtarjuaq. He completed his theological studies for the Anglican church after planning for this event last year because he did not want to continue the training while becoming physically limited. I rise today to voice my pride in his dedication, and a bishop recently arrived in Qikiqtarjuaq. Kooneeloosie is my paternal uncle who is the younger brother of my late father.

Back in the 1960s a bishop from the Anglican Church travelled to the south Baffin area, and at the time, my uncle started getting invited to serve as his assistant when he was a young man. Since that time, over a period of about 60 years, he has served as an Anglican lay reader, and he has dealt with difficult issues both in his service and in his lifetime. He has lost children, has seen cancer take his loved ones, and so on, so he has seen everything over his lifetime; both he and his wife. I am extremely proud of you, Uncle Loasie Kooneeloosie. I want you to know that.

I also want tell you that you really make a difference, as our spiritual leaders lift a lot of heaviness from our communities in their service. They are entrusted with many issues, and perhaps we as leaders could receive more truths if we listened, or when we have to bury a

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3504 loved one, as they lighten the burden we feel. So let us not forget our spiritual leaders. We should express our pride in them and provide more support to them and I am encouraging my fellow residents this morning. I am very proud of you, my dear uncle. He and his wife, Geela Aksarjuk, have been supporting people as a team in our community for a very long time. I rise today to acknowledge them. They had a gathering and a tea party. I am very pleased and thank my fellow residents of Qikiqtarjuaq. That is all. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements.

Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 417 – 6(2): Message to Mother Dear (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Good morning, Mr. Speaker. Since this is Friday, I am happy to provide some lighter stuff. I want to tell a story about my sister’s granddaughter, who is two years old. Yesterday she apparently told her mother while watching the proceedings on television that “Ittuq David is really angry.” >>Laughter She is my mother’s namesake and also the youngest child, so I want to let her know that I am not at all angry and I am happy to serve as an MLA here in this House.

As a consensus government, we work in collaboration with our colleagues, so this is to let my dear little mother know that I am not mad while I try to perform my duties. Perhaps in really trying to make my statements, I tend to frown. >>Laughter When you frown on television, it seems to be more exaggerated than in reality. To my little mother, please know that I am happy to be in my position as an MLA and I am proud of my constituents and I am always grateful to this day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik.

Member’s Statement 418 – 6(2): Sanikiluaq Wind Energy Project (Qavvik) Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) Beautiful morning greetings to my colleagues. I rise this morning to express my gratitude to the Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, who was able to visit Sanikiluaq on September 29. I also thank the President of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, Olayuk Akesuk, and Harry Flaherty, of Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, who were also able to come to Sanikiluaq.

The minister was instrumental in negotiations of an agreement that resulted in a signing ceremony, as this was an issue our leaders worked hard to finalize. I also want to express my gratitude to the former Mayor of Sanikiluaq, Emily Kattuk, as well as the councillors from both past and present, who fought hard

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3505 for this initiative called “Anuriqjuaq Nukkiksautiit.” They wanted to have the signing ceremony in front of the people of Sanikiluaq and I am quite proud of them. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the Qulliq Energy Corporation, on a government-level, is like my big brother because I am responsible for Energy, and he is responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation. Mr. Speaker, that alternative Sanikiluaq wind energy project; the Independent Power Producer policy is sustainable, innovative, and collaborative within our government.

That alternative wind energy project will cut down fifty per cent of our diesel usage in our community and that speaks to our mandate and Canada’s mission to turn to renewable energy in our country. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me statement. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Member’s Statement 419 – 6(2): Message to Young Politicians (Kaernerk) Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning.

While my colleague, the Member for the High Arctic, may seem to have a continual frown; I, the Member for Amittuq, become overheated. >>Laughter That is my joke for the day, so good morning. Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to make a statement about the municipal elections that were held in every community throughout Nunavut with the electorate voting for hamlet councils and mayors. Now there are some elected youth. I really want to encourage the youth who became councillors, as you have to continue trying.

Although you may initially be shy and feel embarrassed on occasion, there will also be times you get hot and sweaty, but do not worry about these stress factors. Tomorrow is on the horizon, and today’s stressful situations will disappear even before tomorrow arrives, so you can send it to the future and deal with today’s problems. Being overly worried about the future can cloud your thinking, as you can fall into anger, disconcertment and unhappiness abound.

This is especially so when you have children who require your love, but when you are overly concerned by worrying about something you cannot control, then you don’t think clearly. There will be times even when you wish to speak truthfully, yet your own stress may interfere with your speaking ability. I wish to encourage all newly elected councillors, especially the youth. Do not hesitate and do not be concerned; just relax and allow the opposite effects to help you think clearly.

Especially here in the Legislative Assembly, being on the government side makes you really want to provide a good response, but it can also be a bit worrying as to how your response will come across. Therefore, I encourage all the new hamlet council members to express your concerns in order to represent your

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3506 communities properly. Perhaps, if you want to go further, you will be able to get elected to the Legislative Assembly. I just want to speak in order to encourage our people further this fine morning. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Item 6. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 586 – 6(2): Carbon Tax on Home Heating Fuel (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my questions today to the Minister of Finance. Mr. Speaker, it was a great relief that I read yesterday that there will be a three- year pause to carbon pricing measures across the country to home heating fuel, effective this upcoming April. Can the minister tell us today, on a per litre basis, what impact the carbon tax currently has on home heating fuel? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, was excited about the news yesterday and I look forward to seeing the outcome it has on here, Mr. Speaker.

I just lost my tab on that, Mr. Speaker. I will have to get back to my colleague on those details. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Is there any reason, such as the way we do our resupply in Nunavut, or any other factors that could affect the full removal of the carbon tax impact on home heating fuel prices this April? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is one that our department is exploring.

I think, in previous discussions with our colleagues and with the announcement that was made yesterday by the federal government on the whole issue around carbon tax, and we hear that they’re exploring more ways to deal with carbon tax and its impact on rural communities, and we will continue to look at that and I hope that there will be ways that we could better deal with carbon tax and its impact on the price of our fuel in Nunavut. Fuel is the only way we can generate electricity in our territory.

Mind you, in Sanikiluaq, they’re exploring new ways, but as it currently sits, that’s what we have to deal with and I look forward to working with and finding out more ways that we could deal with reducing the cost of fuel in our territory. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m glad the minister acknowledged that and not everyone understands that we don’t have a lot of alternatives for providing power or heat in our homes.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3507 Mr. Speaker, it was also announced that the federal government will double the carbon price rebate for rural Canadians in April. From what I understand, this program gives a supplement to residents of rural and small communities, although Nunavut, that increases the rebates in their province by 10 percent to account for increased energy needs and reduced access to transportation options, again, although Nunavut, and that top-up will rise to 20 percent in April. Is Nunavut receiving this or a similar rebate and, if not, why not? It seems we fit the same criteria.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As my colleague understands as he has been party to many FPTs on finance, some of the announcements that are made today, the details have not been made out in terms of what kind of positive or negative impacts that will have on our territory in that structure.

I look forward to meeting with my federal counterparts and having this discussion and seeing exactly what kind of impact it will have on our territory and in hearing that, we will work to ensure that it has as much benefit to our territory as it can, Mr. Speaker. At an appropriate time when that information does become available to us, I will be more than happy to share it with my colleagues, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak. Question 587 – 6(2): Ilinniarvimmi Inuusilirijiit (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Education. Mr. Speaker, in March I asked the minister questions about the ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit positions in Nunavut schools. At the time, the minister indicated that there were 45 Ilinniarvimmi Inuusilirijiit positions across the territory but they were not all filled. Can the minister provide an update on how many of these positions are filled, how many are staffed on a temporary basis, and how many are vacant? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. There are two questions in that and you can answer both or one.

Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Quana to the member for the question on the ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit. For the particular details on the numbers, I commit to getting back to the member on the three parts to her question and I can share that with the rest of our colleagues as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and thank you, minister. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister will recall, when I asked my question in March, the ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit position at the Nasivvik High School in Pond Inlet was vacant and has been vacant for four years. At the time, the minister stated that she

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3508 would work to ensure that the district education authority was able to recruit and hire, and she committed to filling that position. I understand that the process has started, but there is still no one in the school to provide support to the students. Can the minister explain why it is taking so long to fill the ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit position at the Nasivvik High School in Pond Inlet? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Quana again to the member for the question.

As the member stated, those are very critical positions in our schools, and we do work to ensure that they are filled. However, there are vacancies across our schools, and it is unfortunate, and we do want to have people in them. I encourage people to apply for positions that you see out there and submit all the documentation that you do need. We are always looking for staff as one of the biggest departments within the Government of Nunavut.

There are a lot of positions out there, and this is one that is very well needed in our schools as they really support the students on a broad spectrum of work for their overall well-being, and I can get the specific information to the member with working with our regional school operations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In March, the minister also stated that the ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit position would be put out at the department level, on their website and through other means.

With the number of vacant ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit positions in Nunavut schools, it seems that many students are going through schools without a staff person who is dedicated to ensuring their well-being and providing support to help them with their struggles at school and beyond. Can the minister clearly describe what specific steps her department takes to recruit individuals to work at ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit in Nunavut and tell this House where interested people can go to get more information about these challenging but rewarding jobs? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross.

Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Quana to the member for the question. All of our jobs are posted on our department’s website. We also have recruiting fairs that our staff go to, to recruit members. We’re always advocating for people to join our team, we have various initiatives, like ads recently on social media and other areas for people to see that there are jobs out there. There are always career offices and postings at Family Services, for example, and other areas where jobs are out there.

Through word-of-mouth, too, it’s always great to hear of jobs if you think of a potential person that you encourage them to apply for a job if you see that job is vacant.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3509 To anybody listening, if you are a resident of our colleague’s constituency and if you are interested, we do encourage people to apply for the jobs that are out there to help strengthen Nunavut, and especially in our school system. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Question 588 – 6(2): LED Street Lighting for Naujaat (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is in regard to the Qulliq Energy Corporation.

The minister’s seat was probably very hot yesterday, but must have cooled down by now. I would like to know when the work will begin on the project to replace our street lights with new LED lighting. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, for your question. The LED light project begun in 2023 and will continue through to 2024.

I can respond by saying that in Naujaat we will be replacing the street lights with LED lights, and we hope to be completed before the end of the year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for his response. I forgot to mention the community. In regard to those LED lights, are they in town now? I had a discussion with the people who work for the Qulliq Energy Corporation and they stated that they had not arrived in the community even though the supply ship has been there already.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you for that question. The Manager of the Qulliq Energy Corporation indicated that they want to have these projects completed before the end of the year. He also stated that we will be done before the end of the year. I was told that the materials were already in Naujaat. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank you, minister, for that response. Is Naujaat the only remaining community that still needs street light replacements? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and I thank my colleague for that question. No, it’s not the last one. There are still other communities that are planned for street

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3510 light replacements, so Naujaat is not the last community, but it will be next. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Question 589 – 6(2): Qulliq Energy Corporation Policies (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation. (interpretation ends) As the minister is aware, the Qulliq Energy Corporation issued a public service announcement yesterday.

This announcement stated that “Homeowners are responsible to have a qualified residential electrician inspect and repair damage to customer- owned equipment required for electrical service.” Can the minister clarify why the corporation decided it was necessary to issue this announcement? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and I thank the member for that follow-up question about the previous announcement.

With respect to private homeowners, if strong winds cause damage to power lines and you lose power because of the storm has cut the power line that provides power to the home, then this perhaps should be dealt with by the homeowner and NHC to replace them. Although the wires are the property of the Qulliq Energy Corporation, there is a caveat in that situation. The wires that are cut due to storms, unfortunately the homeowner is responsible for the reconnection to the power lines. This is partially a standalone issue.

Qulliq Energy Corporation can fix the lines towards the home, and storm damage partially falls under the Nunavut Housing Corporation and partially under the Qulliq Energy Corporation, however, if you are a private homeowner, this particular power connection to the power lines is complicated. The QEC owns the power lines, and the lines connecting to the homes are the responsibility of the homeowners, and must be fixed by them, according to the policy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank the minister for that explanation. Yes, electricians’ work can be quite complicated and sometimes very dangerous. That is why the work has to be done by professional electricians. (interpretation ends) Nevertheless, Mr. Speaker, homeowners can be without power for days or even weeks if their service must suffer damage caused by high winds. The Qulliq Energy Corporation’s public service announcement makes it sound as though it is easy for homeowners living in small communities to find a qualified residential electrician on short notice.

Can the minister tell me today how many qualified residential electricians

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3511 actually live in Igloolik or Sanirajak? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, for the question. The Qulliq Energy Corporation has no electricians in those communities. We always have to bring them in from Iqaluit to Sanirajak and Igloolik. We are always having to send electricians, and they have to be certified.

It is rather unfortunate that there are no electricians in those communities and that is why we have to bring them in. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your final supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the minister for responding to my question. All of the communities should have certified electricians that can do the work in emergencies, and not just in Igloolik and Sanirajak, but all of Nunavut. (interpretation ends) I believe that the Qulliq Energy Corporation should have a more flexible approach to these types of situations.

For example, the corporation could look at performing the necessary work for the impacted homeowner on a cost-recovery basis. Will the minister commit to reviewing the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s policy in this area, yes or no? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking those questions. Indeed, it is unfortunate that many communities in Nunavut do not have local electricians available.

In looking at the policies of the Qulliq Energy Corporation, as you stated, perhaps the Qulliq Energy Corporation should be called the power company. Yes, for the reasons you listed, QEC continues to try to revisit these policies to better serve Nunavummiut, with both the provision of lights and power being very important here. I commit to having this reviewed further, and staff are currently conducting plans towards that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok. Question 590 – 6(2): Office Closure Policy (Sammurtok) Mr.

Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to the people of Chesterfield Inlet and Rankin Inlet. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the Minister of Human Resources, and they concern the government policy regarding office closures. Mr. Speaker, winter is on the way, and the Kivalliq will soon be in blizzard season.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3512 Mr. Speaker, the minister is responsible for administering

section 1011 of the Human Resource Manual, which concerns the bad weather and office closures. Mr. Speaker, I believe that the decision to close Government of Nunavut offices should not be made in Iqaluit. I believe that these decisions should be made by officials living in the communities. When I raised this issue during our last winter sitting, the minister indicated that she would consider this suggestion. Can the minister indicate today what changes have been made to the government’s office closure policy? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for Human Resources, Ms.

Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for asking that question. You had previously asked why decisions for government office closures due to weather were being made in Iqaluit, and I would like to say that the deputy minister works with all of the communities, whether it’s in Rankin Inlet or elsewhere. They coordinate with people in the communities and they also follow closures made by hamlets when making that decision. They generally call the deputy minister to ask if it an office can be closed, but the deputy minister cannot order office closures on his or her own.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Can the minister confirm how many office closures have taken place in Rankin Inlet and Chesterfield Inlet since the beginning of the 2023 calendar year? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, for asking that question.

I don’t have that information with me, so I don’t know how many times offices in Rankin Inlet and Chesterfield Inlet have been closed. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends)

Section 1011 of Human Resources Manual was last updated in February 2020. Can the minister indicate when it will be next updated? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, for asking that question. We have had no discussions as to when it will be updated. There are different closure policies and they have to look at the wind and temperature combined, in terms of the weather conditions in the community. The policies are still the same today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3513 Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Question 591 – 6(2): Abandoned and Vacant Buildings (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to ask questions to the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, and they concern the issue of abandoned and vacant buildings that are just sitting there. I’m sure Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq aren’t the only communities, but that’s the situation in my communities.

Buildings that were erected in the past are just sitting there now and are just becoming run down. That’s what I’m talking about, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) There are situations where private homes have been vacant for many years because their previous owners had to abandon them, maybe due to bankruptcy or other reasons. Mr. Speaker, these buildings should be put to use. Can the minister indicate how Nunavut Housing Corporation has worked with banks or other parties to acquire abandoned properties for the purpose of converting them into public housing or other uses? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Nunavut Housing Corporation deals with public housing and staff housing, but there are instances when a private homeowner shows interest to release their house or houses to the Nunavut Housing Corporation because they’re no longer able to live in them because of their age or other reasons. Those discussions happen between our senior staff and the homeowner, but in terms of abandoned houses and those issues, we don’t deal with those.

If there are foreclosures and so many other issues that happen, that’s between the private owner of the home and the lending institutions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s unfortunate that there are so many homeless people everywhere, with no place to sleep. They are outside and looking for places to stay in the winter time. A possible solution would be to utilize those buildings in the smaller communities. I find it very disappointing to hear that.

Nonetheless, I want to ask you further if the minister can create some movement by collaborating in partnership with the Department of CGS and the hamlets to collaborate on a potential future review of abandoned buildings or shuttered private homes that are no longer maintained. I wonder if you can commit to looking into that. That is the question I had. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If we’re talking

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3514 about private homes that have been abandoned by owners, if they’re usable, I’m sure that they would be occupied, but the question is: why was it left? What would it cost to improve it? Who owns it? Is there an amount owed on the house? There are many issues related to improving those kids of units. I really cannot pledge to work in areas where they may just fall apart and become expensive to maintain. We do not have desire to work towards that in the future, as that is not part of our mandate.

However, there are Inuit out there who own their own homes who no longer wish to maintain them and would like to either sell or give their house to the NHC or list them through private sales. We do hear from homeowners who are in that situation, and we invite them to work with us on how we can lessen their desire to abandon their unit while it is still possible to renovate the unit. There are funds specific to that area. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

We have all mentioned that we want to see some positive benefits of moving forward at seeking solutions. It could possibly be something that we could review. Perhaps some options could be sought in terms of assessing buildings. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, some of these abandoned homes that I have mentioned are in poor condition. Repairing these buildings would be a good opportunity for residents to develop skills. Will the minister ensure that Nunavut Housing Corporation works with local housing organizations to explore opportunities 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. Yes, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Question 592 – 6(2): Operation and Maintenance of Netsilik Airports (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister or Economic Development and Transportation. As the minister is aware, his department issued a request for proposals in February 2020 for the operations and maintenance of airports in Kugaaruk and Taloyoak.

The contacts were both awarded in March of 2021 to the same company. The request for proposals both indicated that these contracts would expire in March 2023. Can the minister indicate if either or both of the contracts have been extended until the end of the current 2023-24 fiscal year? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3515 Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The line of questioning is very operational and one that I rely on our wonderful staff that do these requests for proposals to keep our airports open. I am going to have to get those details from my staff as it doesn’t go to my level when its at the operational level. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

It is important that the Government of Nunavut support Nunavut businesses and it is important that Nunavut businesses support Nunavut residents with training and employment opportunities. Mr. Speaker, can the minster clarify how his department monitors the contract’s performance in respect to local Inuit training and employment opportunities for my constituents in Taloyoak and Kugaaruk? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

All of our contracts do have requirements for Inuit employment and Inuit training. I don’t have the specifics of the contracts for the particulars that my member colleague is asking for. I don’t know what level it is at now, but I will commit to providing those details once I get them from our staff. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the minister will recall, he recently tabled his department’s 2020-2040 Nunavut Airports 20-year Capital Needs Assessment Update report. Mr.

Speaker, it is very important that our airports, which are the lifeline for our communities, be kept in good condition. Mr. Speaker, can the minister clarify how his department works with the contractors to identify and report deficiencies at a community’s airport? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have very efficient staff and I have just been informed that those contracts that our member colleague has asked for are extended and will continue.

As for the airport terminals and all of the surroundings, there is a very good dialogue between the contractors and our staff, and they go through it. In fact, every airport gets inspected every three years with Transport Canada and ourselves to determine deficiencies. Through what was approved yesterday for the transportation side of the capital, we use those monies to fix any of the deficiencies. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3516 Question 593 – 6(2): Nunavut 3000 Strategy (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and also to my colleagues. (interpretation ends) My questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation. Mr. Speaker, I want to get more clarification on the status of housing construction for Kugluktuk under the Nunavut 3000 strategy.

As the minister is aware, the Nunavut 3000 strategy indicates that 75 new public housing units, affordable housing units and market housing units are planned to be constructed in Kugluktuk over the life of the strategy. During Tuesday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the minister stated that “We’re looking at public housing starts for 2024 at eight.” Can the minister clarify if this is the current 2023-24 fiscal year or the upcoming 2024-25 fiscal year? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon.

Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That would be the construction season that starts in the summer of 2024. Mr. Speaker, thank you. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for that response. (interpretation ends) The Nunavut Housing Corporation has entered into a formal agreement with NCC Development Limited to implement the Nunavut 3000 strategy.

During Tuesday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, a number of questions were asked about NCC Development’s recent request for proposals to acquire 132 prefabricated modular residential units. Can the minister clarify what information has been provided to him by NCC Development concerning the communities in which these units will be located? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. NCC, as we all know, is a construction company.

We have a contract to deliver what is inside the Nunavut 3000 build. We have contractual obligations to work with them, but these units that my colleague is referring to, the 132, are their own projects and they are not that of the Nunavut Housing Corporation. That company does what they want with those. We have no party to what, where, and how those programs are delivered. Mr. Speaker, thank you. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for that response. (interpretation ends) There is confusion about exactly how many units

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3517 will begin construction during the upcoming 2024-25 fiscal year in different Nunavut communities. Can the minister confirm when the Nunavut Housing Corporation construction plan and community allocations for the 2024-25 fiscal year will be formally tabled in the Legislative Assembly? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Nunavut 3000 document was and is available on the website and I can’t remember if I tabled that document in here. Mr.

Speaker, on that it says the 2024 public housing starts are listed right there by community and how many there are in there, Mr. Speaker. There is nothing confusing that I see about that, Mr. Speaker. It is available on the site. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 594 – 6(2): Administration of Lotteries (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ullaakkut, everyone. My questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services, who is responsible for both the Lotteries Act and the Western Canada Lottery Act. Mr.

Speaker, the minister’s department recently announced that it will be offering training sessions in both Iqaluit and Qikiqtarjuaq this month to charitable organizations interested in operating activities under the legislation. Mr. Speaker, the department’s announcement indicated that the Iqaluit training sessions were scheduled to begin this morning at 9 a.m. Can the minister indicate approximately how many organizations and individuals registered to take

part in the training? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the question from my colleague. Mr. Speaker, maybe I will start off in that there are two different ways that we administer lotteries in Nunavut; one where the Department of Community and Government Services, Consumer Affairs Division, there are some communities that are non- delegated that we deal with, but also on a side note, there are licences that are issued through the municipal corporations.

In terms of the question around the training that will be offered here in Iqaluit, I don’t have that level of detail, but I can say that as of this year, the Consumer Affairs Division has issued a total of 46 lottery licences to non- delegated communities up until this fiscal year, and we try to work with charitable, as well as religious organizations that are eligible through this. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3518 Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister, for that response. I’m always really excited when we are building capacity at the community- level, especially for organizations that do charitable work. Mr. Speaker, we are all aware of unlicensed activities that take place in our communities to raise funds for family travel to funerals or other purposes.

On one hand, these activities are not strictly authorized under the legislation, and on the other hand it is hard to justify devoting limited law enforcement resources to prosecuting people who are trying to raise funds to go to a funeral. Mr. Speaker, it is important to recognize that this is not a simple issue and it is one that has been raised on previous occasions in this House. Can the minister indicate how his department’s Consumer Affairs Division is approaching this issue? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Regarding lotteries in Nunavut, things have changed since 1988, when the current legislation that we use… . The regulated lotteries schemes in Nunavut include bingos, Nevada pull tickets, raffles, casinos, Texas hold’em poker, and sports drafts. These are what the Consumer Affairs Division administers and this is what we focus on and can deal with. Those that are outside of that scope, unfortunately, our department advises that if there is any illegal gaming activity, we would provide the advice if Nunavummiut or people that have that concern to bring it to authorities, and the RCMP, in this case.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today is Friday and the Lotto Max jackpot is at $50.00 million. I would wish the minister good luck, but I already bought the winning ticket. >>Laughter Mr. Speaker, Lotto Max, 6/49, and other tickets are sold in the territory under the authority of the Western Canada Lottery Act.

Earlier this week, the minister tabled the 2018-19 financial statements under the legislation and I acknowledge that he recently sent correspondence to MLAs indicating that he plans to table the outstanding annual reports during our upcoming spring sitting. Mr. Speaker,

section 4 of the legislation is very clear. It states: “The profits accruing to the Government of Nunavut from the Western Canada Lottery shall be used for the purpose of promoting sport and recreational activities.” Will the minister commit to ensuring that the upcoming reports that he will be tabling paint a clearer picture of how the government is actually using these funds? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3519 Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think that there are many people that are hoping to have that lucky ticket. Regarding the proceeds of lotteries and how they are spent, we do try to provide the details to that through the annual reports. Mr. Speaker, if my colleagues will indulge, I think, we can look at how detailed we want to get into the reporting side of this and I can commit to provide as much details as we can. These are funds that we receive on behalf of Nunavummiut and we want to showcase that they’re being spent well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Question 595 – 6(2): QEC Billing Practices (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation. As the minister is aware, the priorities of the corporation are reliability, safety, and efficiency. Mr. Speaker, one matter that I continue to hear from Iqalummiut is how they’re able to rely on the corporation in receiving their monthly bills past the actual stated due date that the bill must be paid.

For the benefit of the public, I would like to ask the minister if he would be able to provide some information on the billing process itself. I’m curious to find out if the corporation utilizes Canada Post’s snail mail, which sends these bills down south to sorting facilities before flying them back up to our PO boxes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for your question regarding billing. Yes, safety is certainly one of our priorities within Qulliq’s policies.

Qulliq’s website was revamped to allow for online payments, however, I don’t recall what year that was done. I believe it was last year, but I can return with the answer at a later time. It is unfortunate that postal services are overloaded and extremely slow, but that is beyond our control. So the fast method of making a payment is through the online payment system via the Qulliq website, or you can call the headquarters in Baker Lake to find out the actual details if you are looking for a speedier payment method. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr.

Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Moving on to my next line of questioning, under the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s terms and conditions,

section 12.8 lists the late payment charges that are applied to Nunavummiut who receive these late bills and are unable to pay the amount by the due date. Those late payment charges specified in the terms and conditions are 1.5 percent a month and almost 20 percent a year, which is equivalent to the absurd rates that credit cards charge. Meanwhile, the Government of Nunavut charges an annual rate of interest for late

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3520 payments at 7.5 percent, which is, I believe, tied to the Bank of Canada’s prime rate or benchmark rate. Mr. Speaker, with the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s 15,000 customers, I’m sure this is not isolated to Iqaluit, and it’s a matter that affects all customers of the Qulliq Energy Corporation. I’m assuming that the corporation generates a considerable amount of revenue due to these late payment charges. I would like to ask the minister if he would consider amending the late payment charge in the terms and conditions or, better yet, do away with it. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for the details and operational questions on the billing part there. When it comes to these overdue payments, it’s important, but the corporation has a rate. As I stated to the member, I will look into it more and see what the corporation can do, and as the minister of the Qulliq Corporation, I will get back to the minister…ah, minister…to the member with these detailed and operational questions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr.

Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the promotion I received from the minister. With regard to the questions on the terms and conditions, I don’t that it would be identified as an operational detailed question. That’s more of a policy-related question. Mr. Speaker, returning to the topic of the billing process, yesterday I had indicated that the Nunavut Energy Subsidy program for commercial clients are small and medium sized business owners and entrepreneurs. That energy subsidy is very poorly utilized. Only 15 of our small businesses across Nunavut receive this energy subsidy.

I asked the Minister of Finance to raise awareness and promote this subsidy program to help offset the increasing cost of living in Nunavut. For my final question, I would like to ask the Minister of the Qulliq Energy Corporation if he would collaborate with the Minister of Finance on this matter and possibly insert some pamphlets or even applications in the bills of the corporation’s commercial customers. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Hon. Joelie Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thanks again for the member’s question on this.

The business sector is not through the Qulliq Energy Corporation, so when it comes to these, it’s another department’s terms and conditions. As the minister with the Department of Finance stated, I would be willing to work with the Department of Finance when it comes to fuel subsidies, power subsidies, and as the members know, fuel increases are rising up. Yes, I will commit to working with the Department of Finance minister on this issue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3521 Question 596 – 6(2): Staff Housing for Non-Inuit Employees (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the people of Arviat, I say “very good morning” to you. I hope you had an enjoyable and relaxing weekend. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my question this morning is for the Minister of Human Resources and it pertains to the minister’s statement on staff housing allocation on Inuit employment. You painted a picture, but I would like to see a bigger picture. Mr.

Speaker, the minister stated, “I am happy to report that we have allocated 72 staff housing units to Nunavut Inuit employees on the staff housing wait- list.” Mr. Speaker, in that same time period, how many non-Inuit were allocated staff housing? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking that question. It has been stated on more than one occasion that there are not enough Inuit in the staff housing units. We’re not just talking about employees.

There have been some cases where there are people waiting a long time for staff housing and we’re trying to make sure that they are on the priority list. I don’t have a broken-down list as to how many non-Inuit employees received staff housing. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will be expecting the numbers from the minister as to how many non-Inuit are in government staff housing. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, when I was questioning the Minister of Environment on vacant positions in Arviat, the Environment minister stated that they were waiting for housing allocations in Arviat for vacant positions. I also have a number of constituents in Arviat who are waiting to get into government staff housing. As the MLA from a community, you get told information and it may or may not be true, but they’re all concerns. Can the minister confirm that two government staff houses in Arviat are being used or utilized by the NCC Development Corporation for their staff? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that follow- up question. (interpretation ends) The Nunavut Staff Housing Allocation Committee (interpretation) is handled by senior officials. (interpretation ends) Deputy ministers from all departments work on the staff housing allocation. In terms of the NCC, I’m not aware of any NCC staff who are in staff housing

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3522 units. I will follow up on this request. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I look forward to hearing from the minister on the number of non-Inuit who were issued and whether the NCC Development Corporation is in fact using two government staff houses in Arviat. That would be good information to know because we are short on staff housing in Arviat and many Nunavut communities. Mr.

Speaker, are there any provisions in the government Staff Housing Policy where non-GN employees can get in to government staff housing? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that question. (interpretation ends) Nunavut government staff housing units, I know I have brought this up, especially when I was a regular member, on the empty units. Since I have become responsible for Human Resources staff housing units, we have pushed for Inuit staff to get into them.

The issue we have been facing more since we have allocated more Inuit into staff housing units is actually lacking a lot of staff housing units to positions because we have made some changes on how to allocate them. In terms of emergency cases, we have had some requests come from outside if there have been fires or emergency cases where we’ve had some requests come in, if they could temporarily stay in a GN staff housing unit. We have had some requests on that before. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes.

Question 597 – 6(2): Cost of Construction (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Housing. On Wednesday, May 31, 2023, earlier this year, I had a line of questioning to the minister regarding cost per square foot. At that time, I had asked the minister to get a little bit more detail on cost per bedroom and cost per unit for the last three years of construction. In the minister’s response, he said “… but I’m sure that we could put some of those numbers together.

At an appropriate time, I will be happy to share with my colleagues.” I was just wondering, Mr. Speaker, when that appropriate time is going to be. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Soon. Mr. Speaker, we are working on those numbers and I assure my colleague it’s not one that we have forgotten about. We are trying to shore

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3523 up those numbers. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit- Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 598 – 6(2): Iqaluit Marine Infrastructure (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation. Mr. Speaker, as the Member representing the constituency of Iqaluit- Sinaa, I was very happy to have “held the scissors” during the official ribbon- cutting and opening ceremony for Iqaluit’s new deep-sea port that was held in July, this year.

In his minister’s statement on Monday, he indicated that the recent sealift season has been “extremely successful.” I’m very glad to hear that, and I would like to provide the minister with the opportunity today to provide some additional detail concerning the project. Mr. Speaker, we recognize that this has been the first year of operation of the new port. Can the minister indicate how his department has been working with sealift providers, cruise ship lines and our fuel re-supplier to get feedback on the new infrastructure? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon.

Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For the sealift side, the last two ships are sailing this trip. There is a plan to have a partners meeting at the end of the season, which would include the fuel tankers and the sealift, to see what worked and what didn’t work, and what is to be needed, but overall, current discussions have been very positive in terms of the work there being like night and day versus what it used to be. So I’m very proud that those are the comments that we’re getting right now.

I want to assure the members that we will continue to have those dialogues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As a resident of Iqaluit-Sinaa, I can tell you it was a much quieter summer this year, not hearing the offloading going on. Information published by the Department of Economic Development and Transportation indicates that it is “working on devising an operational model that reflects local needs and capacity.” Mr.

Speaker, in April of this year, the department issued a request for proposals for the management of the new Iqaluit Deep Sea Port. However, the procurement process was cancelled in early June. Can the minister provide a clear update today on what actions his department has been taking to address this issue? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3524 Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Cancelling the request for proposals has led us to have an in-house staff dedicated to the port, so we currently have two of our employees working there and I have been very busy this summer. I applaud the work that they’re doing. That’s the model that we will be leaning towards in the coming future because the work that they’re doing is very good. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms.

Brewster: Mr. Speaker, the deep- sea port project has been complemented by a number of smaller scale improvements to our community’s marine infrastructure, including new floating docks at the breakwater area, which I had the opportunity to use a couple of times going fishing this year. Can the minister describe how his department is engaging with the Amaruq Hunters and Trappers Association and other stakeholders to get feedback on the use of the community’s new marine infrastructure? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon.

David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When this project was getting developed, there is an Iqaluit… the name escapes me, but there is a group within the community that gets together and have discussions on what’s working and what is there and how long do we keep the floating docks.

Those sorts of discussions are done at the community level and our department is very happy to continue those dialogues, whether it’s the hunters and trappers or the boat owners, because Iqaluit is very fortunate to have two places that they can go and with those improvements, we have seen wonderful improvement and for the two areas that Iqaluit boat owners can launch their boats or keep their boats in the breakwater. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Question 599 – 6(2): Building Permit Requirements (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My questions will be to the Minister of Community and Government Services. Mr. Speaker, myself and other members on this side have raised the issue of building permits within Nunavut and how we feel that it’s too stringent and should be “Nunavutized.” I have more examples of issues with building permits for structures or add-ons to structures. Mr. Speaker, the first question I’ll ask the minister: does it matter what material the structure being added or amended or altered is made from, and it’s a Friday, that would require a building permit other than size and cost to the addition? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for that

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3525 question. Mr. Speaker, under the building code and Act and regulations, it does stipulate what are the parameters and what kind of material is allowable to be used for when a permit is issued. Mr. Speaker, this is an environment where I think we are trying to maintain or be mindful around… there are new technologies or new materials that are being used when construction happens. Things change and evolve and we try to keep up to date as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I had one constituent who was adding a porch onto their home and there were issues with the building permit for adding a porch. Mr. Speaker, if someone was adding a snow porch, do they require a building permit? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I can’t comment on the specific case that the member brings up and I don’t know the details to that, but I can say that if a person disagrees with an order given by a building official, there are rights under the building code that they can appeal; you can follow the different steps to try to get your concern heard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The minister eluded my question. My question was not about the appeal process if you disagree with an order.

My question was: if someone was building a snow porch, do they need a building permit? If they’re building a wooden porch, it appears they need a building permit. If you’re building a snow porch, do you need a building permit? If you’re building a snow igloo that is over 20 square metres, do you need a building permit? Mr. Speaker, can the minister please reply whether a snow porch being added on, or an igloo being built that is more than 20 square metres, would require a building permit? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon.

David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think we did have discussions around exemptions to the building permit process that people can try to get in terms of the structure that they’re making or adding to their house or structure. Mr. Speaker, I’m not at liberty to say which ones are… . I’ll have to bring this issue up with my officials and specify what’s allowable or not. I can’t make a ruling on his question here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Yes, today is Friday. Members, be aware that the time allotted for question period is now over. 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.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3526 Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 175 – 6(2): NEBS Actuarial 2019 (Joanasie) Tabled Document 176 – 6(2): NEBS Actuarial 2022 (Joanasie) Tabled Document 177 – 6(2): NEBS Pension Plan 2020 Annual Report (Joanasie) Tabled Document 178 – 6(2): NEBS Pension Plan 2021 Annual Report (Joanasie) Tabled Document 179 – 6(2): NEBS Pension Plan 2022 Annual Report (Joanasie) Hon.

David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to table five reports today: • The Actuarial Valuation, January 1, 2019 and January 1, 2022, of the Northern Employees Benefits Services Plan; and • The Northern Employees Benefits Services Pension Plan 2020, 2021 and 2022 annual reports. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: 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. Item 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters.

Bills 31, 32, and 33 and Tabled Documents 1 – 6(2), 73 – 6(2), 120 – 6(2), and 163 – 6(2) with Mr. Savikataaq in the Chair. Before we proceed with the Committee of the Whole, we will take a short 10- minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 10:51 and Committee resumed at 11:08 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairman (Mr. Savikataaq): Good morning. I would like to open our committee meeting and call the meeting to order.

In Committee of the Whole, we have the following items to deal with: Bills 31, 32, and 33 and Tabled Documents 1 – 6(2), 73 – 6(2), 120 – 6(2), and 163 – 6(2). What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We wish to continue with the review of Bill 31 and continue with the review of the 2024 capital appropriation for the Department of Economic Development and Transportation and, if time permits, the Department of Education. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Are we in agreement that we deal with Bill 31? Some Members: Agreed.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3527 Bill 31 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2024-2025 – Economic Development and Transportation – Consideration in Committee Chairman: I would like to ask Minister Akeeagok if you have any officials that you would like to appear before the committee. Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Sergeant-at-Arms, escort the witnesses in.

Minister David Akeeagok, for the record, please introduce your officials. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you. To my right is David Kunuk, Deputy Minister. It will be just the two of us. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: I would like the committee members to go to K-5. Economic Development. Any questions on economic development for the economic development minister? I’ll just give the members a few minutes to go through their papers. Going once, going twice…Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I just have two questions.

Your department’s 2023-24 capital estimates included $750,000 in funding for its economic development facilities lifecycle budget. What specific projects are being undertaken with this funding? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

For 2023-24, the work we did is the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre and unforeseen and ongoing repairs are underway on the sewer line; the Arviat Visitor Centre had structural analysis and the foundation assessed by an engineering firm; the Pangnirtung Visitor Centre will install a camera security system and cameras; the Cambridge Bay Visitor Centre will have initial work done to prepare for fibre hook-up in 2024-25; and finally, the Nuliajuk engine repair. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Your department’s proposed 2024-25 capital estimates include $750,000 in funding for its economic development facilities lifecycle budget. Your department’s substantiation sheet indicates that it owns a number of assets associated with its Economic Development Branch. At present, none of these have any dedicated capital lifecycle funding for larger repairs or replacements. What specific repairs or replacements are planned for the upcoming 2024-25 fiscal year? That’s my last question, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister David Akeeagok.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3528 Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for the question. What we’re hoping if we get approved for this, is that we will have the Pond Inlet Visitor Centre exterior renovations, which is window replacement and painting; the Cambridge Bay Visitor Centre fibre hook-up; the Nuliajuk vessel repairs; and the Arviat Visitor Centre structural and foundation repairs. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) I have no more names on my list. Any questions? If not, then do members agree that we’re done with K-5?

Sorry; the amount, $750,000. Let me restart. Total Expenditures. $750,000. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Go back to K-2. Economic Development and Transportation. Total Capital Expenditures. $43,849,000. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Do members agree that we have concluded the Department of Economic Development and Transportation? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Short closing comments from Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you very much, my colleagues, for approving the proposed budget.

We will try to proceed well with it and look for other means to improve things in the communities in Nunavut. I very much thank my officials and my staff who did a lot of the work. My staff that are not here do great work too, and I’m proud of them. As things change, they always try to adapt. I’m really glad that our proposed budget was approved. Thank you, my colleagues. Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. >>Applause Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) We will take a short break to change ministers, but I ask members to remain in their seats as we will continue as soon as the minister is changed. (interpretation) Thank you. >>Committee recessed at 11:15 and resumed at 11:17 Bill 31 – Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2024-2025 – Education – Consideration in Committee Chairman: Good morning, again. I would like to call the committee meeting back to order. I would like to ask Minister Gross: do you have any officials that you would like to appear before the committee? Minister Gross. Hon.

Pamela Gross: Yes, I do, Mr. Chairman. Thank you. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Sergeant-at-Arms, please escort the witnesses to the witness table, and then Minister Gross, if you can

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3529 introduce your officials and proceed with your opening comments. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Chairman. To my left, I have Director of Corporate Services Abe Suleiman and to my right, I have Manager of Capital Projects Barry Cornthwaite. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Please proceed with your opening comments. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to be here today to present the Department of Education’s proposed 2024-25 capital estimates, which total $30,900,000.

The 45 schools across Nunavut represent a significant capital investment and commitment to education. Our schools host 10,630 students from kindergarten to grade 12, with 2,048 in the Kitikmeot, 3,364 in the Kivalliq, and 5,218 in the Qikiqtani. Mr. Chairman, the following are the capital projects that will begin or continue during the 2024-25 fiscal year across Nunavut: • Arctic Bay, Inuujaq School requires a major renovation. Community and Government Services will be conducting a request for proposals to hire a design consultant for this project.

The design phase will take place in 2023-24. • The construction contract for the Sakku School project in Coral Harbour was awarded in June 2023. The project will give Coral Harbour access to a healthy and code- compliant building, a large gym, and more services for young children and their parents. The anticipated completion date is November 2027. • Taloyoak’s new high school project will continue in the construction phase. The project is scheduled to be completed by July 2026.

The high school will eliminate the current overcrowding at the school. • The construction contract for Iqaluit’s École des Trois-Soleils addition was completed September 2023. The school addition will eliminate the need for shared spaces at Aqsarniit Middle School and Inuksuk High School. The project is now in its warranty period. • Our department will be continuing to upgrade various IT Infrastructure projects. There is a need to replace or repair intrusion alarms, CCTVs, paging systems, and telephone systems.

There is also an additional need to replace Internet-capable devices, such as computers, modems, routers, SMART boards, and printers, to ensure they are capable of working with current software. • Our department will continue with its ongoing lifecycle repairs. Lifecycle items include major components of a building, such as foundations, boilers, generators, roofs, siding, flooring, wall finishes, windows, and air handling units. These components require periodic repairs or replacement if they have met or exceeded their intended lifespan.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3530 This budget allows us to prioritize our capital projects and those in collaboration with the Department of Community and Government Services. Additionally, this budget also prepares us for any needed repairs or replacements so we may minimize any potential impacts to the delivery of school programs. Mr. Chairman, our department has various small capital projects which will continue in 2024-25. This budget not only covers projects that are often health and safety related but also small projects, such as wheelchair ramps, chairlifts, and mould remediation.

Lastly, each year we review requests for school buses and departmental vehicles. In 2024-25, we will continue to prioritize the bussing needs from across the territory. I look forward to your questions and comments as we review the Department of Education’s capital estimates for 2024-25. Quana, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Does the chair of the standing committee have opening comments? Ms. Brewster, please proceed. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I am happy to provide opening comments on behalf of the Standing Committee on Social Wellness as the Committee of the Whole begins its consideration of the proposed 2024- 25 Capital Estimates of the Department of Education. Mr. Chairman, the Department of Education’s proposed capital estimates for 2024-25 total $30,900,000 in funding for three community-specific projects in the communities of Arctic Bay, Coral Harbour, and Taloyoak. There are also four budgets to provide funding for various Nunavut-wide capital needs in such areas as maintenance, school buses, and information technology.

Committee members note that the addition to Iqaluit’s École des Trois- Soleils will be complete in this current fiscal year with no new funds being requested for 2024-25. Members strongly urge the minister and her officials to ensure that the newly added space at the school, including its gymnasium and daycare, will be accessible to the community as a whole, as is the practice for other schools in Iqaluit. Funding for the Sakku School Renovation project in Coral Harbour is being requested for 2024-25.

The committee was disappointed to note that construction work anticipated for this current summer and fall has been delayed. While members recognize that high costs of materials, transportation, and labour have all impacted the tendering process, the community of Coral Harbour has been waiting a long time for this project to proceed. It is to be hoped that the current completion timeline of the fall of 2027 will be met.

The Coral Harbour school project will also include a new Nunavut Arctic College Community Learning Centre, although little information has been made available with respect to the design of the new facility. It is important that adult learners in the community will continue to have access to space for their

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3531 programs during the school renovations and construction phases. The new school project for Taloyoak is currently in the construction phase and members look forward to updates on its progress towards its completion in the summer of 2026 in time for a new school year. Members have been given to understand that renovations at the elementary school will not proceed at this time as the new school will alleviate pressures due to overcrowding. Schools in a number of communities continue to experience overcrowded conditions.

While the department has been working on developing new capital standards for school buildings, it is unclear how these standards, once approved, will interact with the department’s new formula for calculating its student-educator ratio to impact such upcoming capital infrastructure projects as Arctic Bay’s major school renovation project. During the minister’s appearance before the committee, members were given to understand that implementing full-day kindergarten classes in all Nunavut communities could incur significant capital funding costs to modify and renovate schools.

Members encourage the minister to provide regular updates on this issue. Mr. Chairman, the Department of Education’s capital estimates include four budget items for the 2024-25 fiscal year: Small Capital, Ongoing Lifecycle, School Buses, and IT Infrastructure. The ongoing maintenance of buildings and other infrastructure, as well as the upgrading of equipment is important to ensure a safe and healthy environment for Nunavut’s students.

Members support the department’s initiative to ensure emergency repairs at Nunavut schools be undertaken in a timely manner through the establishment of an emergency repairs budget to be accessed by the Department of Community and Government Services for emergency repairs. Mr. Chairman, different communities face different challenges with respect to providing busing services. The lack of storage for buses to protect them from the elements and from vandalism continues to be an ongoing issue.

Recognizing that the cost of purchasing school buses has risen in recent years, members look forward to updated information on which communities have requested and will receive new school buses with funding allocated for 2024- 25. Mr. Chairman, information technology is an integral component of educational programs and services across the territory. Members support the department’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its educational technology and related devices, including speech enhancement systems.

Members further support the department’s continuous efforts to ensure that closed-circuit television systems and intrusion alarm systems for school properties are fully operational. Mr. Chairman, that concludes my opening comments on the proposed 2024-25 Capital Estimates of the Department of Education. I am confident that individual members will also have comments and questions as we proceed. Thank you.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3532 Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Do members have any general comments before we proceed to the general questions? I see none. Oh, sorry. Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. My community of Taloyoak was very privileged to see the off- loading of materials for the new high school build, and we are already seeing progress of the building of the new high school. It makes my community very happy to finally see construction being done in the community, especially when it comes to the high school build.

I wanted to thank the Education department and Community and Government Services for this. It’s just a comment. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Just one last call. Any general comments before we proceed to detailed questions? This morning, we are dealing with corporate services. Education. Corporate Services. Total Capital Expenditures. $30.9 million. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Welcome, minister and your staff. I want to begin with an issue the chairman mentioned.

I believe the chair of the (interpretation ends) social committee (interpretation) just mentioned that the adult education centre is not clearly identified in this plan, and I am wondering if that project is still included in this plan. I would like that clarified. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Sorry, I did not catch the member’s full question. If he can please repeat. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Malliki, if you can repeat your question, please. Thank you. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

The new school and community learning centre were going to be renovated at the same time. There is no information on the community learning centre, and we’ve not seen the designs. I want to ask if that is still included in this. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for the question. In regard to the Nunavut Arctic College, the building will be its own standalone building on the school property. It is part of the project.

I believe when we did have the plans, I shared them with the member, but we can resend the drawing plans to the member. He can take a look and also inform anybody who is also curious about that. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I know that the community is very excited about the new renovation of the school. It’s been worked on for quite some time now. When I went to the community, I visited the school and we could hear complaints about the smell of mould. That’s just a comment at this time.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3533 I wonder: once the construction of the community learning centre begins, is the target date for completion going to be in 2027? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you to the member for the question. The anticipated completion for the Sakku School renovation with the daycare and the Nunavut Arctic College is in November 2027. However, we have heard that construction may be sped up and the project may be completed up to six months in advance of November 2027. Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s exciting and I’m also very happy to hear that the project may be completed ahead of time. What I am asking about is the community learning centre, or Arctic College. Can they work on that as a priority, and have that built first before the renovation of the school? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Chairman. Quana to the member.

We have noted that comment and suggestion from the member, and we will talk with the building contractor about that. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Following my list of names, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I think I only have one line of questioning on this and it’s regarding fuel spills and the amount of lost days with school closures because of them. From what I understand, I know it’s a mix of mechanical failure and human error in different instances. I’m not even sure if I’m going to get a question, Mr. Chairman. It might just be a comment.

I can’t emphasize enough, and I am sure the minister and her officials agree with me one hundred percent, how important it is to get the proper maintenance and the proper training of staff to make sure instances like fuel spills don’t happen. It’s not just the environmental liability on that; there are lost school days and then there are oftentimes children who go back to the school, and then they have to leave again because of the fumes and for different reasons. I think I will just leave it as a comment, Mr.

Chairman, but I would appreciate some commitment, or an update on what measures the department is doing to make sure that these unnecessary fuel spills leading to unnecessary school closures cease to happen anymore. Thank you. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you to the member for that great question. We never want to have any issues regarding fuel, but they have happened.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3534 To put some context to the situation if it ever does arise, we are putting our efforts onto building condition assessments, prioritizing building needs, and are working on issues such as updating those issues in regard to what building maintenance issues are there and what infrastructure schools may need to be upgraded and updated. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. According to my list, Mr. Simailak. (interpretation ends) Sorry. Ok, mistake there on the Chairman’s part. Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Documentation provided with the department’s capital estimates show that the estimated cost for the new school in Taloyoak is now close to $87 million. Major renovation projects in other communities are estimated to cost over $65 million. How does the department work with the Department of Community and Government Services to determine whether to build a new school or to renovate an existing school? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Chairman. Quana for that question.

Every capital project has to go through a business case and it takes a long time in terms of when a project comes from inception to completion, and that is a process that we are hoping we can work on. As I indicated to our member from Coral Harbour, it’s affecting the Coral Harbour school. In some cases, some of our projects are sped up and we are thankful for that. However, I would like to ask Mr. Suleiman to provided further detail on that process. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Suleiman. Mr. Suleiman: Thank you, Mr. Chairman and I thank the member for the question.

As part of the preplanning process, we work with CGS to go through a business case development. In that activity, we look at different components. We look at the availability of land in the community. We look at the current condition of the building to see if expansion or a new build is required, and the lifecycle of the main components of the school to see if they are still usable. So there are many factors that go into it, and then we get a few different options, and then the best recommendation is made forward. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr.

Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Mr. Suleiman. The department is requesting $15 million for work on the new school project for Taloyoak in 2024-25. What specific factors have impacted the cost estimates for this project? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3535 Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Chairman. Quana to the member for that question. The project materials have made it to Taloyoak. As the member noted, it was a joyous occasion for the community, and I know it makes all of our communities happy when our sealifts do arrive and big projects like this are taken underway. In terms of what is happening this year, there is piling that is starting for the foundation, which will start in late winter 2024, and currently, right now, the site is being prepared for levelling and adding gravel to the site. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I heard from my colleague about fuel spills. Can you elaborate on the status of the Netsilik School fuel spill? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you to the member for the question. Right now, with regard to the fuel spill that happened earlier this year at Netsilik School, the remediation of the fuel spill is underway and it is due for completion this month.

There has been no interruption to the school during this remediation period. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This is just a comment. I would like to get the minister to keep me updated on the status of the fuel spill so I can always update my constituents. That is my last one. It’s just a comment. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for that comment. We will definitely keep the member informed. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Following my list of names, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good morning, minister and your officials. It is great to see you all here today. It has been a while since I’ve asked any questions, so I’ll take advantage of my opportunity with the remaining 17 minutes we have. For my first question, it is going to be a repeated request that I have been making for a number of years now. I believe I have asked this of the Department of Education in the past as well.

For all projects in the construction phase with a class A estimate, I have been requesting for multiple years that departments include a floor plan or a conceptual design so we can actually get a sense of what it is that we are being asked to approve, besides just dollar figures. I would like to put forward that request again. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross.

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3536 Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for that question. We can share those documents, but they have to be shared once the project is tendered. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, minister.

Moving onto my next question, in the substantiation sheets for the school, new schools, or maybe renovations, or additions, the scope on page 2 of the substantiation sheet generally outlines basic information which is included; the number of classrooms, gym, library, cafeteria, and whatnot. In the past, I have noticed that the scope did not include a library for the schools and that was because that wasn’t actually included in the designs. I just want to get confirmation from the minister that all of these projects will actually include libraries, cafeterias and industrial sized kitchen or cooking areas.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for the question. The schools will incorporate all of the member’s suggestions and they are incorporated into the school standards. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for that response. I appreciate that.

I would also like to thank you for your letter dated October 25, where you provided the committee with additional information on the projected full-day kindergarten capital costs, which have increased substantially since the original estimates in 2017, which were $15 million then, but the total cost estimate is in excess of $31 million. You have also noted that aside from school renovations, that additions will be required, such as portable classrooms. The portable classrooms seem very expensive.

I was wondering if the minister would provide some information on what type of portable classrooms are being considered and how much the cost is for these and how much is the estimated shipping costs of these portable classrooms. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Chairman. Quana to the member for that question. Yes, some of our projects will be using portables. They are very expensive, and in terms of the shipping costs, that is included in the price. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you.

Following the names on my list, (interpretation ends) and I must have had foresight because, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good morning, all. It’s nice to be back in Iqaluit. Good morning, minister and staff. Following along the lines of both of my colleagues’

Friday, October 27, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3537 questions, I’ve got a couple, I think, to start off with. First off, let me go for Baker Lake, specifically. Baker Lake was at one point on the list for a new school build, I believe along with Arviat, as well, at one time, but they were both removed due to some concerns, or they no longer met the criteria for a new build. I’m wondering: has the department looked at Baker Lake again recently to see if it now warrants a new school build? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Maybe Arviat too. Minister Gross. Hon.

Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for the question. In terms of the school in Baker Lake, I would like to ask our corporate knowledge expert who has been with our team for a very long time, Barry Cornthwaite, to answer the member’s question. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Cornthwaite. Mr. Cornthwaite: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you very much for the question. We constantly monitor utilization of schools and the schools of Baker Lake are currently sitting at 78 percent occupied for the elementary school and 97 percent occupied for the high school.

We have them on our radar with respect to presenting them for preplanning, but unfortunately there are a number of schools that need attention. We can present only so many schools for preplanning and we do our best efforts to get the schools that need to go forward, forward with preplanning. Thank you very much. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) If I can just remind everyone again that we have [interpreters.] Maybe try to talk a little bit slower for the [interpreters.] Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Mr. Cornthwaite, for the response.

I’m glad to hear the Jonah Amitnaaq secondary school is at 97 percent. It’s a bit concerning that the elementary school is at 78 percent. Let me now ask about the renovations. The Rachel Arngnammaktiq Elementary School is in need of renovations. About two years ago I toured it with the then Minister of Education, Minister Joanasie. As we were walking through the school there, we warned to watch our step when we were in the lower

section so that we don’t trip over the flooring that was coming up. Has that school been looked at again for renovations? Has preplanning been started for renovations of the elementary sc