Nunavut Hansard — 30 May 2023 (6th Assembly, 2nd Session, Day 46, Official Report, pp. 2967–3017)

2023-05-30, 6th Assembly 2nd Session, Day 46

Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)

Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 6th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 46 Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Pages 2967 – 3017 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Tony Akoak, MLA

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

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

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

Margaret Nakashuk (Pangnirtung) Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for the Status of Women; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Karen Nutarak (Tununiq) Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Hon.

Joanna Quassa (Aggu) Minister of Energy; Minister of Environment; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College Inagayuk Quqqiaq (Netsilik) Alexander Sammurtok (Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet) Joe Savikataaq (Arviat South) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Craig Simailak (Baker Lake) Website: www.assembly.nu.ca

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................2967 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................2967 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................2972 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................2978 Tabling of Documents ................................................................................................................3001 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................3001 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................3016 Third Reading of Bills ................................................................................................................3016 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................3016

A. Daily References Tuesday, May 30, 2023 ..............................................................................................................2967 B.

Ministers’ Statements 241 – 6(2): Addictions and Trauma Treatment Care in Nunavut (Main) ...................................2967 242 – 6(2): Approval of Four Apprenticeship Positions (Akeeagok, P) ....................................2968 243 – 6(2): Canada-Nunavut Agreement on French Language Services and the Inuktut Language - Renewed (Gross) ...............................................................................................................2969 244 – 6(2): Kugluktuk Sewing Bee Workshop (Akeeagok, D) ..................................................2969 245 – 6(2): CRTC Broadband Funding Applications (Joanasie)................................................2970 246 – 6(2): Introduction to the Nunavut Agreement Course (Nakashuk) ..................................2971 247 – 6(2): 2023 Graduation Ceremonies (Quassa) ...................................................................2971 C.

Members’ Statements 317 – 6(2): Fisheries Training in Pond Inlet (Nutarak) ..............................................................2972 318 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to June Savikataaq (Savikataaq) ....................................................2973 319 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to Mother (Killiktee) .....................................................................2973 320 – 6(2): 2023 High School Graduates in Kugluktuk (Anavilok) ..........................................2973 321 – 6(2): Young Hunters Program (Simailak) ........................................................................2974 322 – 6(2): Graduates in Constituency (Quqqiaq) ......................................................................2975 323 – 6(2): Co-op Reopening in Coral Harbour (Malliki) .........................................................2975 324 – 6(2): Ending Daylight Saving Time (Lightstone) .............................................................2976 325 – 6(2): 2023 High School Graduates of Rankin Inlet (Kusugak) ........................................2976 326 – 6(2): High School Graduates in Constituency (Akeeagok, D) .........................................2977 327 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to Granddaughter (Quassa) ...........................................................2977

328 – 6(2): 2023 High School Graduates in Kinngait (Joanasie) ...............................................2978 D.

Oral Questions 474 – 6(2): Court-ordered Fuel Spill Cleanups (Brewster) ........................................................2978 475 – 6(2): Iqaluit Deep Sea Port (Hickes) ................................................................................2979 476 – 6(2): Wolf Sample Collection Program (Anavilok) .........................................................2980 477 – 6(2): Issues with Adoption Process (Killiktee) .................................................................2982 478 – 6(2): Public Housing Units for Arviat (Savikataaq) .........................................................2983 479 – 6(2): Treatment for Substance Use (Lightstone) ..............................................................2985 480 – 6(2): Water Infrastructure (Qavvik) .................................................................................2987 481 – 6(2): Dust Suppression (Malliki) ......................................................................................2988 482 – 6(2): Granular Management (Sammurtok) .......................................................................2990 483 – 6(2): Community Morgues (Quqqiaq) ..............................................................................2991 484 – 6(2): Government Staff Housing Transfer to Local Housing Authority (Kaernerk) ........2993 485 – 6(2): Status of Investigation into Children in Care (Simailak) .........................................2995 486 – 6(2): Medical Travel Concerns (Nutarak) ........................................................................2996 487 – 6(2): Contaminated Sites (Brewster) ................................................................................2998 E.

Tabling of Documents 145 – 6(2): Auditor General of Canada’s 2023 Report to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut on Child and Family Services in Nunavut (Speaker) ................................................................3001 146 – 6(2): Auditor General of Canada’s 2023 Report to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut on COVID-19 Vaccines in Nunavut (Speaker).........................................................................3001 147 – 6(2): Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal 2021-22 Annual Report (Akeeagok, D) .............3001 148 – 6(2): Utility Rates Review Council 2022 Annual Report (Joanasie) ...............................3001

F. Bills Bill 25 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 – Consideration in Committee ............................................................................................................................3002 Bill 25 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 – Third Reading ......3016

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2967 Iqaluit, Nunavut Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Hon. P.J. Akeeagok, Hon. Tony Akoak, Mr. Bobby Anavilok, Ms. Janet Brewster, Hon. Pamela Gross, Mr. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Mr. Joelie Kaernerk, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Adam Lightstone, Hon. John Main, Mr. Solomon Malliki, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Ms. Karen Nutarak, Mr. Daniel Qavvik, Hon. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Inagayuk Quqqiaq, Mr. Alexander Sammurtok, Mr. Joe Savikataaq, Mr. Craig Simailak. >>House commenced at 13:30 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon.

Tony Akoak) (interpretation): Good day. Before we begin, Mr. Simailak, can you say the opening prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker: Good afternoon, colleagues. Welcome to the House. Before I start with Item 2, I would like to say “happy 11th birthday” to my granddaughter. The only one time I have been home was on her ninth birthday and all the others I have been away from home. She has been saying that I’m never home, but I tell her, “We’re working on your behalf,” so I’m happy for her.

She was the one that when she was three years old, she made a makeshift podium with a laundry basket and on top of the laundry basket, she put a telephone book and pretended to make a speech there. >>Laughter Happy birthday to my granddaughter, happy 11th, and enjoy your day. >>Applause Item 2. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 241 – 6(2): Addictions and Trauma Treatment Care in Nunavut (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Good day to my colleagues and Nunavummiut who are watching the proceedings. (interpretation ends) Uqaqtitsijii, our addictions and trauma treatment care system in Nunavut includes the in- territory facility, community-based on- the-land programming, and the continued development of an Inuit workforce to deliver services that are culturally appropriate and reflective of Nunavut’s official languages. (interpretation) The Department of Health is working collaboratively with its partners, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and Indigenous Services Canada, to build the Nunavut Recovery Centre in Iqaluit with an expected completion in 2025. (interpretation ends) Health has partnered with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and regional wellness organizations to form a development team tasked with making design and programing decisions related to the centre.

The team has conducted in-

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2968 person interviews with stakeholders across Nunavut and ensures that all recommendations are grounded in Inuit knowledge. At this time, design of the 24-bed facility has been completed and the space includes inpatient and outpatient supports, as well as a multitude of areas that address both clinical and cultural safety. Such spaces include an on-the- land workshop, arts and crafts room, traditional food preparation areas, and several individual and group counselling spaces. The project has faced challenges associated with the rising costs of materials and inflation.

We are working with our federal partners to fill funding gaps in order to see the project proceed to construction. The public tender process continues as I speak today. Health will continue to work hard with our partners so this important project keeps moving forward in order to better meet the addictions and trauma treatment needs of Nunavummiut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 242 – 6(2): Approval of Four Apprenticeship Positions (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good afternoon” to my fellow colleagues and Nunavummiut who are listening to the proceedings. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the Qulliq Energy Corporation is pleased to announce the approval of four indeterminate apprenticeship positions within the organization. This is a significant and timely step coming after the Inuit employment arbitration decision that came March 25, 2023. It is our demonstration of the QEC’s commitment to supporting the Inuit Employment Plan and increasing the number of Inuit employees within the corporation.

These apprenticeship positions will provide valuable training and experience to individuals interested in pursuing rewarding careers in the energy industry. Each of the four positions will have a qualified journeyperson providing mentorship. These apprenticeship opportunities will not only provide valuable training and experience to the individuals enrolled, but will contribute to the growth and success of the QEC as a corporation through the retention of long-term organizational knowledge and reducing reliance on southern labour.

Over the past five years, the QEC has been strengthening its foundational programs, such as the Career Development Plan, Summer Student Program, and Apprenticeship Program, to achieve its Inuit employment goals. Mr. Speaker, the addition of these four apprenticeships provides Inuit with increased opportunities to become certified tradespeople in Nunavut. The corporation looks forward to the continued expansion of the Apprenticeship Program in the future. We are very proud to continue its efforts in building a diverse and inclusive

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2969 workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Culture and Heritage, Ms. Gross. Minister’s Statement 243 – 6(2): Canada-Nunavut Agreement on French Language Services and the Inuktut Language - Renewed (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to everybody here with us in the House today, Mr. Speaker, and those across Nunavut who are tuned into this session. Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to update my colleagues of the renewed Canada- Nunavut Agreement on French Language Services and the Inuktut Language. Mr. Speaker, our government signed a two-year agreement for Inuktut and French funding with the Government of Canada for 2022-24. The Department of Culture and Heritage will receive $9.58 million, of which $5.1 million is for Inuktut services and $4.48 million is for French language services. Mr. Speaker, this funding is critical to foster the use of Inuktut as a language of learning, language of work, language of services, and to support its revitalization.

Through Qanuqtuurniq and Havaqatigiinniq with the federal government, our government has demonstrated its commitment to fulfill the priorities of the Katujjiluta mandate. Mr. Speaker, as we prepare for negotiations for the next agreement, I will advocate on behalf of our government and Nunavummiut for a longer term agreement and for increased Inuktut funding to ensure that we are able to continue our efforts to revitalize our language and strengthen the foundations for a fully functional bilingual society. Quana, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon.

Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 244 – 6(2): Kugluktuk Sewing Bee Workshop (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok: Quana, Mr. Speaker. I stand today to provide an update on the Kugluktuk Sewing Bee Workshop. This initiative was made possible through funding under the Community Capacity Building Program. The Hamlet of Kugluktuk received $17,120 to cover the cost of sewing materials for traditional parka making and the organization of the Sewing Bee Workshop. Through the workshop, we were able to hire 16 local seamstresses to produce traditional parkas over two and a half weeks. Sixty parkas were made and went to children in Nunavut who were in need. They ranged from preschool to grade 6. Mr.

Speaker, the Sewing Bee Workshop fostered camaraderie among the participating seamstresses. We received positive feedback from the community, who have expressed their wishes to have the initiative brought back each year.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2970 Women working together for a common goal allowed for a boost in confidence and exchange in ideas. The seamstresses developed patterns, shared knowledge, and gained new valuable skills, which increases their employability and promotes economic opportunities. Quana, Mr. Speaker. An Hon. Member: Hear, hear! >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Minister’s Statement 245 – 6(2): CRTC Broadband Funding Applications (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Good day to Nunavummiut and my fellow colleagues. Mr. Speaker, the Canadian Radio- television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is an independent public authority that creates and enforces rules governing Canada’s radio, television and telecom sectors. As Canadians, we depend on the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission to establish standards, regulations, provide guidance, and develop programs to ensure affordable access to essential broadband capacity for all Canadians. Mr.

Speaker, the Canadian Radio- television and Telecommunications Commission has established the Broadband Fund (BBF), which provides up to $750 million in available funding in the first five years to improve Internet access and mobile wireless services across Canada. The goal is to achieve 100 percent broadband Internet access service coverage across Canada by 2030 or sooner, with speeds of 50/10 megabits per second and unlimited data options. Mr.

Speaker, in late 2022, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission issued its third call for applications to the Broadband Fund, with special consideration given to projects proposing to improve broadband services in indigenous and/or official language minority communities.

The Government of Nunavut is eligible for funding under transport projects and has submitted two applications: • Katittuq Fibre Project, which is the Government of Nunavut’s number one priority project application from Iqaluit to Milton, Newfoundland; and • Kivalliq to Baffin Connector Project, which is terrestrial/subsea fibre connecting Coral Harbour, Kinngait, Kimmirut, and Iqaluit with a connection to Salluit, Quebec. Mr.

Speaker, we are communicating with the federal Minster of Innovation, Science & Economic Development responsible for the Canadian Radio- television and Telecommunications Commission for their support of our applications to bring fibre optic to the only remaining territory in Canada yet to be connected to the mainland. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2971 Minister’s Statement 246 – 6(2): Introduction to the Nunavut Agreement Course (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, colleagues and Nunavummiut. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, our government’s Katujjiluta mandate states, “We must look back to see where we have come from, even as we prepare to move forward.” Following that vision and our commitment to support our public service and strengthen our collaborative abilities to deliver on priorities for Nunavummiut, I am pleased to announce that my department, in partnership with the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, recently developed a new Introduction to the Nunavut Agreement course that is available to all current and future Government of Nunavut employees. Mr.

Speaker, the Introduction to the Nunavut Agreement course provides a thoughtful overview and essential background on the origins, negotiation, contents, and implications of the Nunavut Agreement, along with details on the implementation roles of the Government of Nunavut, Government of Canada, and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. Beginning in September 2022, my department has offered the Introduction to the Nunavut Agreement course online and in-person in Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet. To date, we have 77 employees who have completed the course.

In the coming months, we aim to deliver this course to more employees in both Inuktitut and French, and I encourage employees to sign up. Mr. Speaker, this year we celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the Nunavut Agreement. Reflecting on our history and learning from the path of our elders and predecessors will strengthen our resolve and propel our future. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College, Ms. Quassa. Minister’s Statement 247 – 6(2): 2023 Graduation Ceremonies (Quassa) Hon.

Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day, colleagues and Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize all those who took

part in graduation ceremonies with Nunavut Arctic College. The 2023 graduation season began with a ceremony held in Cambridge Bay on March 24, 2023 to recognize the graduates of Nunavut Arctic College’s first graduating class of the Bachelor of Social Work program. On April 27, 2023 the Nunatta Campus hosted a graduation ceremony for students who graduated in various certificate and diploma programs, ranging from Adult Basic Education to the Environmental Technology Program. On May 6, 2023 a graduation ceremony was held in Kugaaruk to recognize the students who completed the Nunavut Teacher Education Program in 2020.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2972 This graduation ceremony had been delayed due to lockdowns and public measures. It was through the efforts of the graduates that this ceremony occurred and was a success. On May 26 the Kivalliq Campus organized their graduation ceremony, while the Kitikmeot Campus will hold their ceremony on June 2. On June 8 a second graduation ceremony will be held by Nunatta Campus for the remaining degree and diploma programs. (interpretation ends) Community learning centers have been hosting many celebrations on varying dates. At these centres many non-degree programs are provided.

This spring, 34 people from the Qikiqtaaluk, excluding Iqaluit, 26 from the Kivalliq, and 14 from the Kitikmeot region completed their various programs. These many graduations and program completions across Nunavut supports the Katujjiluta mandate of reinvesting in education. Completing a program, whether for a semester, a year, four years or longer, takes commitment, determination, and resiliency. Please join me in recognizing the graduates of 2023 across our territory. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 3. Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak.

Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 317 – 6(2): Fisheries Training in Pond Inlet (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to the people of Pond Inlet and to Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I want to speak about an event that took place in Pond Inlet. The Baffin Fisheries Coalition went up to provide turbot fishing training from May 12 to 15. Baffin Fisheries Coalition employees, Perry Akavak from Pangnirtung and Harvey Nutarak from Pond Inlet organized a fishing course that provided training for local people. Mr.

Speaker, there were eight participants taking this course, of which three were youth. This was an exceptional training program as there are halibut offshore near Pond Inlet, and this can be a very good revenue source commercially for the community. I also want to add that another event was organized by the Pond Inlet HTO where they designated a lake for a fishing derby from May 19 to 22, and it was at Iqaluit Lake. Pond Inlet’s lake is also called Iqaluit Lake.

There were five winners in the adult category, with Lanny winning first place, second was Yvonne, and two people were in third; Kaujak and Emily, as they caught the same length fish, with number four going to Grace, and fifth went to Kaujak. In the children’s category, first place went to Olivia, followed by Alannah, and third place went to Jason. Due to the distance, the participants went through deep snow, but everyone enjoyed the pleasant weather. I personally caught two fish, but they didn’t qualify because they were so tiny, so I didn’t win anything. Nonetheless, it was a very

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2973 enjoyable trip for us all. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Member’s Statement 318 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to June Savikataaq (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to the people of Arviat. Mr. Speaker, I was going to say this yesterday, but I forgot to. My grandchild from Arviat, Pani’naq June Savikataaq, celebrated her birthday yesterday, and I was so busy that I forgot to mention it, so I apologize to Pani’naq.

You had a birthday yesterday and you are 13. (interpretation ends) Happy birthday, June Savikataaq. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Member’s Statement 319 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to Mother (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also have something I would like to speak to, but let me first say “good day” to all of my constituents in the Uqqummiut riding. I hope you all have an enjoyable day. I want to wish our mother, who is our only surviving parent, a wonderful day today.

I rise, as she is probably watching and listening to us from the elders’ facility here in Iqaluit. I wish you a wonderful birthday today, and since you were fine, I was happy to speak to you earlier today. My mother just turned 83 today, and I take great pride in her and love her dearly. I am thrilled by your birthday. Anaanangai. I wish you a good day and I will drop by tonight after our meeting today. I wanted my colleagues to join me in celebrating her 83rd birthday. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok.

Member’s Statement 320 – 6(2): 2023 High School Graduates in Kugluktuk (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to the people of Kugluktuk, Nunavummiut, and my fellow MLAs. I want to indicate that the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation’s department provides funding to assist residents in Kugluktuk for sewing and youth programs, as well as on-the-land programming. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, for my member’s statement, I want to rise today to congratulate those students of Kugluktuk that are graduating high school for 2023.

They are: • Delmariya Ilgok • Kealan Panioyak

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2974 Those that have potential to also graduate after the June exams are: • Amber Adjun • Janelle Angulalik • Jessamine Bolt • Maria Bolt • Chelsea Havioyak • Paris Ihumatak • Blake Ilgok • Hailey Ilgok • Faith Kokak • Paul MacDonald • Sherri MacDonald • Cassie Mercurio • Alicia Milton • Elizabeth Newman • Tommy Panioyak • Sarah Power • Tajko Redden I congratulate and encourage you to pursue education beyond high school as Nunavut is in need of long-term employees in both government and private sectors in our territory. Congratulations. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Member’s Statement 321 – 6(2): Young Hunters Program (Simailak) Mr. Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day to my fellow residents of Baker Lake. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, this afternoon I would like to highlight a successful program that was just completed in Baker Lake. It is titled the “Young Hunters Program.” The program ran for four months and was funded by Arctic Connexion.

Vincent L'Hérault, and I’m sorry if I butchered your last name there, of Arctic Connexion, organized this program in partnership with the Baker Lake Hunters and Trappers Organization. The local instructors were Peter Tiktaalaaq, John Etegoyok, and Eloza Piryuaq. She was the elder instructor. These three people would take the students out to the land and teach them some hunting skills. I understand this was a very successful program and there are nine graduates from this worthwhile program.

The following graduates are: • Fernando Makayak • Preston Lareau • Darcy Amaruq • Koen Toolooktook • Ryan Tapatai • Nolan Angotingoar • Evander Iqqaat • Ricky Putumiraqtuq, Rickykuluk; my little cousin. We call him Rickykuluk. • Johnson Narkyagik This Friday on June 2 there will be a little graduation ceremony which will be held at the Thelon Room in the Igloo Hotel starting at 6 p.m. I apologize, I won’t there, but congratulations to you all. My fellow colleagues, please help me congratulate them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2975 Member’s Statement 322 – 6(2): Graduates in Constituency (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you Mr. Speaker. First of all, I would like to say “happy birthday” to Trinity. Happy birthday, Trinity. Mr. Speaker, I rise today that on the date of May 06, 2023, five Kugaarummiut completed the Nunavut Teacher Education Program and I want to greatly acknowledge them, and they are: • Gwendolyn Angutingunirk • Kelsey Apsaqtaun • Larry Nalungiaq • Wendy Ningark • Amanda Qavik They completed the three-year program; job well done.

I’m sure they will contribute greatly for Nunavummiut and my hat is off to you all. Also, Mr. Speaker, on the date of May 13, 2023 at Kugaaruk Ilinniarvik, nine students completed grade 12 and received their certificates. I want to acknowledge them greatly. They are: • Jacob Kootook • Bobby Qayaqsaaq • Tamera Angutingunirk • Theresa Niptayok • Cory Qavvik • Donald Oksokitok • Carla Inuqsaq • Cody Nalungiaq • Wesley Aglukkaq-Arluk Mr. Speaker on this very day at Netsilik School, Taloyoak, four students also completed grade 12 and will receive their certificates today.

I also want to greatly acknowledge them and they are: • Debbie Mannilaq • Luke Nulliayuk Jr. • Grant Tucktoo • Lucy Ann Peetooloot To all of the names I mentioned, and as your MLA, I am proud of you all. Mr. Speaker, I am sure they will all contribute greatly for Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Member’s Statement 323 – 6(2): Co- op Reopening in Coral Harbour (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I want to celebrate along with the people of Coral Harbour, as last fall the co-op caught on fire, and I wanted to share that last week it finally reopened. The community was extremely happy that we no longer had just the single store. As the cost of goods continued to rise in price on almost a weekly basis at the store, this competition may result in at least slowing down the increased cost of our goods. I wanted to share this great news by celebrating the reopening of the co-op store in Coral Harbour. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2976 Member’s Statement 324 – 6(2): Ending Daylight Saving Time (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise once again to join the growing number of Nunavummiut who are calling for the end of the disruptive practice of seasonal time change. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday of last week, the Iqaluit City Council voted unanimously to adopt a motion calling on Members of the Legislative Assembly to “join the call to end the participation in daylight savings time.” Mr.

Speaker, I have raised this as an issue in this House on a number of occasions, and I am extremely pleased that our community’s leaders at city council have joined the campaign to bring Nunavut into the 21st century. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay special tribute to Councillor Smith for moving the motion, and Councillor Tilley for seconding the motion. I want to express my appreciation to all of the other members of city council for unanimously supporting the motion. Mr.

Speaker, when I last raised the issue in our winter sitting, the government had taken no position on whether or not to do away with the archaic practice of changing the clock twice a year. At that time, I had identified that a number of Canadian provinces and territories have already taken action and passed legislation to end seasonal time changes. It is my position that Nunavut should not be left behind and fall out of step with the rest of the country.

As I have previously pointed out, I recognize and understand that careful consideration and consultation needs to take place, and I encourage the Government of Nunavut to begin the necessary steps required. Mr. Speaker, I will continue to support the end of seasonal time change, and at the appropriate time I will have questions to the new Minister of Justice on this specific matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Rankin Inlet South, Minister Kusugak. Member’s Statement 325 – 6(2): 2023 High School Graduates of Rankin Inlet (Kusugak) Hon.

Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day, Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, in Rankin Inlet, Maani Ulujuk High School will be holding a graduation ceremony for grade 12 students. This winter, 18 students who continued with their schooling, will be graduating from high school after completing grade 12. If they wish to further their education either through Nunavut Arctic College or post-secondary institutions, they can now do so, and our community takes great pride in the graduates. I am going to say their names and try not to mispronounce them, Mr. Speaker.

They are: • Tanya Ammaklak • Chenille Ayaruak • Kyle Fredlund • Bailey Green • Lani Innukshuk • Tracy Ittinuar

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2977 • Hailey Jones • Jobie Kadlak • Jessica Kanayok • Alyson McKay • Kaeden Mercer • Lily Anne Nutarakkituq • Josie Panika • Sharon Pauloosie • Kaneisha Sammurtok • Raegen Tattuinee • Julia Ussak • EIla Zawadski Those are the graduates. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 326 – 6(2): High School Graduates in Constituency (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A graduation ceremony will take place on Thursday for a student up in Grise Fiord. His name is James Qaunaq, and I am very proud of him for completing grade 12. I encourage him to continue furthering his education. This young man is quite active and I am proud of his perseverance. His grandfather, Aksarjuk Ningiuq, was a wise man, and James emulates his grandfather by assisting his family members. Whenever a problem seems unsolvable, or something needs resolution, he will observe it and then go ahead and fix it. He seems to have that knack.

I urge you to further your studies and pursue post-secondary education so that you can take on even more challenges with more knowledge. He is graduating from Umimmak School, and for that I take great pride in his accomplishment. Furthermore, I would like to mention his family who woke him up for school. I thank you for your commitment as you always woke him up. Our children usually need to be woken up to attend school and to graduate high school. When a child graduates, parents feel a sense of great accomplishment, and I thank them all deeply for assisting their children to graduate. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Member’s Statement 327 – 6(2): Happy Birthday to Granddaughter (Quassa) Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to wish a special person a birthday greeting. I want to wish my fourth grandchild a “happy birthday.” I am very proud of her, and as she becomes more agile and skilful, she is helping her parents in every way possible. I wish a “wonderful birthday” to Chloe Amelia Quassa, who just turned 16 today, and I am both proud of and love her immensely. Happy birthday.

Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for South Baffin, Mr. Joanasie.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2978 Member’s Statement 328 – 6(2): 2023 High School Graduates in Kinngait (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you Mr. Speaker. Good day to the people of Cape Dorset and Kimmirut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the representative for South Baffin. They will be holding a graduation ceremony in Cape Dorset for grade 12 students who completed their courses and it will be held this weekend on Saturday. This ceremony will be the celebration locally, and I would like to mention the names of the graduating class.

They are: • Manumikalla Ashevak • Lily Ashoona • Manumikallak Ashoona • Nutaraq Ekho • John Hayward • Tagalik Jaw • Moe Kelly • Leetia Negeoseak • Elijah Parr • David Pudlat • Daniel Qiatsuk • Andy Sagiatuk • Katsuaq Shaa • Miazie Shaa • Napatchie Takpaungai I wish to congratulate these students who will be celebrated with the graduation ceremony. Obviously, the entire community will be sharing in their joy. They serve as role models to the younger students who will be observing their graduation and enjoying the pride and joy.

In our communities, whenever we celebrate such an event, we should always encourage our youth to pursue higher education to enjoy a more bountiful future. I want to share my happiness with my colleagues, Mr. Speaker, and this Saturday, let us remember to think of them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Item 6. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 474 – 6(2): Court-ordered Fuel Spill Cleanups (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Education. Mr. Speaker, from time to time, government departments need to move funds from their capital budget’s ongoing lifecycle funds to address specific repair and maintenance needs at individual facilities. As a courtesy, ministers inform standing committee members about the movement of these funds. Recently, we were informed of funds being allocated to address a number of deficiencies with fuel tanks at schools in the Qikiqtaaluk region. Members greatly appreciate being kept informed of this important work.

Can the minister provide an update on how often such school facility components, such as fuel systems, air-ventilation systems, fire alarms, and fire-suppression systems are assessed for code compliance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2979 Speaker: Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker. Quana to the member for the question on work that needs to be done to schools. We work in partnership with Community and Government Services on that behalf, Mr. Speaker, so I would like to direct the question to Community and Government Services. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The minister is deferring the question to the Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Regarding the question, I don’t have that detailed information with me, so I will have to get back to her. (interpretation ends) I’ll take it as notice. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The question is taken as notice. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Question 475 – 6(2): Iqaluit Deep Sea Port (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question today to the Minister responsible for Economic Development and Transportation, and no surprise to the minister that it will be on the topic of the Iqaluit Port facility. Mr.

Speaker, two major requests for proposals recently closed; the first being the Iqaluit marine facility set-up and maintenance that closed on May 11 and there were three bids accepted on that submission, and the management of the Iqaluit Port, something I have been raising in this House for about a year and a half now, closed this past Friday with one bid accepted. Mr. Speaker, knowing that hiring staff and establishing port operations don’t happen overnight and our shipping season is nearly upon us, when can we expect these submissions to be evaluated and contracts completed? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon.

Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The two proposals that have been received, we should be awarding the first one in short time, and for the second one, it just closed on Friday, so our staff will be evaluating it over this week, so we will have to make a determination on that. I don’t have an exact date when that will take, but when they do close, we’re given 30 days to get those things approved. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Mr.

Speaker, theoretically, our port could be open in 30 days. Mr. Speaker, what is the department’s plan to proceed with regard to the Iqaluit port operations if that one lone submission is not suitable or accepted? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2980 Hon. David Akeeagok: Mr. Speaker, I don’t want to make predeterminations on what ifs. We went through this tender in hopes that we will find the proponent and I’m hoping that that will take place, but we have to review that and I don’t want to make any predeterminations before any of that review is done by the department. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That’s not predetermining; it’s good business planning to have plan Bs in place. Mr.

Speaker, what work has been completed on establishing policies around access, security, storage, and any applicable fees such as docking fees with the new port facility? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the member stated, this dock should be open very soon. For the procedures, all that work has been prepared and the rollout will be coming out shortly for the procedures. From what I understand, for this initial… .

I don’t think we will have docking fees, but it’s still part of the work that’s getting done and we have to roll all this out before the summer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok. Question 476 – 6(2): Wolf Sample Collection Program (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the new Minister of Environment. During yesterday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the minister announced improvements to her department’s Wolf Sample Collection Program. Mr.

Speaker, the increase in the amount paid per sample will be welcome news for hunters in Kugluktuk. As the minister is aware, this is an issue that I have been raising since the beginning of this Assembly. Can the minister indicate how much has been paid to date under this program to members of the Kugluktuk Hunters and Trappers Organization? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Ms. Quassa. Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague for the question.

There was, for the period up to May 12, 2023, a payment sent for the samples submitted by the hunters in the total amount $43,000. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) It is important for all Members of the Legislative Assembly to have good

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2981 information about the government’s program spending. Will the minister commit to reporting annually to the Legislative Assembly on the administration of her department’s Wolf Sampling Collection program? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Ms. Quassa. Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague for being interested in this project. The data is collected as the samples arrive, and if the information is requested, we can provide an annual report once it has been completed.

As to the breakdown and whether the amount is increasing or decreasing, the changes are written down and reports are available for that information. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for the response. (interpretation ends) During yesterday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the minister made a reference to areas “…where caribou populations are in decline, such as the Bluenose, Bathurst and Dolphin-Union herds…”.

When I last raised the issue of caribou populations during our recent winter sitting, the minister’s predecessor confirmed that he had supported the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board’s decision to “…list the Dolphin and Union population of caribou as endangered.” He also stated that this decision would “…bring additional tools to help with the caribou herd, and that would bring forward more engagement and more management systems to be in place.” Can the minister describe what new management initiatives are being undertaken in respect to the herd? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister of Environment, Ms. Quassa. Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague for asking for that additional information about how the caribou would be managed in that area. They are managed in different ways. For example, here in the Baffin region, Inuit dislike seeing caribou wearing radio collars for management purposes, although this is the easiest way to keep track of caribou for biologists and in the member’s region, they will be radio collaring some of the caribou.

This is to identify their migration routes for the year, and further, they use a helicopter to conduct population surveys. These two methodologies will both be used, and the radio collaring will allow the department to determine the trend and the ratio of population decline, and to find further evidence of the causal effects, whether it is due to humans hunting them, wolf predation, or disease. These are the various methods of research that will determine ways to conserve our caribou population and to ensure we have multiple options to manage them in the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2982 Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Question 477 – 6(2): Issues with Adoption Process (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Family Services. Yesterday I asked the minister about the custom adoption process in Nunavut because the delay in processing these adoptions is causing hardships for some families. I would like to return to that.

In looking at the unedited Hansard from yesterday, the minister stated, (interpretation ends) “The matters you reference, such as the 23 custom adoption commissioners here in Nunavut, are not under the Department of Family Services.”

Section 6 of the Aboriginal Custom Adoption Recognition Act, which can be found on the Department of Justice Legislation website, states, “The Minister may appoint custom adoption commissioners…”. And the government’s Nunavut Acts Designation Policy states that the Minister of Family Services is responsible for the Aboriginal Custom Adoption Recognition Act. If the Minister of Family Services is no longer responsible for appointing custom adoption commissioners, then who is? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking that question. I, too, returned to that question and referenced the legislation and I had misunderstood this area. I stated that we worked with the Department of Justice on the people who conduct this work, nonetheless, the actual training and responsibility is under the Department of Family Services. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you as this will be clarified further. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, in response to my questions on custom adoption, the minister stated, and I’ll quote again from the Hansard of May 29: “I wanted to clarify that aspect, however, these are largely administered under Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, where they handle the paperwork under (interpretation ends) the Aboriginal Custom Adoption Recognition Act…”.

Section 7 of the Aboriginal Custom Adoption Recognition Act provides that regulations may be made respecting the application for birth certificates. Those regulations are available on the Department of Justice website and make no mention of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated being responsible for implementing the legislation. My question is: can the minister clarify her remarks with respect to the role of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated with

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2983 respect to the custom adoption process? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for your follow-up question. The notes speak to the (interpretation ends) private adoptions (interpretation) last year that totalled 17 overall, and of the 17 adoptions, the adoptive parents notified and worked with the Department of Family Services and Inuit organizations, as I know that Nunavut Tunngavik deals with custom adoptions paperwork. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My apologies to the interpreters for speaking too fast. It can lengthen my

preamble, though I have tried to make them more concise. If I speak in Inuktitut, it will definitely take me longer, so first of all, I apologize to the interpreters for speaking too quickly when asking my questions. It is because of the time limits. (interpretation ends) Uqaqtittijii, it is clear that there are problems with the custom adoption process and there seems to be some confusion about who to ask to resolve these problems. It is not surprising that adoptive parents and adoptive children are facing such difficulties.

I do appreciate that a lack of capacity in the Department of Family Services is delaying the adoption paperwork for some families. Mr. Speaker, will the minister commit to looking into the backlog of custom adoption applications to facilitate the process for those families that have been waiting a long time to get the paperwork they need? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you Mr. Speaker and thank you for your question. Yes, I agree. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions.

Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Question 478 – 6(2): Public Housing Units for Arviat (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to question the Minister of Housing. We had some discussions there about housing in Arviat. I would just like to revisit it. Back on April 28, 2023 there was a press release out about the number of public housing units being allotted, and Arviat is getting 20 public housing units this coming summer. I believe there is an eight-plex and a 12-plex.

If I can just get the minister to update Arviarmiut on whether they are one- bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom; what kind of housing units are being planned for Arviat? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2984 Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the member for his question. Yes, the multiplex units are multiple units that will be constructed. There are twenty units however, I do not have the information as to the overall numbers of these multiplex units that are going to be built, Mr. Speaker. Once I receive that information, I will forward it to my colleague and to the other communities as to the actual number of rooms that the units will house.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is regrettable to hear that the minister is unable to provide information on the actual number of rooms there will be in each unit of the multiplexes that are scheduled for construction this summer. I believe most of the construction materials have already been ordered and are going to be shipped to Arviat.

I will look forward to receiving the information on the number of rooms each unit in the multiplexes will have that our local housing associations are going receive. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, we also talked about affordable units in Arviat. There are going to be 20 affordable units built, the last time I had exchanges with the minister in Arviat. Can I just get an update on affordable housing units for Arviat; if a tender has been issued, if it’s been awarded, and what type of housing these 20 affordable units in Arviat will look like? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon.

Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To date, we have 20 units scheduled for construction in Arviat. However, as to the details on the number of rooms in a unit and the number of multiplex buildings to be constructed, have not yet been identified. Once we are provided this information, I will share it with my colleague. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The minister failed to answer my question.

My question was: has the tender been issued and awarded for the 20 affordable housing units that are going to be built in Arviat? Was the tender issued by the housing corporation for 20 housing affordable units in Arviat? Was it issued and is it awarded? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

We signed a contract between the Nunavut Housing Corporation and the (interpretation ends) Nunavut Construction company. (interpretation) We agreed to partner in this project, and within our agreement

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2985 we identified NCC as the contractor to build these housing units. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Question 479 – 6(2): Treatment for Substance Use (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the minister of Health regarding the issue of alcohol use disorder. Mr. Speaker, recently the Yukon government expanded their chronic disease and disability benefits to cover medications used to treat alcohol use disorder.

I believe alcohol use disorder affects a great many Nunavummiut and it is not clear what kinds of treatment programs, counselling options, and other supports are available to address their health needs. I would like to ask: can the minister provide an overview of the kinds of treatments and services that are available in Nunavut specifically for individuals with alcohol use disorder? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank the member for asking that question and I appreciate him raising this matter in the House and to the general public. We do require more support and we do want to raise public awareness, so I am happy to see this matter being brought up. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, there are avenues to receive help and I want to encourage anyone out there that if you do have an issue with alcohol or with any other substance, there are avenues.

There are a number of different options: • We have in-person counselling and support. • We are currently training our paraprofessionals within mental health to give them better capacity around substance use. • There is remote therapy that’s available, specifically our Healing by Talking program through the department. • We do have on-the-land programming in all three regions that has been gaining momentum; $3.5 million budgeted for that in this fiscal year. • There is alcohol use disorder medication stocked in every health centre in Nunavut. Naltrexone is the name of the drug. It has been added as of 2022.

There are a number of different ways to get support and the last one is also access to out-of-territory treatment. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for that response. Mr. Speaker, alcohol use disorder is a medical condition with potentially devastating impacts on an individual’s health, their

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2986 work, their social lives, but most significantly, their families. Mr. Speaker, I have been given to understand that… . Sorry, Mr. Speaker. Unfortunately, there is a great number of regular clients at our Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commission stores as well as other liquor establishments across this territory. I appreciate the minister’s response in what is available in territory as well as out of territory.

I would like to ask if the minister would be able to further elaborate and would the minister provide an overview or yearly average of how many Nunavummiut are diagnosed with alcohol use disorder, receive referrals for treatment, and how many are sent out of the territory for treatment? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank the member for asking that follow-up question. (interpretation ends) In terms of the numbers that the member is requesting specifically on the diagnoses, I don’t have those available currently, but I am willing to look into it and return to the member. I’m not taking the question as notice, Mr. Speaker; just committing to return to the member with more numbers as I can receive them.

In terms of out-of-territory treatment, we don’t have it broken down in terms of the root cause, whether it’s specifically alcohol use disorder, but in 2022-23 we had 153 clients receive treatment out of territory and that could be for trauma or it could be for alcohol use. We have a number of different facilities that provide this valuable service until we can develop it in territory. On a final note, we had an Inuit-specific addictions treatment request for proposals that recently closed and we have a new facility added to the list of service providers out of territory.

That is the Mamisarvik Healing Centre and I’m very happy to have that facility coming on board soon to provide assistance. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, I would like to thank the minister for that response and not taking the question as notice. Mr. Speaker, most addiction and trauma focused approaches revolve around abstention. Mr. Speaker, there has been growing support for managed alcohol programs internationally, as well as here in Canada.

Those managed alcohol programs have had a high rate of success among Inuit clients out of territory. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask: can the minister confirm if our Department of Health funds Inuit clients in these managed alcohol programs and if a similar program was created in Nunavut, would the department support it through a fee for service agreement? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I am not aware of our department’s involvement in terms of out-of-territory managed alcohol programs.

That’s something I can look into further. In

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2987 terms of in territory and if such a program was to be put forward, it’s certainly one that we would consider. We have strong working relationships with non-profits across Nunavut, whether it’s Ilisaqsivik in Clyde River, whether it’s Pulaarvik in Rankin Inlet, so we do recognize the important role that non-profits and different healing-related groups can play in terms of the continuum of care in Nunavut. If such a group was to bring forward a managed alcohol program, it’s one that we would be willing to consider.

I thank the member for raising this important topic and encourage all Nunavummiut to reach out for help. If you need it, it is available. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik. Question 480 – 6(2): Water Infrastructure (Qavvik) Mr. Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to the people of Sanikiluaq. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Community and Government Services. As the minister is aware, work has been underway in Sanikiluaq to improve the community’s water infrastructure.

On March 20, 2023 the minister’s department issued a request for proposals for architectural and engineering services for a new wastewater treatment facility. The request for proposals closed on April 21, 2023, over a month ago. Information published by the department indicates that three entities registered for the process. Can the minister provide an update on the status of the evaluation of the proposals that were received? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My department has been proceeding with the planning phase on the Sanikiluaq wastewater project, with the design and construction funding approved this fiscal year; 2023-24. As for the evaluation of that, I don’t have a status update on it, but I can commit to bringing some information to my colleague at the earliest opportunity. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Qavvik. Mr. Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I look forward to that information. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister is well aware, issues with high salinity levels in Sanikiluaq’s drinking water supply have been a major issue for the community in recent years. The community has been depending on reverse osmosis filters for some time now for safe drinking water. In July of 2022, the federal and territorial governments announced funding towards planning projects for new wastewater treatment plants in a number of Nunavut communities, including Sanikiluaq. Can the minister provide an update today on the status of this work? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2988 Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The water quality in Sanikiluaq is quite unique in its makeup in that we need to treat it in a different way, comparing to other communities. The status of the water treatment plant is that we are proceeding again to get the funding for this infrastructure and do the design for the water treatment plant in 2023-24, with a target of constructing in 2024 onwards, through 2026. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Qavvik.

Mr. Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During yesterday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the minister tabled the Government of Nunavut’s long-awaited Drinking Water Strategic Framework, which I look forward to reviewing with care. Can the minister briefly outline the next steps in the implementation of this framework? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Drinking Water Strategic Framework that I tabled yesterday is going to be a long-term endeavour, working with municipalities, as well as other partner stakeholders. We are anticipating developing an implementation and action plan to support that. This will be over the next year or so, involving partners. Mr.

Speaker, Nunavut has many different types of water infrastructure projects that need immediate attention and some of the work that we are doing now, including the work in Sanikiluaq, but also in Rankin Inlet, are meant to meet the needs and have the drinking water quality in place to ensure that Nunavummiut can consume that water safely. We are working also, with the Department of Health around the regulations around drinking water for what can and cannot be consumed. So this is an ongoing endeavour and it will be long-term work that my department continues to be heavily involved in. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Question 481 – 6(2): Dust Suppression (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Community and Government Services. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, summer is just around the corner. Although our communities are looking forward to the boating season and warmer weather, we are not looking forward to the dust. Mr. Speaker, the dust is not just a nuisance; it’s a real health issue, especially for very young children and elders who suffer from respiratory conditions. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister is aware, the Government of Nunavut published a document titled “Environmental Guidelines for Dust Suppression on

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2989 Unpaved Roads.” This publication was last updated in the year 2014, almost a decade ago. When my colleague from Hudson Bay asked when this important publication will be updated to reflect new dust suppression technologies, the minister indicated that he would look into it. Can he update the House today on when the publication will be updated? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Dust is already in the air in some communities. I know that for sure.

Mr. Speaker, we know that many communities have a challenge around suppressing dust. My department does provide support and investments around dust control. We also, in a letter to the President of the Nunavut Association of Municipalities, have some information for municipalities to consider. Every season this comes up and we try to implement any new technologies that might be proven and useful to use in our communities. In terms of the publications around what needs to be updated, Mr.

Speaker, that is an area that again, I will have to come back to my colleague with further information on, but it is an area I know that municipalities are very keen on trying to address and getting that in order throughout the summer months. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I know this issue has come up in all six Legislative Assemblies. This is not acceptable anymore. Something has to be done.

Why is the government not doing anything about this and not helping and updating the House as to why they are not doing it? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Mr. Speaker, my department does have a universal dust control program and we have municipalities that use it on their roads. It has to be done in a certain way for it to work effectively. My department continues to work with the Municipal Training Organization, as an example, to ensure that municipal staff are able to implement this dust suppression solution.

Mr. Speaker, again, if there are other types of technology or other proven methods of making dust suppressed in Nunavut, my department will be there to investigate and make sure that it is available to our hamlets. I know it is frustrating to hear from across the territory and it has come up on multiple occasions amongst other issues, but we’re trying to do our best in working with the hamlets on this cause. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2990 Question 482 – 6(2): Granular Management (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to the people of Chesterfield Inlet, Rankin Inlet, and Nunavut. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services. As the minister is aware, access to high quality granular materials is extremely important for all communities, including Chesterfield Inlet and Rankin Inlet.

As the minister is aware, information published by his department concerning Chesterfield Inlet’s Integrated Community Sustainability Plan indicates that there is less than two years of gravel remaining at the current quarry and there is an urgent need to develop a new source of material. When I raised this issue during our recent winter sitting, the minister assured me that his department was “looking at different options around how the community can increase their source of granular supply.” Can the minister update me today, on what specific options are being considered? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon.

Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is three questions in a row so far, I think. I welcome those questions, Mr. Speaker. My department has been pursuing a new granular program, crushing equipment, and aside from this we want to get some quarry studies done in a number of communities, which will survey and identify available sites in communities that have limited granular supply. We know some are in more dire need than others. Mr.

Speaker, we hope to get those quarry studies done throughout this summer, and we are anticipating applications through the program that we have rolled out, from hamlets, to support the granular needs of those in most dire need. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During our recent winter sitting, I also asked the minister about his department’s new Granular Crushing Equipment Program. Mr.

Speaker, I strongly support the intent of this program and was proud to have voted in favour of $5.0 million in funding for the program in the department’s 2023-24 capital estimates. When I raised this issue with the minister during the winter sitting, he indicated that funding could not be provided to communities until the department had finalized its policy for the new program. Can the minister indicate when the new Granular Crushing Equipment Program Policy will be approved? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2991 Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I again thank the member for the question. The granular-crusher program policy that we have rolled out has been approved and we anticipate that it will be publicized in the very near future. Mr. Speaker, we do have application packages that we will be providing to hamlets and are expecting those applications to come in. We are working closely with the senior administrative officials at the local level to ensure that they are well aware of when it is online and ready for application. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is great news. During Monday’s sitting of the Legislative Assembly, I asked questions to the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation concerning Chesterfield Inlet’s new airport terminal building. Mr. Speaker, I am very concerned that the project is at risk of delay because of a lack of adequate granular supplies in the community of Chesterfield Inlet.

Can the minister indicate how his department is working with the Department of Economic Development and Transportation to ensure that this project can proceed on schedule? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My department works closely alongside other departments when they are proceeding with their capital plans.

In this case, for Chesterfield Inlet’s air terminal building, I am aware that the hamlet is currently working with the contractor that has been awarded the project to secure a stockpile of material to support the developments going on in Chesterfield Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Question 483 – 6(2): Community Morgues (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services.

As the minister will recall, I raised the very serious issue of community morgues during our recent winter sitting of the Legislative Assembly. Mr. Speaker, at that time, I emphasized the importance of ensuring that the recently departed are treated with dignity and respect, which is why I strongly believe that all Nunavut communities should have adequate morgue facilities. When I raised this issue during our winter sitting, the minister confirmed that funding may be available from his department to assist municipalities that have submitted proposals. Mr.

Speaker, can the minister indicate how much funding has been provided during the current fiscal year for proposals related to community morgues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2992 Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Regarding morgues, my department does have a number of block funds and proposal-based capital funding that municipalities can use towards their facilities, whether they would like to build, repair, or renovate municipal assets. In terms of how much funding has been applied for, I do not have that level of detail around which applications have been put forward from communities.

I don’t have that level of detail, but I can check with the department around this information and get back to the member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When I raised this issue during our recent winter sitting, the minister indicated that a significant number of Nunavut municipalities have identified the need for community morgues in their Integrated Community Sustainability Plans. Mr. Speaker, can the minister indicate which Nunavut communities outside of the capital city have adequate morgue facilities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. According to my notes here, through the Integrated Community Sustainability Plans, 10 out of 24 communities have listed mortuaries within those plans. I wouldn’t necessarily say that means those that have applied that have not listed a morgue facility within their integrated sustainability plans, but 10 out of 24 are in a higher need for those. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I recognize and understand that government does not have an unlimited amount of funding and I recognize and understand that there will always be more needs than resources. Mr. Speaker, will the minister commit to having his department work with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities to undertake a feasibility study to determine the cost of providing adequate morgue facilities in all communities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My department has been having a very good working relationship with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities. In addition to the work that they have been doing and the resolutions that we have been hearing about, they have been directed to certain topics of interest. On top of that, I am sure we can work out something regarding morgues on how my department can work with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities, whether or not that is something to pursue. We can look at that and if a feasibility study can be done, we will

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2993 discuss this further. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Question 484 – 6(2): Government Staff Housing Transfer to Local Housing Authority (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also wanted to direct my question to the Minister of Community and Government Services, but he seems to have the hot seat, so perhaps I will wait for it to cool down. I will, however, instead direct my question to the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation.

My reason is: in Nunavut, government employees are provided staff housing. As everyone in this House is aware, we face a housing shortage in Nunavut. I would like to get clarification. I believe the Nunavut 3000 housing strategy was planned last year. I presume the minister is aware of the fact that one community received a transfer of GN staff housing units to their local housing association. I am unaware if the LHO agreed to this transfer, but I believe the minister knows which community received that transfer.

I would like to know how the two communities I represent of Igloolik and Sanirajak, should they express a desire, can get a transfer of these GN units. I will use an example. When employees reach the age of retirement and contemplate retirement from their jobs, once they leave their government positions, they have to vacate their staff housing units. Then they go onto the waiting list for community public housing to await the allocation of a unit. How was this one community that got the transferred housing stock able to receive this transfer to their local housing authority? Was it done in an expedited manner?

Was it an immediate transfer, thereby not providing the local housing association the ability to defer or delay this transfer in that community I am referring to? If I have to name the community, I am prepared to do so, depending on the response. How did the transfer get done in this particular situation to this housing association? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking that question.

The local housing associations work together with the Nunavut Housing Corporation, and we also work with the people responsible for government staff housing. They outline to us which homes are allocated for which positions. In the communities, if a staff house is no longer going to be needed for staff housing, and if the local housing authority wanted that house, they could submit a request to our department and we can help them with a transfer to the local housing association. Sometimes this happens very fast if the local housing authority’s request is there and everything is ready there.

We have to be sure that the unit is no longer

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2994 needed for staff housing. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, in my other constituency community, there is an elder who is still in government staff housing. Since the Housing Corporation can make a transfer like that very quickly, can that be done for my constituencies? In my constituencies, and considering the Nunavut 3000 program, there is nothing, or almost nothing for Amittuq.

Can the housing corporation transfer that home to the local housing association in a rapid manner? Can this be done for the Amittuq riding? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As per my previous response, there has to be an expression of interest from a local housing association submitted to our corporation from the Amittuq constituency community.

If the home being requested is not set aside for an incoming government employee and can be readied easily in that community, then it would not take an inordinate amount of time to complete the paperwork for the transfer, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think I finally received a good answer. In saying that, I would now like the minister to explain to me; as an MLA, our salaries are reviewed and considered. Due to the high salary, we are not eligible to enter public housing.

Meanwhile, there are people waiting, people who have been waiting for a very long time. Do you look at them first? For example, if a person retires from the government and they have to vacate their staff housing unit, they would probably not be able to go to public housing because of their income. How do you prioritize the allocation of units? What about MLAs who rent homes from public housing authorities? How do you consider them? Meanwhile, there are elderly people who are reaching retirement age that may have to vacate their unit.

If an MLA applies for public housing, which of them would be considered the priority? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minster responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The local housing authorities have bylaws that they have to follow in terms of their waiting lists. Sometimes some communities have up to 200 to 400 people on the waiting list, and they follow that waiting list. Each applicant is informed as to how long they will have to wait.

How many children a person has, and if that person has a job or not, are factors they have to consider when people are requesting housing.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2995 The local housing authority considers all the applicants and they use a point-based system. Elders have a certain number of points that they are assigned. I know this is very confusing to understand from the outside in terms of how the process works. With regard to the member’s question, if a person was working for the government, and if that person’s staff house was turned over to the housing association, the responsibility for that person would then be handed over to the local housing authority. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions.

Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Question 485 – 6(2): Status of Investigation into Children in Care (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to direct my question to the Premier. Mr. Speaker, I am certain that many of my colleagues were as concerned as I was upon reading stories in the media regarding a number of Nunavut children in care being placed in an unlicensed care home in Alberta. At the beginning of May, the Premier announced that he had called for an investigation into this issue.

Can the Premier provide an update on the status of that investigation and when he anticipates informing the Assembly of its findings? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank my colleague for his question and I agree with that. We were very shocked to hear that a number of Nunavut children were being placed in an unlicensed home. We were quite concerned. We are still reviewing and investigating that situation, but I cannot tell you when it will be completed.

The investigation is ongoing and we will be able to use the findings in the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the Premier for his response. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Family Services deals with some very challenging situations. I would like to extend my appreciation to the frontline workers in all of our communities; the social workers, and others who dedicate so much time and effort to helping the most vulnerable, especially the children. >>Applause Mr.

Speaker, reports in the media indicate that a lawyer in the south has been hired to conduct the review of what happened with these young Nunavut children. Can the Premier provide an overview of what aspects of this incident are being reviewed? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also agree

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2996 with the member that our frontline workers do work very hard and the take time and effort to help our most vulnerable children, so I would like to acknowledge the frontline workers as well. As I stated last month, there was going to be an investigation into this unlicensed home in Alberta and how Nunavut Inuit were placed there. We identified an investigator for this who stated they would conduct an investigation over a one-month period. That is what is expected. Once the investigation is completed, I know we will learn of the exact findings. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Later today, the Auditor General will be tabling a third report on the status of Nunavut’s Child and Family Services. Given that there have been two previous reports on this same topic, and it was felt that a third audit for these services was warranted, I anticipate that we will have some serious discussions in the near future. Can the Premier explain what factors he took into consideration when determining the need for a formal investigation into this specific incident? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also agree completely with the member, and I anticipate that the (interpretation ends) Auditor General (interpretation) will be tabling the reports later on to this House for our review. This will also mean we have to undertake the review of these reports seriously, and we have clearly outlined how the entire government has to treat these reports. Other governments who haven’t taken these reports seriously have usually fallen short of the work required, and this is very regrettable.

For this reason, the review we are going to conduct will be submitted to the previous process we followed, and it is not connected to the Auditor General’s report. We need to learn from these reports, especially as they relate to the report into the Alberta investigation, and this review was pertinent to this investigation. I have yet to see the report, so once I have had the chance to review this report upon its completion, I expect we can provide a public announcement. I will review this report carefully once we reach that date. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak.

Question 486 – 6(2): Medical Travel Concerns (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This afternoon, I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Health. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, as the minister and my colleagues will be aware, Canadian North has recently announced its new schedule. Daily flights between Pond Inlet and Iqaluit now provide more options for medical travel clients.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2997 Can the minister describe how he works with the airline, Canadian North, to ensure that there are always seats available for medical travel clients on the flights to and from Pond Inlet? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for the question. (interpretation ends) Medical travel is a very active file. It’s a very important file in terms of the services for Nunavummiut, including Mittimatalingmiut.

When we’re looking at medical travel, last fiscal year we were talking 35,000 trips, Mr. Speaker. That means a lot of work behind the scenes in terms of the Medical Travel Division within our department. They monitor the status of flights very closely. They handle things like delays. They also monitor when our travellers are having trouble getting back home in a quick fashion. It is through contract management between the Departments of Community and Government Services, Economic Development and Transportation, and Health, that we manage the medical travel contract with Canadian North.

It is an ongoing process, Mr. Speaker, and it involves closely monitoring and responding to different issues. We have brought on an electronic booking system recently called “Nomadis,” which is anticipated to help us better monitor and manage things in real time. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and I also thank the minister. I would like to thank Cindy Twerdin here as we work with her whenever we have concerns, and she is easy to discuss the concerns with. I am first commenting on this.

Further, to the patients I happened to visit earlier outside of Tammaativvik very early this morning around 8 a.m., I say “hello” to you all. >>Laughter (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, quite understandably, the community of Pond Inlet is a very popular destination for tourists in the north. In the past, concerns have been raised that medical travel clients often get bumped from their seats on flights to allow tourists to travel instead.

Can the minister clarify what policies are in place to ensure that medical travel clients do not lose their seats to other travellers, and what steps they should take when this happens? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Under the medical and duty contract, the department does have the ability to bump other travellers off of flights in order to make room for a medical traveller. To my knowledge that clause, or that ability, is normally used on the outgoing leg.

So in this case, if a medical traveller was leaving Pond Inlet, needed to get to an appointment, there was no room on

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2998 the flight through the contract, we have the ability to make room for that medical traveller. We typically don’t use that bumping right on the return leg. I’m happy that the member has pointed out the issues around tourism traffic and medical travellers because its not only Pond Inlet where we are seeing that come up. We’ve also seen it in Pangnirtung, as well as some other locations.

It’s an issue of Health working with the airline to ensure that they have sufficient capacity, and if they need to add additional flights, if they need to create additional room, it’s an incumbent upon the airline to do so. It’s something we that we monitor on an ongoing basis. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Medical clients often have to wait in Iqaluit for over a week to come home, even when their appointments were in Ottawa.

When they have to stay in Iqaluit another week due to a lack of available seats on the airplane, it takes a toll on them and their family. Hopefully the new airline

schedule will improve this situation. Will the minister commit to working with the airline to ensure that medical travel clients can travel home as soon as their appointments are over? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Yes, I can commit to that. It is something that the Department of Health is already doing in terms of our ongoing work with the airlines as well as our colleague departments.

In terms of medical travel and avoiding delays, or when delays do happen, for the Qikiqtaaluk region there is a toll-free number. It’s 866-371-3305, and a we do take the inconvenience that our medical travellers experience when there are delays, we do take that seriously. We realize that they have jobs to go home to, they have family commitments, and so in an ideal world, Mr. Speaker, those medical travel trips would be as short as possible.

What we are also noticing, or what we are concerned about is when there are delays in returning home, it creates additional issues at the boarding home in terms of if there are incoming travellers, then you have delayed travellers taking up a room, so it creates kind of cascading effects on our system. It’s something that both for the well-being of the traveller as well as for the well-being of the medical travel system, it’s something that the department wants to manage very closely and I thank the member for raising that. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions.

Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 487 – 6(2): Contaminated Sites (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you for recognizing me again today, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Environment. As the minister will recall, the issue of contaminated sites in Nunavut and their

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 2999 toxic legacy has been raised a number of times in this House. Mr. Speaker, as the minister is aware, her department’s current business plan indicates that “The contaminated sites working group was re-established in 2022...”. Other information published by the government indicates that the contaminated sites working group is a “…territorial effort to address contaminated sites with the Government of Canada.” Mr.

Speaker, it was just over a year ago that the minister’s predecessor informed this House that the Contaminated Sites Working Group was undertaking such initiatives as “a desktop risk assessment of the sites that have been identified as potential responsibilities of the Government of Nunavut.” Can the new minister update the House today on what progress has been made over the past 12 months by the Contaminated Sites Working Group? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Ms. Quassa. Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank my colleague for asking that question. Under the environmental policy, the drafting of it has taken quite a bit of time as the amendments are taking some time. Just recently, I was advised the drafting is complete, and once a proper review has been completed, then a list of recommended actions for environmental cleanup of contaminated sites will commence afterwards. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It was great to have the Auditor General of Canada in Nunavut this week.

As the minister is aware, the most recent territorial Public Accounts indicates that “…the Government [of Nunavut] acquired ownership of sites and activities associated with airports, tank farms and power plants on the creation of the Territory on April 1, 1999.

The contamination of certain sites occurred when other parties were responsible for the use of, and/or held tenure to, the sites.” As the minister is also aware, her department’s current business plan indicates that one of the specific priorities of the Contaminated Sites Working Group is to “support the GN in delineating liabilities under the direction of the Federal Auditor General [of Canada].” Can the minister indicate how frequently the members of the Contaminated Sites Working Group meet with officials from the Office of the Auditor General? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Ms.

Quassa. Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague for requesting more information on this matter. I cannot provide a response immediately on the speed or the interim between meetings of the group, nonetheless, what I can state

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3000 is that I will need to receive more background in order to respond properly on the question, so I will take question as notice. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m always expecting a more substantive response from ministers to show that they are aware of the full responsibility that they carry on any file that they are responsible for. I would like to have answers real-time in the House and I think other members would agree with that. Mr.

Speaker, I recognize and understand that the territorial government has been involved in what have been described as “protracted discussions” with the federal government concerning responsibility for a number of contaminated sites in Nunavut, and I recognize and understand that it takes two parties to come to an agreement. Can the minister indicate what discussions she has had with her federal counterparts concerning this issue? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Ms. Quassa. Hon. Joanna Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank my colleague for asking for further clarification on this issue. The environmental contaminated sites including the areas around them, are usually forwarded to our federal counterparts during our meetings, and we were able to have a discussion on the that. Also, we provided more information on the areas and the level of contamination and contaminants that posed the greatest challenges with our environment and the kind of remediation support we required.

We also asked them about their ability to provide more support for remediating these contaminated sites, as well as training for our employees who will conduct the contaminated area cleanup work. Nunavummiut who will work can be provided safety training for conducting this cleanup work in order to work in a safe manner. We were able to have these detailed discussions, and actually, we requested the federal officials to reconsider how best to provide assistance to Nunavummiut to deal with the overall environmental cleanup required on these contaminated sites. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Members, be aware that the time allotted for question period is now over. Item 7. Written Questions. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. Item 10. Petitions. Item 11. Responses to Petitions. Item 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. I want to go first today.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3001 Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 145 – 6(2): Auditor General of Canada’s 2023 Report to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut on Child and Family Services in Nunavut (Speaker) Tabled Document 146 – 6(2): Auditor General of Canada’s 2023 Report to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut on COVID-19 Vaccines in Nunavut (Speaker) I have two documents to table today. The first document is the Auditor General of Canada’s 2023 Report to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut on Child and Family Services in Nunavut.

The second document is the Auditor General of Canada’s 2023 Report to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut on COVID-19 Vaccines in Nunavut. Thank you. Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Tabled Document 147 – 6(2): Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal 2021-22 Annual Report (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to table the 2021- 22 Annual Report of the Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council, Mr. Joanasie. Tabled Document 148 – 6(2): Utility Rates Review Council 2022 Annual Report (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to table the 2022 Annual Report of the Utility Rates Review Council of Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 14. Notices of Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16.

Motions. Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Item 18. Second Reading of Bills. Item 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Bill 25 with Mr. Hickes in the Chair. Before we proceed to the Committee of the Whole, we will take a 20-minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 15:30 and Committee resumed at 15:52 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairman (Mr. Hickes): Thank you. I would like to call the committee meeting to order. In Committee of the Whole, we have the following item to deal with: Bill 25.

What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We wish to continue with the review of Bill 25 and its policies. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3002 Chairman: Thank you. Do committee members agree that we proceed with Bill 25? Some Members: Agreed. Bill 25 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2023-2024 – Consideration in Committee Chairman: Thank you. Minister Kusugak, do you have any witnesses that you would like to appear before the committee? Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I do. Chairman: Thank you. Does the committee agree to allow the witnesses to appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairman: Thank you. Sergeant-at- Arms, please escort the witnesses in.

For the record, minister, if you could introduce your officials to the committee. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Mr. Chairman, to my right is Jeff Chown, Deputy Minister of Finance, and my left, Kyle Seeley, Deputy Minister of Community and Government Services. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. I’ll remind members that we’re on page 14 and the next name I had on my list after yesterday’s proceedings was Mr. Sammurtok. Please proceed. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

It states here that the arena in Chesterfield Inlet is going to be renovated and $157,000 is the cost of this renovation. (interpretation ends) What kind of upgrading is being done to the Chesterfield Inlet arena? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This program is accessed by all communities for this purpose, and projects are being completed in turn. The floors will be repaired, and the panes of Plexiglas and the (interpretation ends) boards (interpretation) will be replaced.

In order to ensure it freezes earlier, the cooling pipes will also be installed, and this is the scope of work we will be undertaking, Mr. Chairman. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you. Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. During my last trip to Chesterfield Inlet, I was asked by officials if a (interpretation ends) concrete floor (interpretation) could be installed. I wonder: will the concrete also be included in this repair work at the arena? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Minister Kusugak. Hon.

Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Yes, it will be included as part of the renovations. Thank you. Chairman: Thank you. The next name I have on my list: Mr. Malliki.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3003 Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to welcome the minister and his officials. On page 12, around the middle, it reads “Nunavut preplanning studies.” Could you elaborate further on what it entails? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It involves a few different items under this topic. If I could have Mr. Seeley give some details on that topic, Mr. Chairman, through you. Chairman: Thank you. Mr. Seeley, please. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, minister.

The preplanning envelope is a bundle of projects approved for tender into planning so those preliminary studies can be done before they are advanced to design. This request is to carry over funding for planning dollars that were not spent in the previous year. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman and I thank the minister for that response. Also, regarding the Naujaat arena, it is going to be upgraded. What is being upgraded in the Naujaat arena? That is my last question. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon.

Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It is the same thing as Chesterfield Inlet. We will be changing the boards, installing Plexiglas, as well as including a cement floor. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): I’m done. Chairman: Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good afternoon, all.

On page 13, back to the Nunavut undersea fibre optic cable project; today the Minister of Community and Government Services did a minister’s statement outlining that there are two applications now being submitted by the department with regard to fibre optic cable. All of a sudden there is a Kivalliq to Baffin connector project terrestrial- subsea fibre connecting Coral Harbour, Kinngait, Kimmirut, and Iqaluit, with a connection to Salluit, Quebec. I was wondering if they can connect, no pun intended or pun intended, the statement of earlier today with the status of this capital carryover. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The announcement today is not a part of this funding, Mr. Chairman. That is different funding. This carryover funding is not a part of that. Mr. Chairman, thank you. Chairman: Thank you. Mr. Simailak.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3004 Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for the response. So just to be clear here; that announcement today… . They still mention Katittuq Fibre Project, and then they announced this other project. Are they two totally different projects? Where is the funding coming from? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. That announcement was about two new proposals, Mr. Chairman, different from this. Maybe I could have Mr. Seeley clarify this project. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Mr.

Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The minister is correct; the Katittuq project is an approved project that we are requesting House approval to carry the funding over to continue. The Minister of Community and Government Services’ questions today regarding the CRTC proposals are requests for additional funding to support undersea links, one of which is a proposal to supplement funding currently designated to the Katittuq project. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (Mr. Savikataaq) (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Can I please get an explanation as to why Iqaluit is getting two different connections with fibre? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. If I could have Mr. Seeley continue with that response, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The plan is to develop one fibre connection to Iqaluit through the Katittuq project.

The CRTC proposals that the minister described today include supplementary funding, funding that would, subject to approval by the CRTC, supplement the Katittuq funding and/or an alternative routing heading west into Hudson Bay, as the member described. The project line on the bill today is specific to maintaining the funding for the approved Katittuq project, but within the bill. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for the response.

If I heard the official correctly; they’re possibly looking at the second proposal to help supplement the Katittuq project. Did I hear him correctly? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman: Thank you. Mr. Simailak, yes, you did, but I’ll let Mr. Seeley elaborate. Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yes, the member heard me correctly. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3005 Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. If I can please get a quick breakdown as to, perhaps, the shortfall they’re expecting if they’re trying to use the second proposal project to help supplement the Katittuq Fibre Project. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) As you’re continuing on, Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Katittuq project is the one that was recently tendered and closed and the tender was cancelled.

The size of the proposal submitted to the federal government through the CRTC Broadband Fund is proportionate to the difference between our approved budget and what we saw come in from the markets. I think I would like to leave those amounts there, I guess, as far as the magnitude of the proposal. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for the response. It’s understandable how we have to be careful about dollar amounts being announced. This Katittuq project has been going on for a number of years now.

They have been trying to get it off the ground, but it’s getting nowhere. At one point, I do know that Sanikiluaq was on the map as part of the original project, so it’s no longer on there. I would have expected Sanikiluaq to be in this new project that was just announced today. I wonder if I could get a clear update. The communities listed today, are those the final communities that will be a part of getting Government of Nunavut fibre optic? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yes, I think Mr.

Simailak is mixing two different topics into one. I could see where that might happen. Mr. Chairman, if I could have Mr. Seeley again further clarify the question. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Mr. Seeley, clarify in as simple as possible terms. Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, minister. The approved Katittuq project is one that we are pursuing supplemental funding for so that we can pursue awarding it and get it built.

The minister’s statement today regarding what is a separate phase of the fibre plan for Nunavut heads west, and there is a separate proposal submitted for that that would connect other communities including Iqaluit to fibre. We, as a department, have a variety of other proposals and initiatives to connect communities to southern or other jurisdiction via fibre, and the two that were in the minister’s statement today, were two of the proposals that we have got currently submitted.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3006 The line item in the bill today is to carryover the funding for the Katittuq project, and subject to approval, where the federal decision on the CRT proposal, we will know if we are in a position to repost, re-tender, and potentially award and build the Katittuq project, or alternatively, the other routing described by the Minister of Community and Government Services earlier today. I hope that helps. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) The next person on my list: Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I’d like to stay on the fibre project and get a little bit more clarity. Back when these monies were originally appropriated, the $19,875,000, and then now we are being asked to approve a carryover of $18,893,000, so basically over the number of years, less than a million dollars has been spent on this project. When I look at the length of time and the different, as I raised the issue yesterday, of so many tenders being cancelled under this project, what is the remaining $18,893,000 expected to achieve? Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) As we are on the same topic, for expediency, Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for the question. So right now, with the Katittuq project tendered, we have completed the planning and are moving into the design phase. With this portion of the project being carried over, the Vote 2 portion of it, that would allow us to complete the design of the shore-to-shoreline and undersea surveys, as well as the design of the shoreline connections at either end of the connections.

Carrying the funding over, we would be able to complete design, then move forward into the construction phase, which, pending award, would be the most significant portion of the expenditure of the project as that would involve purchasing the actual cable and some of the bricks and mortar work along the shoreline. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I was given some information earlier today that there was an offer to partner with another organization to do the undersea mapping and that the department has turned down that partnership opportunity. I don’t need to go into the reasons why and who they are and of all that, but I do question, as my line of questioning yesterday was on if there are Inuit-led initiatives to takeover this project, where no Government of Nunavut monies would need to be appropriated to complete that agreement, the Minister of Community Government Services stated yesterday that all options are on the table.

I think with the lack of clarity, and there has been a lack of clarity over this project over the years, even when these monies were being appropriated, that there wasn’t a defined plan of even where the line was going to be coming from. So in good faith, the Assembly has approved the appropriation to go forward, and now we keep getting more and more questions.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3007 I do have concerns over whether this is going to continue to be a Government of Nunavut-led initiative, along with partnerships with the Government of Canada, or is it still an open possibility to deal with this Inuit-led initiative through the Inuit organizations and other partners to explore that avenue as well too.

The main reason I’m asking this is, if we are expected to carryover this money again, where it has already been clearly stated that the budget is not appropriate, where a further appropriation was going to be needed, or likely to be needed to continue this project, why do we need to carryover this full amount right now if there is going to be an appropriation coming down the pike to get the balance? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. If I could have Mr. Seeley complete that line of questioning, through you, Mr. Chairman.

Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the member for the question. This is a very large-scale project, and it is one that has drawn a lot of interest both in the south and with our partners. The current state of the project is that the Katittuq Project has been tendered, the tender closed, the tender was cancelled because we did not have sufficient funding toward a viable vendor.

The situation that we are in right now is to look for other funding sources, which does include applications to some of the federal programs that the minister described earlier today, as well as exploring other partnerships with Inuit organizations, development corporations, or other entities. As the minister described earlier, and I think was quoted earlier, all of those options are on the table if we are to proceed.

We are looking at methods and different mechanisms to proceed with this project because the fibre link to Nunavut is important regardless of who owns it and it needs to be done within our resource envelope. Currently, we have a viable project, we are looking at additional resources for it, and we are looking at additional partnership opportunities as a means to advance this partnership. If we cannot secure additional resources at some point within this Assembly, the decision will need to be made on whether or not to proceed with this project.

Currently, we have a couple of options underway with other partners to supplement our resource envelope with the hope that we can proceed with awarding the contract to a viable vendor. Right now, we are waiting for additional resources and are hopeful that this appropriation will be carried over so that we can. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) If I can remind speakers to slow down for the interpreters’ sake. Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I guess my first question out of that response is: what is the likelihood of getting the undersea mapping tendered

Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 3008 and completed this summer? Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Seeley. Mr. Seeley: We will not be proceeding with undersea mapping and surveying this summer, so zero. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am trying not to get too deep into promoting an individual entity and getting involved in government contracting, but that being said, there have been some very public statements being made from Inuit organizations and media coverage on this topic.

What concerns me is the lack of time it is taking, that we are again losing another year of having this project completed. There has been some early coverage, I believe last month, in the media where the proponent that I am alluding to would have been breaking ground this year or likely been completed

Document details

Collection	Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	2023-05-30, 6th Assembly 2nd Session, Day 46
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	20230530 Hansard
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	TERRITORIAL
Identifier	7367cdaf831cb8182b54d85ee0de7d25ac258818

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