Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 5th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 134 Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Pages 8368 – 8418 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Paul Quassa, MLA

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. Paul Quassa (Aggu) Officers Clerk John Quirke Clerk Assistant Stephen Innuksuk Law Clerk Michael Chandler Sergeant-at-Arms Charlie Audlakiak 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) Deputy Premier; Minister of Economic Development and Transportation; Minister of Human Resources Tony Akoak (Gjoa Haven) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Pat Angnakak (Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (Cambridge Bay) Minister of Community and Government Services; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation Hon.

George Hickes (Iqaluit-Tasiluk) Minister of Finance, Chair of the Financial Management Board; Minister of Justice; Minister responsible for Labour; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Hon. David Joanasie (South Baffin) Minister of Education; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Pauloosie Keyootak (Uqqummiut) Hon. Lorne Kusugak (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for Seniors; Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention Adam Lightstone (Iqaluit-Manirajak) John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (Pangnirtung) Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Languages; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Patterk Netser (Aivilik) Calvin Pedersen (Kugluktuk) David Qamaniq (Tununiq) Emiliano Qirngnuq (Netsilik) Allan Rumbolt (Hudson Bay) Deputy Speaker and Chair of the Committee of the Whole Hon.

Joe Savikataaq (Arviat South) Premier; Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs; Minister of Energy; Minister of Environment; Minister responsible for Immigration; Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs; Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council Craig Simailak (Baker Lake) Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (Iqaluit-Sinaa) Government House Leader; Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister responsible for the Status of Women Cathy Towtongie (Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet)

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................8368 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................8368 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................8373 Returns to Oral Questions ..........................................................................................................8379 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................8380 Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters .................................8403 Tabling of Documents ................................................................................................................8403 Notices of Motions .....................................................................................................................8403 Motions .......................................................................................................................................8404 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................8404 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................8415 Third Reading of Bills ................................................................................................................8416 Assent to Bills ............................................................................................................................8416 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................8417

A. Daily References Tuesday, June 8, 2021 ................................................................................................................8368 B.

Ministers’ Statements 652 – 5(2): Arctic 23 Funding: Update on the 2015 Settlement Agreement Funding (Akeeagok) .............................................................................................................................................8368 653 – 5(2): Next Steps for the Revised Education Act (2020) (Joanasie) ..................................8369 654 – 5(2): Cultural Preservation Projects (Nakashuk) ..............................................................8370 655 – 5(2): Youth Ambassador Program (Ehaloak) ...................................................................8370 656 – 5(2): Certificates of Qualification Awarded in 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 (Sheutiapik) .8371 657 – 5(2): Success in the Skilled Trades Worker Diploma Program (Joanasie) ......................8372 C.

Members’ Statements 943 – 5(2): Correspondence from Constituent Regarding COVID-19 (Lightstone) ..................8373 944 – 5(2): Reconciliation (Main) ..............................................................................................8374 945 – 5(2): Laptop Donations to Baker Lake High School (Simailak) ......................................8375 946 – 5(2): Supporting Homebuyers (Angnakak) ......................................................................8376 947 – 5(2): Issues with Housing (Kaernerk) ..............................................................................8377 948 – 5(2): Alternative Energy Initiative (Akoak) .....................................................................8377 949 – 5(2): Tribute to Martha Qaunaq (Akeeagok) ....................................................................8378 950 – 5(2): 2021 High School Graduates of Pangnirtung (Nakashuk) .......................................8378 D.

Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 1335 – 5(2): Safe Places for Youth (Sheutiapik) ................................8379

Return to Oral Question 1357 – 5(2): Status of the Qikiqtarjuaq Health Centre Replacement (Kusugak) .............................................................................................................................8379 E.

Oral Questions 1369 – 5(2): Job Competitions (Towtongie) ..............................................................................8380 1370 – 5(2): Water Treatment Plant in Whale Cove (Main) ......................................................8381 1371 – 5(2): Child Welfare in Isolation Hubs (Lightstone) .......................................................8383 1372 – 5(2): Building Code Act (Netser) ...................................................................................8386 1373 – 5(2): Kivalliq Megaprojects (Simailak) ..........................................................................8388 1374 – 5(2): Elder Care at Embassy West (Angnakak) ..............................................................8389 1375 – 5(2): Issues with Housing (Kaernerk) ............................................................................8390 1376 – 5(2): Water Infrastructure (Qamaniq).............................................................................8392 1377 – 5(2): Pre-trades Training for Youth (Qirngnuq) .............................................................8393 1378 – 5(2): Reconciliation (Main) ............................................................................................8395 1379 – 5(2): Correctional Facilities and COVID-19 (Lightstone) .............................................8396 1380 – 5(2): Staffing at Rankin Inlet Long-term Care Facility (Towtongie) .............................8398 1381 – 5(2): Municipal Governance (Kaernerk) ........................................................................8399 1382 – 5(2): Isolation Requirements and COVID-19 Vaccination (Netser) ..............................8401 F.

Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters Committee Report 042 – 5(2): Bill 74,

An Act to Amend the Hamlets Act (Main) ..................8403 G. Tabling of Documents 394 – 5(2): Correspondence from Constituent Re: Isolation Hubs (Lightstone) ........................8403

H. Motions 116 – 5(2): Minister’s Statement 640 – 5(2): Rising Construction Costs’ Impact on 2021-22 Projects Moved to Committee of the Whole (Lightstone) ...................................................8379 117 – 5(2): Extension of Question Period (Angnakak) ..............................................................8395 118 – 5(2): Extended Adjournment – Notice (Angnakak) .........................................................8403 118 – 5(2): Extended Adjournment (Angnakak) ........................................................................8404 I. Bills Bill 73 –

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act – Consideration in Committee .............................................................................................................................................8405 Bill 74 –

An Act to Amend the Hamlets Act – Consideration in Committee ............................8412 Bill 73 –

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act – Third Reading ..................8416 Bill 74 –

An Act to Amend the Hamlets Act – Third Reading ..................................................8416

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8368 Iqaluit, Nunavut Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Mr. Tony Akoak, Ms. Pat Angnakak, Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak, Hon. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Mr. Joelie Kaernerk, Mr. Pauloosie Keyootak, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Adam Lightstone, Mr. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Mr. Patterk Netser, Mr. Calvin Pedersen, Mr. David Qamaniq, Mr. Emiliano Qirngnuq, Mr. Allan Rumbolt, Hon. Joe Savikataaq, Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik, Mr. Craig Simailak, Ms. Cathy Towtongie. >>House commenced at 13:29 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Mr. Allan Rumbolt): Mr.

Keyootak, if you could lead us in prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker: Good afternoon, members, and welcome to the Assembly. As the Speaker is still not feeling well, I will be taking care of the proceedings again today. Item 2. Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for Human Resources, Hon. Mr. Akeeagok. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 652 – 5(2): Arctic 23 Funding: Update on the 2015 Settlement Agreement Funding (Akeeagok) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Government of Nunavut is committed to increasing Inuit employment within government to a representative level. (interpretation ends) We are accountable for Inuit employment plans and pre- employment training plans under

Article 23 of the Nunavut Agreement. All Government of Nunavut departments and public bodies are expected to work to implement the agreement in accordance with its provisions, its objectives, its spirit and intent. The Department of Human Resources is the central agency responsible for planning and direction on Inuit employment initiatives to increase and maintain Inuit employment within the Government of Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, as you may recall the Government of Canada, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and the Government of Nunavut signed a 2015 settlement agreement from the 2006 lawsuit that Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated filed against the Government of Canada regarding implementation of

Article 23 Inuit employment within government in the Nunavut Agreement. The 2015 settlement agreement describes the agreed provisions for Inuit employment plans, including the expectation of whole-of-government coordination. The Government of Nunavut’s Master Inuit Employment Plan, which was successfully tabled in March 2020 is an example of this type of coordination and planning. Additionally, the settlement agreement included a total of $45 million dedicated to support Government of Nunavut departments and public bodies in implementing their Inuit

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8369 employment plans and pre-employment training. Mr.

Speaker, this winter the remaining funding was committed to the following Inuit employment initiatives:  Department of Human Resources – Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Program  Department of Human Resources – Inuit Executive Career Development Program  Department of Human Resources – Policy Capacity Building Series Program  Department of Human Resources – Master’s Certificate in Project Management Program  Department of Health – Basic Radiological Technician Training Program  Nunavut Arctic College – Pre-Health Certificate and Practical Nurse Program  Nunavut Arctic College – Pathfinder Program Mr.

Speaker, our government is committed to providing opportunities to develop and training Inuit employees in the Government of Nunavut. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts of these programs for years to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Education, Mr. Joanasie. Minister’s Statement 653 – 5(2): Next Steps for the Revised Education Act (2020) (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day, Nunavummiut. Mr.

Speaker, in Turaaqtavut, the Government of Nunavut committed to amending the Education Act to ensure it reflects our government’s desire for all Nunavummiut to receive quality schooling with improved learning outcomes for students. On November 10, 2020, with the assent of the revised Education Act, our education system took the next step in its evolution. The revised Act lays out a clear path for bilingual education; improves clarity on roles, responsibilities, and transparency; and ensures that students across Nunavut receive the same quality education. (interpretation) Mr.

Speaker, my department has begun work to develop the necessary regulations to support the implementation of the Act. We have already been consulting with our education partners on those regulations and provisions that are required by the Act to come into force by July 2021. These regulations and provisions are in the areas of language of instruction, inclusive education, and establishing the new school calendar selection process. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank our education partners for their valuable feedback that informed the revised Act and their continued participation in the

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8370 regulation process. Thank you to Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, the Coalition of Nunavut District Education Authorities, district education authorities, the Commission scolaire francophone du Nunavut, the Nunavut Teachers Association, and the Office of the Representative for Children and Youth, among others, such as the Office of the Languages Commissioner. Finally, I would like to thank Nunavummiut for their diligent efforts to ensure that students receive the quality bilingual education they deserve. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you.

Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for Culture and Heritage, Hon. Ms. Nakashuk. Minister’s Statement 654 – 5(2): Cultural Preservation Projects (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day, fellow members. I also say “good day” to the people of Pangnirtung. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to offer congratulations to two organizations making important contributions to the preservation and promotion of Inuit culture in Nunavut. The Kitikmeot Heritage Society celebrated their 25th anniversary on March 6, 2021.

My department partners with and supports the Kitikmeot Heritage Society to run the heritage centre, public library, and many other culturally important and relevant projects in Cambridge Bay and the Kitikmeot region. Since 2016 my department has provided the Kitikmeot Heritage Society with approximately $2.2 million in contributions. Mr. Speaker, it is also my pleasure to congratulate the Kivalliq Inuit Association on the completion and opening of the new Cultural Visitors Centre in Chesterfield Inlet this past winter.

Over the last three years my department provided approximately $770,000 through our heritage facilities contributions to support the construction of the new Cultural Visitors Centre. Mr. Speaker, it is through these strategic partnerships that we advance our shared goals to preserve and renew our knowledge, language, and culture. These partnerships are rooted in Inuit societal values and fulfill Katujjiqatigiinnivut, a key priority in the government’s Turaaqtavut mandate. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Community and Government Services, Hon. Ms. Ehaloak.

Minister’s Statement 655 – 5(2): Youth Ambassador Program (Ehaloak) Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Good afternoon, everyone. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to congratulate the six participants who successfully completed the 2020-21 Nunavut Youth Ambassador Program.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8371 Despite COVID-19, public health orders, and connection challenges, six youth successfully completed online recreation leadership training modules and planned community engagement projects within their respective communities. Community engagement projects hosted by our youth ambassadors included organizing local volleyball tournaments, a local Inuit games program, meals for elders program, and youth drop-in nights. Nunavut Youth Ambassadors who completed the program are:  Mr. Izaya Westwood of Kugluktuk  Mr. Dominick Okheena of Kugluktuk  Ms.

Khrizzelle Sarte of Iqaluit  Ms. Caroline Iqaluk of Sanikiluaq  Ms. Gwen Natsiq of Iqaluit  Ms. Natalie Maerzluft of Iqaluit The Nunavut Youth Ambassador Program is a Government of Nunavut initiative coordinated by the Department of Community and Government Services. The program is designed to develop leadership skills and to promote community engagement among youth ages 16 to 21 from across the territory through training and volunteer opportunities. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please help me congratulate these youth on successfully completing the 2020-21 Nunavut Youth Ambassador Program.

I look forward to seeing their future contributions to the sport and recreation sector and their communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Congratulations to all. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister responsible for Family Services, Ms. Sheutiapik. Minister’s Statement 656 – 5(2): Certificates of Qualification Awarded in 2019-2020 and 2020- 2021 (Sheutiapik) Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I rise in the House today to recognize the continuing success of Nunavummiut in earning certification in the skilled trades.

Over the past two years, despite the barriers created by the ransomware attack and the COVID-19 pandemic, 23 men and women have earned their Certificate of Qualification either by completing an apprenticeship or by demonstrating their experience through the trade qualification process. Mr. Speaker, these accomplishments are worthy of recognition by the House and so I will read the names of these individuals into the official record. (interpretation) I apologize if I mispronounce their names, but I am very proud of the following:  Axel Wilcox  Trent Aksawnee  Daniel Alagalak

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8372  Cyrus Gordon  Marc Illnik  Cyril Issakiark  Leo Itturiligaq  Lundy Manik  Travis Mannik  Donald Iqaluk Nasauyaituk  Amelia Netser  Cory Samok  Randy Tootoo Tanuyak  Aaron Nairruq Tartak  Joshua Tartak  Tyler Tattuinee  Robert Cahoon  Roger Etuangat  Sateana Goupil  Keegan Mackey  Mike Netser  Mishal Okpik Pewatoalook  Keith Sigurdson (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these Nunavummiut. Qujannamiik, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements.

Minister of Nunavut Arctic College, the Hon. Mr. Joanasie. Minister’s Statement 657 – 5(2): Success in the Skilled Trades Worker Diploma Program (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thanks again. Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House today to recognize the first graduates of our Skilled Trades Worker Diploma Program. This pilot program is delivered by Sanatuliqsarvik, the college’s school of construction trades in Rankin Inlet.

This program incorporates the first two years of a trade or “periods of apprenticeship” in one of the construction trades along with academic courses and practical training, such as Inuktut, first aid, math, and blueprint reading. This program was developed in partnership between the college and the Career Development Division at Family Services. The intent of this program is to provide additional accredited skills and knowledge to tradespeople.

This innovative program provides an opportunity for its students to start their apprenticeship journey and obtain a college diploma at the same time, ideally supporting those individuals who wish to enter management positions later in their career. I understand that once the new Apprenticeship and Certification Act is approved and brought into force, graduates of the program will receive a Skilled Trades Worker Certificate from the Apprenticeship Certification Unit to formally register their accomplishment.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8373 With convocation set for yesterday, June 6, at the Kivalliq Campus, experience is showing that graduating students of this program are finding meaningful employment in the construction, transportation, regulatory and government sectors. This is great news for the territory. (interpretation) Mr. Speaker and members, this program is the result of government departments and agencies working together to find actionable solutions for the betterment of Nunavummiut.

The addition of a college diploma means students of this program have a start in furthering their education if and when they choose too. This program represents the Government of Nunavut’s commitment to lifelong learning. In closing, I would like to remind Nunavummiut that the college is currently accepting applications for the September intake of Skilled Trades Worker Diploma Program through career development officers with the Department of Family Services. I look forward to seeing and hearing about more Nunavummiut succeeding in this program in our future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you.

Ministers’ Statements. Mr. Lightstone. Okay. Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 943 – 5(2): Correspondence from Constituent Regarding COVID-19 (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to read a letter from a constituent that is dated June 7 and it was addressed to the Minister of Health, the Mayor of Iqaluit, and me. Mr. Speaker, the letter reads as is: “To our leaders: I am excited to see that fully vaccinated travellers are now being exempt from isolation.

However, Nunavut should be following the example of other jurisdictions, where the vaccination status of adults in the household represents the vaccination status of the children vis-à-vis travel rules. I recognize the demographics of Nunavut are different, with far more children than other jurisdictions, and this may influence decisions. While this is true, 15 months into a pandemic, 14 days of isolation for families is not okay anymore regardless of whether or not it influences COVID numbers in the territory. Families, like the rest of Nunavut, are 15 months into this nightmare.

At this point what we need more than anything is for life to go on. Children need to be able to be reunited with grandparents. Children need to see their peers in the flesh. Children need to be outside and have freedom of movement. It is ridiculous for children, arguably those who need life to return to normal more than any of us, to be burdened with this.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8374 Yes, restrictions will help mitigate the spread of COVID. This is undeniably true, but at what cost? The overall well- being of children, in particular their mental health, is not being considered. At this point I also question the harm of COVID existing in the territory. If adults with two vaccinations are no longer considered to be at risk or considered to be at risk and can travel freely anywhere they wish, then why are we to fear children bringing COVID into the territory?

Presuming the vaccinated adults in the territory will be safe despite COVID, the logic then follows that it is children spreading COVID among themselves that we have to worry about. However, the data shows that children who do contract COVID are not terribly affected, certainly not more so than from any other prevailing illness. So again, why the iron fist?” Mr. Speaker, I am almost done now. I would like to request consent to conclude my statement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his member’s statement. Are there any nays?

Seeing none, please continue, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, members. “So again, why the iron fist? I find it hard to understand why other models that reduce the burden on kids and families are not being considered. Is this decision political? To try and prevent travel? To reduce the costliness of the hubs? What is the logic? Families have a right to more information to understand precisely why other models are not being considered. Why is testing not part of the solution? Why isn’t it part of the conversation?

When I was tested during the outbreak my results came back within three hours. If harm reduction measures need to be taken, surely that’s an avenue to be explored. At this point in the pandemic, we can’t operate with the ‘safety at all cost’ approach. People’s mental health and quality of life is important too. Leave the children be. We have to live with COVID at this point and look to approaches that reduce harm rather than approaches that try to eliminate COVID at all cost.” Mr. Speaker, I agree with my constituent; children have clearly been the hardest hit, both at home and in the isolation hubs.

I believe alternatives that will balance the well-being of children and public safety must be considered. I will have questions for the minister at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Arviat North- Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Member’s Statement 944 – 5(2): Reconciliation (Main) Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, I regret my inability to attend our session the other day. The Internet was acting up and I was unable to connect resultantly. The website connection was not working properly and kept flashing out.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8375 Mr. Speaker, I want to speak to the matter of reconciliation today. At this time, to reiterate in English, (interpretation ends) reconciliation, (interpretation) as we all know, Mr. Speaker, since this has occupied the news stories all week, and debates are springing up all over Canada and even in our (interpretation ends) Parliament (interpretation) debates, it is quite stupendous to see this change in perspective. Nonetheless, Mr.

Speaker, my thoughts trend towards reconciliation or the fact that more needs to be done to alleviate this pressure as it was the practice for many generations. Our federal government will have to prioritize this as well as our indigenous peoples, but even our own Inuit here in Nunavut. Non- Inuit, white people, if I used myself as an example, we too need to make concessions in Canada in order to reconcile with indigenous peoples. Mr.

Speaker, it is becoming newsworthy in terms of our federal government who seems to be focusing on the re-election stakes that will occur over this summer and perhaps the fall where the (interpretation ends) federal election (interpretation) occurs. Mr. Speaker, in my estimation, reconciliation will be the focus since it requires intense debating, especially if an election and campaign occurs in this federal electoral process with the party politics. We have to concentrate on reconciliation within Canada in order to ensure that this election is properly held.

Reconciliation should be the first priority, considering the impacts on indigenous peoples. There were over 94 recommendations presented to the (interpretation ends) Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (interpretation) and we need to implement these recommendations, especially for people who run for federal elections as part of their campaign promises, and that they should notify all voters if they wish to run. Mr. Speaker, I will certainly have questions to our Premier on this matter at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Baker Lake, Mr.

Simailak. Member’s Statement 945 – 5(2): Laptop Donations to Baker Lake High School (Simailak) Mr. Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now, as summer ends and August approaches, many children will return to school where they will again venture into more appropriate lessons which I wish to speak to today.

The older students will be moving on from grades 11 and 12 in the Jonah Amitnaaq School, where they will receive 13 new computers, or (interpretation ends) laptops (interpretation) in English, (interpretation) that will be provided free of cost from Kitchener, Ontario, from a guy named Paul Summers, who runs Steelcraft. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I began working on this project in November 2020, after Nunavut saw its first cases of COVID-19. As I had mentioned during one of our sitting days last week, I fully support having the right equipment to be able to continue

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8376 studies, and I believe digital devices is fast becoming a standard within education, even after the pandemic is over. The principal, Chris Snow, and I firmly believe that these laptops will help our students with their studies, and we hope that this will help start a trend of laptops being used regularly by high school students. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit- Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Member’s Statement 946 – 5(2): Supporting Homebuyers (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Good afternoon. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to make a brief but clear statement about supporting homebuyers. Mr. Speaker, as you know, I have been chairing the Committee of the Whole during this sitting and was consequently unable to participate in debate on the government’s proposed new homebuyer matched savings program for Government of Nunavut employees. Mr. Speaker, as the MLA for Iqaluit- Niaqunnguu, I want to go on record today as strongly supporting the idea of this new program.

I also want to go on record as strongly supporting the importance of all Members of the Legislative Assembly having meaningful input into how the program will be designed. Mr. Speaker, there are some very valid concerns to consider in this regard, especially in respect to eligibility criteria. The Speaker spoke strongly in the last Assembly about ensuring that the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s NDAP program for homebuyers included a one- year residency requirement.

I believe that this proposed new homebuyer matched savings program for GN employees should also have stringent residency requirements and I believe that it should also have stringent income thresholds. Mr. Speaker, we do need to do more to support our employees, especially those at the entry-level who are just starting their careers. Maybe the government should be looking at matching their contributions on a two-to-one basis.

However, we do not need to provide even more to those at the very top, and I say this as someone who represents a constituency that does have a significant number of high-income earners living in it. Mr. Speaker, when it comes to freeing up staff housing units, I do not understand why people who are paid close to $200,000 per year and sometimes more are still eligible to live in subsidized staff housing for years at a time. Mr. Speaker, we will be back in this House in just a few short months from now.

It is my hope that members will be provided with the opportunity over the coming weeks to provide input into the draft policy, and it is my hope that the government takes that input into

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8377 consideration, and returns to the House in September with a new funding request and a fleshed-out policy that we can all fully support. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Member’s Statement 947 – 5(2): Issues with Housing (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) Good day, to the people of Amittuq, Nunavummiut, and colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about COVID-19 and the people who have been double-vaccinated in Nunavut and will be able to travel out of the territory.

However, there are those of us who are still waiting in the smaller communities. I represent two communities, Igloolik being one of them. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about the housing issue in Amittuq, especially because there are many old homes and buildings not being used, some of which have been vacant since 1976. Additionally, along with the housing issue, I have also previously raised the issue of mould in houses and how these issues can be rectified in Nunavut.

Now that people who have been fully vaccinated are able to travel, I would like to extend an invitation to the Minister of Housing to come to my two constituent communities of Igloolik and Sanirajak, and to reply with “Yes, absolutely, definitely.” >>Laughter These are my three outlines that I wish answered, especially since I just reiterate the fact that we have an elders’ care facility in Igloolik that happens to be a decentralized community, whilst my other constituency community of Sanirajak is (interpretation ends) non- decentralized, (interpretation) to put it into politically correct language.

In saying that, nonetheless, my two constituency communities and more so Igloolik face challenges in terms of housing and the housing corporation in general, especially in the hamlet. I would like the minister to conduct a tour of my constituency. As it is now 24-hour daylight and it is now the springtime, perhaps the minister can use this excuse to visit the communities. The minister has two departments and the Department of Culture and Heritage has an office in Igloolik. I will have questions for the minister at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements.

Member for Gjoa Haven, Mr. Akoak. Member’s Statement 948 – 5(2): Alternative Energy Initiative (Akoak) Mr. Akoak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) I say “good day” to all residents of Gjoa Haven and Nunavummiut who are watching and listening to the proceedings. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased today to inform the House about the use of a solar energy system in my constituency of Gjoa Haven.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8378 Mr. Speaker, the federal government’s Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Community Heat and Electricity Program funds renewable energy and energy efficient projects in northern communities. Mr. Speaker, through that program, a solar energy system was recently installed on top of the Gjoa Haven arena. It generates clean electricity for the arena instead of using diesel fuel from the power plant. Mr. Speaker, the Qulliq Energy Corporation then provides credit to the Hamlet of Gjoa Haven for the unused energy. Mr.

Speaker, it is worth noting that any Nunavut community can apply to this program; there is no deadline. By participating in such initiatives, it reduces our communities’ reliance on diesel and contributes to our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank everyone involved in this important project, including Green Sun Rising and the Municipality of Gjoa Haven. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 949 – 5(2): Tribute to Martha Qaunaq (Akeeagok) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I would like to recognize and thank Martha Qaunaq. She resigned from her position on May 14. She worked for 18 years at the health centre, beginning as a cleaner and ending by working with elders. She made contributions through her work and was very good at her job. Due to the COVID lockdown we were not able to meet together, which was regrettable. However, the fire department and various vehicles in town went around town to recognize her retirement, and I was really pleased with that. She is an elderly person now and I hope she will have a good retirement.

I thank her tremendously for her good, hard work and caring for others. I know she will be missed a lot at the health centre, but she has to care for herself too and I wish Martha Qaunaq well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Member’s Statement 950 – 5(2): 2021 High School Graduates of Pangnirtung (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize and express my pride in Pangnirtung’s 2021 grade 12 graduates.

I am proud of the following:  Mica Akpalialuk  Maritha Dialla  Irene Etuangat  Denise Ishulutak  Hailey Ishulutak  Victor Kanayuk  Megan Kilabuk  Nick Kisa  Wayne Lawson  Terrence Maniapik

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8379 I am really proud of these individuals who will be graduating this year in Pangnirtung. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. I have no more names on my list. I will move on. Mr. Lightstone. Motion 116 – 5(2): Minister’s Statement 640 – 5(2): Rising Construction Costs’ Impact on 2021-22 Projects Moved to Committee of the Whole (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do not have another member’s statement, but I would like to… . Sorry. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Pursuant to Rule 34(5), I move, seconded by the Hon.

Member for Amittuq, that Minister’s Statement 640 – 5(2): Rising Construction Costs Impact on the 2021- 22 Projects be referred to the Committee of the Whole for consideration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order and is not subject to debate or amendment. All those in favour. Opposed. The motion is carried and Minister’s Statement 640 – 5(2) is referred to the Committee of the Whole. Back to the orders of the day. Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Minister responsible for Family Services, the Hon. Ms. Sheutiapik.

Item 4: Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 1335 – 5(2): Safe Places for Youth (Sheutiapik) Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) This is in response to Mr. Lightstone’s question asked on June 1, 2021, safe places for youth. This past winter the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation approved $120,000 through its Co-Investment program to help fund preplanning work related to renovations required in the Department of Family Services’ building 534 in Iqaluit.

This preplanning work will explore the feasibility and cost required for 534 to be used for family wellness programming, including options for youth transitional housing. If feasible and funding is secured for renovations, the department could provide this space as an additional support to a partner, similar to the way Uquutaq and YWCA Agvik run shelter programs in Family Services buildings. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Returns to Oral Questions. Minister responsible for the Department of Health, the Hon. Mr. Kusugak.

Return to Oral Question 1357 – 5(2): Status of the Qikiqtarjuaq Health Centre Replacement (Kusugak) Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by the Member for Uqqummiut, Pauloosie Keyootak, on June 3 regarding the status of the Qikiqtarjuaq Health Centre replacement.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8380 Mr. Speaker, the question was: When this Assembly met to approve the department’s 2021-22 capital estimates, it was made quite clear to members that the Qikiqtarjuaq Community Health Centre would be the next project on the list. Can the minister provide an update on the status of the Qikiqtarjuaq Health Centre project? Response: Mr. Speaker, the Member for Uqqummiut requested an update on the new health centre.

I can respond by saying that the Department of Health is working with the Department of Community and Government Services to replace aging health centres in Nunavut, which includes the Qikiqtarjuaq Community Health Centre. The next possible date the new community health centre project could be included in the capital plan for design and construction appropriations is as part of the capital estimates for fiscal year 2022-23. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Being none. Item 6. Oral Questions.

Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Ms. Towtongie. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 1369 – 5(2): Job Competitions (Towtongie) Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to say first of all “good afternoon” to Chesterfield Inlet and Rankin Inlet North. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Human Resources. As the minister is aware, Directive 518 of the Human Resources Manual sets the rules for restricted competitions in the public service.

One of the provisions indicates that: “All Government of Nunavut positions evaluated within the administrative support employment category, as determined by job evaluation, must be restricted to Nunavut Inuit or Nunavut Inuit by location.” Can the minister clearly explain the reason for this provision? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Minister responsible for Human Resources, Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

This is one of the many tools that we have in terms of trying to hire and for restricted competitions, the target is often for Inuit and that’s where that directive presided also. Some parts in terms of part of the restricted competition, we put it to location where we feel there is a high chance that they can get hired within the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response.

However, as the minister is aware, a job competition for an assistant deputy minister position in the Department of Economic Development and Transportation is currently being

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8381 advertised. Mr. Speaker, this is not an entry-level position. The job advertisement indicates that the competition is restricted to Nunavut Inuit who are living in the community. Can the minister clearly explain why Inuit who are living in other communities are not eligible to apply for this very senior position? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you, Ms. Towtongie, and if you could mute your phone, please. We can hear it through the Zoom meeting. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

This was a decision to make to try to get that competition up and get done as soon as possible, and I’m confident that an Inuk will be selected within that. Therefore I stand by the department’s decision to put it out for competition and for Inuit only. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It was only for Inuit living in Rankin Inlet.

Will the Minister of Human Resources commit to working with the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation to amend this job competition so that Inuit living in any Nunavut community have the opportunity to apply? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll definitely have those two portfolios have a heated debate about this, but this position is very critical and something that I’m very proud that it’s being decentralized to Rankin Inlet and I hope that we find a very adequate candidate in there.

If I understand it, I think whoever wants to apply can apply, but with those criteria, we are going to look at those folks who are within that community first. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Arviat North-Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Question 1370 – 5(2): Water Treatment Plant in Whale Cove (Main) Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Community and Government Services in regard to the construction of the water treatment plant in Whale Cove. Mr.

Speaker, the residents of Whale Cove have been looking forward to the completion of this water (interpretation ends) treatment plant, (interpretation) which I have been looking forward to as well, as this facility has been expected for many years and in March during this winter, the government released a request for proposals for the design of the facility. My first question to the minister is if she can provide an update on the status of this project. (interpretation ends) I’m looking for an update from the minister in terms of the progress towards construction for the water treatment

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8382 plant in Whale Cove. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Minister for Community and Government Services, Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question. Community and Government Services recognized the urgency for the water treatment plant permanent solutions for Whale Cove and we have been working diligently to develop a permanent solution. I can tell the member that the request for proposals was closed for design.

It was issued and closed on April 26, 2021 and project proposals are currently being reviewed at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Main. Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister. (interpretation ends) In terms of the timeline that was laid out in the tender documents, the timeline laid out in the tender documents had construction substantial, interim completion by September 30, 2022, and warranty period and final completion scheduled for September 30, 2024.

Can the minister explain why it’s anticipated that it will take so long, until 2024, to have the water treatment plant completed? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question. The Government of Nunavut recently developed standards for water treatment plants across the territory and Whale Cove will be the first community where new design criteria will be applied. The anticipated

schedule for the project; the planning stage is complete. The design of the facility, which Community and Government Services, for the member’s sake, is traditional knowledge will be included in the design of the plan. The design will be from May 2021 until January 2022, which gives the contractor and the community some time to come up with a design for the new water treatment plant. For the construction phase, we will start in January 2022 until March 2024. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Main. Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, minister. (interpretation ends) I was hoping to understand why it would take so long to achieve a completion of the plant. Based on the minister’s response, that’s over two years in the construction phase, so I do not quite understand why it would take so long in construction. My last question, Mr. Speaker, is regarding the budget. We know that there have escalations in terms of capital costs across Nunavut recently. Is the current budget allocated for this water treatment plant going to be sufficient to get it built? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon.

Jeannie Ehaloak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for his question, and it is a great question. Right

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8383 now with the design and with the proposal for the design there is a fixed budget. With the construction costs and the length of the project, there are issues because it is a new water treatment plant, and because it is a new type of water treatment plant, Whale Cove will be the first community that will be getting this new water treatment plant, and because of the warranty and the insurance we want to make sure that everything is done properly.

Like every other project across the territory, the anticipated budgeted amount, because of COVID restrictions, I can’t really tell the member right now exactly if the budgeted amount will be sufficient. It will all depend on what is going on with the pandemic. Once we have the design phase of the project completed, we will move forward and we will keep the municipality and the member informed and updated on the project itself. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Question 1371 – 5(2): Child Welfare in Isolation Hubs (Lightstone) Mr.

Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Health. As I stated earlier today in my member’s statement as well as last week, I am very concerned about the effect that the mandatory two-week isolation is having on children. On April 9 a letter regarding serious concerns of the welfare of children and youth in isolation hubs was sent to the minister and me, and many others. In the letter the author had shared an incident they had witnessed in the isolation hub where a four-year-old girl was experiencing a potentially traumatic experience. Mr.

Speaker, the letter was not to place blame on any one individual, but to illustrate the very serious child welfare issues at the hubs and reminding the Government of Nunavut of its duty of care towards children during their stay. My first question for the minister: since the beginning of isolation hubs or subsequent to this April 9 letter, are the Department of Health and the Department of Family Services collaborating and accurately tracking incidents where child welfare is at risk and, if so, would the minister be able to provide us with a little bit of information as to how wide the issue is? Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Lightstone. Your phone may be causing interference with the communication system. Minister responsible for Health, the Hon. Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Isolation is something that we don’t want anybody to be going through that, but we have to always first consider the safety and health care of all Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, we just announced yesterday that the two-week isolation won’t be required for people who have

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8384 gone through their full vaccination process, and as I have said before, we are continually monitoring the situation to see at what point we could be done with all of the requirements for isolation. That journey continues, Mr. Speaker. In terms of children, and I will say all Nunavummiut and non-Nunavummiut who are going through isolation at the isolation hubs that the Government of Nunavut is responsible for, there are cases where people have mental [health] issues and breakdowns at these hubs.

That does happen, and it happens to youth and adults, and we have mental health workers at these sites to help them when they are notified of a situation such as the one that my colleague is suggesting happened. Mr. Speaker, I don’t have the details in terms of what was done and stuff like that. Each one is individually dealt with and in confidence, but yes, we do have people working in all of the isolation hubs to help those in isolation that require some kind of support, whatever that support may be, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr.

Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for elaborating. I wasn’t sure if the departments of Health and Family Services are accurately tracking incidents of child welfare being at risk in the isolation hubs. I would like to thank the minister and the chief public health officer. I believe yesterday’s announcement really made a lot of Nunavummiut happy. I believe that 60 percent of the adult population is fully vaccinated. Mr.

Speaker, in yesterday’s press release, the CPHO had said that “In order to further mitigate the risks of introduction for the time being, those travelling with non-vaccinated individuals will still be required to isolate prior to entering the territory.” The minister had indicated that the minister and staff are continually monitoring the situation. I would like to ask the minister if he would be able to elaborate a little bit further.

In yesterday’s statement he used the term “for the time being.” I would like to ask: does this mean that the chief public health officer and the minister are considering an alternative to the mandatory two-week isolation in a hub for children who are under 12 who have parents who are fully vaccinated? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think, since the beginning, we have been saying that. I don’t know how many times we have to say that we are continually monitoring the situation to ensure that people and Nunavummiut are safe first.

That is our first priority. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the announcement was that those who are fully vaccinated will not require two- week isolation, and that was a movement from the day before that where there was two-week isolation. Mr. Speaker, we are on day one; 24 hours away from that announcement, Mr. Speaker. Yes, we are continually monitoring that, but we have to keep in mind, Mr. Speaker, and let me backtrack a bit and

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8385 thank all Nunavummiut for their patience. They are very patient and they realize the utmost priority here is to help out everybody. Unfortunately COVID does not differentiate between whether you are vaccinated or not or whether you are a newborn or whether you’re in your 90s; it will attack your system. We have to protect everybody. As of now there is no vaccination for those that are under 12, and in fact those that are under 18 have not been vaccinated yet.

That plan is just coming out now and we have a plan and dates and times to start rolling out the vaccination for those that are under 18 years of age to 12 years of age. Once we have completed that, we will take a look at where we are. We are working in different stages. I really appreciate the patience of everybody, but we have to take this slowly and we have to take this cautiously. If I have a child that is not vaccinated yet, and I have a grandson that is not vaccinated yet who is with us, we have to be cautious so that they don’t get it. Mr.

Speaker, I understand the frustration Nunavummiut are going through, but we are going through this very carefully and we will proceed as such, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister again for his response. I do believe that safety first must always be the priority, but the minister did not indicate the rate of child abuse that is going on in our isolation hubs.

He did not indicate whether or not the Department of Health is accurately tracking the incidents or provided any further detail on that matter. Mr.

Speaker, considering the hardship that this two-week mandatory isolation is forcing children to go through, I do understand that the minister indicated that for the time being, children under 12 will not receive the same exemption to the two-week mandatory isolation, but the next question I would like to ask: is the minister considering children of fully vaccinated parents to isolate at home, not in an isolation hub, and utilize that in conjunction with a COVID test to shorten that isolation period? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I will have to read the Hansard to see in the previous question if my colleague asked how many children in isolation hubs are being abused. I’ll have to look at that. Mr. Speaker, I’ll look into that as well. “Do the COVID-19 test and see if they have COVID-19 or not and then let’s go home” is a phrase I often hear. Mr. Speaker, when they give you the COVID-19 test, it’s good for the time they give it to you. It doesn’t mean that it is not in you because the next day you could turn out to be a positive case or the day after that. It only tells you at the time that you have the test that you don’t have it. Mr.

Speaker, I’ll use an example. This weekend in the States, the golf pros are playing golf. One of the leaders in the tournament was negative on day one, negative on day two, and negative on

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8386 day three. In the final round, he had to be removed because it turned out positive. Every day the individual got tested. Yes, the test proved that you don’t have it at the time you are tested. Mr. Speaker, to answer my colleague, we are, again, monitoring the situation and we are taking all of those very good suggestions to heart. Mr. Speaker, we are working with doctors and COVID professionals to see what we can do to ease restrictions to all Nunavummiut. We don’t want to see this carry on any longer than my colleague does and those that are writing and calling. Mr.

Speaker, we sincerely want to get to the point where nobody any longer needs to be isolated. We are working on that. Those suggestions that my colleague made and many others, believe me, are being considered by the chief public health officer and our health staff to make sure that we make the best decisions we can. Those suggestions about not having to isolate or to have to isolate at home, we are constantly weighing those and as we continue to do that, I hope sooner than later to be able to make more announcements, as the announcements were yesterday. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions.

Member for Aivilik, Mr. Netser. Question 1372 – 5(2): Building Code Act (Netser) Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) Good day to the people of Naujaat and Coral Harbour. I send them my regards. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I have a question for the Minister of Community and Government Services today and it relates to the Building Code Act, which I raised during our winter sitting and in my member’s statement yesterday. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, I wrote a letter to her in April of this year concerning this issue. Mr. Speaker, I have not received a formal reply yet.

When can I expect one from her? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Minister for Community and Government Services, Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am just trying to find that note. I did have the letter. Just give me a second. I found it. Community and Government Services did receive a letter from the member regarding the Building Code Act for the installation of heating tanks. The letter to Mr. Netser indicated that under the Building Code Act, oil tank replacements or new installations require a building permit.

The oil tank system includes structural supports along with the piping and the tank itself. In order to ensure that the installation of a fuel tank is installed by a certified plumber with a Red Seal to ensure that the installation of the tank is done so that there are no environmental damages or anything that happens to the tank. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Netser.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8387 Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. While I pointed out that it may be easier to do what the minister just mentioned about getting permits and make sure there’s a certified plumber to do it, but it is not so easy in our smaller communities. When I raised this issue back in the winter sitting, the minister undertook to review the issue. What is she doing about the smaller communities that don’t have access to go into the government office to apply for a simple permit to install a fuel tank for homeowners?

It’s not so bad for a government-owned building, but for homeowners, it already is a real impediment to work on their home heating fuel tanks. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question. The building code officials are located in each region and they are in Cambridge Bay, Rankin Inlet, and Iqaluit.

Every few weeks the Department Community and Government Services takes a list of individuals, companies or businesses, or private individuals who want the building code employee to come to their community. Once there are a number of individuals for the building code inspector to go to the community and do the inspections, we will make sure that the communities are visited when needed and requested. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Netser. Mr. Netser (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Whenever new legislation comes out regarding (interpretation ends) building codes (interpretation) specifically, the government agrees with it and says it is going to go ahead and then they work on the regulations afterwards. The regulations are usually very hard for smaller communities to understand. They end up complaining to their MLA saying this new law is really inappropriate and it should be changed. When regulations are being made, perhaps the minister can consult with the (interpretation ends) Nunavut Association of Municipalities, (interpretation) also known as NAM.

Perhaps the minister could work closely with NAM because it is very inconvenient or very hard to get a permit in the communities and many people don’t have computers or even telephones to do that. Can the minister’s officials work with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities to remove this problematic requirement completely? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question, his comments, and his recommendations.

Community and Government Services at any time when legislation or policies or procedures are changing within the Government of Nunavut, we are in constant communication with the municipalities. In coordination with Community and Government Services and the municipalities, working together, we make sure that community members are

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8388 informed any time something changes or new regulations come into force. If individuals are having a hard time with trying to figure out how the new regulations are being done, they are more than welcome to contact our department to ensure that we assist them to make sure that they are doing it properly. My department is willing to work with any individuals who have difficulty with our regulations. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Question 1373 – 5(2): Kivalliq Megaprojects (Simailak) Mr.

Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to my constituents in Baker Lake. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, and they concern the issue of megaprojects in the Kivalliq region. As the minister will recall, one of the supplementary appropriation bills that the Legislative Assembly approved last week included $1.5 million in capital carryover funding for the Kivalliq Trade Corridor Study.

Information produced by the minister’s department indicates that this carryover funding is to “complete comprehensive planning for a larger project to construct the intercommunity corridors” in the region. However, it also indicates that work for this project has not yet been tendered. Can the minister provide an update today on the status of this important project? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Hon. Mr. Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My department has been working really diligently on this project and we are hoping to see that the request for proposals be out within the month. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response, and I appreciate his department working diligently on this important project. As the minister is aware, the federal government is funding 75 percent of this project through the National Trade Corridors Fund.

Can the minister clarify what role the Kivalliq Inuit Association and the municipal councils of the impacted communities have in respect to this project? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Leading up to getting this project funded through the National Trade Corridors Fund, we received a letter of support from the Kivalliq Inuit Association and other stakeholders. For the request for proposals, one of the major components will be to consult with the communities and the stakeholders, and this is one of the top

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8389 priorities in terms of having input from the communities and our stakeholders, such as the Kivalliq Inuit Association and other stakeholders. Our plan is to continue to keep updating and ensure that through this project, all those that are involved do get the information that we’re getting through this project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response and the continued due diligence by his staff.

As the minister is also aware, the recent federal budget indicated that $40.5 million will be provided to “support feasibility and planning of hydroelectricity and grid interconnection projects in the North,” including the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Line Project in Nunavut. Can the minister update the House today on the status of his department’s involvement with this work? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That one is a direct project with the Kivalliq Inuit Association. They consult us.

It’s a different way where we’re usually the project managers, but this is the other way around. I want to assure the members and this House that the Kivalliq Inuit Association continually updates us on that project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Question 1374 – 5(2): Elder Care at Embassy West (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health. Mr.

Speaker, I was interested to note the minister’s responses to questions by my colleague from Amittuq regarding the levels of care that would be provided at the Rankin Inlet Long-term Care Facility once it is built, and in particular whether dementia care would be available for elders with dementia. Can the minister confirm that the Embassy West facility in Ottawa is a designated dementia care facility and clearly describe what type of care is currently being provided to Nunavut elders with dementia? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, the Hon. Mr. Kusugak. Hon.

Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The elders currently placed in that elder care facility in Ottawa have different needs and care, such as (interpretation ends) dementia care, (interpretation) which is offered in that facility and that is how we look after residents suffering dementia. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Angnakak. Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wasn’t sure if the minister, in his response, meant that it was actually a designated facility for dementia care or not and so it would be good to get that clarification.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8390 Mr. Speaker, I have been given to understand that the Nunavut government pays over three times more for a bed for a Nunavut elder at the Embassy West facility than what is charged for a bed for an Ontario resident. Can the minister describe what additional services are provided to Nunavut elders that make the costs so high when compared to the costs for clients from down south? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

To answer that properly, it would require finding out what kind of care the elders that are in that facility from Ontario are getting compared to the kind of care our elders are getting, and there are different services that we provide,

interpretation and translators, and many different things. In order to be able to answer that question properly, I would have to get some more details and provide it to my colleague at a later time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Angnakak. Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the minister agreeing to do that. We look forward to that information because, from what I understand, it’s quite a few thousands of dollars per person per month that Nunavut pays extra. Mr.

Speaker, I do appreciate that not having enough long-term care beds in the territory means that some Nunavut elders are sent south to receive care. However, it is important that the care they receive is adequate, appropriate, and truly meets their needs. Will the minister commit to conducting a comprehensive review of the care and services provided to Nunavut elders who are currently residing in the Embassy West care home in Ottawa and report back to this House on his findings at the earliest opportunity? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I can’t commit to that at this time, but I could assure my colleague that we work very closely with the providers of long-term care facilities for all Nunavummiut, whether they are in Ontario or other places in the south or across Nunavut, and ensure that our elders are getting the best care possible provided to them regardless of cost. We need to ensure that our elders are getting the best care that they could be receiving and our first priority right now is to get them home, where they deserve to be and getting the best care they can at home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions.

Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Question 1375 – 5(2): Issues with Housing (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I stated in my member’s statement, I wanted to ask a question to the Minister responsible for the Housing Corporation. As I mentioned, my other constituency community of Igloolik has undergone much stressful challenges in trying to deal with the local housing association. As I said, I was going to ask the minister this question. Mr. Speaker, can the

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8391 minister commit to touring my constituency in the future to ensure that the issues we raised in this spring session can be checked firsthand, either to Igloolik elders’ care facility or the local housing association? Can the minister agree to come and visit the community? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, the Hon. Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking that question.

I can’t respond to that request at this time and I can’t commit to preparing for a visit up there. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is so unfortunate. If you saw how ardently the committee worked, especially in drafting their position, as I have noted in the past that this government rarely takes the time to review the matter, as I have also sent emails outlining the concerns of the elders in trying to alleviate their issues related to the local housing authority.

It is unfortunate that the minister has already shot down my idea. Now I’ll ask the question to the minister. The housing corporation has a president and board. Can you send your staff? As you state that you can’t visit the community, could that work for you? Can you commit to having your staff visit the communities and listen to the concerns I expressed, to realize the real hardship the communities go through? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that good question.

I apologize and I’m not trying to be adversarial that I can’t go to the community or commit to it. We all know the communities go through a lot of difficulties. There are a lot of concerns; the elders, lack of housing, and mould in housing units. We hear all these concerns. Unfortunately, if you had written a letter on this, I don’t have a letter. I remember the request you made earlier this year on the staff and we have offices in the community. They have a manager, director, and it’s fully staffed. Upon receiving a request from any of the communities, we are open. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you.

You second and final supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will once again give you a copy of the letter that was written by my fellow residents of Amittuq. You didn’t answer my question. I would like the minister’s commitment in the House to have her staff go up and meet with the people. I’ll also add that there are homeowners who have concerns about home repairs they require and what programs are available. I would like the minister to commit to sending staff up to Igloolik. Either a yes or no will do. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8392 Speaker: Thank you. Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that question. I can have my staff speak with the local housing authority and find out about the concerns they have. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Tununiq, Mr. Qamaniq. Question 1376 – 5(2): Water Infrastructure (Qamaniq) Mr. Qamaniq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Can you hear me? (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services in regard to water infrastructure. As the minister will recall, one of the supplementary appropriation bills that the Legislative Assembly approved last week included $174,000 in capital carryover funding for the Pond Inlet water intake repair project. Information provided by the Department of Community and Government Services indicates that: “In September of 2020, the Department of Community and Government Services installed a floating intake system that is connected to the existing water treatment plant.

This floating intake system is the first time that this has been tried in Nunavut and the department is working with the municipality of Pond Inlet to monitor the floating intake system…the carryover is required to complete any repairs that may be required.” Can the minister confirm that this work is on schedule? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Community and Government Services, Hon. Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question.

Community and Government Services is working with the Hamlet of Pond Inlet to provide drinking water and developing a plan for a permanent solution. Community and Government Services is moving forward with the planning phase for a new water treatment plant in this fiscal year, 2021-22. That temporary water floating system was designed for a maximum lifespan of two years, with significant spring ice breakup, damages and repairs.

Since the new water treatment plant is not going to be completed in the next five to six years, Community and Government Services is expecting to replace temporary floating systems with permanent water intake systems for construction for this fiscal year, 2021- 22. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Qamaniq. Mr. Qamaniq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Information provided by the minister’s department also indicates that “This floating intake system is only temporary, and it is expected that repairs or replacement of the floating intake system will be required during the planning, design and construction of a new water treatment plant…planning for

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8393 a new water treatment plant will begin in April of 2021.” Mr. Speaker, it is now June 2021. Can the minister confirm when her department will be issuing a request for proposals for the design and construction of Pond Inlet’s new water treatment plant? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for his question and comments.

Community and Government Services is working diligently to make sure that the water treatment plant, that the process is ready to begin and once I have an exact timeline, I can share that information with the member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Qamaniq. Mr. Qamaniq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for her response.

Last year I raised the issue of water infrastructure in the Legislative Assembly and I asked if the Department of Community and Government Services was working with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities to develop a comprehensive inventory and set of condition ratings for water trucks in the territory. Can the minister update the House today on the status of this work? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I don’t have any details on that report, but once my department receives that information, I am willing to let the member know when it’s complete. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Qirngnuq. Question 1377 – 5(2): Pre-trades Training for Youth (Qirngnuq) Mr. Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to my colleagues and to our fellow Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College. Mr.

Speaker, I have a question regarding the minister’s statement related to the students in the pre-trades program. Mr. Speaker, the young students sometimes do not complete their education and they are given upgrading courses at Arctic College. It’s becoming harder and harder to access funds for anything. Mr. Speaker, my question to the minister is: when are we going to be having pre- trades training for the youth? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College, Hon. Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank the Member for Netsilik for asking that question regarding upgrading courses. If I understood him correctly, there are different programs available. For example, we have Sanatuliqsarvik and what I stated in my minister’s statement about the Skilled Trades Worker Diploma Program. Nunavummiut can

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8394 apply for various programs starting in the fall. There are local advertisements that call for expressions of interest on specific programs, such as the Nursing Program, the Teacher Education Program, or pre-trades programming in carpentry or to become an electrician, amongst others. There are different programs available here in Iqaluit or in Rankin Inlet, but some programs are offered in other locations throughout the year and that will continue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Qirngnuq. Mr.

Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Every individual can choose a path or dream that they would like to follow and work towards. They can work for the government, a private business, or other entities. There is a high rate of unemployment in our communities and some people don’t have the qualifications that are required for the jobs that are available. With that being the case, I wonder if the minister can provide more information on how they advertise the program offerings for college students and those who are seeking employment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Joanasie. Hon.

David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Arctic College tries to make sure that all the relevant information is made available to all of the communities in Nunavut. If there are students who are interested in getting into a particular career field and would like additional information, they can contact Arctic College by phone, email, or any other means of communication to learn more about what programs are available to them and whether or not they are eligible to apply.

That’s the path that they can take, but I’ll add that we are trying to make sure we have all the information available online and that we clearly outline all of the programs that are available through Arctic College. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Qirngnuq. Mr. Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The last question I would like to ask is, since it is almost the end of our term as Members of the Legislative Assembly in the fall, perhaps there will be an announcement on college graduates.

Can we expect to get that information before the end of our term? Maybe the minister has an idea of when that information would be available. I would like to get clarification, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I believe his question is about the ceremonies for students graduating, and I spoke about the graduation which was celebrated yesterday in Rankin Inlet where they undertook the principles of distancing.

I’ll also say that last year, although the students graduated, there was no chance of locally celebrating that event during the COVID pandemic. For both the following years of 2020 and 2021, we celebrate the graduates in the communities and I will ensure that every MLA and community is informed, welcomed, and have an opportunity to speak their thoughts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8395 Speaker: Thank you. I would like to remind members that the time allotted for question period has expired and we will move on. Ms. Angnakak. Motion 117 – 5(2): Extension of Question Period (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Pursuant to Rule 39(7), I move, seconded by the member for Manirajak, that the time allotted for oral questions be extended. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. There is a motion on the floor to extend question period. The motion is not debatable. All those in favour. Opposed.

The motion is carried and question period will be extended an additional 30 minutes. Oral Questions. Member for Arviat North-Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Question 1378 – 5(2): Reconciliation (Main) Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I made a statement earlier about reconciliation. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, in my member’s statement, I mentioned that I believe that the reconciliation should be a major and central election issue in the next federal election, and I would like to turn that question or idea over to the head of our government, the Premier. That’s who my questions are for today.

I’ll put that first question to the Premier: does the Premier have a position on the subject of reconciliation? Does the Premier believe that reconciliation should be a major or central election issue for the next federal government? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Savikataaq. Hon. Joe Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I can’t speak on behalf of the government as to what their main theme will be, but yes, reconciliation has to be part of it and reconciliation comes in many different forms.

To me, reconciliation means righting the wrongs that were done in the past. Like I said, it comes in many forms and one of the forms is to help the people that were wronged. I fully support, if anyone was wronged, that they should make it made right so that people can be at peace. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Main. Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Ma’na, Premier.

In the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, there are 94 calls to action and they’re under a number of headings: health, language and culture, education, child welfare, and justice. Mr. Speaker, it’s my understanding that as a country, we are a long ways away from implementing all of the 94 calls to action, but with regard to these 94 calls to action, in the Premier’s opinion, to what extent would implementation of the 94 calls to action laid out in the calls to action document benefit Nunavummiut? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Savikataaq. Hon.

Joe Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In October 2016 the government did table a response to the

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8396 TRC’s final report, and we believe that the responses should be responded to. Mr. Speaker, the Premier of the day in the Fourth Assembly also had a minister’s statement about that. Mr. Speaker, we’re doing what we can with what we have. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Main. Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Ma’na, Premier.

There are a number of calls to action that refer specifically to territorial governments, let’s say, for example, Call to Action No. 57, which refers to education to be provided to public servants regarding history lessons and ways to increase awareness around issues related to indigenous peoples. Can the Premier commit to providing the House a written update specifically on the calls to action that refer to the territorial government? Can the Premier commit to providing the House a written update on where we are at in terms of implementing the calls to action? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Thank you. Premier Savikataaq. Hon. Joe Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I can’t commit to that at the moment here, but to the member’s comment, right now we include the history of residential schools in our curriculum and we will continue to do that. That was one of the recommendations by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Mr. Speaker, we’re here to help people heal in Nunavut. We want people to be able to feel good.

The 94 recommendations that came out, we will do the best we can to not only acknowledge them but practise them and get them into place, but the recommendations are very broad and we will do what we can with the resources that we have. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Question 1379 – 5(2): Correctional Facilities and COVID-19 (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Justice and they concern the issue of the COVID-19 pandemic and our territorial correctional facilities. Mr.

Speaker, on May 6 the minister had announced that ten inmates had tested positive for COVID-19 in the correctional facility here in Iqaluit. As the minister is well aware, his department’s last update on the COVID- 19 outbreak in Iqaluit was issued on May 12, almost a month ago. At that time the department had confirmed that a total of 12 inmates in its correctional facilities in the city had tested positive for COVID-19. I would like to ask: can the minister provide an update on the outbreak? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Justice, the Hon. Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I appreciate the opportunity to stand up.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8397 Mr. Speaker, in total the… . Let me start over. As we have been doing intakes, and that is how we caught the first case, since then the most recent positive cases were identified May 12 and there were two cases. Subsequently a total of 14 people did test positive at the Baffin Correctional Centre, but since then all have recovered and there are zero current cases. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for providing that information.

As the minister will be aware, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization has issued guidelines which indicate that “residents and staff of congregate living settings, such as correctional institutions, are included as priorities [for vaccination] as they are in high-risk environments.” I would like to ask the minister: can the minister confirm today what percentage of inmates and staff of our correctional facilities have received both doses of the vaccine, and can he indicate what specific measures are being taken in respect to limiting contact between unvaccinated inmates, staff, and visitors at the facilities?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I won’t be able to give the actual numbers as some of our facilities have a very low number of inmates and staff in the facility. For privacy reasons, I will not be able to disclose that, but I will state that all clients are isolated for the first 14 days of their intake; they are tested on day 1 and again tested on day 13. As well, all staff and inmates have been offered the vaccine at intake, as well as anytime that they would request it, it will be provided. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you.

Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for that response. I am just glad to hear that inmates upon intake are being tested on day 1 and day 13. However, I had asked for specifically what percentage of inmates and staff had received both does of the Moderna vaccine, and it is unfortunate that privacy concerns are the… . The minister is unable to provide that information. Moving on to my last question, Mr. Speaker, it is clear that correctional facilities are a breeding ground for infectious disease.

I would like to ask: can the minister indicate what specific renovations or upgrades to our territorial correctional facilities are being planned to reduce the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic as well as future pandemics on our prison populations and correctional employees? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As far as added infrastructure, it has been minimal. With the design of the buildings, we are able to keep different inmates from different sections away from integrating with other wings.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8398 Mr. Speaker, I can say that all staff are obliged to wear full personal protective equipment which does provide a high level of proven safety. As well, there have been no visitors allowed in any of our facilities. Hopefully, as the outbreak calms down and closes here in Iqaluit, we can get back to that. We have increased phone services so that inmates can have regular contact with their families. Mr. Speaker, just to give a broad response to the member’s second question, I can say that 165 doses have been administered to inmates. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet, Ms. Towtongie. Question 1380 – 5(2): Staffing at Rankin Inlet Long-term Care Facility (Towtongie) Ms. Towtongie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health. Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to hear the minister’s comments regarding the progress towards building the long-term care facility in Rankin Inlet. (interpretation ends) I am confident that all of my colleagues will agree that our elders will be most comfortable in their homeland, closer to family and culture.

Can the minister provide an update on what the staffing requirements will be at the Rankin Inlet Long-term Care Facility? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minster of Health, the Hon. Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As for the staff at the elders facility in Rankin Inlet, how many there will be and what their will duties will be are being worked on right now. Once that is done, we will be making an announcement as to how many employees and what qualification and education requirements they will need to work there. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you.

Your first supplementary, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Mr. Speaker, when the government planned to build a 24-bed facility which will deliver specialized elder care, consideration must have been given to the staffing needs, from registered nurses to certified health care workers to general staff who will provide care and support. Can the minister tell us what steps have been taken to identify staffing positions and the relevant training programs so that Nunavummiut can be recruited and trained for jobs at the Rankin Inlet Long- term Care Facility? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak.

Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The construction of the long-term care facility in Rankin Inlet will begin this summer and it will be constructed over two years. During the construction, they will be seeking individuals who are interested in working there and the educational requirements will be identified. When we advertise jobs and start hiring individuals, we expect to have people in place that will be trained

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8399 and ready to work in the facility, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response. Mr. Speaker, the minister has indicated that his goal is to have the Rankin Inlet Long-term Care Facility completed and ready for residents by the fall of 2023, which is not the far away.

This allows for approximately two full academic years for potential health care workers, who are familiar with the culture and language of our elders, to receive the appropriate training and certification to work in the long-term care field. Will the minister commit to working with his colleagues in education and Nunavut Arctic College to ensure that training opportunities are made available as soon as possible so that Nunavummiut will be ready to begin work at the Rankin Inlet Long-term Care Facility when it opens in 2023? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon.

Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The preparation is in place as to how we will be working with the trainees. We are working on that right now. To answer her question, yes, we are working together on preparing individuals who will be working at the long-term care facility in Rankin Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Question 1381 – 5(2): Municipal Governance (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Community and Government Services in regard to the Municipality of the Igloolik’s maintenance garage. The last time I asked the minister of the day in regard to the municipal garage in Igloolik, due to its safety matter, that garage has been closed for two years now. I would like to ask the minister: how is Community and Government Services providing good, essential services to the Municipality of Igloolik when it comes to storing their water truck and sewage truck? What has been done up to this day?

It has been an ongoing issue, so I would like to get an answer of what is provided and how is CGS providing services to get their maintenance garage up and running. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Minister responsible for Community and Government Services, Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question. When it comes to municipal garages, the municipalities, in their integrated community sustainability plans, prioritize what is important in their community.

Through that process, Community and Government Services reviews those plans, and through small funding, Community and Government Services can assist municipalities when it comes to their requests for garages. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8400 Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It has been closed by the workers’ safety and compensation board and it has been two years without getting their maintenance garage. Now it is not safe enough for employees to be there. They have tried to rent a few warehouses. They have created a “hangar” and it is unfortunate that the municipality has to rent that warehouse just so their water and sewage trucks won’t get frozen in the winter. It is spring and I’m pretty winter will approach very fast.

Will CGS be able to provide the funding which the Municipality of Igloolik really needs to provide good, essential services, especially with the water? There is no utility from the water reservoir and they are just provided with water trucks. What else does the municipality have to say in order to get their requested funding? I was just informed that it might cost $700,000 to get that municipal garage up and running. Will they be provided with funding for this upcoming summer season? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his comments and question. In fiscal year 2020-21, $250,000 was approved from the Small Capital Fund to undertake these immediate repairs, which was the base of the garage which had sunk. An estimated $300,000 in small capital funds will be required in this fiscal year to complete the repair work. This small amount may increase with market conditions, as we have all noted that due to COVID, some of the market conditions have tripled even. The hamlet is currently leasing, the member is correct, commercial space for the community for its fleet.

Some construction material was ordered and had arrived in the 2020 sealift, so they were working on the repairs. The department was not successful in issuing trades contracts under standing offer agreements. Some contractors and suppliers have identified COVID-related supply chain uncertainty with respect to certain products and materials. The department will develop a substantiation sheet for major capital works for the inclusion for the 2022-23 capital plan. My department is working to ensure that Igloolik does get the proper garage it requires. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you.

Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, it has been a disappointment for two years for the Municipality of Igloolik that they haven’t been getting answers in here, but I’m glad that the minister said yes to $250,000 at least. The requested funding is the smallest portion of what has been requested. I would like to have the minister commit to this Assembly: will Community and Government Services be able to help the hamlet?

It is now a priority with the hamlet council and as the minister just stated, under the integrated community sustainability plan, it has become a

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8401 priority. Will the minister consider perhaps listening to the counsellors or the hamlet in regard to their municipal garage? Can I get a commitment from the minister that it will be started this summer? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for his question.

Community and Government Services does commit to work with every municipality when it comes to municipal infrastructure, and I can assure the member that we will work diligently to make sure that the community’s concerns regarding their municipal garage is addressed as soon as we can start on the work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Netser. Question 1382 – 5(2): Isolation Requirements and COVID-19 Vaccination (Netser) Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for recognizing me for the second time today.

My question is to the Minister of Health and it relates to yesterday’s press release. It says that vaccinated travellers will no longer be required to isolate either before entering the territory or once in the territory. My question to the minister is, as you know, the government has been really pushing for vaccinations to our population and many of our population have taken the vaccine. They were expecting to travel in and out of the territory freely for holiday or vacation purposes.

My question to the minister is: when a family decides to go to, let’s say, Winnipeg, which is a major hub for Kivalliq travellers for vacation time, will they have to apply for isolation or how does it work when they go to different provinces for vacation purposes? Will they be required to isolate down in that province before they can start enjoying their vacation? Speaker: Thank you. The Hon Minister of Health, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. At this time the chief public health officer is actually still advising Nunavummiut not to travel. Mr.

Speaker, in terms of isolating when you get to points south, I stand to be corrected, but I understand that if you’re going into Manitoba, you have to isolate for two weeks once you get into Manitoba before you are allowed to travel freely. I would have to confirm that, but that is the understanding I get. In terms of coming back north, if you’re travelling with people that are not vaccinated fully, they would have isolate coming back north and you would have to book an appointment to get into the isolation hub in Nunavut.

In terms of getting into Manitoba, anybody flying south to any out-of- territory, I would advise they check those provinces’ statuses and their government. Check their websites to see what requirements you have in order to get into those provinces because those change quite regularly and quite quickly.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8402 I would advise anybody travelling outside of Nunavut: please check with the province that you’re going into to see what requirements they have of you before you enter their province or territory. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Netser. Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for that explanation. For my next question, I have a constituent who took his first needle and he asked when he would be able to take his second needle.

The response was that “Unless there were 10 of you coming for your needle, we don’t want to see you.” My question to the minister is: can a person apply for his or her second needle at any point in time between the time allotted between the first vaccination and the second vaccination? That’s my next question. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

We ask that those requiring their second vaccine at the appropriate time, a couple of weeks after their first one, they let the health centre in their community know that they would like to get their second dose. Sometimes you may have to wait because the vials carry up to, I think, ten doses or close to that and once you open that vial, it’s only good for so many hours. That’s why they’re asking if you’re going to, they will write your name down and as soon as they have close to that number as possible in requiring the second vaccine, they will get a hold of you and give you the second vaccine, Mr. Speaker.

I really appreciate the patience of those that are seeking their second vaccine, but don’t let that deter you from getting your first one either. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Netser. Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response. My last question is, during the earlier question period by one of our members, the minister alluded to the fact that the Department of Health is planning for vaccinations for between 12 and 18 years old, for our youth. Now, we know that they are under age and they fall within the authority of the parents.

Will the parents be consulted with first before these age groups between 12 and 18 get their doses or will it be mandatory, without the parent’s consent? (interpretation) Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I understand that where the youth is seen to be mature and able to understand fully what they are asking for, in this case to get vaccinated, they do not require their parent’s consent. It will be at the discretion of the nurse or doctor who is administering the dose to see that the individual is mature enough to do so.

In this case we’re talking about individuals who may be a day away from turning 18, so there is a wide range of maturity between that and they will be very closely monitored by the nurses that are administering the dose whether they should be seeking parental consent or not. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. I remind members that the time allotted for question period

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8403 has expired for today. We will move on to the orders of the day. Item 7. Written Questions. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. No. 10. Petitions. No. 11. Responses to Petitions. No. 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Member for Arviat North-Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Item 12: Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters Committee Report 042 – 5(2): Bill 74,

An Act to Amend the Hamlets Act (Main) Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I wish to report that Bill 74,

An Act to Amend the Hamlets Act, has been reviewed by the Standing Committee on Legislation and that the bill is ready for consideration in Committee of the Whole. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive Rule 68(6) and have Bill 74 immediately moved into Committee of the Whole. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The member is requesting unanimous consent to allow Bill 74 to be referred immediately to the Committee of the Whole. Are there any nays? There are none and Bill 74 is referred to the Committee of the Whole. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Mr. Lightstone.

Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 394 – 5(2): Correspondence from Constituent Re: Isolation Hubs (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During my oral questions to the Minister of Health regarding issues facing youth in isolation hubs, I alluded to a letter which was written to the Minister of Health as well as me and a number of other individuals.

In the letter, the author shares an experience that he had witnessed at one of the isolation hubs where a minor who was a four-year-old girl had experienced some potentially traumatic events and the author indicated that this letter was not intended to place blame on any one individual but illustrated very serious concerns and ongoing systemic issues that children face in isolation hubs. It’s a very short letter and I encourage all members to read it with care. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Tabling of Documents. Item 14. Notices of Motions. Member for Iqaluit- Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak.

Item 14: Notices of Motions Motion 118 – 5(2): Extended Adjournment – Notice (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I give notice that on Thursday, June 10, 2021, I will move the following motion: I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, that pursuant to the provisions of Rule 3, that when the House concludes its present sitting, it

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8404 shall be adjourned until September 9, 2021. Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time I will seek unanimous consent to deal with my motion today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Notices of Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. Member for Iqaluit- Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Item 16: Motions Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to deal with my motion today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to deal with her motion today. Are there any nays?

There are none. Please proceed, Ms. Angnakak. Motion 118 – 5(2): Extended Adjournment (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, that pursuant to the provisions of Rule 3, that when the House concludes its present sitting, it shall be adjourned until September 9, 2021. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order. All those in favour. Opposed. The motion is carried. 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 73 and 74 and Minister’s Statement 640 – 5(2) with Ms. Angnakak in the Chair. In accordance with the authority provided to me by Motion 114 – 5(2), the committee will stay in session until it reports itself out. Before we proceed to the Committee of the Whole, we will take a 20-minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 15:54 and Committee resumed at 16:23 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairperson: …(no audio)…we have the following items to deal with: Bills 73 and 74 and Minister’s Statement 640 – 5(2). What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Kaernerk.

Mr. Kaernerk: Madam Chairman, we wish to commence with the review of Bill 73 and then Bill 74. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Chairperson: Thank you. Are we in agreement that we first deal with Bill 73? Some Members: Agreed.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8405 Bill 73 –

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act – Consideration in Committee Chairperson: Okay. I would like to ask Minister Joanasie: do you have officials that you would like to appear before the committee? Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Good day, Madam Chairperson. Yes, I do have witnesses. Thank you. Chairperson: Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: For the record, Minister Joanasie, please introduce your officials and then you can proceed with your opening comments. Mr. Joanasie. Hon.

David Joanasie: Thank you again, Madam Chairperson. Good day, Nunavummiut. Today I have with me Deputy Minister Kathy Okpik, as well as Associate Deputy Minister Rebecca Hainnu, Director of Advanced Education Ainsley Hunt, as well as the Acting Director of Policy, Matilda Madekufamba. (interpretation) Madam Chairperson, I am pleased to appear before you for the clause-by-clause review of Bill 73,

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act. Before I begin with my opening comments, I want to take this opportunity to thank the Standing Committee on Legislation for their important work on this bill. Madam Chairperson, to ensure that Nunavut’s future is bright and prosperous, all Nunavummiut who wish to pursue post-secondary education should have the means to do so. The cost of receiving this important education should not be a barrier.

To assist post-secondary students with the expenses associated with their post- secondary education, the Department of Education’s Financial Assistance for Nunavut Students (FANS) program provides a combination of grants, loans, and scholarships to eligible Nunavummiut. Madam Chairperson, the amendment to the Student Financial Assistance Act before the committee will further reduce the financial barriers faced by post- secondary students who primarily receive FANS funding in the form of loans.

This amendment to the Act will enable the department to change the Student Financial Assistance Regulations so that these students can receive annual loans comparable to the amount of funding FANS provides to grant recipients through the basic grant and supplementary grant. (interpretation ends) Specifically the Department of Education intends to increase the maximum aggregate amounts that individuals eligible for the primary or secondary loans may borrow.

Currently non-Inuit with kindergarten to grade 12 schooling in Nunavut fall under a maximum aggregate of $26,000 and non-Inuit without kindergarten to grade 12 schooling in Nunavut fall under a maximum aggregate of $36,000. The difference in loan maximums between these two groups is to account

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8406 for the additional funding that non-Inuit with Nunavut schooling receive in the form of a basic grant. These maximum aggregates would be increased to a single maximum aggregate of $150,000. To account for the additional funding that non-Inuit with Nunavut schooling would be eligible for in the form of a basic grant, the amount of grant eligibility will be deducted from the new maximum aggregate amount of $150,000 for these individuals.

The current maximum aggregate amounts have not been increased since before 1999, when Nunavut became a territory, and do not match the current costs of pursuing post-secondary education. (interpretation) Madam Chairperson, this increase will also provide student loan recipients with a level of publicly funded financial assistance comparable to other Canadian jurisdictions, ensuring our post-secondary students have similar access to financial assistance as other students throughout Canada.

This increase will also provide non-Inuit Nunavummiut with loans that are comparable to the amount of funding Nunavut Inuit receive as grants. Finally, this amendment meets Turaaqtavut’s Sivummuaqpalliajjutivut commitment to provide education and training to adult learners so they can make positive contributions to society and find meaningful employment. This change to the Student Financial Assistance Act will ensure that Nunavummiut have access to enhanced financial supports, enabling them to seek out opportunities to develop new skills that will benefit themselves, their families, communities, and Nunavut.

Madam Chairperson, I welcome the questions and comments from the Committee of the Whole on this bill. Thank you. Chairperson (interpretation): Thank you as well. (interpretation ends) Does the chair of the standing committee have any opening comments? Please proceed, Mr. Main. Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Madam Chairperson. As Chair of the Standing Committee on Legislation, I wish to make some brief opening comments as the Committee of the Whole begins its consideration of Bill 73, (interpretation ends)

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act. The standing committee is in support of the principle and objectives of the bill, which the sponsoring minister outlined in his opening comments. The standing committee notes that a more comprehensive review of the legislation and attendant regulation is planned for future years. Iksivautaaq, Bill 73 will increase the amount of funding available through student financial assistance loans to non- Inuit students who are pursuing post- secondary education programs.

The standing committee recommends the passage of Bill 73 to all members. (interpretation) Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Chairperson (interpretation): Thank you as well. (interpretation ends)

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8407 I’m going to open up the floor for general comments. Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Thank you, minister and your officials. It’s great to see you all here again. I’m in support of this bill. It’s nice to see the maximum aggregate will be increased to match the current cost of pursuing post-secondary education and in a manner which will be comparable to other Canadian jurisdictions.

I believe that the primary and secondary loans are crucial in providing the opportunity to ensure Nunavummiut are able to pursue further education without having a financial barrier to do so. I just want to raise one concern that I had with this piece of legislation and my concern is that the bill does not also increase the needs assessment loan, which is available to all Inuit and non- Inuit students pursuing post-secondary education.

This piece of legislation which is increasing the primary and secondary loans will provide approximately eight years’ worth of funding for students to continue or further their education,

whereas the current level of funding under the needs assessment loan has a maximum of approximately five years of funding. In the minister’s response during correspondence on this matter, the minister had indicated that it’s typical that needs assessment loan recipients attend courses on average less than eight months a year as well as tend not to receive these loans in consecutive years.

I just wanted to note that I received this needs assessment loan on multiple years and full academic years, eight months for several consecutive years, and had I been aware of this needs assessment loan, I would have fully utilized it every year and, if I had done that, I would have reached the maximum level. Given the number of students that required upgrade through pre-nursing and pre-teaching programs prior to pursuing their undergraduate degrees, it’s very possible that current and future