Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 5th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 133 Monday, June 7, 2021 Pages 8316 – 8367 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Paul Quassa, MLA

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. Paul Quassa (Aggu) Officers Clerk John Quirke Clerk Assistant Stephen Innuksuk Law Clerk Michael Chandler Sergeant-at-Arms Charlie Audlakiak Hansard Production Innirvik Support Services Box 1200 Iqaluit, Nunavut, X0A 0H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Website: www.assembly.nu.ca Hon.

David Akeeagok (Quttiktuq) Deputy Premier; Minister of Economic Development and Transportation; Minister of Human Resources Tony Akoak (Gjoa Haven) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Pat Angnakak (Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (Cambridge Bay) Minister of Community and Government Services; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation Hon.

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

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

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

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................8316 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................8316 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................8321 Returns to Oral Questions ..........................................................................................................8334 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................8335 Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters .................................8351 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................8352 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................8365 Third Reading of Bills ................................................................................................................8366 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................8366

A. Daily References Monday, June 7, 2021 ................................................................................................................8316 B.

Ministers’ Statements 645 – 5(2): Welcome to Denmark’s New Honorary Consul to Nunavut (Savikataaq) ..............8316 646 – 5(2): WSCC Resources for Returning to Work after Injury (Hickes) ..............................8317 647 – 5(2): Release of the MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA+ National Action Plan (Sheutiapik) .8317 648 – 5(2): Nunavut Educator Wins 2021 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year (Joanasie) ...........8318 649 – 5(2): Long-term Care (Kusugak) ......................................................................................8319 650 – 5(2): Qulliq Energy Corporation Baker Lake Headquarters Project (Ehaloak)................8320 651 – 5(2): Recognizing Justice Employees during COVID-19 (Hickes) .................................8320 C.

Members’ Statements 930 – 5(2): Supporting Smaller Communities (Netser) ..............................................................8321 931 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Pedersen) ............................................................................8322 932 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Kaernerk) ............................................................................8323 933 – 5(2): Supporting Nunavut-based Elder Care (Angnakak) ................................................8324 934 – 5(2): Lack of Resources at Larga Baffin (Keyootak) .......................................................8326 935 – 5(2): Martha Taliruq Centre (Simailak)............................................................................8328 936 – 5(2): Water Treatment Plant for Whale Cove (Main) ......................................................8329 937 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Qirngnuq) ...........................................................................8329 938 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Akoak) ................................................................................8330 939 – 5(2): 2021 Cambridge Bay High School Graduates (Ehaloak) ........................................8331 940 – 5(2): Congratulations to David Watsko Jr. (Akeeagok) ...................................................8332 941 – 5(2): A Successful 2021 Turbot Fishery in Pangnirtung (Nakashuk) ..............................8333

942 – 5(2): 2021 Kimmirut High School Graduates (Joanasie) .................................................8333 D. Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 1301 – 5(2): Update on Renovations to Elder Designated Housing (Nakashuk) ...........................................................................................................................8334 Return to Oral Question 1316 – 5(2): Safe Spaces for Youth (Sheutiapik) ...............................8334 E.

Oral Questions 1359 – 5(2): Katujjiqatigiinniq Protocol with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (Simailak) ....8335 1360 – 5(2): Elders at Embassy West in Ottawa (Kaernerk)......................................................8337 1361 – 5(2): Human Resources Management in the Public Service (Angnakak) ......................8339 1362 – 5(2): Airport Infrastructure Capital Projects (Netser) ....................................................8340 1363 – 5(2): Housing Needs in Gjoa Haven (Akoak) ................................................................8342 1364 – 5(2): Counselling Services at Boarding Homes (Keyootak) ..........................................8343 1365 – 5(2): Sewage Leak in Rankin Inlet (Towtongie) ............................................................8345 1366 – 5(2): Addressing Homelessness (Qirngnuq)...................................................................8346 1367 – 5(2): Marine Infrastructure in Sanirajak (Kaernerk) ......................................................8347 1368 – 5(2): Office of the Chief Coroner (Angnakak) ...............................................................8349 F.

Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters Committee Report 040 – 5(2): Bill 53,

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act (Angnakak) .................................................................................................8351 Committee Report 041 – 5(2): Bill 73,

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act (Angnakak) ..........................................................................................................................8351

G. Committee Motions 021 – 5(2): Amendment to Clause 2 of Bill 65 (Sheutiapik) ......................................................8359 H. Bills Bill 72 – Interim Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2022-2023 – Consideration in Committee .......8352 Bill 53 –

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act – Consideration in Committee ........................................................................................................................8353 Bill 65 – Apprenticeship and Certification Act – Consideration in Committee .........................8357 Bill 72 – Interim Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2022-2023 – Third Reading .............................8366 Bill 65 – Apprenticeship and Certification Act – Third Reading ...............................................8366 Bill 53 –

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act – Third Reading .............................................................................................................................................8366

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8316 Iqaluit, Nunavut Monday, June 7, 2021 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Mr. Tony Akoak, Ms. Pat Angnakak, Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak, Hon. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Mr. Joelie Kaernerk, Mr. Pauloosie Keyootak, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Mr. Patterk Netser, Mr. Calvin Pedersen, Mr. Emiliano Qirngnuq, Mr. Allan Rumbolt, Hon. Joe Savikataaq, Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik, Mr. Craig Simailak, Ms. Cathy Towtongie. >>House commenced at 13:29 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Mr. Allan Rumbolt): Before we begin, I will ask Mr.

Keyootak if he could lead us in prayer, please. Mr. Keyootak. >>Prayer Speaker: Thank you. Before we begin, I would like to inform members that Speaker Quassa, Mr. Lightstone, and Mr. Qamaniq are away from the proceedings today due to illness. Item 2. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Savikataaq. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 645 – 5(2): Welcome to Denmark’s New Honorary Consul to Nunavut (Savikataaq) Hon. Joe Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the people of Arviat, I say “good day” to you. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Ms. Navarana Beveridge as Denmark’s new Honorary Consul to Nunavut, appointed by Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark. Nunavut and Greenland are more than just circumpolar neighbours. Our relationship is built on important connections, including family, history, culture, language, and geography. We share many challenges and equally many incredible opportunities. Our paths of political and economic development are similar as we strive to develop the Arctic for the benefit of our people and our environment. Mr. Speaker, Ms.

Beveridge grew up in Greenland and has made Nunavut her home for the past 22 years. She is familiar with our territory and has strong experience with Inuit organizations in both management and social policy. She currently is the director of administration at the Qikiqtani Inuit Association in Iqaluit. She is also fluent in Kalaallisut, Danish, English, and Inuktitut. Mr. Speaker, as Denmark’s Honorary Consul, Ms. Beveridge will help foster great collaborative opportunities between Nunavut and Greenland. We are proud and excited about Ms. Beveridge’s appointment.

Together our regions are shaping a future of cooperation and opportunity in the north. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you, Premier Savikataaq. Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for the Workers’

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8317 Safety and Compensation Commission, Mr. Hickes. Minister’s Statement 646 – 5(2): WSCC Resources for Returning to Work after Injury (Hickes) Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I want to share some guidance and resources from the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission to help employers and workers better support a safe return to work for employees recovering from injury. A Return-to-Work program is a proactive plan that outlines what processes an employer has in place to help injured employees get back to suitable work as soon as it’s medically safe.

Employers are responsible for their workplace’s injury reporting process, identifying suitable work, and implementing, monitoring, and adjusting their Return-to-Work program. Mr. Speaker, the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission has recently updated a Code of Practice that gives practical guidance to employers about their legal responsibilities and an Employers’ Guide to Return to Work with sample plans and templates to help with starting, implementing, and evaluating a program.

The Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission is currently gathering feedback from employers on some of the practical challenges and barriers they experience. This will help to shape the development of future resources and support offered. Mr. Speaker, with the right support from employers, health care providers, and the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission, most people can return to work quickly, even if their duties have changed or they are in a different role, while they recover. Mr.

Speaker, I encourage every employer to develop a return-to-work plan for their injured workers, and encourage all workers to talk to their health care providers, their employers, and the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission to actively participate in their recovery plan and return to work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you, Minister Hickes. Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for the Status of Women, Ms. Sheutiapik. Minister’s Statement 647 – 5(2): Release of the MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA+ National Action Plan (Sheutiapik) Hon.

Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Unnusakkut, Mr. Speaker and Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, two years ago yesterday, on Friday I would have read my statement, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, known as MMIWG, presented its final report. This report shared with all Canadians the experiences of violence against indigenous women, girls, and two spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex and asexual

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8318 plus (2SLGBTQQIA+) people and the impacts on families and survivors. The national inquiry’s guiding principle is “Our Women and Girls Are Sacred.” This principle supports First Nations, Métis and Inuit women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people to reclaim their power and place. On the second anniversary, the 2021 National Action Plan was released. It honours and is inclusive of all indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. This plan is the first step on the path of ending all forms of gender- and race-based violence.

It is a living and evergreen document that will be adapted and changed over time as new initiatives and needs are identified. The next step is to develop an implementation plan with short-, medium- and long-term priorities and responsibilities of each action, as well as milestones and resources. The Federal Pathway is the Government of Canada’s contribution to the national action plan in response to the final report on MMIWG and was launched Friday morning.

All provinces, territories, including the Government of Nunavut, national indigenous organizations and sub-working groups, including the Inuit sub-working group, have contributed submissions to the national action plan. Uqaqtitsijii, the Government of Nunavut is uniquely placed to advance the national inquiry’s actions for justice over time, especially the Inuit-specific ones, because its programs, policies, and initiatives are envisioned and implemented for a population that is 85 percent Inuit. Moreover, under the Nunavut Agreement

Article 32, the Nunavut government is required to include Inuit and Inuit organizations in the development and design of social and cultural policies, programs, and services and endeavour to reflect Inuit goals and objectives in these policies, programs, and services. The issue of missing and murdered indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, and specifically domestic violence in Nunavut are so very important to me and to our government.

A full and meaningful response will take time and require human resource and financial capacity, political will, and not only a whole-of- government approach but a territory- wide approach that includes all levels of government, agencies, and Inuit organizations. Uqaqtitsijii, we honour all those who have shared their stories with us as part of the national inquiry process. I call on all Nunavummiut to step up, speak out, and do their part to end domestic and gender-based violence in our territory. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements.

Minister responsible for the Department of Education, Minister Joanasie. Minister’s Statement 648 – 5(2): Nunavut Educator Wins 2021 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good day, Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of Nunavut’s educators on receiving a special award. I would like to

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8319 congratulate Inuksuk High School music teacher Dr. Mary Piercey-Lewis for winning the 2021 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year at the 50th JUNO Awards ceremonies this past weekend. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, the importance of arts education for Nunavut students cannot be overstated. This award underscores that importance by recognizing a teacher of the year for music education. We know our students benefit from music, dance and fine arts instruction and we are privileged to have an educator like Dr. Piercey-Lewis supporting our students. For the past two decades, Dr.

Piercey- Lewis has been working to ensure that Inuit culture continues to thrive through music. She has created school music programs, collected and transcribed countless hours of traditional Inuit music, and worked with elders to ensure that Inuktut songs are not lost. (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, her work with the Inuksuk Drum Dancers in Iqaluit, with students at John Arnalukjuaq School in Arviat, and with other educators throughout Nunavut is to be celebrated. Dr.

Piercey-Lewis has helped develop a generation of young people who are confident, resilient, and grounded in Inuit identity, culture, and tradition thanks to a strong music education. On behalf of all the Nunavummiut who have been taught by Dr. Piercey-Lewis, I am proud to have this amazing teacher in our education system. (interpretation ends) Qujannamiik, ma’na, koana. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Health, Mr. Kusugak. Minister’s Statement 649 – 5(2): Long-term Care (Kusugak) Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation) I am excited to announce that later this year we will begin construction of the new 24-bed long-term care facility in Rankin Inlet. The goal is to have the facility completed and ready for residents by the fall of 2023. Mr. Speaker, this is a significant milestone toward enhancing care for Nunavut’s elders. This facility will allow Nunavut to provide a broader range of advanced care to our clients, eventually expanding to Nunavummiut with complex needs such as dementia. Mr.

Speaker, an additional 24 beds will help us give Nunavummiut the opportunity to age closer to home, where family members can be actively involved in an elder’s care and support. It will also allow clients more opportunity to age in the land they love and within the culture they know. Mr. Speaker, the facility and all that it entails must be reflective of and responsive to the culture, values, history, and traditions of Nunavummiut and Inuit specifically. Our model’s intent is that the facility design invokes a strong sense of pride that recognizes and celebrates our culture. Mr.

Speaker, the new long-term care centre illustrates the Department of

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8320 Health’s commitments to providing a high level of care to Nunavummiut who require ongoing support. Our resident focused approach and homelike atmosphere will create a place where our elders can age in safety, with dignity and close to their family and friends. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Minister of the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Ms. Ehaloak. Minister’s Statement 650 – 5(2): Qulliq Energy Corporation Baker Lake Headquarters Project (Ehaloak) Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) Good afternoon to all of my colleagues and those who are watching. Uqaqtii, I am pleased to provide an update on the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s new head office build in Baker Lake. The project is now underway after being delayed by a year due to tendering issues and COVID-19 public health restrictions. Preparatory ground and piling work has begun and actual construction will commence in July with the arrival of the season’s sealift.

Contractors scheduled to work on site will be required to follow public health measures for the protection and safety of the community against COVID-19. Mr. Speaker, the Qulliq Energy Corporation currently does not have a dedicated office in Baker Lake. The construction of this building will provide adequate space to accommodate all administration staff in one location. Presently there are approximately 45 employees working in three different offices in the community. With the anticipated completion in August 2022, all staff will be under one roof with upgraded boardroom and training spaces.

The Qulliq Energy Corporation is looking forward to creating a unified and organized work environment for Baker Lake staff. By increasing operational efficiencies and improving employee satisfaction, the corporation can better serve their valued customers across the territory. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Ministers’ Statements. Minister responsible for Justice, Minister Hickes. Minister’s Statement 651 – 5(2): Recognizing Justice Employees during COVID-19 (Hickes) Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to recognize some outstanding work from our employees at the Department of Justice during the recent COVID-19 outbreak. I would first like to recognize the Office of the Sheriff and the deputy sheriffs who have gone above and beyond their normal duties to help keep us safe from COVID-19. Iqalummiut may have seen our sheriffs in town patrolling and responding to complaints to ensure that people are following the public health orders. Our sheriffs have filled a vital role to assist with COVID-19 enforcement and have

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8321 shown great dedication and professionalism in carrying out these duties. I wish to thank them for all their hard work. I would also like to recognize the hard work of the managers, caseworkers, and medical staff at our Iqaluit correctional facilities. Not only have they shown exemplary service during emergencies, such as the fire at Baffin Correctional Centre and the relocation of inmates; they have also shown their dedication and hard work in keeping everyone safe during a COVID-19 outbreak here in Iqaluit.

The outbreak of COVID-19 in a correctional centre is a very dangerous situation. Our staff have shown grace, professionalism, and perseverance under pressure to implement contingency plans, stop the spread, and care for any clients affected. The first half of 2021 has been extremely busy for all of our staff, and this has not been an easy year for frontline workers such as the sheriffs and correctional staff. I would like to express my sincere appreciation for all of their hard work and the service they provide to help ensure the safety and well-being of all Nunavummiut.

Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Item 3. Members’ Statements. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Netser. >>No audio We seem to be having some audio trouble with the Zoom participants. Yes, I think we can hear. Let’s go back to Mr. Netser; I think it is okay now. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 930 – 5(2): Supporting Smaller Communities (Netser) Mr. Netser: My apologies, Mr. Speaker. I had to unmute the other mute button, but let me try it again. (interpretation) I send my regards to the residents of Naujaat and Coral Harbour. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I want to make a statement today about the importance of supporting our territory’s smaller communities, and I will follow up on some of the points that I raised last week. As a Member of the Legislative Assembly who represents two non- decentralized communities, I am very much aware of the challenges that we continue to face. Mr.

Speaker, when it comes to deciding where to locate new facilities and major capital projects, it appears that the government’s first instinct continues to be to put them in our regional centres without giving full consideration to the potential of building them in our smaller communities. Mr. Speaker, I pointed out last week that I fought hard in a previous government to ensure that our cultural school was located in Clyde River, and we need more of that thinking today. Mr.

Speaker, members who represent smaller communities have to fight hard to ensure that their communities receive a fair allocation of such investments as school buses and municipal infrastructure.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8322 We also have to fight hard to ensure that our approved projects do not fall off the government’s plans, and I’m thinking here of a couple of tenders that were cancelled for a number of projects that we have seen recently, including the renovations of my school here in Coral Harbour, the Sakku School, and public housing units in Taloyoak. Mr. Speaker, when it comes to programs and services, it appears that the first instinct continues to be to design them for the needs and resources of the major centres.

At the last sitting, I raised a perfect example of this mentality: the government’s absurd new policy that prevents routine home oil heating installation to proceed without the government’s inspection. This is ludicrous. Mr. Speaker, this kind of approach might work in the capital city, but it won’t work in other small communities such as Grise Fiord, Kugaaruk, or Naujaat, for that matter. Mr. Speaker, I will conclude today by strongly urging the government to reflect on the frustrations that we as members have been expressing. Nunavut is more than just three regional communities.

We have 25 communities in total that are in need and we need to show them that they all are important to us. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Netser. Members’ Statements. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Pedersen. Member’s Statement 931 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Pedersen) Mr. Pedersen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You’re looking good today by the way, Mr. Rumbolt. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to express my strong and sincere caring for our elders, the elders of Kugluktuk, the elders of the Kitikmeot, and the elders from all across Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, last week I supported my colleague’s motion to delete the funding for the Kitikmeot Long-Term Care Centre in the upcoming fiscal year. I stand by this decision today. I am using my vote, as I was taught to do so by my elders, and I will continue to do so until my constituents say otherwise. Mr. Speaker, as Members of the Legislative Assembly, we are following the advice and wisdom passed on to us by our elders who have told us that we need to scrutinize proposed plans and projects in order to make good decisions. Our elders tell us to rely on our education and experience to form our own opinions.

We are not told to fold when there is a difference of opinion. We are not told to agree with others just because they tell us their option is the only good choice. Mr. Speaker, during our debate on Bill 72 last week, it was implied that the lack of support for part of the bill reflected a lack of care for our elders. Mr. Speaker, nothing could be further from the truth. A short time ago the community of Kugluktuk had a plan to build and operate a long-term care facility for our elders. A lot of work and effort went into that plan, which was a reflection of the

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8323 level of love and care for our elders and a strong desire to support them at home in our community. Mr. Speaker, the community of Kugluktuk reached out to the government to collaborate and partner in the delivery of long-term care for our elders and the government would not take it any further. The government denied us that opportunity to provide more long-term care within our territory, in a facility that would have been on its way to being built by now. Mr. Speaker, we have been elected to positions where we occasionally need to make hard decisions.

Not everyone will be happy with us, but we make those hard decisions because we do care. Mr. Speaker, as I stated earlier in my statement, I am here to make my voice heard and I will continue to do so until my constituents say otherwise. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Member’s Statement 932 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to also talk about the elders, just as I have constantly been doing since I got elected.

They were my priority as I began my career as an MLA and they will continue to be my priority until our last day. Mr. Speaker, during that session a motion was made to rescind that funding under the capital budget and without the support, the allegations were already flying. I want to quote from the Blues, as the government opposed this change proposed by regular members and that we don’t support elders. To quote the minister, “I was tempted to not even speak to this motion,” but due to the motion, he now had some words to deliver. Mr.

Speaker, ever since I was elected to this position, my first statement revolved around our elders, and that I would advocate for their benefits unerringly. Even when I see unwelcoming expressions across the floor and even when I sweat nonstop, I will continue to advocate passionately for them. I will keep doing so for the following reasons: their lives were full of hardships, yet they are wise and even if we think we may be defeating them, our elders know the score and will not fall for our trickery. They too have power coursing through their veins. I believe this government has to hear the elders, but no!

Where am I going with these elders’ concerns? In my constituency of Amittuq, my home community of Sanirajak has no elder care facilities, although there is an elder care facility in Igloolik. Now, Mr. Speaker, I want to say this to all Nunavummiut: your MLAs would work hard to represent not just our elders but generally the residents of Nunavut in debating job opportunities, providing teamwork and partnerships, in providing services for constituents, examples of what I say the government is paying lip service to, especially when we review capital funds.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8324 As my colleagues, the Member for Kugluktuk and the Member for Netsilik, have constantly said, it is only the larger decentralized communities benefiting from infrastructure projects being built, yet when smaller communities submit their own priorities, all we hear from this government is “Wait, wait, and wait some more.” That is not how any government ought to operate. If we wish to ensure that Nunavut is the best territory possible, equitable distribution is required. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his member’s statement. Are there any nays? There being none, please continue, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for your unanimous consent. Now, to reiterate, our precious elders approach our offices to convey their concerns when we as members are required to provide assistance. The words I am relaying did not originate from me, as I have stated on occasion. The concerns came directly from elders.

Now, in saying that, yes, I am pleased that the minister stated that a facility will be constructed in Rankin Inlet, with the construction phase to commence this summer, and I am happy for that. I wonder how many elders will still have to remain in care in Ottawa’s facility even after it is built. Those are the kinds of questions that will be asked. Mr. Speaker, I really wanted to eloquently make my statement, but as soon as I start speaking, the words just seem to disappear, causing me to seem confused. This is more so when I have prepared a statement formally to express my thoughts.

Nonetheless, the issues I voice are ones where constituents have stated that yes, I am indeed representing their concerns, and maybe I am too hard on myself as I belittle myself it seems. I can certainly go on and on if needed, but I want to limit myself as I know my colleagues will also want to put their thoughts forward on this matter. We are trying to support our leadership and we are certainly working hard to represent our elders, and all Nunavummiut for that matter, not just one community but all communities.

I will leave it at that and when we reach the appropriate agenda item, I will have questions for the Minister of Health on the elders’ long- term care facility in Ottawa. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. [Member] for Iqaluit- Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Member’s Statement 933 – 5(2): Supporting Nunavut-based Elder Care (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon. (interpretation ends) Congratulations to Navarana Beveridge. Good for you, Navarana. I, too, want to speak about elder care. Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to set the record straight when it comes to members’ support of Nunavut-based elder care.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8325 Mr. Speaker, last week in this House, the Minister of Health suggested that members who voted to delete funding from the proposed interim capital budget were delaying the return of our elders to Nunavut. In fact it was suggested that by deleting the funding from the budget, members were not in support of elders coming home to Nunavut at all. Mr.

Speaker, as the ministers, many of whom were also member of the previous Assembly, should recall, I have been a staunch advocate and supporter of the Iqaluit-based Sailivik Society, which developed a comprehensive proposal to provide dementia care, hospice care, and assisted living opportunities for Nunavut elders in the community of Iqaluit. The Sailivik Society was made up of volunteers from the community, entities which provided support, including the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, the Nunavut Construction Corporation, the City of Iqaluit, and others. Mr.

Speaker, a complete business plan was written by an expert who is very knowledgeable in operating non-profit long-term care facilities. Elders from the community were involved and they chose a lot provided by the City of Iqaluit that was worth $1 million. Funding for development was secured through the Nunavut Construction Corporation. The Sailivik board would have been responsible for the staffing at this proposed elders’ long-term care, providing more than 70 jobs in the community. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. I see the clock is ticking down. Speaker: Thank you.

The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude her member’s statement. Are there any nays? Seeing none, please continue, Ms. Angnakak. Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it was a truly collaborative effort. The volunteer board met frequently to draw up the preliminary plan, from how the building would look and the design of the interior, to anticipated costs for service delivery; as the Minister of Health, in his statement, just stated, a facility that is “reflective of and responsive to the culture, values, history, and traditions of Nunavummiut and Inuit specifically.” Mr.

Speaker, the proposal was presented to the departments of Health and Community and Government Services as well as to the Nunavut Housing Corporation. There was no response to date, absolutely nothing. Mr. Speaker, our government contributed nothing but some historical data on elder services. The proposal went nowhere. Mr. Speaker, last Thursday the Minister of Health stated, “I wish we could have done this sooner,” and he said, “…but we can’t have them right now.” I’m glad he recognizes that we need these facilities right now. Mr.

Speaker, I would like to point out that if it had been adequately supported by our government, the Sailivik Society’s plan would have seen a Nunavut-based long-term care and dementia facility opened by now, in 2018, and that was three years ago. We would have had our elders back in

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8326 Nunavut and our government would not have had to expend any large amounts of capital dollars. Mr. Speaker, to hear our ministers argue that voting to approve the motion to delete funding for the design of a long- term care facility means that members do not support Nunavut-based elder care is a low blow. It is a slap in the face to all of those volunteers and organizations and community elders who came together to propose a facility that could have met elder care needs in Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, it was the government which did not support plans to provide Nunavut-based elder care when options were made available. Now the government wants the Members of the Legislative Assembly to simply approve future capital expenditures on their say so. Where is the supporting documentation? There is no seniors strategy to show what role these long-term care facilities will play in ensuring that elders from all Nunavut communities will have their needs taken into consideration across Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, if the government had taken the opportunity that such organizations as the Sailivik Society had provided, Nunavut’s dementia care patients and others would be right here in Nunavut right now. Mr. Speaker, our government should consider the different options which have been brought forward to address the need for Nunavut-based elder care before accusing members of their lack of support. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Mr. Keyootak. Member’s Statement 934 – 5(2): Lack of Resources at Larga Baffin (Keyootak) Mr. Keyootak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I say “good day” to those who are following the proceedings in Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq, as well as my colleagues. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to the facilities attended by medical travel patients who originate from the Baffin region. As I have no familiarity with the facilities in the Kitikmeot or the Kivalliq, therefore based on my knowledge of the Baffin facility in Ottawa, the Larga facility houses medical patients who are sometimes in Ottawa for extended periods of time. Mr.

Speaker, as I just stated, some patients stay for extended periods, while other patients don’t need to stay for very long. These patients that stay longer are sometimes in Ottawa for several months, while other patients spend years getting medical treatments, and most patients stay at the Larga facility with some requiring escorts as well. Some escorts also end up staying for extended periods. Mr. Speaker, the boarding home doesn’t have any activities other than sitting or lounging around, and many patients are waiting there endlessly, whiling away their time. Further, some patients are largely unilingual.

They usually have escorts in those cases, as well as patients undergoing surgical procedures. Also, some patients end up passing away and many escorts and families awaiting

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8327 their loved ones lose them during their treatment while they are still in Ottawa, leaving family members behind, especially ones without overseers or counsellors, since Larga does not offer any services such as a coroner or religious person who could advise the loved ones of their loss. Even just small flowers or something would help the family members at least think of some other issues, especially during their time of loss.

Some patients are very piteous in their sorrow as there is not even a counsellor to offer words of advice nor is there anything culturally appropriate to ease their sense of loss. There are not even any announcements about patients to other patients staying at Larga when a fellow patient has passed on. Mr. Speaker, my time is up. I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Speaker: Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his member’s statement. Are there any nays? Seeing none, please continue, Mr. Keyootak. Mr. Keyootak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank my colleagues. Mr. Speaker, it is quite obvious that more service positions are needed there. As we all know, this facility will continue to be used as residents will always encounter health-related issues. When you notice family members who are inconsolable and suffering from their sense of loss, you feel empathy as there are no counsellors available there and not enough supporting services, such as life counsellors. This is becoming more disconcerting to me, especially when I compare it to previous health contracts or facilities that provided health care for Inuit.

In the past, patients would be gone for long periods and perhaps more so during the tuberculosis epidemic. Some patients were gone for years, while others were gone for long periods, but not years. Some of the patients who spent years in the south receiving health care would return with additional skills they learned while at the sanatoriums. Some patients became adept at carving, while others became skilled accordionists, and others became fluent in English.

Obviously there was more to the treatments back in the day when more thought was given to providing time-consuming skills or lessons, and this was applied in cases where patients stayed for longer periods. Today our medical patients are primarily just dumped at the facility, with months of boring lounging around time, and there are not even sewing rooms for the women as no craft rooms are made available, so it is nothing more than a patient’s hotel. Even the men do not have any activities to do while away their time.

It is disconcerting to see patients attending the facility with nothing to do, and it becomes clear that boredom plays a role in patients partaking in activities that are not conducive to their health, especially when they have been staying in the facility for long periods. I find it odd that we don’t see more cases, as some patients do things that are unbecoming because they are bored. Actually, it seems to be the case for

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8328 everyone who stays at the Larga facility because there are no activities. I am only referring to the Larga facility where our Baffin residents stay while they are receiving medical treatments. I am not including the other facilities as I have no experience with them. At the appropriate time I will have questions for the minister regarding the Larga boarding home and potential improvements or service provision that can be made. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak.

Member’s Statement 935 – 5(2): Martha Taliruq Centre (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I wish to recognize the members of the Martha Taliruq Centre Committee in Baker Lake who have expressed a strong interest in reopening the centre to continue providing elder care in the community of Baker Lake. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Minister of Health for including me in his correspondence to the committee in which he indicates that his department will be repurposing the Martha Taliruq Centre into a community wellness centre. Mr. Speaker, I am, of course, in support of community wellness initiatives.

However, I am disappointed that more effort was not given to keeping the Martha Taliruq Centre elder care home open and operating in the community of Baker Lake. While I recognize that there were management issues to be resolved and a need for renovations both inside and outside of the building, it is not clear why more consideration was not given to reopening the facility for the elders once those issues were taken care of. I can appreciate that my fellow members who have elder care homes in their communities worry that they may suffer the same fate. Mr.

Speaker, we are all aware of the government’s plans to build and operate new long-term care facilities in the three regional centres. For elders who require the highest levels of care, being closer to regional health facilities is an important factor to consider. However, being able to age peacefully, in comfort and dignity, close to one’s family and friends, in a familiar space are also important considerations. Mr.

Speaker, during our debate on the government’s proposed interim capital budget last Thursday, the Minister of Health spoke of the families of elders who are currently receiving care down in Ottawa and he stated that they would love, and I will quote from the unedited Hansard: “…where at least their parents can look out the window and not see a highway or a tree or another brick building, but to be able to look out their landscape, look at the land, to hear the howling of the blizzard...” Mr. Speaker, the minister must know that the blizzards in Baker Lake are special.

It is for exactly this reason that I feel it important that our government not commit capital dollars now for a future long-term facility when there are many

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8329 other community-based needs for elder care which should be considered and evaluated within the context of Nunavut as a whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Arviat North- Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Member’s Statement 936 – 5(2): Water Treatment Plant for Whale Cove (Main) Mr. Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, first of all, it’s good to see you in that Chair.

I realize you’re just filling in, but to all the Toronto Maple Leafs fans out there, we didn’t win the cup this year, but at least you took the Speaker’s seat just for one day at least. Way to go, Toronto, and there’s always next year. Craig, you will want your mute. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to make a statement today regarding the construction of a permanent water treatment plant in Whale Cove. I’ll note for the record, Mr. Speaker, when I do question the progress of this project, I’m not questioning the motivation of the Minister of Community and Government Services.

To make accusations along the lines of “The minister does not care for this” or “The minister does not care for that,” I believe that would be out of line and so the questions that I do intend to raise with the department will be based on the facts. Mr. Speaker, it has been a while for Whale Cove waiting for this water treatment plant. I remember running for MLA back in 2017 and hearing from people in the community how tiresome and what a burden it was to deal with the boil water advisories on an annual basis. Early in our term, Mr.

Speaker, I was pleased to see funding put in place by this Assembly to build a permanent solution in the community. However, I am concerned that this project is crawling towards construction. I did ask questions to the Minister of Community and Government Services in the winter sitting about this project, and I believe it has moved into the design phase, which is encouraging, but the construction is not scheduled to be completed until 2024. I will have questions about the project timeline, budget, and the status of the request for proposals at the appropriate time. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Qirngnuq. Member’s Statement 937 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Qirngnuq) Mr. Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to my colleagues and my fellow Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I also wish to voice a statement regarding our elders. Mr. Speaker, as MLAs, we advocate incessantly on behalf of our elders and all members have previously done that to represent the wishes of their constituency elders. Mr. Speaker, the capital budget items are consistently reviewed by regular

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8330 members, and as MLAs, we recall proper pathways or paths to travel and which we try to follow, as we do not want our elders to go through that hardship as we are representing them to try to alleviate their circumstances as we ardently fight for them. Mr. Speaker, our elders passed along their legacy by teaching us the history and past lessons. If we follow them, our position as elected representatives will commence as we follow the lessons we were taught, which we recall through our statements and how we think. Mr.

Speaker, during our sitting last week, the funding requests were submitted for the elders’ care facility and with the motion to rescind this funding by regular members, the purpose was not because we don’t care about our elders, but rather that our government has to adhere to the shared priorities, as we want the government to operate smoothly and we want proper care for our disabled elders. When we were children, they were the ones holding our hands, and this forms part of the many lessons we learned at the hands of our elders. Mr. Speaker, if we are told to our face… . Mr.

Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his member’s statement. Are there any nays? Seeing none, please continue, Mr. Qirngnuq. Mr. Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you, my colleagues. Mr. Speaker, what I was saying was that our elders left lessons behind for us to provide assistance to other Inuit requiring help, and we try to show that here as well in this House and to show our passionate advocacy of our beloved elders.

This is due to the principle of helping fellow Inuit whom our elders passed along so that we can help others. If our fellow Inuit or if our ministers tell us that we are not supporting our elders by not approving their funding amounts, this is not an imaginary issue neither is it observable as it is inherently in us. We know what our elders wanted: proper facilities that alleviate their situations. We are looking at ourselves too and we want to make sure our elders are taken care of properly, and we will always push hard for that. We got elected because we want to help our fellow citizens. Mr.

Speaker, I will have questions before the end of this sitting on this matter. That’s all I have to say for now. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Gjoa Haven, Mr. Akoak. Member’s Statement 938 – 5(2): Caring for Our Elders (Akoak) Mr. Akoak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good day” to the people of Gjoa Haven and to the people of Nunavut. I say “good day” to everyone who is listening and watching the proceedings. This current topic that we are discussing is hard, but our elders’ future is always on our minds. Elders want to stay in

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8331 their own lands and be able to see their family. They simply need our help to do so. I know that I have relatives in Kugluktuk and Cambridge Bay as well. I have family and I was elected in Gjoa Haven to represent them. I always have them in my mind because I want to represent them properly. I will always strive to do that. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, we went through hardship last week, and I think we did well all because we are thinking of our elders in Nunavut.

I don’t have anything written down, so this is just coming from my heart, where I have been told that whatever comes out from your heart is the truth. Mr. Speaker, we were told last week that the members do not care for their elders, which is totally wrong, and it is very hurtful when it comes out that way. Mr. Speaker, I’m asked why Gjoa Haven? Why Gjoa Haven? Why not Gjoa Haven? We have an existing building here already that can be improved. Mr. Speaker, I would like to seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his member’s statement. Are there any nays? Seeing none, please continue, Mr. Akoak. Mr. Akoak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to my colleagues. I asked, “Why not Gjoa Haven?” We have an existing building that can be improved using the funding. You can make it into a bigger building, add more beds, and also, why not Gjoa Haven? It’s the centre of Kitikmeot. We have two communities on each side that we can look after. It can come here. Why not Gjoa Haven? We already have at least 40 people working in this facility.

I know all of them may not be full time, but at least they are working; they are making money to put food on their tables. To increase the building, you would add more people working in this community. I’m happy that my fellow MLAs did vote beside me. It is only because we do care for our elders. We do care that the young people need to see their elders face to face and give them a hug for the time they have left on this earth. Mr. Speaker, I am so proud to be from Nunavut, where we are told that with Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, we do not hold any grudges amongst each other.

We do talk to each other for the betterment of all Nunavummiut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Cambridge Bay, Ms. Ehaloak. Member’s Statement 939 – 5(2): 2021 Cambridge Bay High School Graduates (Ehaloak) Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I was very excited this weekend to receive a text from one of my constituents who is going to be graduating this summer from high

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8332 school. I want to acknowledge those graduates here in the House as we are always proud of our youth who graduate and either potentially look for employment or careers that they want to be in or further themselves in post- secondary education. Today I would like to congratulate:  Deanna Taylor  Aislyn Omilgoetok, who is the one that contacted me this weekend.

From my heart, I apologize I’m not there, but I will be in spirit.  Jaiden Maksagak  Makenzie Otokiak  Sascha Evetalegak I would also like to congratulate one of my other constituents who graduated from high school in Cambridge Bay and furthered himself in his studies and recently became Chief Executive Officer for World Copper Limited, and that is Nolan Peterson, whose father sat in this House as a minister and MLA for Cambridge Bay. Congratulations to all of them, and I look forward to coming home and seeing these young individuals and congratulating them in person. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 940 – 5(2): Congratulations to David Watsko Jr. (Akeeagok) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On Saturday, my daughter celebrated her birthday, I wished her a very happy birthday, and it was a lot of fun. This past Friday in Iqaluit, there was a gathering after 215 bodies of indigenous children that attended residential school were discovered buried haphazardly without markers. It is so saddening to hear of such incidents.

Further, my in-laws as well as my daughter-in-law were sent out when they were very young and eventually returned home. When I was a youth, I too had to attend residential school to pursue higher education, and the parents I am about to reference also attended high school as well. Nonetheless, I want to express my congratulations to students who graduated, as every community in Nunavut is now able to offer grade 12 classes which students can pass locally. On Friday in Grise Fiord, David Jr. Watsko was the sole graduate from grade 12 and there was a celebration.

I very much thank his family, his fellow students, and all communities. In Grise Fiord we have a local belief that as a smaller community, we are all responsible for raising our children, and whenever our children graduate, we have a large celebration. With that being the case, I take great pride in announcing that David or D.J., as we call him, graduated from his high school courses, and we encourage him to pursue further education. Nonetheless, he has the sole discretion of choosing what he wishes to pursue.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8333 Our children are to be celebrated in any big occasions, such as graduating. The doors of opportunities are opening at all levels. I congratulate the graduate and the family. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Member’s Statement 941 – 5(2): A Successful 2021 Turbot Fishery in Pangnirtung (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, my colleagues and the people of Pangnirtung.

Around the same time last year, as this information is updated annually in Pangnirtung and as colleagues are aware, I also mentioned this issue last year, specifically our local turbot fishery that has its ups and downs annually, but it remains very beneficial to the fishers of Pangnirtung. They opened the fishery on February 14 this year and licensed fishers gathered to fish until the month of April, and there were 104 fishers who were licensed and fishing. As well, this year was quite successful, which again was a local source of pride and accomplishment.

As well, this spring up to the summer fishing season, they have requested to charter a ship to fish their summer quotas via ships, and this is obviously being reviewed with great zeal. However, difficulties emerged this year and last year, mainly due to the airline scheduling. The cargo schedules became problematic as weather and other matters combined to lower the shipping of turbot fillets and produce. Nonetheless, the fishery is quite important to the residents of Pangnirtung and I am happy that my fellow residents of Pangnirtung have this opportunity, especially our younger generations.

I wanted to voice my pride in my fellow residents over their successful fishery. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for South Baffin, Mr. Joanasie. Member’s Statement 942 – 5(2): 2021 Kimmirut High School Graduates (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Good day, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. My thoughts are with the people of Kimmirut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the graduates who completed grade 12.

I wanted to express my pride in their accomplishments and I want to name each of the graduates, as they graduated on Friday with a ceremony, and I apologize for not being able to attend. Nonetheless, I was able to watch the ceremony via webcast online. It was great to witness that and it sure filled everyone with pride. I wish to acknowledge the 2021 graduates and they are:  Inuusiq Allen  Jacob Akpik  Jennifer Corcoran  Sarah Saggiatuk

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8334 I’m sure that this day will be a memorable one for them. I wish them success in whatever path they choose to take for their future. The parents, families, and fellow residents of the community celebrated with the graduates and I wish them continued success in their lives. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. I have no more names on my list. We will move on. Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Minister of the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Ms. Nakashuk.

Item 4: Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 1301 – 5(2): Update on Renovations to Elder Designated Housing (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Member Pauloosie Keyootak regarding the renovations to elder designated housing. The housing corporation investigated the upkeep of the facility in Clyde River in October last year. My officials learned that the ramp leading into the building was not cleared of snow.

The local housing organization now removes the snow regularly and continues to ensure the units are well maintained, and the grounds and walkways are kept clear. The local housing organization has since completed an inspection to determine what other improvements may be necessary. They found only routine maintenance and repair was needed, and a flight of stairs needed to be lowered to make them easier to climb. The stair renovations were completed, and the elders residing there were satisfied with the repairs. The local housing organization will be completing a condition rating on these units this year.

Any additional maintenance needed will be determined through this inspection and will be completed. We have not received any complaints about the condition of the units from the elders. I would like to clarify that the Clyde River elders facility is public housing units which the local housing organization specifically assigns for elders who can live by themselves. These units are not designated as assisted living or elders’ care facilities and the housing corporation cannot offer housekeeping services or provide staff as live-in caregivers.

Should elders need assistance, they may be eligible to receive services from the Department of Health’s Territorial Home and Community Care program. They can also request home care services through their community health centre or their local home care office. These services provided by Health can be provided in the public housing units. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Returns to Oral Questions. Minister of Family Services, Ms. Sheutiapik. Return to Oral Question 1316 – 5(2): Safe Spaces for Youth (Sheutiapik) Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) I would like to return to an oral question asked by Mr. Lightstone, MLA for Iqaluit- Manirajak, asked of myself, No. 1316 –

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8335 5(2), dated Tuesday, May 31, 2021, and the subject was safe spaces for youth. Questions were: 1. Can the minister describe what specific initiatives have been funded through the department’s Youth Support Services Division since April 1, 2020? 2. I would like to ask the minister if she would be able to elaborate a little bit further exactly what sort of support and assistance has the Department of Family Services provided in the creation as well as subsequent operation of the safe shelter in Cambridge Bay? 3.

Will the minister commit to establishing a much-needed safe shelter for youth in the community of Iqaluit? Written response or my answers are: 1. I shared information about two projects that have been funded to date in fiscal year 2021-22 in Cambridge Bay and Arviat through the department’s Youth Initiative Fund. Additional applications are also currently under review. I would like to add that these two projects and two other projects were also funded in fiscal year 2020-21.

The Municipality of Pond Inlet received $100,000 for its youth centre focused on creating a safe environment for youth through fitness, building of traditional skills and connection with elders. The Arctic Child and Youth Foundation received $10,000 to provide country food in the Umingmak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre. 2. With regard to the Okalik Youth Shelter, the department’s Kitikmeot regional office works in close collaboration with the Municipality of Cambridge Bay’s healthy living department.

Family Services responds to after-hour calls for support, provides referrals, and works collaboratively with the healthy living department to connect youth in need with these supports. 3. The Department of Family Services provides support to communities through funding for the operations of youth safe spaces and programming, but not to build safe spaces. Funding is available for the operations of safe shelters for youth in Iqaluit and I am committed to working together with partners to establish one. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5.

Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Being none. Item 6. Oral Questions. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 1359 – 5(2): Katujjiqatigiinniq Protocol with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Premier. As the Premier will recall, I had the pleasure of hosting him and a number of his cabinet colleagues in Baker Lake earlier this year on the occasion of their

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8336 attendance at a Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated board meeting that was held in my community. At that time I had the opportunity to make some formal welcoming remarks and to provide my perspective as Baker Lake’s MLA on the state of the relationship between the territorial government, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, the three regional Inuit organizations, and the mining sector.

As the Premier will also recall, I raised a number of concerns in my welcoming remarks, including the need for Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the regional Inuit organizations to provide significantly more resources and dollars to address our territory’s severe infrastructure deficit and housing shortage. Can the Premier indicate the extent to which his government shares my concerns? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Savikataaq. Hon. Joe Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I definitely do remember the opening remarks from the MLA from Baker Lake. Mr.

Speaker, I share his concerns about the lack of infrastructure too. I know that we are lacking. Mr. Speaker, when I have a chance to meet with federal ministers and the Prime Minister, I state that, for infrastructure purposes here in Nunavut, we’re not even at the start line in terms of our infrastructure needs. We need to get caught up to the rest of Canada in terms of infrastructure and the services that are provided here within Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, his concerns are also my concerns. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank the Premier for his response and I’m glad he shares my concerns as well. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that one of the issues that were formally discussed by Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated’s board of directors at its meeting in Baker Lake was the idea of moving towards a new form of Inuit self-government here in Nunavut. As the Premier himself noted last week, the Government of Nunavut now provides its draft policies to Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated for review and comment.

Can the Premier confirm whether or not Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated has provided a copy of its proposed Inuit self-government policy to the Government of Nunavut for review and comment and, if it has, will he commit to sharing it with all Members of the Legislative Assembly? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Savikataaq. Hon. Joe Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

An overview of the report, to the best of my recollection, has been shared, not the actual report, to the best of my recollection, but an overview and I’ll look into whether we can share that with members or not. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8337 Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the Premier for his response and I’m hoping that he will be able to share that with us.

As the Premier will recall, one of the issues that I raised in my welcoming remarks at the recent Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated board meeting in Baker Lake was the need for greater cooperation between federal, territorial and Inuit organizations in respect to providing opportunities for Inuit to receive the training that they need for professional careers in the natural resources sector, which is a critically important part of our territory’s economy. Mr. Speaker, Baker Lake does not want its children and grandchildren to be dependent on social assistance.

Can the Premier indicate if the Government of Nunavut is satisfied with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated’s current level of support for the natural resources sector in Nunavut? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Savikataaq. Hon. Joe Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The member says he doesn’t want people in Baker Lake to want to rely on social assistance. Mr. Speaker, no one does. The goal of every parent, I believe, is that their kids will do at least as good as or better than their parents. That’s everyone’s goal. Mr.

Speaker, we work with the federal government and we work with the Inuit orgs so that we can have Nunavummiut, especially Nunavut Inuit, to be employable, whether it be the mining sector, government jobs, or private industries. We want all Nunavummiut to be employable and it all starts with education. We all need to get educated, we need training, and we all have to step up to the plate. Mr. Speaker, I will work with anyone to make sure that Nunavut Inuit, but all Nunavummiut are employable. That is our goal. We want Nunavummiut to be able to stand up on their own two feet.

We as a province don’t want to always be on handouts either. We want to be able to bolster our own money. That’s why we’re in devolution talks. That’s why we’re trying to always promote our agenda. Mr. Speaker, we all want to be self-sustainable and I have that goal too. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Question 1360 – 5(2): Elders at Embassy West in Ottawa (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I’m going to direct my question to the Minister of Health in regard to Embassy West down in Ottawa.

Ever since COVID-19 started, the pandemic, in Nunavut or nationwide, I’ll put it that way, I would just like the statistics on how many elders have been sent down as of now. Are there any

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8338 statistics that the minister can share in the House? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The elder care facility in Ottawa has room for 35 Nunavummiut and there are currently 34 people down there from Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for providing the numbers of the elders down at Embassy.

I would like to go back to the minister’s opening statements in regard to the long- term care in Rankin Inlet, which I’m in support of that. As we all know, those elders that have dementia are sent down as level 5 patients. In your minister’s statement, you stated that “…Nunavummiut with complex needs such as dementia,” and looking at the appropriations with the government’s plan, correct me if I’m wrong, minister, I believe that the Rankin Inlet facility could hold up to level 4 patients, and in your minister’s statement, our elders with dementia will be able to be there.

Is there any waiting list or how many Embassy patients with dementia will be able to go to that facility? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If my colleague would read the full paragraph, it says that “This facility will allow Nunavummiut to provide a broader range of advanced care to our clients, eventually expanding to Nunavummiut with complex needs such as dementia.” It will eventually get to dealing with those when it reaches capacity. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you.

Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I did not want the whole sentence clear, but I’m sure it won’t be right away, as the minister has just stated that it will start operating in 2023. I’m sure that elders with dementia will be on the waiting list for a long time. Now, my last question is in regard to the dementia care at Embassy. Mr. Speaker, as we all stated, we don’t want our elders to go down south. I’m sure that once they are down there, they’re culture shocked.

When they come from the Arctic and down to southern Canada where it’s very hot right now, I’m sure it’s like plus 36 down there, and we’re just getting to our pluses. My next question, once this facility is open in Rankin Inlet, I’m sure there will be 24-bed long-term care for elders. Can the minister get back to me on if there is a waiting list that the health department has created? Are there any waiting lists for those who have dementia care or who are under level 5? Is there any category that is fixed if we want to repatriate elders from Embassy? What’s the number there? How will this work out? Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Kaernerk. Minister of Health, Mr. Kusugak.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8339 Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We’re talking about a 24-bed facility. Mr. Speaker, we will attempt to fill every bed in the facility. Many of them will come from Ottawa, from Embassy West. Some might come from other communities that already have existing programs. Mr. Speaker, our department is committed to ramping up as quickly as possible to be able to bring home as many Nunavummiut as possible with the highest care that they need, but we will work to fill every bed. If it means filling it from Ottawa or other facilities in Nunavut, we will do that. Mr.

Speaker, what we also have to keep in mind is how many people or how many elders in Nunavut have not reported their elders and themselves to needing care because they don’t want to be sent south. Mr. Speaker, this is a very important facility to take care of our elders so that they get that care and the reason for having regional centres is that, to bring them so that they could get the highest level of attention that they can get as close to the regional hospitals as we can. I appreciate the question, Mr.

Speaker, and as I get more details in terms of what kinds of programs we are working to ramp up the program, I will be more than happy to share it with my colleagues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Question 1361 – 5(2): Human Resources Management in the Public Service (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you’re doing a fine job so far, just to let you know. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Human Resources.

As the minister will recall, I asked a number of questions during last fall’s sitting concerning recommendations made by the ethics officer in his annual report. At that time I noted that the ethics officer had indicated that: “…employees of the Nunavut public service work in small communities and even smaller workplaces.

Making a disclosure takes great courage and entails significant risk both in the workplace and in the community. (…) Most jurisdictions allow employees to make an internal disclosure, as is the case in Nunavut, but also allow employees to skip this step and make the disclosure directly to the relevant independent officer (in Nunavut, the Ethics Officer). (…) I...suggest that the Legislative Assembly give serious consideration to the merit of such approach.” Mr.

Speaker, the minister tabled the ethics officer’s most recent annual report last week, and I note that the ethics officer again made the same recommendation.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8340 Can the minister clearly confirm when the government will introduce amendments to the Public Service Act to implement this recommendation? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Mr. Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As we head into our final session this fall, there are no plans on making any amendments to our legislation at this time. Therefore the answer will be that it would be for the next government. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Angnakak. Ms.

Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do expect to hear a lot of that coming from the ministers at this time as October is rolling around, but I’m really hoping that the minister will provide that as a recommendation to the next minister coming forward because I think it’s a good one. As the minister will also recall, I have asked a number of questions about the government’s Harassment-Free Workplace Policy. As of today, the policy that is publicly available on his department’s website is out of date. Can the minister clearly confirm when an updated policy will be made publicly available? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Thank you, Ms. Angnakak. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thought we had corrected that already, but I’ll commit to following that up. Under our Human Resource Manual the most up to date 1010 policy or manual is available and is being used. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Angnakak. Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think that if the minister looked at the website, he will see that it expired last January. Mr.

Speaker, the current business plan of the Department of Human Resources indicates that a new Employee Wellness Strategy is “anticipated to be completed before the end of the 2020-21 fiscal year.” Can the minister clearly confirm when will the strategy be ready for tabling in the Legislative Assembly? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t have a firm deadline in terms of when that strategy is going to be completed, but I want to assure the members that that work is still ongoing and will continue.

It is a very high priority of our department to get that Wellness Division up and running and with a strategy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Netser. Question 1362 – 5(2): Airport Infrastructure Capital Projects (Netser) Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too, would like to ask questions to the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, with his other hat.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8341 (interpretation) Last week the minister informed the House that his department’s tender for the three new airport terminal buildings in Naujaat, Chesterfield Inlet, and Whale Cove will close this coming Thursday, June 10. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, what assurances can he provide us today that these tenders will not be cancelled, as has happened recently with tenders for a number of other capital projects, including renovations to the Sakku School and new public housing units in Taloyoak? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The Hon.

Minister responsible for Economic Development and Transportation, Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is our intent to build all three. As some of my colleagues have stated, this is a very unusual year, especially for construction. We are looking at our tenders as they close and looking at each one of those. This will be no different. It is one of the options in terms of whether we’re going to proceed or not. It all depends on how much the budget is in some cases. Therefore I can’t confirm whether I will be firm in getting these in or not.

We need to have the tenders closed and look at the amounts before we make those decisions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Netser. Mr. Netser (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Whenever the government puts out a tender for a contract and the bids are higher than the monies set aside, then the government starts asking the MLAs. I’m suspecting that this is for more than three contracts. Whenever a bid is over the budgeted amount, they put in a supplementary appropriation request to regular MLAs to ensure the project goes ahead.

I would like to ask the minister: if the bid is not too much higher than the money appropriated or it is not substantially over the monies available, would the department be able to consider making a supplementary appropriation to pay for the increased bid over the monies available? Can the minister commit to that since we have been waiting a long time for these important projects to be done? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank my colleague for his good words.

I would support that, but we don’t know yet at the moment because the tender for the contract is still open. Additionally, if the project ends up with three airport terminal buildings, or five, we have an agreement with the federal government where they would pay for the 75 percent and we would pay 25 percent. Once we know how much the bids are and if they are higher than the money allotted, we will have to look at different options before we proceed further.

It is better for us if the bids are close to the money allotted because, I agree, they need to be built and done, and we have put forward a request for them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8342 Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Netser. Mr. Netser (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, we have seen as a government here in the Fifth Assembly that the correctional facility in Iqaluit had one bid, it went over budget, and the extra money was approved. Right now there is a tender process happening and once the government knows how much higher the tender would be than the allotted money, these three companies will be very happy if they bid higher than the money available.

Sometimes we approve budgets that are higher than the money that was allotted. We want to make sure that these airport terminal buildings are built because we are falling significantly behind in the smaller communities, more so than in the others. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is in the competition process right now, so I have good expectations about it.

We have asked these airport terminal buildings to actually be constructed because they have to be safe everywhere in Nunavut, no matter how small or big a community is, and those three communities in the Kivalliq, one in the Kitikmeot, and one in the Baffin really need to be addressed. After the tenders have been closed, we will make whatever considerations that we have to do, but because the tenders are still open, we hope that we have set aside enough money after we find out what the bids are. If they go over budget, then we will have to make more considerations. Thank you to my colleague for bringing this up.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Gjoa Haven, Mr. Akoak. Question 1363 – 5(2): Housing Needs in Gjoa Haven (Akoak) Mr. Akoak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, I wrote correspondence to her and the Minister of Human Resources in April of this year concerning the issue of staff housing needs in my constituency of Gjoa Haven. Mr. Speaker, I received a reply from the minister on Friday of last week and I thank her for that.

In her letter to me, the minister indicated that “The Nunavut Housing Corporation had planned to construct two five-plex buildings, one for public housing and one for staff housing, in the 2020-2021 fiscal year. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation in Nunavut, priorities have shifted to addressing potential COVID-19 issues related to overcrowding. The planned staff housing units will be re-purposed to public housing.” Mr. Speaker, can the minister confirm that the Nunavut Housing Corporation formally consulted with the Gjoa Haven Housing Association before making this decision? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8343 Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, the Hon. Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that question. (interpretation ends) I will take the member’s question as notice. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The member has taken the question as notice, so I’ll move on to the next member. Member for Uqqummiut, Mr. Keyootak. Question 1364 – 5(2): Counselling Services at Boarding Homes (Keyootak) Mr. Keyootak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Health. Mr. Speaker, as per my member’s statement, I spoke about the facilities that our medical travel patients are housed in as not having enough services, such as workers providing advice or counselling services for patients and escorts. Mr. Speaker, can the minister clarify if all the medical boarding homes for the people of Baffin, Kivalliq and Kitikmeot regions have social workers or counsellors on staff? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, the Hon. Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

No, Mr. Speaker, all the boarding homes have counsellors. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Keyootak. Mr. Keyootak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the minister for clarifying that. Mr. Speaker, some patients have to stay down south for medical treatment for a very long time and some of them have the same problems that we have in our general lives.

Sometimes couples will have spats and problems, and some will turn to alcohol and other things that they’re not supposed to turn to, but they do because they have been down there for so long that they don’t seem to have any people that they can talk to. I feel a lot pity for them, especially the ones who lose family members. They don’t have anybody down there to notify family members that they have lost a family member. They should have resources in place that can help people mentally when they’re going through too much hardship.

Sometimes couples have marital problems and there doesn’t seem to be any counsellors to help them. Can the minister inform the counsellors or Family Services that they should do more to help medical travel patients? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When you’re travelling to a hospital, a lot of problems can arise unexpectedly and sometimes they can become very serious problems and it becomes confusing as to where you can turn to.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8344 We do have counsellors in different boarding homes, and I agree with my colleague that they should do more. I will ask them to be more visible in the boarding homes and to provide more information, like if they need help, this is where they can turn to sort of thing. If we could do more of that, it would be quite useful. I agree with my colleague on that, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Keyootak. Mr. Keyootak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for that information.

I am very glad to hear that. Mr. Speaker, I have another question because, as I indicated earlier, some patients are there for a very long time. Not all of them, but they can be there for months at a time with no planned activities and they just end up sitting there and waiting for their appointments. Mr. Speaker, I know that the Department of Health is not responsible for the operation of those medical boarding homes, but they are responsible for the clients that they send on medical travel. Mr.

Speaker, can you work with the boarding homes operators to ensure they have planned activities or outings provided at those centres? The people staying at the boarding homes need to have something to do to pass their time. Particularly for some medical escorts, they have to wait a very long time with nothing to do and there are some patients who are not in critical condition that are just waiting for their next appointment, with no activities available. Can the minister work with the companies who own those facilities to provide more planned activities for both the men and women? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Thank you. Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak (interpretation): Mr. Speaker, I agree with my colleague’s comments wholeheartedly. When you travel outside of your community, I know you were not talking about a daylong event. Sometimes an activity that isn’t far but takes you from the dullness of the boarding home will alleviate boredom. Even having lunch in a new place can lead to more stimulation, even if it is not a daylong event. I understand that aspect of your question and it would definitely assist our patients in all facilities that the Government of Nunavut contracts out.

I understand your reasoning and I will commit to move this forward to our officials to see if we can provide more time-consuming activities through discussions with the managers. This would apply as well to short-term patients as they need to be mentally stimulated and not all patients have the wherewithal to undertake these kinds of activities to pass away the time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for asking that question. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet, Ms. Towtongie.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8345 Question 1365 – 5(2): Sewage Leak in Rankin Inlet (Towtongie) Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, good afternoon to Chesterfield Inlet and Rankin Inlet North. My question is to the Minister of Community and Government Services. The territorial government was discharging approximately 1,600 cubic metres of raw sewage into Rankin Inlet’s Perry Bay following the discovery of a leak at the Johnson Cove Lift Station. My question to the minister is: where is this at? Is the leak still going? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you.

Minister responsible for Community and Government Services, the Hon. Ms. Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for her question. A sewage leak was identified at the Johnson Cove Lift Station in Rankin Inlet. Community and Government Services began pumping any leaked sewage back into the station immediately when the leak was discovered by the contractor. Community and Government Services operations began work to identify the location of the leak and repair the leak on June 2 and the repair efforts are ongoing.

All efforts are being made to contain any leaking wastewater during the repair, but there is a possibility of wastewater being discharged into the Johnson Cove area. Cleanup of the discharge would be undertaken during and after the repair and any discharge will be reported appropriately to the Department of Environment and Department of Health and Health Canada as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister, for your response.

I’m just curious if every effort is being made to expedite the repair in the future to reduce the duration of the bypass being engaged, mainly because we’re leaking raw sewage and that type of system is outdated. I need to know for the community of Rankin Inlet: will it be going through the wastewater treatment in the future? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for her question.

Community and Government Services makes sure that any water treatment intake facilities in our communities and any wastewater in our facilities work adequately to make sure that our water reservoirs are not a risk to human health. I can tell the member from Rankin Inlet that the current situation in Rankin Inlet, from the Department of Health, the Department of Environment, and federal agencies, they have stated that at this time there is limited risk to the public associated with this leak, but community members should maintain distance from this area. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8346 Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Hello? Mr. Speaker… Speaker: Yes. Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for her response. Rankin Inlet is one of the three communities with utilidor underwater running water. We don’t have trucked services, only to a few, and that’s outdated. It’s about 40 years old and we do get brown water. Where is the situation at? Is the utilidor going to be worked at? Along with that, will the water treatment plant be looked at and studied and designed? Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Thank you, Ms. Towtongie. Minister Ehaloak. Hon. Jeannie Ehaloak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Again I thank the member for her question. Community and Government Services is working to upgrade the Rankin Inlet utilidor to address low water pressure and leaks and low capacity. We have secured funds to upgrade the facility and we are working diligently to ensure that this system and repairs are done. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. The Hon. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Qirngnuq. Question 1366 – 5(2): Addressing Homelessness (Qirngnuq) Mr.

Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Family Services. Mr. Speaker, throughout our territory, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected many of our residents, both young and old. As an elected Member of this Assembly, I am now more than ever concerned about homelessness among my constituents.

Can the minister clearly explain how she is working with her colleagues and especially with the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation to address the desperate need for housing for my constituents? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Family Services, the Hon. Ms. Sheutiapik. Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for that question. It’s clear that homelessness is being experienced in all communities and is an additional stress. With regard to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ministers are collaborating.

For example, in Iqaluit we have contacted the Red Cross to help us with the situation. I am just using that as an example. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Qirngnuq. Mr. Qirngnuq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As my colleagues will be aware, my community of Taloyoak was expecting the honour of having two new five-plex housing units being built in the community. This would have been a huge step towards addressing the

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8347 problem of homelessness. However, we have learned that these projects have been cancelled due to high costs of goods and services. Can the minister tell us her department’s plan to address the lack of spaces for people to live in, especially in small communities like Taloyoak where there is already very limited housing available? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Sheutiapik. Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the member for his question.

Even though I’m not responsible, as the Minister responsible for Homelessness, I am always encouraging the federal government to address the issue of homelessness and in fact, last week I told them that homelessness is a growing problem that we’re struggling with. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Qirngnuq. Mr. Qirngnuq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I recognize that every community in Nunavut needs more housing. I also know that homelessness is a critical issue, even in the bigger communities.

However, I am sure you and my colleagues will appreciate how disappointing it is to find out that desperately needed housing, which was promised to the community, will no longer be built. Will the minister commit to working with the people of Taloyoak, especially those who have no homes to call their own, to find suitable accommodation for themselves and their families? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Sheutiapik. Hon. Elisapee Sheutiapik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) Our department is always committed to working with my fellow ministers, our MLAs, and especially the communities, through the Poverty Reduction Division, is exactly to do that, to reach out to each community to see potentially what spaces are available for immediate use. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Question 1367 – 5(2): Marine Infrastructure in Sanirajak (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for recognizing me again.

I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation. As the minister will recall, I tabled a hamlet council motion concerning the Sanirajak Breakwater Feasibility Study during our recent winter sitting. Can the minister confirm how his department addressed this issue? Are they supporting it? Are they planning to begin the study? Can the minister provide this House with an update at this time? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Economic Development

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8348 and Transportation, the Hon. Mr. Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will include all of the other communities. With regard to the request for funds, Sanirajak is one of the communities that have submitted a proposal. I don’t have a response to your question at this time in terms of which projects have been approved or denied. They are currently being reviewed at this time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

This breakwater has been requested for quite some time now, especially by our hunters, and there was a study done on our coastline and it is eroding. We have had cases where damage has been done to hunting equipment, such as outboard motors, and they have to pay for it out of their own pockets. It would not only be beneficial to Sanirajak, as Igloolik residents have to go through Sanirajak in the summer to go caribou hunting. Based on the response to my initial question, I will adjust my next question. Can the Department of Economic Development work with the federal government to initiate this project?

The hamlet is trying to get the study done, but it hasn’t been approved. I have supported the hamlet’s proposal and I referred it to you for approval. It was supported by the entire hamlet council in my community. There are applications available from the Department of Economic Development through the Community Transportation Initiatives Program Policy. How long will the applicants wait for a response? Will it take a year or ten years? When can the minister provide a response to the proposal? He said that he can’t provide a response at this time. When can he respond? Next week? Tomorrow? Please advise me.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We made a request to the federal government and received approval for Nunavut communities. We are reviewing where marine infrastructure will be installed and what the associated costs would be for all communities. Sanirajak has already submitted a proposal that this project be constructed, saying “This is the site and this is the cost,” etcetera. They have already submitted their proposal, and I envy those communities that do apply.

Upon our review of the ones that are approved, we will be requesting further funding. To your comment, the (interpretation ends) Community Transportation Initiatives Program (interpretation) is a pot of money that many communities apply for and we try to approve them in advance of summer because these projects can only be done during the summer months. Our office has just started reopening this past week and our employees have slowly returned to work. I know this is one of the priorities and I have issued a directive toward that, but I can’t say when it will be finalized. Upon approval

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8349 of the funds before summertime, every community that has submitted a request will have their requests reviewed. That is how we have it set up, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary question, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Your response was that all communities have applied for that program. We have communities like Iqaluit and Pond Inlet, and you are now focusing on the High Arctic and you have received additional requests. I wonder if I can get a commitment from the minister.

I would like to get a commitment, as I want to see economic activity that can create many jobs for the communities. My question for the minister is this: as you said that all communities have submitted a request, will priority be given to the have-not communities that requested marine infrastructure? I want to see progress made as well in the smaller communities. Can the minister agree with me… ? As you mentioned earlier, the hamlet has submitted their request. I think I’m asking you a two-part question. How many communities have submitted proposals and where can they initiate their proposals? Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The feasibility study that we’re conducting under the Oceans Protection Plan to do all the feasibilities for the docks for all communities that don’t have docks is there have been delays in trying to get that study done, but the priority had been for, I believe there were ten communities that were selected along with, I believe, the eight remaining other communities that don’t have docks and we’re still committed to getting that feasibility study done.

We were planning on going to each community and that was supposed to be last summer and it was not physically possible. I’m expecting that this has been modified and should be prepared for my review. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Question 1368 – 5(2): Office of the Chief Coroner (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Justice and they concern the Office of the Chief Coroner. Mr.

Speaker, I want to begin by paying tribute to the extremely important but difficult work that our community coroners perform. I do not know if I could do this job, but I want to thank every coroner in the territory for their service. Mr. Speaker, earlier this year, I think it was in March of this year, the minister made a statement in which he indicated that a justice career fair was being held and that representatives from the Office of the Chief Coroner would be present. Can the minister update the House today on how many community coroners are

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8350 currently serving in this role and can he clarify which Nunavut communities, if any, do not currently have a resident coroner? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Justice, the Hon. Mr. Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m just looking up the exact information, Mr. Speaker, if the member will bear with me for a moment. I know there were some recent appointments and I just can’t recall the exact information. I do know there are a couple of communities that are sharing, neighbouring communities.

I have a whole bunch of other statistics here, but unfortunately I don’t have the exact number of coroners that are active in the territory at this moment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Angnakak. Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps the minister can get back to the House on those numbers. Mr. Speaker, a number of my colleagues have previously asked questions about the issue of what training and support is provided to community coroners.

As the minister is aware, the annual budget for the Office of the Coroner is currently set at $901,000 and is not projected to increase over the next three fiscal years. Can the minister indicate what new initiatives are being planned to provide training and support to community coroners? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the interim I was able to locate the information. There are currently 15 coroners across the territory. The coroner’s office is putting out advertisements in the very near future to recruit more coroners.

At that time there will be a training plan established. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Angnakak. Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I noted in my opening comments earlier this year about the budget and business plan for the Department of Justice, an annual report for the Office of the Chief Coroner has not been tabled in the Legislative Assembly since the year 2014.

That report contained useful information and important recommendations which I believe should be provided to all Members of the Legislative Assembly and made accessible to the public on a regular basis. When will the minister resume the practice of tabling these important reports? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

This was part of a discussion I had with some of my departmental officials recently on some of the tabling items that we do want to put forward and as I’m sure the member knows, there has been a bit of turnover at the chief coroner’s office. We are working with that office to finalize the previous years’ annual reports and I do look forward to tabling them in the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8351 Speaker: Thank you. A note to members that the time allotted for oral question period is now expired. We will move on. Item 7. Written Questions. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. No. 10. Petitions. No. 11. Responses to Petitions. Item 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Item 12: Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters Committee Report 040 – 5(2): Bill 53,

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On behalf of the chair, I wish to report that Bill 53,

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act, has been reviewed by the Standing Committee on Legislation and that the bill, as amended and reprinted, is ready for consideration in Committee of the Whole. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive Rule 68(6) and have Bill 53 immediately moved into the Committee of the Whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you, Ms. Angnakak. The member is requesting unanimous consent to allow Bill 53 to be referred immediately to Committee of the Whole. Are there any nays? There are none and Bill 53 is referred to Committee of the Whole. Item 12.

Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Ms. Angnakak. Committee Report 041 – 5(2): Bill 73,

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act (Angnakak) Ms. Angnakak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On behalf of the chair, I wish to report that Bill 73,

An Act to Amend the Student Financial Assistance Act, has been reviewed by the Standing Committee on Legislation and that the bill is ready for consideration in Committee of the Whole. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to waive Rule 68(6) and have Bill 73 immediately moved into the Committee of the Whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. The member is requesting unanimous consent to allow Bill 73 to be referred immediately to Committee of the Whole. Are there any nays? There are none and Bill 73 is referred to Committee of the Whole.

Reports of Standing and Special Committees [on Bills] and Other Matters. Tabling of Documents. Notices of Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Item 18. Second Reading of Bills. Item 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Bills 53, 65, 72, and 73 with Ms. Angnakak in the Chair. In accordance with the authority provided to me by Motion 114 – 5(2), the committee will stay in session until it reports itself out.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8352 Before we proceed to the Committee of the Whole, we will take a 20-minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 15:49 and Committee recessed at 16:21 Item 19: Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters Chairperson (Ms. Angnakak): I would like to call the committee meeting to order. In Committee of the Whole we have the following items to deal with: Bills 72, 53, and 65. What is the wish of the committee? Mr. Kaernerk. Mr.

Kaernerk: Madam Chairperson, we wish to commence with the clause-by- clause review of Bill 72, followed by the review of Bill 53 and then Bill 65. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Chairperson (interpretation): Thank you as well. (interpretation ends) Are we in agreement that we first deal with Bill 72? Some Members: Agreed. Bill 72 – Interim Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2022-2023 – Consideration in Committee Chairperson: I would like to ask Minister Hickes: do you have officials that you would like to appear before the committee? Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Yes, please.

Chairperson: Does the committee agree to let the minister’s officials appear before you? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: For the record, Minister Hickes, please introduce your officials. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Just for the sake of time, my witnesses are actually for Bill 53, but just with respect for time, I have my Deputy Minister of Justice, Stephen Mansell, and Legislative Drafter from the Department of Justice Thomas Ahlfors. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Chairperson: Thank you, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Ahlfors has been with us for every bill, I think.

I ask members to go to Bill 72 in your legislative binder, please. Okay. Bill 72, reprint, Interim Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2022-2023. Clause 1. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: Clause 2. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: Clause 3. Go to

Schedule on page 2. Schedule. Interim Amounts Appropriated for the Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2023. Total Interim Appropriation. $37,873,000. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: That’s a big number. Clause 4. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8353 Chairperson: Clause 5. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: Clause 6. Agreed? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: Do members agree to Bill 72 (reprint)? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: Do members agree to put Bill 72 on the orders of the day for third reading? Some Members: Agreed. Chairperson: Closing comments, minister. Hon. George Hickes: None. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Bill 53 –

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act – Consideration in Committee Chairperson: Okay. We will now proceed with the review of Bill 53. Minister Hickes, please proceed with your opening comments. Minister Hickes. Hon. George Hickes: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I’m switching over to my bill here. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I am here today to discuss

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act. I will use the acronym if members and the interpreters don’t mind. The RCMP Agreement Act is a minor piece of legislation that allows the Government of Nunavut to enter into an agreement with the federal government to provide police services in Nunavut through the RCMP.

While exploring options to have civilian review of serious police involved incidents in Nunavut, we determined that we need to create a legislative authority to enter into an agreement with an independent investigatory body for the purpose of investigating serious incidents involving the RCMP. As we are now amending this legislation to expand policing authorities beyond the RCMP, it is appropriate to change the title of the legislation to the “Police Act,” which is also consistent with other jurisdictions.

It is a priority for the Department of Justice to ensure any change to the way policing in the territory is conducted is forward facing and reflects the needs of Nunavummiut. For this reason, additional amendments to this legislation also include provisions that allow for the appointment of a civilian monitor and a cultural advisor. These appointed individuals will ensure that the investigation is completed in a manner free of bias and is appropriate to the community and culture of those involved. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I’m open to any questions. Chairperson: Thank you, Mr. Hickes.

Does the chair of the standing committee

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8354 have opening comments? Please proceed, Ms. Towtongie. Ms. Towtongie: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. (interpretation) I’m the co- chair, as John Main can’t be here. As Co-Chair of the Standing Committee on Legislation, I am pleased to make opening comments as the Committee of the Whole begins its consideration of Bill 53,

An Act to Amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act. (interpretation ends) The standing committee is in strong support of the purpose of the bill, which the minister described in his opening comments. The standing committee has been engaged in a productive dialogue with the sponsoring minister concerning the bill. A number of amendments were adopted by way of motion on the occasion of the standing committee’s recent clause-by-clause consideration of the bill.

These amendments resulted in a number of significant improvements to the bill, including:  (interpretation) A requirement for the minister to table an annual report in the Legislative Assembly concerning the administration of the statute;  A requirement for the minister to table copies of agreements entered into between the Government of Nunavut and independent investigative bodies and other entities;  A requirement for written reasons to be provided and made public in circumstances where the designated authority does not appoint a contracted investigative body to review a serious incident; and  A requirement for a cultural advisor to be appointed to advise a contracted investigative body in most circumstances. (interpretation ends) Over the course of its exchanges with the sponsoring minister concerning the bill, the standing committee obtained a number of important commitments concerning issues of importance.

These include:  A commitment by the department to formally consulting with the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner concerning proposed agreements with independent investigative bodies and other entities;  A commitment to ensuring that agreements entered into between the Government of Nunavut and independent investigative bodies and other entities include disclosure requirements that are comparable to those which are in place in other Canadian jurisdictions in respect to the public reporting of investigative findings;  A commitment to work towards achieving a long-term goal of establishing a Nunavut-based civilian oversight body; and  A commitment to providing the standing committee with draft regulations for its review and comment.

Monday, June 7, 2021 Nunavut Hansard 8355 I wish to take this opportunity to note that the standing committee strongly encourages the department to communicate on an ongoing basis with appropriate entities in Nunavik, the Northwest Territories, and other Canadian jurisdictions that have significant indigenous populations with respect to identifying and implementing best practices in the area of police oversight.

I also wish to note that it is the standing committee’s understanding that the federal Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police has undertaken to conduct a systemic review of policing activities in Nunavut. The standing committee looks forward to the release of this review, which the standing committee understands to have been delayed as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. (interpretation) I will conclude today by recalling that a motion to extend the standing committee’s review period for this bill was introduced, considered, and passed during our recent winter sitting.

I am confident that all Members of the Legislative Assembly will recognize that the additional time and effort that was taken ultimately resulted in a better piece of legislation being passed for the benefit of all Nunavummiut. Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Chairperson (interpretation): Thank you as well, Ms. Towtongie. (interpretation ends) Do members have any general comments? Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Good day, minister.

Looking at the laws in Nunavut, I have noticed that whenever someone is being investigated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police or there is a complaint about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, people often do not know where to turn to. Is there a place where they can turn to in Iqaluit, or do they always have to make a phone call to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s office in southern Canada that was mentioned in the opening comments? This bill is about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

We as Inuit have our own culture and we have been told that it is the most unique culture in Nunavut, and now this bill is going to come about. From the cultural advisor aspect of it, from what I understand in reading Bill 53, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Agreement Act, yes, it is improving and Nunavut’s abilities are going to be more highlighted through this bill. I will support the bill because it incorporates Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and