NUNA VUT HANSARD UNEDITED TRANSCRIPT WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2025 IQALUIT, NUNA VUT Hansard is not a verbatim transcript of the debates of the House . It is a transcript in extenso. In the case of repetition or for a number of other reasons, such as more specific identification, it is acceptable to make changes so that anyone reading Hansard will get the meaning of what was said . Those who edit Hansard have an obligation to make a sentence more readable since there is a difference between the spoken and the written word. Debates, September 20, 1983, p. 27299. Beauchesne’s 6th edition, citation 55 Corrections: PLEASE RETURN ANY CORRECTIONS TO THE CLERK OR DEPUTY CLERK

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. Tony Akoak (Gjoa Haven) Hon. David Akeeagok (Quttiktuq) Minister of Community Services; Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for Nunavut Business Credit Corporation; Minister responsible for Nunavut Development Corporation; Minister responsible for Trade; Minister responsible for Mines; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Hon. P .J.

Akeeagok (Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu) Premier; Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs; Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Indigenous Affairs; Minister of Languages; Minister responsible for Immigration; Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council; Minister responsible for Seniors Bobby Anavilok (Kugluktuk) Janet Brewster (Iqaluit-Sinaa) Hon.

Pamela Gross (Cambridge Bay) Deputy Premier; Minister of Education; Minister of Justice; Minister responsible for Labour; Minister responsible for Human Rights Tribunal George Hickes (Iqaluit-Tasiluk) Deputy Speaker; Chair of the Committee of the Whole Hon. David Joanasie (South Baffin) Government House Leader; Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut; Minister of Environment; Minister responsible for Energy Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Mary Killiktee (Uqqummiut) Hon.

Lorne Kusugak (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Finance; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commission; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Board Adam Lightstone (Iqaluit-Manirajak) Hon. John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation Solomon Malliki (Aivilik) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (Pangnirtung) Minister of Family Services; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College; Minister responsible for Homelessness; Minister responsible for Status of Women; Minister responsible for Poverty Reduction Karen Nutarak (Tununiq) Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Joanna Quassa (Aggu) Inagayuk Quqqiaq (Netsilik) Alexander Sammurtok (Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet) Joe Savikataaq (Arviat South) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Craig Simailak (Baker Lake) Officers Clerk Deputy Clerk Stephen Innuksuk Wendy Bens Clerk’s Assistant Law Clerk Sergeant-at-Arms Hansard Production Kooyoo Nooshoota Michael Chandler Maliktoo Nooshoota Uqausirmit Uqausirmut Inc. 926 Sivumugiaq Street, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 3H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Website: www.assembly.nu.ca

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ................................................................................................................................ 1 Ministers’ Statements ...................................................................................................................... 1 Returns to Oral Questions ............................................................................................................. 19 Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ........................................................................................... 20 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................... 22 Reports of Standing and Special Committee on Bills and Other Matters ..................................... 46 Tabling of Documents ................................................................................................................... 47 Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters ......................................... 49 Report of the Committee of the Whole ......................................................................................... 87 Third Reading of Bills ................................................................................................................... 87 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................... 88

A. Daily References Wednesday, September 17, 2025 ..................................................................................................... 1 B.

Ministers’ Statements 668 – 6(2): The Final Mandate Report (Akeeagok P) ..................................................................... 1 669 – 6(2): Interoperable Electronic Health Records Program (Main) ........................................... 3 670 – 6(2): 2025 Sport and Recreation Award Recipients (Akeeagok D) ....................................... 4 671 – 6(2): Reflect the Light (Nakashuk) ........................................................................................ 6 672 – 6(2): Realignment of Official Languages Branch (Akeeagok P) .......................................... 7 673 – 6(2): FANS Holiday Travel (Gross) ...................................................................................... 8 C.

Members’ Statements 917 – 6 (2): Birthday Greeting to Daughter (Qavvik) ..................................................................... 9 918 – 6(2): Gratitude to Wife and Staff (Sammurtok) ..................................................................... 9 919 – 6(2): Thank Everyone in the Last Four Years (Simailak) .................................................... 10 920 – 6(2): Sports in Nunavut - Canada Soccer (Hickes) ..............................................................11 921 – 6(2): Thank Everyone During the Term as Premier (Akeeagok P) ..................................... 12 922 – 6(20: Recognize Sports in Nunavut and Birthday Greetings to Grandson (Kusugak) ................................................................................................................................ 14 923 – 6(2): Thank Everyone During the Last Four Years (Main) ................................................. 15 924 – 6(2): Thank Everyone During the Last Four Years (Akeeagok D) ...................................... 16 925 – 6(2): Remembering Jack Kappuna (Gross) ......................................................................... 17 926 – 6(2): Thank Everyone (Nakashuk) ...................................................................................... 17 927 – 6(2): Thank Everyone (Killiktee) ........................................................................................ 18 D.

Oral Questions 1435 – 6(2): Intersex and Assigning Gender (Brewster) ............................................................... 22 1436 – 6(2): Update on New Program Software – Oracle Fusion Cloud (Hickes) ....................... 24

1437 – 6(2): Nunavut 3000 (Anavilok) ......................................................................................... 26 1438 – 6(2): Local Transportation for Medical Clients (Killiktee) ............................................... 28 1439 – 6(2): Final Mandate Report (Savikataaq) .......................................................................... 30 1440 – 6(2): Departmental Positions (Quassa) .............................................................................. 33 1441 – 6(2): Jessie Oonark Centre Renovations (Simailak) .......................................................... 35 1442 – 6(2): Students Supported by FANS (Lightstone)............................................................... 37 1443 – 6(2): Patients Sent for Medical Travel (Malliki) ............................................................... 38 1444 – 6(2): Activities of the Nunavut Housing Corporation (Sammurtok) ................................. 39 1445 – 6(2): New Health Centre for Kugaaruk (Quqqiaq) ............................................................ 41 1446 – 6(2): Update - QEC Infrastructure in Sanirajak (Kaernerk) .............................................. 43 1447 – 6(2): Parent Concerns about School Staff (Nutarak) ......................................................... 45 E.

Tabling of Documents 460 – 6(2): Government of Nunavut Katujjiluta 6th Assembly Mandate Final Report 2021-2025 ............................................................................................................................... 47 461 – 6(2): 2024-2025 Nunavut Bureau of Statistics Annual Report ............................................ 47 462 – 6(2): Report Respecting Benefits Paid to Ministers – March 21, 2024 ............................... 47 463 – 6(2): 2023-2024 Department of Education Annual Report ................................................. 47 464 – 6(2): 2024-2025 Progress Report on LOI Regulations and Curriculum .............................. 48 465 – 6(2): 2024-2025 Nunavut Development Corporation Annual Report ................................. 48 466 – 6(2): Family Wellness Ilagiitsiarniq Strategic Action Plan Progress Update Report...................................................................................................................................... 48 467 – 6(2): Minister of Health’s 2024-2025 Tobacco and Smoking Act Annual Report...................................................................................................................................... 48 468 – 6(2): 2024-2025 Public Service Annual Report .................................................................. 48 469 – 6(2): 2025-2028 Inuktut Language Training Strategic Plan ................................................ 49 470 – 6(2): Kivalliq Inter-Community Road Study –

Summary Report ....................................... 49

F.

Committee Motions 9 – 6(2): Bill 78 - Add to Clause 3 ................................................................................................ 63 10 – 6(2): Bill 78 - Add Clause 4 .................................................................................................. 69 11 – 6(2): Bill 78 - add Clause 20 ................................................................................................. 71 12 – 6(2): Bill 78 - Add Clause 40 ................................................................................................ 73 13 – 6(2): Bill 78 - add subclause 44(1) ........................................................................................ 74 G.

Bills Bill 76 –

An Act to Amend the Official Languages Act and the Inuit Language Protection Act – Consideration in Committee ........................................................................ 50 Bill 78 –

An Act to Amend the Vital Statistics Act – Consideration in Committee ....................... 60 Bill 84 – Write-Off of Assets Act, 2024-2025 – Consideration in Committee .............................. 76 Bill 76 –

An Act to Amend the Inuit Language Protection Act and the Official Languages Act – Third Reading .............................................................................................. 87 Bill 78 As Amended –

An Act to Amend the Vital Statistics Act – Third Reading ....................... 87 Bill 84 – Write-Off of Assets Act, 2024-2025 – Third Reading .................................................... 88

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 1 Iqaluit, Nunavut Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Hon. P.J. Akeeagok, Hon. Tony Akoak, Mr. Bobby Anavilok, Ms. Janet Brewster, Hon. Pamela Gross, Mr. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Mr. Joelie Kaernerk, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Mr. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Adam Arreak Lightstone, Hon. John Main, Mr. Solomon Malliki, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Ms. Karen Nutarak, Mr. Daniel Qavvik, Ms. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Joseph Quqqiaq, Mr. Alexander Sammurtok, Mr. Joe Savikataaq, Mr. Craig Simailak. >>House commenced at 13:31 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Mr. Tony Akoak) (interpretation): (no

interpretation) >>Prayer Speaker (interpretation): Good afternoon, colleagues. Our second last day. (interpretation ends) I’m a little on the low side today. I hope you guys can cheer me up this afternoon. Thank you. Item 2, Members’ Statements, or Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 668 – 6(2): The Final Mandate Report (Akeeagok

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, my colleagues and Nunavummiut, and those listening in. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, when this Assembly first gathered in Iqaluktuuttiaq, we carried a note of inspiration on our wall, and it had mentioned “Manifesting the courageous dream.” That dream became Katujjiluta mandate, working together, and it guided our work over the past four years.

Through hardship and through hope, we stood side by side with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, the regional Inuit associations, our colleagues in this House, and communities across our territory. Together, we confronted the greatest challenges of our time: housing, elder care, health and healing, education, and the economy. Mr. Speaker, the report I table today, the Final Mandate Report of the Sixth Assembly, provides Nunavummiut with a transparent record of the progress we made.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 2 We achieved historic milestones. On January 18, 2024, the signing of the Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement. For the first time, Nunavummiut secured a direct voice in deciding how our lands, waters, and resources will be managed. This was more than a transfer of power; it affirmed that sovereignty begins right here at home, Mr. Speaker, in our families, our communities, and in our right to make decisions for ourselves. Mr.

Speaker, We also co-hosted the 2025 Arctic Sovereignty and Security Summit with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and laid the groundwork for the forthcoming Nunavut Arctic Sovereignty and Security Strategy; a made-in-Nunavut framework to guide Canada’s place in the North, rooted in Inuit leadership. Closer to home, we delivered Nunavut’s first territory-wide Elder and Senior Care Plan, opened the $194-million Kivalliq Long-Term Care, and expanded home care and supported housing.

We advanced Igluliuqatigiingniq Nunavut 3000, building over 1,000 new homes with 2,000 more underway through our landmark partnership with NCC, the single largest housing expansion in Nunavut’s history. We invested in health and healing: expanding mental health supports, opening new wellness programs in 19 communities, and preparing for the opening of the $83.7-million recovery centre in Iqaluit. We reached $10-a-day childcare three years ahead of schedule, expanded full-day kindergarten, and strengthened Inuktut resources across our schools.

We also completed Nunavut’s first Arts and Cultural Industries Strategy, signed our first Inuit-led renewable energy agreement, and opened new airport infrastructure that connects our communities to opportunities. Mr. Speaker, none of this work was done by government alone. These successes belong to Nunavummiut, to elders who shared their wisdom, to youth stepping into leadership, to families who held fast to language and culture while embracing change. Their resilience is the foundation of every step forward. The Katujjiluta mandate was a courageous dream.

While no government ever completes the work, together we showed what is possible when we act in unity, grounded in our values and committed to our people. Mr. Speaker, It has been an honour to serve Nunavummiut through this Assembly. To our partners, to our communities, to our families I say: Qujannamiik. The foundation we have built is strong, and the path ahead is clear: one rooted in Inuit values, and one that we will continue to walk together, side by side, for Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 3 Speaker: Minister’s Statement. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Minister’s Statement 669 – 6(2): Interoperable Electronic Health Records Program (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, my colleagues. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on the implementation of Nunavut’s Interoperable Electronic Health Record, known as iEHR, and to reaffirm our commitment to advancing digital health care across Nunavut.

The Department of Health continues to make significant strides in implementing and enhancing the iEHR system, known as Meditech. This system is now operational in all 25 Nunavut communities and at two southern referral centres, the Ottawa Health Services Network Inc., and Kivalliq Inuit Services in Winnipeg. Meditech serves as a central platform for Nunavut’s health services, streamlining clinical workflows, strengthening patient safety, and ensuring integrated care delivery. Mr. Speaker, we are committed to ensuring that Meditech evolves to meet the needs of our health care providers and patients.

In fiscal year 2025-2026 we will be upgrading the emergency department and inpatient care modules at Qikiqtani General Hospital to a modern web-based platform. This step will bring Meditech up to its most current version, ensuring that our hospital is using the latest technology available. In the Kivalliq region, the Dynacare Lab interface went live on June 23, 2025. This integration allows test results from specimens sent out of territory to flow directly into Meditech, giving clinicians faster access to information and improving patient care. Mr. Speaker, we continue to expand digital care pathways.

The eConsult triage workflow project is still in development. Once complete, it will allow specialists in Ottawa to review and triage referral requests from Nunavut, improving access to timely specialist care. Clinicians at the new long-term care in Rankin Inlet are now using Meditech, ensuring residents benefit from the same electronic health record system used across Nunavut. The Colorectal Cancer Screening Program has begun using Meditech as its information system in Rankin Inlet, Kimmirut, and Clyde River.

In June, we launched the electronic notification, or “message and task” functionality, for locum physicians. This now alerts them when lab, imaging, and report results are completed in Meditech, a functionality previously limited to full-time physicians. Looking ahead, Nunavut is proud to be one of ten jurisdictions participating in Canada Health Infoway’s national Artificial Intelligence Scribe initiative. This project will support clinical documentation using ambient voice technology, reducing administrative

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 4 burden and improving accuracy. Vendor selection will prioritize compatibility with Meditech and compliance with privacy standards. Mr. Speaker, we are also continuing the phased rollout of the Meditech Materials Management Module, which replaces paper ordering with electronic ordering capabilities of medical supplies. The Kitikmeot region is now complete, and the Kivalliq region is scheduled for implementation in 2025–2026. Meditech is more than a record-keeping system.

It is a comprehensive platform that supports clinical charting, admissions, medical travel, and health information management. It enables clinicians to access patient records remotely, ensuring continuity of care across jurisdictions. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health remains steadfast in its commitment to modernizing health care delivery through digital innovation. The iEHR is reshaping the future of health care in Nunavut. This transformation is not just about technology, but it’s building a system that is smarter, safer, and more connected to the needs of our communities.

This ensures that every interaction is informed, secure, and responsive to the health journey of every Nunavummiut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Minister’s Statement. Hon. Minister of Community Services, Mr. David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 670 – 6(2): 2025 Sport and Recreation Award Recipients (Akeeagok

D) Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, before I start, I want to apologize to all those names that I will be butchering again. I really do apologize. I have a difficult time saying their names properly. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share the incredible achievement of Nunavummiut athletes in our great territory. On October 4th, the Recreation Parks Association, Nunavut Sport Federation, and Community Services’ Sport and Recreation Division will co-host and celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Sport and Recreation Awards.

The Sport and Recreation Division awards are distinguished amongst five categories and the recipients of each category this year are: Male Athlete of the Year, Miles Brewster from Iqaluit.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 5 >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: Female Athlete of the Year, Ivalu Leishman Brocklebank, Chesterfield Inlet. >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: Coach of the Year, Martine Dupont, Iqaluit. >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: Administrator of the Year, Charles Lagacé, Iqaluit. >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: Team of the Year, Under 18 Kivalliq Canucks, Arviat. >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: Special Recognition Award for outstanding contributions to sport Abbas Parks, Pond Inlet. >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: Gleason Uppahuak, Arviat. >>Applause Hon.

David Akeeagok: Sherri Young (Iqaluit). >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): And a posthumous recognition for the late Jon Tassugat, from Pangnirtung, which his parents will be present to accept the award. (interpretation ends) In addition, the Recreation and Parks Association of Nunavut also presented two awards recognizing outstanding accomplishments and contributions to community recreation. The successful recipients of these awards are being presented to Calm Air Youth Leader Award of Excellence, Naja Pearce of Iqaluit. >>Applause Hon.

David Akeeagok: Recreation Leader of the Year, Jolene Kigusiutnar, Arviat.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 6 >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: In addition, NU Sport Federation recognizes a Kivalliq community within the territory for their promotion and enhancement of sport programming in their community. This year’s community recipient is presented to, Calm Air Community Sport Award, Arviat. >>Applause Hon. David Akeeagok: On behalf of my colleagues, I wish to acknowledge the accomplishments and congratulate all the recipients of the 2025 Sport and Recreation Awards.

Finally, I would also like to also thank the Recreation Parks Association of Nunavut for hosting the event in conjunction with their annual Recreation Leadership Conference and Nunavut Sport Coaching Symposium. It will be a wonderful weekend celebrating sport and recreation leaders across the territory. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Minister’s Statement. Hon. Minister responsible for the Status of Women, Ms. Nakashuk. Minister’s Statement 671 – 6(2): Reflect the Light (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (indiscernible) I hate to speak after that, because I can’t beat what he just said. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council’s work around gender-based violence in Nunavut, funded by the Government of Canada’s Department of Women and Gender Equality. Everyone deserves a healthy relationship, but not everyone is in one. More than half of Inuit women experience violence as adults, and Inuit women are 13 times more likely to experience violence than other women in Canada. Mr.

Speaker, no one should experience violence in their relationship, but many women and girls do. Knowing how to talk about abuse can help stop it. That’s why Qulliit is launching a new campaign on violence in relationships. Qulliit’s Reflect the Light project

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 7 aims to share resources on relationship violence and abuse, educate, and encourage people to talk to their loved ones. Mr. Speaker, building on conversations and consultations with people across Nunavut over the last 18 months, including elders, youth, social workers, service providers, and many more, Reflect the Light encourages Nunavummiut to be open, support one another, and create change. With the launch of our website, we’re asking Nunavummiut to let the light in and start important, open conversations about healthy relationships.

At www.reflectthelight.ca, you can find information about gender-based violence in Nunavut, where to get help, explore the myths and facts that shape the conversation about relationships and safety, and download community resources to educate about healthy relationships. Mr. Speaker, together, we can light the way to a future without violence. It’s time to start conversations with our family and community for the generations of today and tomorrow. Please visit the site and help us spread the word. Qujannamiik, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Minister’s Statement. Hon. Minister of Culture and Heritage, Mr.

Pauloosie Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 672 – 6(2): Realignment of Official Languages Branch (Akeeagok

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to announce some important changes within the Department of Culture and Heritage’s organizational structure that will strengthen our government’s ability to meet its language obligations, but also support the growth of Inuktut. Our government has a duty under the Official Languages Act and the Inuit Language Protection Act to ensure Nunavummiut could work and receive services in any official language. Over the past years, Mr.

Speaker, reviews and committee reports have highlighted capacity challenges within our language programs, resulting in the need to realign how we organize and work on language files. Mr. Speaker, to address this, the Department of Culture and Heritage is restructuring its Official Languages Branch. This includes the creation of a new Assistant Deputy

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 8 Minister of Official Languages, a new Director of Language Acts Implementation, and the re-profile of a Director of Language Programs. This realignment will create a clear separation between program delivery and legislation implementation, ensuring both areas receive the dedicated attention they require. This change aligns with recommendations from the Standing Committee on Legislation and the Office of the Languages Commissioner, which called for stronger leadership and direction in language implementation. Mr.

Speaker, these changes will ensure we have the structure and leadership necessary to protect, promote, and advance Inuktut. I am confident this re-alignment will allow us to better serve Nunavummiut, fulfill our commitments under the Inuit Language Protection Act and Official Languages Act, and strengthen our language. Qujannamiik. >>Applause Speaker: Minister’s Statement. Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Minister’s Statement 673 – 6(2): FANS Holiday Travel (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Good afternoon, Mr.

Speaker, to all of our colleagues and everyone that is here in the House with us today and across our beautiful territory. I know there are some eager students that have been watching over the past little while, and we’ve had some wonderful news come out about the financial assistance for Nunavut students and I want to share some special news as well so students are aware. Mr. Speaker, improving the Financial Assistance for Nunavut Students program has been one of my top priorities as Minister of Education.

The changes I announced last week will help many students and encourage more Nunavummiut to apply for post-secondary studies. One important change I want to highlight today is the new travel allowance for Inuit students with families. Under the old program, only single students were provided travel home at Christmas. Now, all full-time Inuit students, including those with families, will be supported to travel home – >>Applause Hon. Pamela Gross: – with their eligible children and dependents at Christmas, and to return to school afterwards.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 9 Students can book this holiday travel at any time by contacting the FANS office at fanstravel@gov.nu.ca or by calling 1-877-860-0680. Mr. Speaker, this change will make a real difference for students with children and will help reduce barriers for Inuit to pursue post-secondary education. Quana, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 3, Members’ Statements. Member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik. Member’s Statement 917 – 6 (2): Birthday Greeting to Daughter (Qavvik) Mr. Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, colleagues and to the people of Hudson Bay. Mr.

Speaker I rise today to share a special greetings to one of my children. My panik Kitty Inuktuluk (ph)turned big 17 today, so happy birthday, Kitty. She’s actually here with me in Iqaluit, and every day I tell her, do you want to be on TV? And she always nods and says no, I’m camera shy. So I found a way. She’s very hard to get a picture of her, and I found a way to have a nice photo with her. It’s only by having a twofie. Happy birthday, Kitty. (interpretation) Have a very good birthday day and I love you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement.

Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok. Member’s Statement 918 – 6(2): Gratitude to Wife and Staff (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to all Nunavummiut and Chesterfield Inlet people, and in Rankin Inlet, and my colleagues. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, four years have come and gone, and this is our last sitting before the fall election. (interpretation) I want to express my gratitude to my wife, my children, because they always supported me, and I would like to thank my other supporters, Toomy Sammurtok (ph) in Rankin Inlet.

We’re always able to work well together. (interpretation ends) I also would like to say a big thank you to the people of Chesterfield Inlet and Rankin Inlet for the trust they have given me for representing them in the last four years.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 10 Last but not least researchers, Ms. Sibon (ph) and Mr. Baldwin, and all the staff and interpreters. Thank you, all. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Member’s Statement 919 – 6(2): Thank Everyone in the Last Four Years (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, all, people of Baker Lake. This has been a very fast four-year term we’ve gone through right now, or just completing. I would like to say a big thank you to some people as well. My first constituency assistant, Gabriel.

Thank you very much for stepping in for a few months at the start of this term. Daisy Katalook, Evana Paniak (ph), she has been my assistant for the last three-and-a-half years. She held down my office in Baker Lake whenever I was here in Iqaluit, or away on medical, or away for other meetings. She passed on valuable information and concerns from my constituents, questions or concerns that have been passed on. I would like to thank my parents, my other half, Marilyn, our kids, and of course God. All these people and God have kept me very grounded and kept my head on straight.

It’s been an honour serving my constituency. There have been many days and nights of reading, taking

part in meetings. It is sometimes quite stressful as we all know in this House, but it has been a privilege advocating for my community. I want to thank my colleagues and the ministers for all the work we’ve done the last four years during this term. I’m proud of all the work that has been done and is still being done as we speak. Mr. Speaker, some of the work that has been done in Baker Lake this term, pre-planning new health centre. We went through capital budget.

Baker Lake hamlet now has a brand new gravel crusher paid 100 per cent by the Government of Nunavut, from Community and Government Services of the day which is now Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. The old yellow hospice health centre was demolished. Again, thank you to Community and Government Services. There’s a new wellness hub that is coming to Baker Lake, thank you to Family Services and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 11 Mr. Speaker, I’m almost done my member statement. I’m seeking unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are none. Please proceed, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you colleagues. That wellness hub will come a long way to my community. There will be rooms to do cultural programming. There will be rooms for counselling, one-on-one counselling with elders. It’s going to come a long way to my community. Baker Lake is now on schedule, actually ahead of

schedule to receive our new Royal Canadian Mounted Police detachment. Thank you to the Department of Justice and all the staff over there, end of this year. Should be on schedule. Thirty brand new housing units. Thank you to Mr. Kusugak and Nunavut Housing Corp. >>Applause And there are a few new positions in Baker Lake. Three new positions at Qulliq Energy Corporation, thank you to the minister and to the board of Qulliq Energy Corporation. And again to the Justice department for one brand-new position, a victims care coordinator into the department.

That’s going to go a long way as well to help victims go through counselling and whatnot. And Family Services there are three new positions being worked on right now as community social service workers. Baker Lake being the fourth largest community, it has been needing quite a bit of attention for years now and I’m glad we could only do this work the last four years to get this going. Thank you all very much, and there’s still more work to do, which is why my name will be on the ballot in the next general election next month. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement.

Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Member’s Statement 920 – 6(2): Sports in Nunavut - Canada Soccer (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as we saw earlier with a very energetic minister’s statement that was brought forward earlier today, sports in Nunavut provides so many positive opportunities for Nunavummiut of all ages, from young children wanting to follow their older relatives’ and neighbours’ footsteps, to the parents, grandparents, and other family members cheering on our athletes.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 12 To the athletes themselves, we get exposed to incredible opportunities to travel and compete at community, territorial, national, and international levels. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important visit of Canada Soccer to Nunavut as part of their national listening tour. Through this initiative Canada Soccer is meeting with provincial and territorial soccer associations across the country to strengthen trust, build alignment, and ensure every region has a voice and shape in the future of our sport. Mr.

Speaker and members, we are honoured to have with us in the gallery today Mr. Peter Augruso, president of Canada Soccer from Thunder Bay, Ontario, and his colleague, Mr. Matt Young from Vancouver, British Columbia, who is supporting this initiative. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of this House, I extend a warm welcome to them both. Mr. Speaker, I also want to thank the Nunavut Soccer Association for ensuring that the unique experience of our players, coaches, and communities are recognized at this national level.

The board is reported by Colby O’Donnell (ph) from here in Iqaluit; Candice Graham of Rankin Inlet, as vice president; Scott McDonald from here in Iqaluit, director for Qikiqtaaluk; Emma Keegan from Kugaaruk, director for Kitikmeot; Sheila Nattar from Coral Harbour, director for Kivalliq; Joey Rose from here in Iqaluit, director of finance; and Todd James from here in Iqaluit, as executive director. Mr. Speaker and members, I would like to note as well that Canada, alongside Mexico and the United States will co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

This global event highlights why engaging communities across the country, including here in Nunavut, is so important. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize the incredible volunteers across Nunavut, from coaches and referees and parents and organizers. Your dedication allows hundreds of young people in our territory to play soccer and futsal. You are the foundation of the game and inspiration behind its growth. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 921 – 6(2): Thank Everyone During the Term as Premier (Akeeagok

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I would like to welcome visitors in the gallery.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 13 (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, prior to our sitting concludes in the next few days and before I close this

chapter as premier, I want to take a moment and to really speak from my heart and to thank the people who have been my foundation, my strength, ,and my greatest source of pride. (interpretation) First of all my mother up in Grise Fiord, and my brother and younger brother who have supported me through my whole term, even though we’ve had hardships and challenges along the way, and my in-law and one of my very best friends. She was the first one that I approached whenever I needed help or support and also to give me advice. She’s no longer here on this earth, but I visit her every day.

She still helps me keep on my feet. I would like to thank her. I was going to make a happy speech, but I’m a little touched. And my wife, Parniga, who is here in the gallery. (interpretation ends) My wife, who is my best friend, my partner in every sense of the word. You have carried so much behind the scenes, the late night, the missed dinners I wasn’t around, for the moments I couldn’t be there. You held our family together with grace and unwavering love and support.

You’ve truly been the quiet force behind every decision, every milestone, and every moment I stood in front of a podium, or when I was halfway or at the end of this country, pushing and advocating for Nunavut. Your sacrifices made my service possible and your belief in me gave me the courage to be able to lead. I owe so much of this journey to you. Mr. Speaker, (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Speaker: Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are none. Please proceed, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J.

Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. And to my children, Jasmine, Jacob, and Ryan, who’s here with us today, you’ve grown up with Ataata who often was away, who missed many basketball games, many hockey games, I’ve missed many hunting trips on a calm cool day down the bay with you and the quiet evenings at home, and yet all three of you never complained. You understood the weight of this very important role, and stood by me with maturity beyond your years. You’ve watched me carry the responsibility of the leadership, and in your own way, you have carried that too.

I want you to know that everything we’ve accomplished you truly have been a part of. Your support made it real, each of you, and your patience, your love, and your quiet strength gave me the clarity that I needed when we went through some very difficult moments as well.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 14 This journey was never mine alone. It was all ours. Every step I took, I took with you by my side. You’ve given me the gift of purpose and the strength to be able to carry it. And now, as I step away from this role, I do so with much, much deep gratitude, not just for the opportunity to serve, but for the family that made it possible. Mr. Speaker, the most important title I will ever hold isn’t being premier, it’s being a husband, and Ataata to my kids, and I’m proud to return to that role with my whole heart. With that, Mr.

Speaker, I want to thank them and say I love you. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Rankin Inlet South, Mr. Kusugak. Member’s Statement 922 – 6(20: Recognize Sports in Nunavut and Birthday Greetings to Grandson (Kusugak) Hon. Lorne Kusugak: You have to put me up after that? >>Laughter Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to also recognize how important sports is in our society, in our country. I was at a conference once when they said that every dollar we spend on sports saves $14 in the Department of Health.

That’s an incredible difference and impact that every dollar we spend on sports does. I encourage future governments to spend even more money on that instead of spending it on health in the long term. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank all the volunteers out there. I appreciate my colleague for mentioning Candice Grant, my daughter, who spends countless hours volunteering in soccer and baseball and hockey, and any other thing that happens in our community. Mr.

Speaker, one of my other daughters one time said that she wanted to play soccer and there was to no soccer for little children that are in kindergarten, so my wife volunteered and booked the time for the gym on a Saturday, so that group could play soccer. Off they went to play soccer. She was all excited. The next weekend it was time to go play soccer again, and so we said okay time to go play soccer. I don’t want to play soccer any more. Why not? All they do is run and kick the ball. >>Laughter Pretty much sums soccer up, but it’s a great sport, nonetheless.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 15 Mr. Speaker, what I actually stood up here to say today is 16 years ago when I was in this House, actually, I gained a grandson. And over those years I don’t think I made any of his birthdays, because I’ve been sitting around this room for a while. I would just like to wish him a happy 16th birthday. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Arviat North-Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Member’s Statement 923 – 6(2): Thank Everyone During the Last Four Years (Main) Hon. John Main: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As I mentioned yesterday, just as we end this government, I feel a lot of gratitude and I feel so thankful to so many people. But today, Mr. Speaker, I wanted to just take my two minutes and 12 seconds to thank every one of my colleagues here in the House, including yourself, Mr. Speaker, first of all. Thank you for your leadership here in the House. I think you’ve done an excellent job of – >>Applause – making sure that we conduct our business in an orderly manner. And I want to thank every one of my colleagues, cabinet, regular members, we’re all members.

I’ve learned things from every one of you, and I had the privilege to visit many of your constituencies. Sorry I didn’t make it to all of the constituencies. Even though we haven’t always agreed on things, we have disagreed, and maybe we’ll disagree again in a few minutes, but at the end of the day, I think the system that we have here, the consensus model is really special. It’s really special and unique, and I just feel so privileged to have worked alongside of you for years. I’ve almost exactly spent the exact amount of time on each side of the House. We have been through so much together.

We’ve had babies born. We have had loved ones pass away. We’ve had personal difficulties in our families. At the end of the day, once this government is dissolved and the next one comes in, we will always have a certain special kind of bond between members, the 6th Assembly. And we are in kind of a messed up kind of way, or messy way, we are kind of family. So (interpretation) Thank you very much, my colleagues. You have been excellent representatives and you have educated me, which has come a long way. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 16 Member’s Statement 924 – 6(2): Thank Everyone During the Last Four Years (Akeeagok

D) Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I represent three communities in the high Arctic, and I am very privileged to have represented those three communities. I will try and name everybody that I would like to show gratitude to. The elders who were my foundation when I visited any one of those three communities, I have something to eat with the elders. They have given me advice and we have had dialogue in all of those three communities. And the elders are and I do apologize right away, as I might have might have forgotten somebody.

But my in-law, Leah Kalluk, who has urged me and supported me and gave me advice on some of the things that she would like to see in Nunavut. In Grise Fiord, my older brother Jaypeetee Akeeagok, who gave me advice on being a politician, and also my uncle Imooshie Nutarajuk, Lizu Ninguk, Larry and Annie Audlaluk, and Mr. Kauvavow Kigutak. My in-law, again, Mary Kalluk, who supported me during my campaign and this one that I look on as a mother. Simon Idlout, Katasie Idlout, Aleshak Kheraj, Susan Saloviniq, Ally Saloviniq, Tagaaq Manik and Tony Manuk.

I would like to expend my gratitude to those individuals I named. And again in Arctic Bay, Mosesie Oyukuluk, Zipporah Oyukuluk. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Speaker: Member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? There are none. Please proceed, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you my colleagues and thank you for letting me complete my statement.

Mosesie Oyukuluk, Zipporah Oyukuluk Qaunanaq, Martha Qaunanaq, Tootalik Eejaniaq, Paul Eejaniaq, my in-law, Tommy Tatetoapik, my in-law, Isaac Shooyook, Qaumayuk Oyukluk, Emma Oyukluk, and as well an individual who passed away, Kate Qappik Attgutsiak, whom we always remember as well. Olayuk Naqitarvik, Shappu Kigvtikarjuk, Aloolo Akikuluk, Bill Hughes, Tabisha Hughes as well. There are many more individuals I would like to appreciate, but I did not mention them. I would like to thank them for always being receptive and also being my foundation. Thank you, elders. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 17 >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Cambridge Bay, Ms. Gross. Member’s Statement 925 – 6(2): Remembering Jack Kappuna (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker, and good afternoon to everyone listening, particularly those in Cambridge Bay. I have a statement that I would like to share, and I’m thinking of all of my family, my loved ones as I share this little message about my uncle Jack Kappuna, Senior, who was a very instrumental man for Nunavut.

He is survived my aunt Rosy, his children Pam and her spouse Wayne, Kirby, Amanda and her other half Ian, Karen and her other half, Peter, as well as my cousin, Jack Junior and his partner, Domika and Keenan, as well as their many grandchildren and great grandchildren in Iqaluktuuttiaq and Cambridge Bay. Mr. Speaker, Jack Kupeuna was a key negotiator of the Nunavut Agreement, and one of the signatories of the Nunavut Agreement. He was a tireless man at his work.

For many years, I believe over 30 years he worked to negotiate the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement, travelling all across Canada, and was away for a lot of the time throughout his lifetime, dedicating his life to being an advocate for Inuit, for Nunavut, and he played a very significant part of ensuring that Inuit rights were brought to the forefront of the agreement. He had an emphasis on learning from other Indigenous groups and incorporating that into responsible management and resource management, and contributions from our elders, and he wanted to ensure that women’s rights were also included in the agreement.

I know he did a lot of work and sacrifices on behalf of our people, and I just want to say a special thank you to him. He was a very witty man, Mr. Speaker, so for those who knew him knew he carried a sense of humour, and he didn’t go without a punch. Every time you saw him he had something funny to share or say to you, or just joke around, and that’s how I think we remember him. Mr. Speaker, I thank him for his work and my thoughts are with the family. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Member’s Statement 926 – 6(2): Thank Everyone (Nakashuk)

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 18 Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all I would like to send my appreciation to the Pangnirtung residents for electing me and my constituencies. There are many people who have given me advice, especially the elders. Thank you and my family and also my children, whom I’ve always left behind. I know that they are very capable. And as well my colleagues.

For the first time I was elected and for the second time since I was elected, I thank the members who have been long time members here, who have been giving me support and also my colleagues at the minister’s cabinet, that they provide support to me. I thank each and every one of you. And also the staff at the Legislative Assembly, interpreters. But I do want to especially talk about the reason why I rose today, since there is an election next month. I urge all the women out there to run as a candidate. We would like to see more women at the House here.

They have a very strong voice, even at home and although they are homemakers as well and they work hard in the home, they are very smart and intelligent, so I’m urging Inuit women, even though you may young, I know you are very intelligent and capable of working, so I’m urging you to run as a candidate for the Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Member’s Statement. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Member’s Statement 927 – 6(2): Thank Everyone (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Good afternoon to the people of Nunavut and also my constituency of Uqqummiut riding. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to thank you, Mr. Speaker. You have helped me and given advice to me during the House since I was elected. This is the very first time I actually watched the clock, and I now have been timing myself, and who has been speaking the shortest time and the longest time. I don’t want to just give in, although I had almost given up only once, Mr. Speaker.

And once after I spoke I grabbed my papers and walked out, and I cried a bit more in my room, and then I came back as well to move on, because moving on is very important, especially when you have the will to learn and will to uplift. And when we have aims and objectives, Mr. Speaker. This has been very good to me. At first, in the beginning, especially in the two years that I would get hurt. But now we’re able to move on. I know that I have been a leader in the community, so I learn and I also understand further the work. Thank you, each and every one of you.

And to the people who are listening to the proceedings, you have given me more power and to learn to listen, and that’s what I have learned more. And I thank each and every one of you equally. That’s why I had stood up.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 19 September 10, Joe, the one beside me when I timed him I found that 7.87 minutes, that’s how long took him 7:28 seconds and yesterday during the question period, Adam, ever since I started writing time 3.34 minutes. Thank you to everyone. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Item 4, Returns to Oral Questions. Minister of TIN, Hon. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut, Mr. Joanasie. Item 4: Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 1408 – 6(2): Marine Infrastructure Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to follow up on a commitment I made to MLA Qavvik on September 15, 2025, regarding an update on the Department of Transport’s federal funding announcement. Mr. Speaker, I can confirm that Sanikiluaq is included in the scope of this work. Projects underway in the community include the installation of 70-ton mooring bollards, the relocation of the shore fuel manifold to reduce environmental risk, and the addition of safety lighting at the manifold. Mr.

Speaker, these projects are advancing through Indigenous consultation this fall, with tendering and contract award planned in early 2026 and construction targeted to begin in the summer of 2026. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Oral Question 1353 – 6(2), asked by the Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet on September 9, 2025 regarding a full-time social worker for Chesterfield Inlet.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 20 Mr. Speaker, this return is quite detailed, and I have filed it with the clerk for transcribing into Hansard for the public record and for distribution into the record. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister is seeking consent to put the statement into Hansard as read. Do members agree? Some Members: Agreed. Speaker: Thank you. Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Return to Oral Question. Question 1418 – 6(2). Date: September 15. Asked by Mr.

Joe Savikataaq. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to supplement an answer to the question asked by the MLA for Arviat South, Joe Savikataaq, on September 15 regarding direct appointments and vacancy rates. Mr. Speaker, On September 30, 2021, the vacancy rate was 32 per cent, with 3,643 of 5,353 positions filled. As of March 31, 2025, the vacancy rate was 36 per cent, with 3,651 of 5,675 positions filled. The GN reached a high of 41 per cent vacancy on March 31, 2023 post-COVID. On September 30, 2021 the Inuit Employment rate was 50 per cent, with 1,817 Inuit in term/indeterminate positions.

On March 31, 2025, the Inuit Employment rate was 52 per cent, with 1,913 Inuit in term/indeterminate positions). (interpretation) thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 5, Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, like I mentioned in my member statement earlier, we have some distinguished guests with us, but I would like to start with president of Nunavut’s soccer association, Colby O’Donnell, whose tireless work with his own board of directors and volunteers, like I mentioned, across the territory, is really helping to grow the game of soccer in the territory as well as futsal.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 21 But Mr. Speaker, we have a distinguished guest Mr. Peter Augruso, the president of Canada Soccer. I commend the mandate you have given yourself, to improve the experience for athletes and supporters and organizers and officials within the game of soccer. It’s very commendable. I know you’re only a little over a year into your role, but doing this, travelling to locations like here and across the country to hear people at the front lines is what’s going to grow the sport of soccer in Canada, so I thank you very much for your work.

And Matt Young I don’t know exactly what your role in all of this, but I am assuming you are here to help support, and I again thank you for all your hard work. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to the gallery. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery, Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Mr. Speaker, he’s walking out of the room at the moment, but I would like to acknowledge Mr. Colby O’Donnell, who I will tell you, he is really dedicated to soccer and futsal.

However, I have had more than one occasion to play Inuit games with him, and I can tell you that I beat him at umingmak and leg lift as well. Welcome to your House, Mr. O’Donnell. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to the House. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Great. Here is the baby I mentioned. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In April I had a new grandchild. The mother, I would like to recognize her Ann Sanguna (ph), and my grandchild here, Aktakali Killiktee (ph).

Aktakali is because when I got elected, I would visit the elder’s centre, and she had passed away, so I named her Aktakali as the lady told me, “Don’t give up. Continue to be consistent in providing care for elders.” I’m holding onto her from Clyde River. And my community member, my future in-law, my brothers-in-law and Ms. Mike, I would like to welcome you. And I’m very proud to be again a grandmother. As I get older, this tradition is also a tradition I want to continue to follow. Welcome, and thank you so much for coming here. Let us show our appreciation. >>Applause

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 22 Speaker: Welcome to the House. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Quttiktuq, David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my new grandchild last month have many elders names, and one of them is Itukoo (ph) and she cries because I put pronounce the names of my grandchild so many times Rusamosie (ph), George, Chislet Akeeagok (ph), and behind me, the father Marcus, and my daughter, Christine Akeeagok. Let us welcome them. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your House.

Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) It’s also nice when we have family come to the House, as we don’t always see them here. But I also want to recognize my handsome nephew, Marcus Chislet (ph) and Christine, our new member. The child has my father’s name. (interpretation) As some of you know, my dad died in the last, over a year ago, very unexpectedly. So it is a pleasure and honour to have a baby named after my beautiful Ataata who is in the House here today.

Qujannamiik. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your House. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Item 6, Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Item 6: Oral Questions Oral Question 1435 – 6(2): Intersex and Assigning Gender (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Health, and they pertain to gender assignment of intersex infants born in Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, intersex is an umbrella term used to describe an array of variation to physical sex that may not be typically male or female.

Those who are intersex have a difference to or a mixture of sex characteristics, such as sex chromosomes, reproductive organs, external and internal genitalia and/or hormones. Intersex traits can be apparent at birth or may not become evident until puberty or later. Mr. Speaker, being intersex is not a choice. Intersex variations are differences that occur during development in womb, and it is estimated that 1.7 per cent of Canada’s population

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 23 is born intersex. People have no control over how their bodies develop. They cannot choose how they are formed. Mr. Speaker, can the minister tell us who decides what gender is assigned to an intersex child at birth and how is that decision made? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and I thank my colleague for the question. (interpretation ends) The Department of Health is fully committed to supporting all Nunavummiut with regards to their health needs, and that includes everyone. There’s nobody who’s excluded from our mandate as a department, and I thank the member for raising this. My understanding of this matter, in terms of assigning gender at birth, it’s usually a decision made by a clinician, and it’s done in line with the anatomical appearance of the child. That’s my understanding.

There is I believe also, as in many medically related areas, there is a role for the family in terms of the physician or the clinician liaising with the family very closely around this matter. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s also important to acknowledge that some intersex individuals may identify as transgender and/or non-binary. As I noted earlier, intersex traits can become apparent at puberty or later in life, and those individuals impacted may seek medical advice. Mr.

Speaker, can the minister advise us of what specific training that Nunavut’s medical professionals receive on intersex and gender-diverse care. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker (interpretation ends) and thank the member for the question. In terms of the training that’s provided to our staff on that specific matter, I can say that in November 2021 Health did run a comprehensive training course at the Qikiqtani General Hospital, to train our nurse practitioners and physicians in providing gender care.

I can also speak to the fact that we do have transition-related health services guidelines that were finalized around the same time period, back in 2021. The purpose of those guidelines is to provide a clear path to access medically necessary health care, including transition-related surgeries for Nunavummiut and Nunavut practitioners.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 24 The Department of Health is committed to providing medically necessary health care to all Nunavummiut, which includes transition-related health services for transgender and non-binary Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, this is a commitment that we embrace wholeheartedly, in line with the Human Rights Act. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m very happy to hear that. All humans deserve rights to be healthy and happy, and to receive medical care. Mr.

Speaker, can the minister tell us what options are currently available to individuals to correct their birth records registration if it becomes apparent that the choice made by medical professionals at their birth in infancy is incorrect, whether they identify as female, transgender, non-binary or male. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) in terms of the member’s question, and if I’m understanding it correctly, currently in Nunavut we’re limited by the vital statistics legislation in terms of the options and choices available to Nunavummiut. To my knowledge we are the last jurisdiction in Canada where there’s only two choices that can be made, male or female. Every other jurisdiction in Canada there’s also the ability to reflect non-binary as a choice.

We are aware that this is a shortcoming and we do have a desire to rectify this shortcoming so that our vital statistics legislation would be in line with the Human Rights Act. I appreciate the questions from the member. The Human Rights Act is one that applies to every single government department, including Department of Health. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Oral Question 1436 – 6(2): Update on New Program Software – Oracle Fusion Cloud (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my questions today to the Minister of Finance. Mr. Speaker, I was a recent RFP which closed less than a month ago on the GN Department of Finance, a detailed review of the GN ERP system implementation.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 25 Mr. Speaker, ion that RFP on the second page, in the background it states: “The Government of Nunavut recently implemented Oracle Fusion Cloud (ERP) to modernize its financial, procurement, and human capital functions. The project went live with release one, scope to implement recruiting, learning management, ERP, financial, and procurement, and is now in a steady state of operations mode.” Mr.

Speaker, my first question would be, I would like to get an update from the minister on his level of satisfaction with how the rollout has taken place and what its current status is. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that question.

What I understand from our department at the senior level, is like anything else that just starts up there has been some hiccups, mainly due to trying to understand the new software and how and where to do your inputs and where to look for things, I guess navigating your way through the new system. But as they get used to the new system, I have heard a lot of positives coming out of the new system and I anticipate that over the next few months, as they start to get into the payroll and benefit section, we’ll see more positive impact of this new program. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr.

Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I think one of the important components of implementing a new software across an institution as large as the Government of Nunavut is, the training component for staff and to make sure, as the minister just stated, the information that’s in the system is only as good as the information that gets entered into the system. I would like to get an update on the training and progress across the territory across the different departments to make sure that this coordinated integration of the new system goes as seamless as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the questions and the comment, and I couldn’t agree more. I think going into this new system, as the training programs or training of departments and people who are involved in the project, as they were training they start finding out the better outcomes and ways to handle training and orientation around the program. They constantly continue to try to make improvements where they can so that proper data and proper information is being fed in properly, and also it’s just as important how to retrieve that program.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 26 Mr. Speaker, the understanding I have from the department is going forward they are seeking better ways to go through their training program and taking the positives forward so that it can be as seamless as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the response from the minister. Mr. Speaker, this House recently approved to provide funding of $5 million to work towards improving the digital of the ERP project. Mr.

Speaker, with the RFP that just closed recently on the implementation review and assessment, I’m going to try and sneak two questions in here. It’s up to the minister how he deals with it. What is the progress level on the phase 2, and will this implementation review and assessment include phase 2 as well as phase 1? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Finance, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the implementation is going forward as planned. They are going over the outcomes of the request that was just put out recently, and I anticipate that the review will continue.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok. Oral Question 1437 – 6(2): Nunavut 3000 (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation. As the minister will recall, the Nunavut Housing Corporation announced in January 2024 that 12 new units would begin construction in Kugluktuk.

Information published in July of this year by the Nunavut Housing Corporation indicates that construction materials arrived in the community in the fall of 2024; however, it also indicates that: “Framing is to commence in the fall of 2025, subject to availability to temporary accommodation currently at risk.” This is very concerning. Can the minister provide an update today on the status of this project? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 27 Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank my colleague for the question. The work in the Kugluktuk community on the housing projects did come, like some other projects there were some hiccups in the community, in terms of different availabilities. In this one was availability of accommodations. I believe that the contractor and the corporation are working to alleviate that issue, and are looking at beginning the construction on

schedule this fall. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I want to first off thank the minister for the Nunavut 3000 Strategy. It’s going to help a lot. As the minister is aware, when the Nunavut 3000 Strategy was first published, he indicated that a total of 75 new housing units were planned for Kugluktuk. These include 40 public housing units, 30 affordable housing units, and five market housing units. Can the minister confirm if this is still the target? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, that is still the target. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) It is important that Nunavut 3000 project provide employment, training, and apprenticeship opportunities for our residents. Can the minister confirm what the required Inuit labour content is for the project that is getting underway. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the goal always is to get as close to 100 per cent Inuit hire as we can in any projects that we do. But the reality, Mr. Speaker, is in order to get there, it includes a lot, and I say a lot of training to prepare Inuit to be able to run these projects on their own. The goal is to get as many of them as possible, and I understand that that goal is being challenged every day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 28 Oral Question 1438 – 6(2): Local Transportation for Medical Clients (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask questions about local transportation for medical clients, and I direct my questions to the Minister of Health. Mr.

Speaker, the government has recognized that many of our elders, especially the feeble ones, have been asking for safe and reliable transportation at the local level, and many elders have voiced this concern, but it is also very sad that the elder van initiative, although they arrived, it has not worked out, as the premier indicated. The elders in the fives communities selected must be disappointed. Mr.

Speaker, elders and medical clients in other communities are also in need of transportation, most often from home to the health centre or to the airport and then back to their home again when their medical appointment is finished. Can the minister provide an update on any options that have been considered by his departmental officials to arrange for the called-for local transportation for medical clients, and especially elders and people with handicaps. I would like to get an update on that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and thank you to my colleague. Whenever it’s an emergency and they need transportation, that is part of the service that we provide. (interpretation ends) Emergency ground transportation from home to health centres and from health centres to a medevac plane and to admitting hospitals is covered. That’s a covered service through third-party insurers, such as non- insured health benefits or employer insurance plans.

Right now, routine transportation at the community level, non-emergency medical ground transportation, it is not something that is covered under the services that we provide, and so if we want to go in that direction and start providing that as a service, we would need to secure the financial resources to cover that service, and that would be through the budgetary process of the Legislative Assembly or from another funding source such as the federal government. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I believe the minister answered part of the question, and I will proceed to my next question.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 29 Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) when I raised this issue in May, the minister indicated that there might be a bit of an opportunity under the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program to provide for transportation from the airport for all medical travellers. Can the minister provide an update on whether there is any new agreement to provide ground transportation and stretcher services for medical travellers in Nunavut’s smaller communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) Thank you to the member for the question. So effective June 1, 2023 the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program began coverage for ground transportation while on approved medical travel, so non-insured health benefits will reimburse taxi fares from the client’s home to the airport and return, at the established local rate within the community. Mr.

Speaker, right now Department of Health is still working through how this benefit can be operationalized, whether it would involve taxi companies, billing non-insured health benefits, or whether the Department of Health could work as a go-between in terms of purchasing taxi slips, for example, and then billing back to non-insured health benefits. We still are working through these details. This is an important new benefit for medical travellers, ands it’s also a business opportunity at the community level in terms of taxi operators, so we see it as a win-win.

But we’re still in the process of trying to figure out how to operationalize that, exactly. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What the minister said is mostly for the larger communities. I’m concerned about the smaller communities, and I know it’s an issue in the larger communities, too, if they don’t have any taxis. In our communities it’s completely impossible. We have to rely on family and community members to get transportation when you don’t have your own. So it has become really worrisome.

It would be good if the communities could be provided with vehicles that could hold up to six people, all the communities. It would look real good if that could be available for people having to go to the hospital. Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) I recognize that the department itself does not run a transportation service. The minister has indicated it would be beneficial if private entities could step in to fulfil the gap. As I have noted, the Government of Nunavut provided $1 million to a private entity to purchase the five elder vans. Can the minister tell us whether any consideration has been

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 30 given to providing small private entities in Nunavut’s smallest communities, including Qikiqtarjuaq and Clyde River, so that they too can purchase a vehicle and use it to provide local ground transportation to elders and medical clients. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I can confirm that the Department of Health has given consideration to the issue around ground transportation.

The specific question around whether we have looked at that specific option at the community level for ground transportation, that hasn’t been considered in recent years, to my knowledge. Like I stated earlier, before we took that step towards a contractor or a company or an entity to provide the service, the first thing we need to do is secure the budget. We have put forward to non-insured health benefits in the past that we want to offer ground transportation. We were denied when we put that forward and we looked for money.

When it comes to non-insured health benefits, right now we are challenged just trying to maintain the status quo. We’re faced with a federal government that is short-changing us in a huge way on non-insured health benefits, when it comes to medical travel, when it comes to boarding home. We’re trying to protect the services we have available today, because it feels like our federal partners at Indigenous Services Canada are trying to download the costs onto us, and that is just wrong, because that’s their program.

I apologize if I’m going off topic but it is related to the ground transportation issue. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq. Oral Question 1439 – 6(2): Final Mandate Report (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, and my regards to the people of Arviat. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to question the premier on the minister’s statement, the final mandate. Mr.

Speaker, on the second page about halfway down in the minister’s statement, it states: “We advanced Igluliuqatigiingniq Nunavut 3000, building over 1,000 new homes with 2,000 more underway.”

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 31 Mr. Speaker, I would like to question the premier on the statement about building 1,000 new homes. Mr. Speaker, two weeks ago we had advised hearings with the Nunavut Housing Corporation and in the hearings, the president of the Nunavut Housing Corporation admitted that only 18 public housing units have been completed since the agreement with NCC Development Corporation. There is quite a discrepancy between 18 units and 1,000 units. So if I can get is explanation from the premier of how 1,000 buildings are done when 18 units have been completed. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank my colleague for his question. As noted many times, the reference to 1,000 was a target, and in the statement it implies there are up to that amount that are different levels of stages, as we heard many times from colleagues on the other side, that there are buildings being built in every community in different stages. That’s the reference being made here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, maybe our

interpretation is different, because building 1,000 units, in my opinion they are built. The ones that are being built is on the next line, building 1,000 new homes with 2,000 more underway. The 2,000, according to that, are underway. They are being built. But that’s how I read this. I read it different than the premier. Thank you, Minister, but I interpret it differently. These 2,000 more units underway, are these 2,000 units to be constructed right now, or are they just building permits? Because my constituents and Nunavummiut cannot live and move into a building permit.

They live and move into a completed house. So can I get an explanation from the premier in his minister’s statement, the homes, the “2,000 more underway.” Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank my colleague for his question. Yes, our

definitions are different. We are building, and that implies all the work that is forthcoming. Some are in different stages, as we have heard at the hearings here, where there are marshalling of material being sent to the community that are in progress, and that implies the amount that we are doing. Mr. Speaker, Nunavut 3000 was a very bold and transformative plan that we brought forward here. We have seen the fruits of it.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 32 Mr. Speaker, just a few days ago we heard the prime minister single out Nunavut in a big housing announcement, with over 700 new units that are forthcoming. Mr. Speaker, I believe this is a single largest investment into housing into our territory. So with that we are very hopeful in terms of the goal of Nunavut 3000, and the importance around the reference to 2,000 was that ambitious goal, and it is through that advocacy that we’ve secured these historic investments.

The details are yet to be determined as we move forward, as noted by my colleague here, but implied is that we are moving and advancing and making those investments as we move forward with the target of getting to 3,000, and much more after that as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Staying on the mandate, I’ll talk about elders. Mr. Speaker, I won’t talk about the elder vans.

Many members have brought them up, how these elder vans were quickly purchased and a year later are still sitting, not servicing the elders that they were meant to. On the mandate it was aging with dignity, and one of the strategic outcomes said fewer Inuit elders relocating from their home communities. Mr. Speaker, we have long term care in Rankin now, and I fully support that. Elders get to be closer to home.

But other than the ones who live in Rankin Inlet, they still have to move, and now we’re in the planning stage of one for Cambridge Bay, and it’s the same, I’m thankful for that, and it will be very good but it will be mostly Cambridge Bay residents that don’t have to move away. Mr. Speaker, I’m very thankful that the previous governments in the past had the foresight to put an elders facility in Arviat, and the elders of Arviat, if they so choose to or need to, they can move into the elder care facility in Arviat and stay at home. With aging with dignity, I would like to ask the premier.

What has the government done to help elders not relocate, as it was one of their strategic outcomes? What is being done to keep elders at home, in their home community? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too am very thankful and I had the opportunity and the privilege to be able to visit the facility in Arviat with the member, who welcomed me into Arviat a few years ago. Mr. Speaker, we’ve done some incredible work around what more we could do, not only to build the facilities, in Rankin, Iqaluktuuttiaq or Iqaluit.

We’ve brought partners to actually tackle this important issue. It’s a shared priority with us all.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 33 Mr. Speaker, I was very happy to see the partnership we were able to secure with Nunavut Tunngavik specifically. For the first time in our history as a territory, we have partnered with them, to the best of my memory, where they have invested capital so that we could expand the facilities that we have, including the one in Gjoa Haven, including the ones in other communities as well, such as Igloolik. So it is through those partnerships that we have advanced more in terms of what we’re able to do. Mr.

Speaker, further to that, we are looking at ways where we could expand housing continuum so that elders could stay at home, in a home that is more adequate and appropriate for the living conditions of them. We have and continue to invest in what more we could, but it is through these types of partnerships that we have been able to advance. Again, they are in different stages, and I very much look forward to seeing the completion of those, so that elders can age in dignity in their home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second – my apologies. >>Laughter Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa.

Oral Question 1440 – 6(2): Departmental Positions (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I want to follow up on an issue that I have raised on several occasions over the past year. As the minister is aware, the government’s most recent quarterly employment report indicates that the Department of Environment has a total of 14 positions located in my community of Igloolik. Only four of the positions are filled and 10 are vacant. This is a vacancy rate of over 70 per cent. This is unchanged since the last time that I raised this issue.

When I last raised this issue during the spring sitting of the Legislative Assembly, the minister indicated that his department “has been working with the federal government some of the wildlife research

section from Igloolik to Cambridge Bay.” Can the minister provide an update on the status of this work, and will he commit to providing my office with a copy of the memorandum of understanding that has been signed with the federal government. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Environment, Mr. Joanasie.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 34 Hon. David Joanasie: Mr. Speaker, my department has been working with the federal government in moving the wildlife research

section from Igloolik to the Canadian high Arctic research station in Cambridge Bay, and the memorandum of understanding was signed back in March 2025. We continue to work with Transportation and Infrastructure on a lease agreement to finalize moving positions. Regarding sharing the memorandum of understanding, I’ll consider that with my officials, and provided that there’s no issue, I would be willing to share that with my colleague. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to see a copy of that agreement. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the government’s practice has been that when it moves decentralized positions out of a community, new positions are moved in or are created to make up for the loss. Can the minister confirm what positions will be moving to Igloolik to balance the positions that are being transferred to Cambridge Bay. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, this is I would say more of a whole-of-government approach around when there are positions being moved around between communities. We do try to encompass what other types of positions might better be suited, or relocating positions. At this time I can’t say which positions are to be moved to Igloolik. We are continuing to make efforts to fill vacant positions, as my colleague pointed out, also including utilizing remote hiring opportunities for anyone that might fit that category. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Employment opportunities very rarely come to the smaller communities, and if we’re going to be losing those positions it’s going to be a loss for my community. (interpretation ends) I have previously suggested that the Inuit language authority positions could be a natural fit for the community. When I raised this issue last year, the minister’s predecessor indicated that he was willing to discuss this idea with the Minister of Culture and Heritage. Can the minister update me today on the results of these discussions. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Environment, Mr. Joanasie.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 35 Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member for suggesting these recommendations to our government to consider. Mr. Speaker, as I understand it, there have been ministerial discussions around what we can do in this area, and we’ll continue to have those important conversations. Mr.

Speaker, my colleague mentioned about positions that don’t fall within my department, so I do have to consult with my colleagues that do hold those positions that the member mentioned about language- specific positions so we will continue to have that conversation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Oral Question 1441 – 6(2): Jessie Oonark Centre Renovations (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today my questions are for the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation regarding the Jessie Oonark in Baker Lake. Mr.

Speaker, there are many opportunities and ideas that could be borne out of that Jessie Oonark Centre, for arts and crafts. It has been a godsend for my community, with the artwork that comes out of Baker Lake. It’s quite old. It’s from before Nunavut was born, the building. I did have the opportunity to give a tour to the minister of the building, and I pointed out some of the cracks in the walls, a bucket hanging near the ceiling, trying to catch glycol leaks, and I had asked the minister to look into renovating the Jessie Oonark Centre. My first question, Mr.

Speaker, what is the status of the work to renovate the Jessie Oonark Centre in Baker Lake? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That building is very critical for our territory, and very beautiful art is made there. I give thanks to my colleague for providing the tour and getting to see the aging infrastructure. That’s something that we highlighted and one that we have asked the manager for the Jessie Oonark building to put a business case in, to get the renovations done.

There is a process within the Nunavut Development Corporation to get the buildings, to have it renovated so we’ve asked the manager to get that in place. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Simailak.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 36 Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Minister, for that. I’m glad that work is underway now to put together a business case on the idea of renovating the Jessie Oonark Centre. To keep it Baker Lake-centred, centre of Nunavut, I’m wondering if some of my constituents will be taking

part in some of the ideas in how to renovate the building, make it fit Baker Lake for today’s days and times so we can create more economic development coming out of that centre, and perhaps some more positions from arts can be born and work out of that centre. I’m wondering will the residents take part or have an opportunity into what type of renovations should be done to the Jessie Oonark Centre. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker, renovations, typically doesn’t get a whole lot of community input, but it’s one that, as the member stated, it is an aging building and clearly needs some functional work that would help with the artisans. I would encourage those that utilize the building and those fine folks from Baker Lake to contact the general manager and have discussions about the building, too. Through those ideas is where we could get the if there was renovations to be had, maybe get the building to be more efficient would be a great suggestion coming from my colleagues. I give thanks to that, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for the response. Lastly regarding the Jessie Oonark Centre, I was online googling Jessie Oonark Centre to see what comes up about it online, to see if there’s the possibility for people to order some of the artwork online, and that did not come up. There’s an option to perhaps purchase artwork online, which is the new things nowadays.

I’m hoping the minister will look into the capability or the possibility of creating an online format so that people across the country or even outside of Canada can order some of the artwork out of Baker Lake. Will the minister look into creating a functioning website for people to order artwork from the Jessie Oonark Centre. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation, Mr. David Akeeagok.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 37 Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, that is a great suggestion and something that I will task the staff to look into. There is a shop, nu.ca, that is a partnership formed between the three regional chambers of commerce, and something that I’ve asked Nunavut Development Corporation to see if they can partner with them and look at ways of expanding their sales through the World Wide Web. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone.

Oral Question 1442 – 6(2): Students Supported by FANS (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Education and regarding the utilization of FANS. I would like to keep my first question very simple. Can the minister provide us an update on the current number of students being supported by FANS in the current academic year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question.

This academic 2025-2026 year we have 506 approved FANS students and at the moment there are 410 enrolled, so 96, we are still waiting for their enrolment information. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My next question I would like to ask, how many students are currently supported by FANS and are studying out of territory? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and thank you to the member for the question.

So out-of-territory students that are approved for FANS are 320, and at the moment we have 263 enrolled. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now I would like to ask about in the previous academic year how many students supported by FANS completed their program, and how does that compare to recent years. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 38 Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for that question. We don’t have that data, Mr. Speaker, but we are aiming to work to collect that data and have that data available with the new financial assistance for Nunavut students program and the new database that we’re able to be utilizing with Oracle. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Oral Question 1443 – 6(2): Patients Sent for Medical Travel (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health in regards to the patients that have to go out of the territory for treatment. My first question: The patients that leave to go out of the territory to Winnipeg, especially my constituents, how many individuals are being sent down to Winnipeg for medical purposes, and some of the patients don’t have an appointment. When they go see the doctor and they don’t have an appointment, I was wondering if this issue has been rectified. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, and I thank the member for his question. Patients being sent without appointment, I don’t know the number of individuals, but I believe there’s not too many people. But we need to have good communication between Health and nurses and also in Winnipeg health professionals. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, one of the key initiatives we are working on to minimize unnecessary travel is to strengthen the health record linkages between Nunavut and other jurisdictions like Manitoba. We don’t want to be using fax machines.

We want our patients’ information to flow smoothly between Nunavut and Manitoba, or wherever they are having their appointments, and that includes things around referrals. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response. The reason why I’ve been asking this question is because some staff have to apply for sick leave when they have to go attend medical attention and this has created problems. That’s why I alluded to that. But I do want to ask another question.

In regards to patients that have to be sent out of the territory and some patients are given short notice, when they are just leaving on the same day. So this issue has been raised. Have you resolved this issue? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 39 Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for his question. As we know, it’s written in our policy that we need to amend the policies. We did a consultation from Nunavummiut, as they were told, we were given different suggestions and what the member had stated, it’s part of that, that they should be given more time and be notified ahead of time, and that’s what was complained about. We are looking at how we can amend the policies, like for example seven days ahead of time, before they leave they notify them.

Although that’s what we’re working on. We will have to amend the policy and also the administration and the work that they do will also have to be improved. That’s what we’re looking at. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the issues that I have raised in the House, the program for health of those patients have to be improved.

I know that there’s some patients that don’t want to leave because they are just given a one-hour notification before they have to leave for the plain, and sometimes they cannot make it down to the appointment due to bad weather. Sometimes they have to change their appointment and defer their appointment. Sometimes the patients have to wait a long time and when they are given one-hour notice, they have to wait a lot more time to see the doctor. These issues have to be improved, and I thank you for hearing about them during the consultation. This is just a comment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We thank Nunavummiut as well for consulting with us. I know we need to rectify, and we would like to thank the people and the member for suggesting. And also would like to thank the member representing his constituency. Whether it’s summer time or whether it’s Christmas time, we’re always notified whether it’s Naujaat or Coral Harbour residents every time they require help he always informs me. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok.

Oral Question 1444 – 6(2): Activities of the Nunavut Housing Corporation (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my question today are for the Minister responsible for Nunavut Housing Corporation.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 40 As the minister will recall, the Nunavut Housing Corporation issued an announcement in April of this year concerning the acquisition of new modular housing units. The announcement indicated that 20 new housing units will be delivered to Rankin Inlet and Baker Lake. The announcement also indicated the Agnico Eagle will provide marine shipping for the units. I thank the company for its support. Mr. Speaker, the sealift season is coming to an end.

Can the minister confirm how many new modular housing units have been delivered to Rankin Inlet, and can he confirm when they will be ready for occupation by the residents of the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I too want to thank Agnico Eagle to committing to delivering these units into the communities. These units have been delivered to both communities.

In terms of Rankin Inlet, I know the lots that they are going to be occupying are currently being completed, and they should be completed before the new year, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that the Nunavut Housing Corporation also acquired a number of new modular housing units for the community of Chesterfield Inlet. However, it is not clear if the final assembly of the units has been completed.

Can the minister confirm how many new modular housing units have been delivered to Chesterfield Inlet, and can he confirm when they will be ready for occupancy by the residents of the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are two new modular units that are in Chesterfield Inlet and they should be ready for occupancy this fall. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

It is important that the residents of Rankin Inlet and Chesterfield Inlet have the opportunity to gain apprenticeship and training experience as part of the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s work to address housing shortage. Can the minister describe the extent to which these opportunities are being

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 41 provided for the modular housing unit projects as compared to the conventional stick build unit projects? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation, Mr. Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the proponents who are delivering the modular units in the community are working with, where they can, local people to help slap together or put together the units, and put in what is required to make them useable.

I believe, more importantly, that through the Arctic College workshop in Rankin where people are training into different trades, people that apply to become tradesmen will have a greater opportunity to maintain the long term of residences that are being built, that people looking into trades should get into, say, getting into the plumbing, electrical and maintenance trades, because all these houses that are being built will need maintenance, and that’s where the money will be. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq.

Oral Question 1445 – 6(2): New Health Centre for Kugaaruk (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Health. Mr. Speaker, I see that the capital plan for the new health centre for the community of Qikiqtarjuaq is progressing, with the recent request for proposals for architectural and engineering services. I am very happy for my colleague for Uqqummiut from the constituency of Uqqummiut. She has been asking for this for some time. Mr.

Speaker, can the minister provide an update on which health centre projects are next in line in the capital plan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker (interpretation ends) and I thank the member for the important question on capital. We need to continue investing in health infrastructure across Nunavut so that we can be less reliant on medical travel. I answer a lot of questions here in the House around medical travel. I would love to answer more questions about care closer to home.

Kugaaruk is identified as a priority community for a health centre replacement. Our current listing, it would have the Qikiqtarjuaq health centre being constructed, followed by Baker Lake, then Kugluktuk, and Kugaaruk. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 42 Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we all recognize that meeting all the infrastructure needs across Nunavut is a complex issue. I know that many communities are in the same situation when it comes to needing new or improved health facilities. Mr. Speaker, can the minister inform this House whether any recent assessments of space, condition or suitability have been conducted for the Kugaaruk community health centre. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) Based on the information that I have, the most recent assessments that we conducted were in 2021. That being said, we are continually monitoring the condition of our facilities through our partners at Transportation and Infrastructure, so that if conditions change, if there’s emergency type issues that are encountered, we can deal with them as soon as possible. Mr. Speaker, we do hope that we will continue to see federal investments into health infrastructure in Nunavut.

The recent funding that we’ve secured on the long-term care front has been very encouraging, and long overdue, and we hope to see that in the future this trend will continue. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that building a new health centre is a significant investment for the government and requires a significant amount of pre-planning and then planning before it can become a capital project.

However, I am confident that the Department of Health has a good idea of which community health centres need more attention than others, which health centres need to be replaced, and in which order these needs will be met. Mr. Speaker, can the minister provide a timeline for when Kugaaruk’s community health centre may be replaced. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) The information I have indicates that the Kugaaruk health centre is expected to start planning by 2026-2027 fiscal year.

However, the exact timeline for construction would be determined by future governments and dependent on resource availabilities.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 43 From the Department of Health’s perspective, we would like to see it built as soon as possible, and hopefully with assistance from our federal partners, because this health infrastructure would help us to save money in other areas, such as medical travel, and deliver care closer to home. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Oral Question 1446 – 6(2): Update - QEC Infrastructure in Sanirajak (Kaernerk) Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I would like to direct my question to the Minister responsible for Qulliq Energy Corporation, when it comes to threatening infrastructures and for those aging infrastructures. As the minister will recall Mr. Speaker, I asked this question during our spring sitting of what is aging infrastructures across Nunavut. But let me focus my questions on aging infrastructures in Sanirajak when it comes to power plants. Mr. Speaker, what has been done from the spring sitting and as of now?

What kind of assessment were identified or assessments has been done for this much needed infrastructure in Sanirajak, such as the power plant? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and thank you to the member for the question. (interpretation ends) We know that Sanirajak has been impacted with some issues around reliability, and Qulliq Energy Corporation takes those issues very seriously. We take the community’s concerns seriously. We know that the community is in need of a new power plant.

However, in the meantime, we need to ensure reliability for the upcoming winter, for example. So with that in mind, we do have two ongoing capital projects. We have a feeder upgrade to feeders 1, 2 and 3 in Sanirajak, as well a substation upgrade, which will help us maintain reliability and address issues around transmission. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you for clarifying that. I believe the building is older than both of us. You mentioned upgrades. We have

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 44 been having emergency situations, power outages and so forth. Rectifying this with the upcoming winter and high winds, with the upgrades with costing those of us who struggle with finances. The minister mentioned this past spring concerning funding from the federal government for such upgrades. Will you continue to working on this, albeit our turn is coming up soon? How much planning has been taken with them in Nunavut, planning on capital, for example, the power plant? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr.

Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): I thank the question. We work closely with the federal government, and when we do meet with, them our president, Mr. Douglas, is always participating. He just arrived from Ottawa, if he’s not still there, looking at the different divisions within the federal government department. You have the support from the military and others. We meet with different branches, and we try and address them with the obstacles, and we have a very unique situation to deal with these. Sanirajak is one of those. When we have a blizzard, you too have a blizzard, because it’s so flat, like Arviat.

A space available is needed to ensure Nunavummiut are not at risk. And with that we constantly collaborate with the federal government. Speaker: Third and final supplementary, Mr. Kaernerk. Mr. Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A flat country is a flat country. Mr. Speaker, this is a very important area, looking at the residents of Sanirajak, you have one of the oldest infrastructure in the community, and we would like to see more investment from the government. It’s not so much of a question, but as we end our Assembly, I constantly raise the issues that I receive.

Can the minister identify or decide to have his staff visit the community, and what more work is required in terms of upgrades? Can the minister commit to that before this Assembly dissolves. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I agree. As we are getting into election time, I can check to see when my officials can go to Sanirajak. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 45 Oral Question 1447 – 6(2): Parent Concerns about School Staff (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker (interpretation ends) My question is for the Minister of Education. Mr. Speaker, one of my constituents is a concerned parent who has raised a concern about bullying and belittling by school staff towards students, and that some parents are refusing to send their children to school because of this behaviour.

Can the minister provide an overview of her department to ensure that all schools follow a code of ethics and a standard of behaviour so that all students feel safe and welcome in school. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question. In terms of bullying prevention in our schools, that is an area that we are really working to address, in terms of putting emphasis on addressing the root causes of bullying and bullying prevention.

If there are ever any instances that bullying is happening, we ask that those be reported to the school principal so that they can work to address the bullying and work with the parents and the families. And also Mr. Speaker, in terms of a code of ethics, that is something I can get back to the member on. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: First supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I recognize that there are different expectations of what is to be provided in a school environment and different understanding of appropriate behaviour when it comes to correction and discipline.

There are also cultural differences and expression, even in humour, that can be misunderstood or misinterpreted. And important to address these situation is awareness. Last spring the representative for children and youth indicated that her office was developing resources to teach children and youth about their rights. These kinds of resources help build awareness. Can the minister provide an update on whether the resources or course programs developed by the Representative for Children and Youth is currently included in the school curriculum? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross.

Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question. I can quickly update the member on her previous question, that the Nunavut Teachers’ Association does have a code of ethics and if they do violate any of those ethics

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 46 we can do investigations within the department. We’re also working with them to see how they can be incorporated. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Second and final supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, it is concerning when a Nunavut resident feels that school staff or a government employee or even elected representative are not following the accepted code of ethics.

Can the minister describe what steps a concerned parent should take when they feel that the principal or teachers or other school staff are not following the code of ethics when it comes to supporting children in our schools. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the member for the question.

The first step would be to speak with the school principal, and if there’s anything outside of that, we have our district education authorities as well as our regional school operations and our department, so there’s lots of different channels where those instances if they are happening can come. Also through our local MLAs, if there are any issues, we do get things brought forward to our attention and we work to resolve them at the school level. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Members be aware time allotted for question period is now over. Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Pursuant to rule 39

(7) I seek unanimous consent to extend Oral Questions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Member is seeking unanimous consent to extend question period. Are there any nays? A Member: Nay. Speaker: There is a nay. Item 7, Written Questions. Item 8, Return to Written Questions. Item 9, Replies to Opening Address. Item 10, Petitions. Item 11, Responses to Petitions. Item 12, Reports of Standing and Special Committee on Bills and Other Matters. I recognize the chair of the Standing Committee on Legislation, Mr. Savikataaq. Item 12: Reports of Standing and Special Committee on Bills and Other Matters

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 47 Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I wish to report that Bill 79,

An Act to Amend the Hospital Insurance and Health and Social Services Administration 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 79 immediately moved in Committee of the Whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The member has asked for unanimous consent to have Bill 79 immediately go into Committee of the Whole. Do members agree? Some Members: Agreed. Speaker: It is agreed, and the bill has been moved to Committee of the Whole.

Item 13, Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 460 – 6(2): Government of Nunavut Katujjiluta 6th Assembly Mandate Final Report 2021-2025 Tabled Document 461 – 6(2): 2024-2025 Nunavut Bureau of Statistics Annual Report Tabled Document 462 – 6(2): Report Respecting Benefits Paid to Ministers – March 21, 2024 Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I am pleased to table three reports: The Government of Nunavut 6th Assembly mandate final report 2021 to 2025; Second, the 2024-2025 Nunavut Bureau of Statistics Annual Report; and finally, Third, Report Respecting Benefits Paid to Ministers Under Ministerial Benefits Policy For Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2024. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Tabled Document 463 – 6(2): 2023-2024 Department of Education Annual Report

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Nunavut Hansard 48 Tabled Document 464 – 6(2): 2024-2025 Progress Report on LOI Regulations and Curriculum Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to table two reports, the Department of Education 2023-2024 Annual Report, And the 2024-2025 Progress Report on Language of Instruction Regulations and Curriculum. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabli