Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 6th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 65 Thursday, November 9, 2023 Pages 4112 – 4153 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Tony Akoak, MLA

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

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

Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Languages; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation Mary Killiktee (Uqqummiut) Hon. Lorne Kusugak (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Finance, Chair of the Financial Management Board; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Adam Lightstone (Iqaluit-Manirajak) Hon. John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention Solomon Malliki (Aivilik) Deputy Chair, Committee of the Whole Hon.

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

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................4112 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................4112 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................4116 Returns to Oral Questions ..........................................................................................................4124 Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ........................................................................................4125 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................4127 Revert to Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ...........................................................4148 Written Questions .......................................................................................................................4149 Tabling of Documents ................................................................................................................4150 Assent to Bills ............................................................................................................................4151 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................4152

A. Daily References Thursday, November 9, 2023 .....................................................................................................4112 B.

Ministers’ Statements 343 – 6(2): Minister Absent from the House (Joanasie) ............................................................4112 344 – 6(2): Mid-term Mandate Review (Akeeagok, P) ..............................................................4112 345 – 6(2): Fisheries and Sealing Division Strategic Plan (Akeeagok, D) ................................4113 346 – 6(2): Update on Non-Insured Health Benefits Negotiations (Main) ................................4114 347 – 6(2): Minister of Languages Annual Report (Kaernerk) ..................................................4115 348 – 6(2): Staff Sergeant Major Melanson (Akeeagok, D) ......................................................4115 C.

Members’ Statements 463 – 6(2): Tribute to Mother (Killiktee) ...................................................................................4116 464 – 6(2): Appreciation of the City of Iqaluit (Quqqiaq) .........................................................4117 465 – 6(2): Reflections on Representation (Nutarak) .................................................................4117 466 – 6(2): Safe Travels to Hunters (Anavilok) .........................................................................4118 467 – 6(2): Nunavut Commissioner’s Awards Recipients (Hickes) ..........................................4118 468 – 6(2): Nunavut Commissioner’s Awards Recipients (Brewster) .......................................4119 469 – 6(2): Fundraising for New Anglican Church in Kinngait (Joanasie) ...............................4119 470 – 6(2): Atii Angutiit in Arctic Bay (Akeeagok, D) ..............................................................4120 471 – 6(2): Nunavut Commissioner’s Awards Recipients (Akeeagok, P) .................................4121 472 – 6(2): Trailblazing Women (Nakashuk).............................................................................4121 473 – 6(2): The Importance of Remembrance Day (Main) ........................................................4122 474 – 6(2): Reflections on Fall Sitting (Kaernerk) .....................................................................4122 475 – 6(2): Baker Lake Search and Rescue Volunteers (Simailak) ...........................................4123

D. Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 581 – 6(2): Kugluktuk Power Plant (Kaernerk) ..................................4124 Return to Oral Question 587 – 6(2): Ilinniarvimmi Inuusilirijiit (Gross) ...................................4124 Return to Oral Question 664 – 6(2): Testing Walrus for Trichinosis (Main) .............................4125 Return to Oral Question 580 – 6(2): Chesterfield Inlet Power Plant (Kaernerk) .......................4125 E.

Oral Questions 677 – 6(2): Independent Power Producer Program (Lightstone)................................................4127 678 – 6(2): Academic Courses for Arviat High School (Savikataaq) ........................................4128 679 – 6(2): Fisheries and Sealing Division Priorities (Quassa) ..................................................4130 680 – 6(2): Responses to Resolutions (Anavilok) ......................................................................4131 681 – 6(2): Community Morgues (Quqqiaq) ..............................................................................4134 682 – 6(2): Curriculum Development (Hickes) ..........................................................................4135 683 – 6(2): Nunavut Development Corporation Priorities (Malliki) ..........................................4137 684 – 6(2): Whole-of-Government Position on Mining (Simailak) ...........................................4139 685 – 6(2): Nunavut Employee Benefits Services Pension Plan (Brewster) ..............................4141 686 – 6(2): Airport Infrastructure (Killiktee) .............................................................................4143 687 – 6(2): Public Safety (Nutarak) ...........................................................................................4144 688 – 6(2): Mental Health and Addictions in Iqaluit (Lightstone) .............................................4146 F.

Written Questions 006 – 6(2): Modular Units (Savikataaq) .....................................................................................4149

G.

Tabling of Documents 201 – 6(2): 2022-23 Minister’s Annual Report on Poverty Reduction (Nakashuk) ...................4150 202 – 6(2): 2022-23 Grants and Contributions (Akeeagok, D) ..................................................4150 203 – 6(2): 2021-22 Public Service Annual Report (Nakashuk) ................................................4150 204 – 6(2): 2020-21 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Report (Qavvik) .....................................4150 205 – 6(2): 2021-22 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Report (Qavvik) .....................................4150 206 – 6(2): 2022-23 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Report (Qavvik) .....................................4150 207 – 6(2): Correspondence from the Taloyoak Housing Authority (Quqqiaq) ........................4150 208 – 6(2): 2024 Sitting Calendar for the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut (Speaker)............4151 209 – 6(2): Report on the Payment of Indemnities, Allowances, Expenses, and Benefits to the Members of the Sixth Legislative Assembly for the Period April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023 (Speaker) ..............................................................................................................................4151 210 – 6(2): Speaker’s List of Outstanding Tabling Requirements (Speaker) ............................4151

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4112 Iqaluit, Nunavut Thursday, November 9, 2023 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Hon. P.J. Akeeagok, Hon. Tony Akoak, Mr. Bobby Anavilok, Ms. Janet Brewster, Hon. Pamela Gross, Mr. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Hon. Joelie Kaernerk, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Mr. Adam Lightstone, Mr. Solomon Malliki, Hon. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Ms. Karen Nutarak, Hon. Daniel Qavvik, Ms. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Inagayuk Quqqiaq, Mr. Joe Savikataaq, Mr. Craig Simailak. >>House commenced at 10:00 Item 1: Opening Prayer Speaker (Hon.

Tony Akoak) (interpretation): Good morning, everyone. Before we begin, Ms. Killiktee, can you say the opening prayer, please. >>Prayer Speaker (interpretation): Good morning, my colleagues and everyone in Nunavut who is watching the proceedings and, if my wife is watching the televised proceedings, I say “good morning” to you. I will be coming home soon. (interpretation ends) Good morning, everyone. Today is our last day. It’s exciting, even though Toronto lost last night. >>Laughter Have a good morning. Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Government House Leader, Mr. Joanasie.

Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 343 – 6(2): Minister Absent from the House (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also say “good morning” to all Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise members that the Hon. Lorne Kusugak will be absent from the House today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 344 – 6(2): Mid- term Mandate Review (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Good morning and thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to my fellow members, Nunavummiut who are listening to the proceedings, and visitors in the gallery, especially our elders who are here in the House. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and thank my colleagues. When we jointly developed the Katujjiluta mandate, we promised to be transparent and accountable. With this second progress report, we continue to follow through on that promise. We also promised to work together. Mr.

Speaker, through this mid-term mandate review process, we demonstrated that we are all indeed working together for the betterment of Nunavummiut.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4113 Mr. Speaker, we heard ministers share their many successes two years into this term despite the unplanned obstacles, such as the COVID closures in December 2021. We also shared our challenges and heard constructive suggestions on how to shape our priorities in the next two years from the regular members. This process was collegial and showcased how a consensus government can work to best serve Nunavummiut. Mr. Speaker, I want to ensure my colleagues that their input will be taken into consideration on key issues, such as better serving our small communities.

We will bring this information forward into our continued work over the next two years as we fulfill the Katujjiluta mandate. I look forward to continuing our efforts on fulfilling the ambitious priorities in our mandate and to providing another progress report in 2024. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 345 – 6(2): Fisheries and Sealing Division Strategic Plan (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to provide an update on the Department of Economic Development and Transportation’s work on the Fisheries and Sealing Division Strategic Plan for the years 2023-28. I am glad to report the strategic plan was tabled last week. Under the Katujjiluta mandate, the department has been tasked with diversifying our local economies.

The Fisheries and Sealing Division Strategic Plan contributes to this diversification by ensuring that more communities benefit from the fishing and harvesting sectors and have access to the education and training opportunities that will allow these sectors to flourish. (interpretation ends) This strategic plan was developed through a yearlong consultation process during which staff from the department met with and listened to members of hunters and trappers organizations, Inuit organizations and rights holders, various levels of government, and industry groups. In addition, staff from the department took

part in a trade mission to Greenland to visit sealskin processing facilities and meet with representatives from the cargo shipping industry, which further informed development of this plan. Staff also gathered information from over 300 fishers, seal harvesters, and sealskin crafters regarding community priorities, challenges, needs, and opportunities. Mr. Speaker, the strategic plan reflects what was heard and lays out a thoughtful and realistic approach to the Fisheries and Sealing Division’s role in moving the fisheries and sealing sectors forward, and providing opportunities for improvement, training, and strengthening Nunavut’s communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4114 Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Minister’s Statement 346 – 6(2): Update on Non-Insured Health Benefits Negotiations (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, my colleagues and visitors in the gallery. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, many Nunavut health services are paid for by the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. NIHB funds pay for some costs not covered by the Nunavut Health Care Plan, specifically for Nunavut Inuit.

The Non-Insured Health Benefits program is a critical financial support for the Government of Nunavut as we work to fill gaps in existing health programs and enhance services for Nunavut Inuit. I’m sad to report that current Non- Insured Health Benefits funding is not sufficient for Nunavut’s growing needs. Nunavut Non-Insured Health Benefits medical travel expenses were $107.8 million in 2022-23, but our federal funding fell short of that amount. We subsidized the federal program by $13.0 million in that fiscal year.

Looking at the current year, we forecast Non-Insured Health Benefits medical travel expenses of $112.8 million. Under the current deal, we anticipate $91.7 million in Non-Insured Health Benefits revenue. This means Health is being asked to subsidize the federal program by $21 million in 2023-24. That is $21 million that could go towards other services in Nunavut, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation) Health is still engaged in Non-Insured Health Benefits negotiations, but we are frustrated by the lack of progress.

Our position is that Indigenous Services Canada needs to fully fund Non-Insured Health Benefits and fully support health services for Nunavut Inuit. We call on the federal government to meet their fiduciary responsibility and address these budgetary shortfalls. Every dollar we subsidize the federal Non-Insured Health Benefits program is a dollar taken away from other Government of Nunavut health programs and enhanced service delivery for Nunavummiut. I am calling on our federal partners at Indigenous Services Canada to properly fund this program.

The federal contributions to Non-Insured Health Benefits in Nunavut for both travel expense and administration are inadequate considering the scope, scale, and importance of the program. (interpretation ends) By every measure, health care in Nunavut is complex and expensive. The Department of Health will continue seeking additional funding to fuel the health care system. Looking at Nunavut population growth and our increasing need for complex care, we need a long-term and predictable Non- Insured Health Benefits agreement to support essential health care for Nunavut Inuit.

Reaching a fair and lasting deal on Non-Insured Health Benefits isn’t about dollars and cents; it’s about seeing better health outcomes and better health services right across Nunavut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Languages, Mr. Kaernerk.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4115 Minister’s Statement 347 – 6(2): Minister of Languages Annual Report (Kaernerk) Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, Nunavummiut. Good morning, members. I welcome the visitors in the gallery. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the new Minister of Languages to discuss the 2021-22 Minister of Languages Annual Report that I tabled last week. Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Languages annual reports highlight community-led initiatives that focus their efforts on language use, preservation, promotion, or revitalization.

Within the 2021-22 Minister of Languages Annual Report, members, along with the public, can review the different types of Inuktut language initiatives that were supported by the Government of Nunavut, including the 19 community-led initiatives, the over 4,000 resources developed, and the various Inuktut learning programs being offered across Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Culture and Heritage administers grants and contributions that support language use, promotion, preservation, and revitalization.

One such initiative highlighted in this annual report is the Stories for Sanikiluaq, which is a children’s storybook in the Sanikiluaq dialect of Inuktitut based on interviews with elders. Initiatives such as this contribute to the preservation of Inuktitut and local dialects. Other initiatives can include the collection of oral history, language nests, and dialect specific dictionaries. Mr.

Speaker, I encourage Nunavummiut to review the full Grants and Contributions Policy as well as the Minister of Languages annual reports on the Department of Culture and Heritage’s website to see the many successful and inspiring initiatives happening across Nunavut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Ministers’ Statements. Hon. Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 348 – 6(2): Staff Sergeant Major Melanson (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I apologize in advance if I mispronounce this individual’s name as I just call her irngutaq. Mr.

Speaker, I ask all members to please join me in congratulating Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant Pauline Melanson who has been appointed by the commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as the Staff Sergeant Major for the “V” Division. >>Applause (interpretation ends) This position is responsible for ensuring the mission, vision, and values of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police are respected while serving as a strong link between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police management and the communities. The staff sergeant major works to ensure frontline Royal Canadian Mounted Police conduct themselves with the

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4116 highest levels of integrity and honour in delivering policing services in our communities. (interpretation) With this appointment, Staff Sergeant Major Melanson becomes the first Inuk staff sergeant major in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s history.

She now joins the senior leadership ranks at Nunavut’s “V” division and will be a key leader in ensuring the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is responsive to community needs and addresses the shared priorities of the Department of Justice and Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s “V” Division. (interpretation ends) Staff Sergeant Major Melanson was born and raised in Nunavut and has deep roots across the territory. Royal Canadian Mounted Police leadership depend on her wealth of knowledge on Nunavut and Inuit traditions and culture.

She has spent most of her 22-year Royal Canadian Mounted Police career in “V” division carrying out various operational and administrative duties as a general duty member in Iqaluit and Igloolik, as well as in major crimes, recruiting, and community policing. Congratulations to Staff Sergeant Major Melanson on this important promotion. You are a strong advocate for reconciliation between Inuit and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and for building relationships between Nunavut communities and the police. We look forward to working with you and seeing what you will achieve in your new role. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 3. Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 463 – 6(2): Tribute to Mother (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to the people of Nunavut. At this time, I rise to recognize an individual who took very good care of me as her first daughter. Just to give you a brief history of this person that I’m recognizing, my mother is sitting behind me, and I will acknowledge her more fully under Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery.

She took care of people who were ill, whether it was day or night or anytime. She would visit the ill and take care of people and never turned down anybody who asked for help. With the support of my late father, she did a tremendous amount of work in our community. To add further, when we were being raised, she was a caregiver who was also responsible for the deceased to get them prepared for burial. For the last two or three years, she is no longer doing what she did, as she is now 83 years old. I wanted to recognize my mother.

She was also on the advisory council and she counselled people who were going through difficulty. She started caring for people from the early 1970s up to two or three years ago. She also adopted a child in the earlier days that she had cared for. I wanted to make that statement about my mother first, but I will recognize her

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4117 at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Member’s Statement 464 – 6(2): Appreciation of the City of Iqaluit (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As it is our last day of the fall sitting, I wanted to say “thank you” to the city of Iqaluit. Thank you to my colleagues and it’s exciting that most of us are going to go back home to our families and it’s great. I will be looking forward to the winter sitting now. Mr.

Speaker, I just wanted to acknowledge and say “thank you greatly” to the city Iqaluit for being so welcoming. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak. Member’s Statement 465 – 6(2): Reflections on Representation (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, I would like to congratulate Helen Angnetsiak and James Makpainnuk Angnetsiak, who are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. I wish them a happy anniversary. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer some reflections on representation. Mr.

Speaker, I would like to begin by congratulating the newly elected Mayor of Sanikiluaq and the newly elected Mayor of Pangnirtung, Lynn Mike. I almost forgot the name of the new Mayor of Sanikiluaq, Masako Kittosuk. Susie Simonee of Pond Inlet was elected to the district education authority. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues from Sanikiluaq and Pangnirtung in offering my full support to the newly elected politicians, who are likely the youngest public office-holders in Nunavut today. Mr.

Speaker, when the era of modern land claim negotiations began in the 1970s, many of our leaders were young men in their 20s and 30s. Mr. Speaker, with the passage of time, more and more women have risen to positions of leadership in the north and around the world. Earlier this week, we were honoured to have former Pangnirtung MLA Rebecca Mike in our Visitors’ Gallery, and she is still making valuable contributions today. Mr.

Speaker, time does not allow me to provide a complete list of trailblazers and role models, but I will single out former Nunavut Premier Eva Aariak and former NWT Premier Nellie Cournoyea, as well as former Nunavut Members of Parliament Nancy Karetak Lindell and Leona Aglukkaq, and our Governor General, Mary Simon, as excellent examples of what young women can aspire to. (interpretation) I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4118 Speaker: The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude her statement. Are there any nays? There are none. Please continue, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleagues. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, Canada has made a lot of progress since the days when Inuit women could not vote, much less hold office. However, there is more work to be done. Mr. Speaker, being a woman in politics is not easy.

I anticipate that the new female politicians will experience many of the same ups and downs that we go through in this House. Helping our constituents and communities is a rewarding experience, but it comes at a personal cost. I encourage all new elected politicians to be strong and to take comfort in knowing that many of us in the House know how you feel and are behind you all the way. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok. Member’s Statement 466 – 6(2): Safe Travels to Hunters (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I say “hello” to Nunavummiut. I rise today to speak about events in Kugluktuk and to inform all Nunavummiut. As it is approaching winter, the rivers and creeks are freezing up and some of the ice is still dangerous. One has to really watch out for thin ice, especially when it warms up. I want to tell our hunters to be careful around Kugluktuk and watch out for dangerous conditions and to warn others if you notice dangerous spots, as newly frozen ice can be dangerous. Some young people are not aware of the dangers of thin ice sometimes and they should also be conscious of sea ice.

I wanted to state that today to warn people of these dangers. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Member’s Statement 467 – 6(2): Nunavut Commissioner’s Awards Recipients (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to the Commissioner Eva Aariak’s award ceremony that happened on October 27. Mr. Speaker, there are a number of people who were recognized at that award ceremony, but I would like to highlight the elders who were awarded Commissioner’s Awards.

I think it’s very important that as elders, passing on their knowledge and experience to younger generations and to our youth is a critical component of how Nunavut is going to work to achieve the goals that were outlined with the original negotiators of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement. I would like to pay tribute to Lew and Sarah Philip, Moses and Ida Atagoyuk, Natsiq Kango, Elisapi Aningmiuq, Mary

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4119 Wilman, Alicee Joamie, and Martha Tikivik. Mr. Speaker, I think it’s very important that we recognize these elders, as it was raised in this House, while they’re still with us and appreciate the knowledge that they’re continuing to share on a daily basis. Sometimes we don’t even recognize when they’re imparting knowledge upon us and it sinks in a little bit later. I just want to congratulate them on being recognized, but I would also like to commend all the elders that are out there continuing to pass on their knowledge to us that are still trying to learn.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Member’s Statement 468 – 6(2): Nunavut Commissioner’s Awards Recipients (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would also like to acknowledge the Commissioner’s Awards ceremony on October 27 and the recipients in it. It gives me great pleasure, actually, to acknowledge the Iqaluit Fire Department for their service and their very well deserved award. I know that the mayor happens to be here and he will pass that thanks on to the department as well as their volunteers.

Those volunteer firefighters in Iqaluit and across the territory do such incredibility important work in keeping us safe and saving lives. That award is so well deserved. Mr. Speaker, the Iqaluit Search and Rescue Team was also honoured by the commissioner. I had the privilege of being the city council representative on the Iqaluit Search and Rescue Team during my time at city council. I was always so amazed at the professionality and the knowledge that that team brings to every search and rescue. The absolute commitment to our community cannot be thanked enough. Mr.

Speaker, the commissioner also honoured the ranger patrol. We know that everything that we do to keep our communities safe in and outside of our community and to continue to build knowledge about what’s happening in our environment, the Ranger Patrol also has a key role in serving our community and our communities all across the territory. I, too, honour those that were awarded. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for South Baffin, Mr. Joanasie. Member’s Statement 469 – 6(2): Fundraising for New Anglican Church in Kinngait (Joanasie) Hon.

David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to the people of South Baffin. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and offer my heartfelt appreciation on behalf of Kinngarmiut to the very great effort made by Rankin Inlet’s Shirley Kirkwa. Mr. Speaker, members may recall that early this year, Kinngait lost its Anglican church due to fire and it was a

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4120 devastating loss for the community of Kinngait. However, last month, the site cleanup was initiated and efforts have been underway to raise funds to build a new church. Mr. Speaker, Shirley Kirkwa heard about this great loss and mobilized herself to raise funds by walking from Rankin Inlet to Ijiralik and back. Mr. Speaker, through her walk, she was able to raise $659.25. Mr. Speaker, every little bit helps and even though it might be small, the support is very big. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Ms.

Kirkwa for her big gesture and generous heart, along with the people of Kinngait. In particular, I wish to thank the following people for fundraising activities by naming them: Ipayaqa and Eegevadluk Oqutaq, Mayuriaq Quvianaqtuliaq, Sana Pudlat, Jutani Nuna, Neevee Tapaungai, along with the staff and students of Sam Pudlat School and Peter Pitseolak School, as well as the local housing authority in Kinngait. Mr. Speaker, they are still looking for more donations to fundraise for the Anglican Church. Eegevadluk Oqutaq can be contacted to make donations through the West Baffin Eskimo Co-Op.

I thank each and every one. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 470 – 6(2): Atii Angutiit in Arctic Bay (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Atii Angutiit program was recently started in Arctic Bay, and the program is running smoothly. The men in the group meet weekly. I would like to acknowledge and express my appreciation to the coordinator for the whole Baffin region, Richard Bohlender, who has worked very hard to ensure that the men gather together. It has been recognized that the men also need the healing program. They held their gathering yesterday. Through these weekly meetings, they have been working on building a qamutik and the sled is 26 feet long.

They completed the qamutik yesterday and they will be using the qamutik this spring when they go out on the land, which I am very pleased about. I encourage the men to attend the gathering and talk about their feelings. This has benefitted the Nunavut government’s program and I’m very proud that this program was initiated. The men who did not have the opportunity to take healing now have the opportunity. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4121 Member’s Statement 471 – 6(2): Nunavut Commissioner’s Awards Recipients (Akeeagok,

P) Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Good morning and thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to acknowledge our Commissioner’s Awards ceremony on October 27. She presented her awards to many Iqaluit residents. Some of them have been recognized for their commitment to save lives. I would like to acknowledge the people that were (interpretation ends) recognized for bravery. Mr.

Speaker, I am very honoured and humbled to recognize a few individuals that are heroes in our communities, and oftentimes they don’t all have capes, but really, they are volunteers within our community that give themselves to serve our constituents. For that, I would like to recognize Hagar Idlout Sudlovenick who, on behalf of her late husband, David Sudlovenick, rescued Alyssa Flaherty-Spence as well as Qiatsuq Lavinia Flaherty, who were lost out on the land.

Further, I would like to recognize Jeetaloo Kakee who, with the late Joshua Kango, rescued Jeremiah Groves and his family; also Natsiq Kango on behalf of her late husband, Joshua Kango; and finally, Jeremiah Groves, who also saved his father’s life out on the land. Mr. Speaker, I would like to share the recognition with my colleagues here that our Commissioner recognized these incredible people who give of themselves to help those around them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Member’s Statement 472 – 6(2): Trailblazing Women (Nakashuk) Hon.

Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues and people of Nunavut. This morning I would like to acknowledge my colleague, Karen, and I have had the same plan. First of all, I would like to thank the individual who is here, Miluqtuarjuk Ragelee. Please be welcome. The newly elected members in the municipal elections included four young women in 25 communities. I would like to acknowledge Meeka Kiguktak, who was re-elected for Grise Fiord. Lynn Mike, I believe, is the youngest mayor we have elected in Pangnirtung. Additionally, in Sanikiluaq, Masako Kittosuk was elected.

In Qikiqtarjuaq, my cousin, Daisy Arnaquq, was acclaimed. We need to regularly recognize women who work hard in politics in their communities as they are in the public sphere and women comprise a minority, especially in politics. There are many distinguished women who are always working hard and I wish to acknowledge the women I am here with, my fellow MLAs, as there are six of us in this Legislative Assembly. Further, when I started school in kindergarten, our teacher was Leena Evic. I am very proud of Commissioner

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4122 Eva Aariak and her daughter, Karliin Aariak. I wanted to recognize her as she is presently here. Pauline Melanson, who is in the top echelon as an Inuk woman, I am proud of her accomplishment in being appointed as the Staff Sergeant Major in the RCMP. Welcome. >>Applause I also acknowledge Lori Idlout and Nancy Karetak. There are many women that we need to acknowledge who diligently work on behalf of Nunavut as elected leaders. I urge our young people to start getting into politics. It is an opportunity and when you try, you learn something new. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Arviat North-Whale Cove, Mr. Main. Member’s Statement 473 – 6(2): The Importance of Remembrance Day (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to my constituents in Arviat North and Whale Cove. Mr. Speaker, this week is remembrance week and Saturday, November 11, will be Remembrance Day and we will not be sitting here on that day, so I will just have a short statement to make. We must not forget and let us recall and remember the past history and the impacts to date that are affecting countries that are at war.

Still to this date, young people, children, and adults are affected tremendously daily in these countries due to war. My late grandmother and grandfather were both impacted due to war, and although they are now deceased, the impact reminds me to remember them on Remembrance Day. All members must understand and remember what our history went through and what kinds of mistakes were made in the past so that we won’t be making the same mistake. If we understand exactly what occurred in history and we remember correctly, it will be good to know at this time. Mr.

Speaker, I want to thank the Canadian Rangers and people who are in the defense army for giving their lives to protect and defend us. They work hard within Canada and outside of our country throughout the globe. I will remember them and thank them for their dedication, so lest we forget and remember them on November 11. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Amittuq, Mr. Kaernerk. Member’s Statement 474 – 6(2): Reflections on Fall Sitting (Kaernerk) Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning.

I just want to state this morning that today is our last sitting day. When you’re sitting on this side, I now realize that you have to respond to the questions, as Ms. Nakashuk stated that when you’re working on something new,

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4123 you have to practise. For the last two weeks that I have been sitting here, I had to learn all the details of my portfolio. I would like to thank each and every one of you for your patience. Even though I start sweating when trying to respond, it’s the only way we can practise and get good at anything we have never done before. It is sometimes daunting and difficult, yet we must never stop nor give up. If you can’t do it, then you can just accept it, but before you try something, please don’t say that you can’t do it.

If you try it and fail, I know that you can say that you can’t do it. With this portfolio, as a minister I will try to respond to your questions. I would also like to send my appreciation to all of my constituents and thank them for their patience, even with my faults. I am overwhelmed by gratitude this morning since my wife arrived and I am very grateful to her, along with my mother-in-law. Although we are residents of Sanirajak, we have moved to Iqaluit now, so I wish to thank them. I will not be giving up.

I may get embarrassed from time to time, but I will not be daunted or ashamed, which is an Inuit cultural practice. I will continue on because we are representing Nunavummiut. Let’s do it properly. Lastly, Mr. Speaker, I have wanted to say that “As Member Joelie Kaernerk, I will pose a question to the Minister Kaernerk.” >>Laughter That is what I wanted to say and I just wanted to jokingly state that. Thank you for the opportunity, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Members’ Statements. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak.

Member’s Statement 475 – 6(2): Baker Lake Search and Rescue Volunteers (Simailak) Mr. Simailak (interpretation): Good morning, my fellow MLAs, and a good morning greeting to the residents of Baker Lake as this is the last day of our sitting, which is gratifying. Mr. Speaker, there is a committee called the Qamani’tuaq Qiniqtiit, so I want to acknowledge them this morning. They are a voluntary committee who give of their time to assist their fellow Inuit, without making any money. I have worked with some of them for many years, sometimes working all day and night without sleeping, to conduct the searches.

It is due to their compassion and dedication that they commit themselves. I wish to name them, Mr. Speaker: • Chairman Richard Aksawnee • Deputy Chairman James Taipana • Secretary Treasurer Kaviq Kaluraq • Shawn Attungala • John Etegoyok • Lazurus Attungala • Solomon Mariq • Timothy Evviuk, whom we call Kilikvak in Inuktut • Peter Jayko • Jimmy Misheralak

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4124 I thank these individuals and if you are going out, inform people where you’re heading. If you happen not to make it back or get lost, the individuals that I just mentioned will go searching for you so that you may return home safely. We would like to thank them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Item 4: Returns to Oral Questions Return to Oral Question 581 – 6(2): Kugluktuk Power Plant (Kaernerk) Hon. Joelie Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to return to an oral question asked by Bobby Anavilok, Member for Kugluktuk. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to supplement an answer I gave during question period on October 26, 2023. The Member for Kugluktuk requested information on Kugluktuk’s power plant. Mr. Speaker, I would like to clarify that the Qulliq Energy Corporation is working with the Kitikmeot Corporation, known as Kit. Corp., to find a contractor to build the power plant. If successful, a tender will not be required because the Qulliq Energy Corporation will direct award to Kit. Corp. upon cabinet approval. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Return to Oral Question 587 – 6(2): Ilinniarvimmi Inuusilirijiit (Gross) Hon. Pamela Gross: Quana, Mr. Speaker, and uplaakkut to everybody in this House with us and to those across Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide additional information regarding the ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit positions in Nunavut schools, as requested by the Member for Tununiq during question period on October 27, 2023. The Department of Education understands the concerns about the vacant ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit positions in Pond Inlet.

Ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit are very valuable members of the school team and function as resource supports for students’ social, emotional and behavioural issues to help them cope with challenges they may face. The ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit position at the Nasivvik High School in Pond Inlet has been vacant since August 2020 and the position at Ulaajuk Elementary School has been vacant since July 2022. Requests have been made for both positions to be posted and the department will continue to make efforts to fill the positions.

Until these vacant positions are filled, the school has the authority to hire substitutes. On occasion, substitutes have been hired on a short-term basis; however, no long- term substitutes have been available in the community. Across the territory, there are a total of 49 ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit positions in our schools. Of these positions, 26.5 are currently filled indeterminately and

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4125 22.5 are vacant. To alleviate the vacant positions, four positions are filled through casual staffing action and schools also have various relief employees temporarily filling the positions. The Department of Education is working to direct appoint as many long-term casual employees as possible. Within the last three years, the department has direct appointed four ilinniarvimmi inuusilirijiit employees. Thank you for bringing this matter to my attention and for your continued advocacy for the well-being of our students. Quana, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Return to Oral Question 664 – 6(2): Testing Walrus for Trichinosis (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I rise today to supplement my response to the MLA from Aivilik. On November 3, the member had questioned me on testing walrus for trichinosis. In my response, I stated that testing was done in Iqaluit. Testing is done in Iqaluit and more recently a lab has also been established in Rankin Inlet.

This lab is a pilot program through Nunavut Arctic College and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Returns to Oral Questions. Hon. Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk. Return to Oral Question 580 – 6(2): Chesterfield Inlet Power Plant (Kaernerk) Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Alexander Sammurtok, Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to supplement an answer I gave during question period on October 26, 2023. The Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet requested information on the Chesterfield Inlet Power Plant. Mr. Speaker, I would like to clarify that the new generator for Chesterfield Inlet in 2025 will assure reliability of the system, while the QEC seeks funding for replacement of the power plant.

I would also like to clarify that there are insufficient funds under the Arctic Energy Fund to replace all of the power plants that need replacement and that due significantly growing costs, none of the planned replacement plants will use a hybrid design. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and Nunavummiut and fellow members. It is our last sitting day. I rise today to recognize my mother, Ragelee Miluqtuarjuk Angnakok.

We can sometimes become affected by illness and she too was affected. My

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4126 mother is here and I want to honour her while she is here. I want to briefly comment on her background, as she has advised me in the past, “Since you are becoming more experienced, you can probably run for the MLA position,” and that she thinks I am ready to run for the position based on my work in our community. I am extremely proud to stand, to be here with my mother who continually encouraged me. Miluqtuarjuk Ragelee Angnakok is present and I would like my colleagues to welcome her.

She felt I was ready based on watching my experiences at certain times, as I grew older, when I was younger, and starting my employment at different positions in our community. I want her welcomed here in the House. Further, I want to thank Iqalummiut. She is well looked after here and I am grateful for the hospitality extended to her. In closing, Mr. Speaker, she is a Toronto fan. >>Laughter Furthermore, my mother, (interpretation ends) she has surprised us siblings and friends.

She is so good in calculating, she is so good in numbers, she is unilingual, and most of all, she loves her crossword puzzles. >>Laughter (interpretation) This has provided a benefit that we can always keep trying. Although she doesn’t understand English, she loves doing crossword puzzles. That’s for your information. Thank you and welcome my mother here. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also welcome Miluqtuarjuk.

You must be an excellent mother because your daughter is one of the kindest and most beautiful women that I know. Welcome. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to welcome Iqaluit’s newest full-time mayor, Mr. Solomon Awa. >>Applause Mr. Awa leads with kindness and integrity; you know that his word is good and he stands by his word. I have learned so much from him, I could talk for a long time about what I have learned from Mr. Awa and what I will say instead is check out #awafeats to learn for yourself. Mr. Speaker, also in the House is Mr.

Kent Driscoll, who is the Communications and Customer Services Manager for the City of Iqaluit. I have known him for a number of years, and I can also say that this is man with a great deal of integrity and kindness. I’m so proud to welcome you here, Mr. Driscoll. For those of you who may have questions for Mr. Driscoll, you can call him at 979-5607. Welcome to your House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4127 Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Behind a very good leader is there’s always somebody that’s shy and doesn’t want to get any recognition and tries to leave the building before Visitors in the Gallery. I want to recognize my ningauppaaq, Peter Melanson. >>Applause The person I just did a minister’s statement on is Pauline Melanson. Also with us is Joe Baines, who has been with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 24 years of service.

Thank you very much. >>Applause And their wonderful leader, the leader of our “V” division, Andrew Blackadar, welcome to the House. >>Applause (interpretation) Further, this individual was already recognized, but Steven’s mom was in Grise Fiord. We weren’t allowed to say the names of individuals who are older than us, so we didn’t know the name of Steven’s mother. Now Mary’s mom is here, which is great. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Ms. Nakashuk. Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also recognize the individuals who were recognized, even though I will not say their names. Welcome to Mr. Baines and everyone who is here. It’s really wonderful to have visitors here, especially relatives. I also want to recognize my two nieces, Kelly Kilabuk and Rosie Akavak, who are here. Welcome them to the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. I have no more names. Item 6. Oral Questions. Before we start, Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet will not be in today.

Although today is the last day of this sitting, you still have to be mindful of your

preambles during question-and- answer period. Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit- Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Item 6: Oral Questions Question 677 – 6(2): Independent Power Producer Program (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation and are regarding the Commercial and Institutional Power Producer Program.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4128 As the minister will recall, he recently signed the 2023-24 Letter of Expectation to the Chair of the Qulliq Energy Corporation’s board of directors. Mr. Speaker, in this letter of expectation, the minister indicated that he expects the corporation to “complete the pricing structure” for the Commercial and Institutional Power Producer Program. As we are now halfway through the fiscal year, I would like to ask if the minister can provide an update today on the status of this work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon.

Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk Hon. Joelie Kaernerk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for requesting an update on this work. Up to now, (interpretation ends) the letter of expectation which I signed, I still have not given a response, so I will get back to you on that with a detailed answer. At this time, I cannot say what is happening now. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I look forward to the minister’s response. Mr.

Speaker, the Commercial and Institutional Power Producer Program was launched in March 2021, two and a half years ago. Since then, I have asked previous ministers of the Qulliq Energy Corporation as well as Community and Government Services to begin negotiations and finalize a purchase agreement that would allow the GN to connect its assets to the grid. I would like to ask the minister for an update on any discussions and negotiations currently occurring between the Qulliq Energy Corporation and the GN. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation, Mr. Kaernerk Hon.

Joelie Kaernerk: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thanks again to the member on the question on commercial and institutional power. This is a great program and it’s a very new program. It’s a great initiative for commercial producers. The member is right; it was launched in March 2021 and that is within a matter of two years’ time. Sorry and my apologies, Mr. Speaker. I will have to take the question as notice. I’m still trying to learn this program as it is fairly new. I will take the question as notice. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Question taken as notice. Oral Questions. Member for Arviat South, Mr. Savikataaq.

Question 678 – 6(2): Academic Courses for Arviat High School (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the people of Arviat, I say “good morning” to you, and this is our last day and if the weather is good tomorrow, I should be back in Arviat, which will be great. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister of Education.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4129 As I stated yesterday, I would have more questions on academic courses in Arviat. It’s not often where the minister is right and the MLA is right. There are some academic courses available in Arviat. The three courses that are not available are biology, chemistry, and physics. My first question is: will the minister’s officials work with the district education authority in Arviat to have these courses available in the next coming year, as there are many in my constituency that want to and need these courses to go on to university? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to our colleague for the great question. Yes, I will commit to our department working with the district education authority to seek out those courses. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the commitment the minister is making because Arviat is sometimes, like I stated yesterday, the second biggest community or third biggest community. Rankin Inlet and Arviat are very close to the same.

These courses are needed and I look forward to positive results that these courses are available next year at the high school in Arviat. For the current situation where the minister stated that there are online course that students can take anywhere in Nunavut for academic courses that are not available, some parents might not be able to help their students that are taking online courses. Is there a dedicated teacher in instances where there are students taking online courses or is the student completely on their own? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon.

Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for that question. Yes, we do have options for the distance learning and the principal is the first point of contact for the students when they are studying by distance. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Savikataaq. Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s good to know that the principal is the first line of contact because there may be many students within our great territory of Nunavut taking remote learning for their academic courses.

Can the minister assure Nunavummiut that there will always be a dedicated teacher to help these students who are working harder than normal because they are doing their regular schooling plus online courses? Will there always be a dedicated teacher for students that are taking remote learning for these academic courses if they are not available in their community? Thank you. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for that

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4130 question. Yes, we do have the availability of having someone available in the school to help the students that are learning from a distance. Our schools also have learning coaches who are available for the students’ needs to support them through that time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Question 679 – 6(2): Fisheries and Sealing Division Priorities (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to the people of Nunavut and my colleagues.

I would like to direct my question today to the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation. I will begin this morning by applauding the fisheries. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I will begin by applauding the minister for tabling his department’s Fisheries and Sealing Division’s strategic plan. This sector of the economy is extremely important to our region of the territory. Mr.

Speaker, the strategic plan indicates that one of the department’s “action items” is to “Actively seek all opportunities to repatriate current adjacent quota and increase quota levels sustainably.” Can the minister clarify how much funding has been budgeted for the repatriation of quota and the purchase of new quota? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. From our department, we don’t have specific dollars assigned for repatriation of our licences.

For the repatriation of the licences that we are pursuing, we are working very closely with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, who have launched a judicial review with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to try to repatriate what was the company called Clearwater when they were sold. We are trying to repatriate those licences that rightfully should be with Nunavut fisheries. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the minister for explaining that further.

I hope this can be settled as soon as possible so that many more communities can try for it. (interpretation ends) The fisheries sector has great potential to provide opportunities for Inuit to gain skills and obtain employment in the industry. Can the minister describe how his department’s Fisheries and Sealing Division is working with Nunavut Arctic College and other partners to provide training programs for Igloolik residents who are interested in pursuing a career in this sector? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4131 Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We have a number of partners that we put together to form the Nunavut Fisheries Training Consortium. That training is available for any Nunavummiuq that wants to be trained, especially in the areas of offshore fisheries. That training opportunity is available and that’s with a number of partners that we do have that is being offered within the territory. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the minister.

Perhaps not just in Igloolik but all of Nunavut’s communities should be provided this information as it would benefit us all. (interpretation ends) The strategic plan makes reference to the importance of “Building…Investments in community- based harvesting, storage and processing capacity, as well as small craft harbours and other shore-based infrastructure…” Mr. Speaker, it is important that the fish which are harvested in our waters are processed in facilities that are located in Nunavut communities. This adds value to the supply chain and creates more employment opportunities to our constituents.

Can the minister describe how his department is working to establish new processing facilities in communities like Igloolik? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There are a number of ways that we are trying to get processing plants into our communities. One of the programs that we do have is that we are building community freezers and within that, it is to try to ensure that it is adequate if there’s going to become a processing plant to start supplementing that.

In the letter of expectation that I just sent to the Nunavut Development Corporation, I asked them to look at expanding in the fisheries sector too, which is one through that avenue too. There are different ways that our department is trying to get advancement in the in-shore fishery or the freshwater fisheries. I think there is a good market to be had and it is something that we’re definitely looking into as part of diversifying our economy under the Katujjiluta mandate. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Kugluktuk, Mr. Anavilok.

Question 680 – 6(2): Responses to Resolutions (Anavilok) Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions today are for the Premier in responses to resolutions. As the House is aware, there are a number of Nunavut organizations which hold annual general meetings in different communities. These include the

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4132 Kitikmeot Inuit Association, the Nunavut Association of Municipalities, and Nunavut Tunngavik. A number of these organizations pass resolutions in their annual general meetings which call on the Government of Nunavut to take actions in different areas. From time to time, Members of the Legislative Assembly table copies of these resolutions in the Legislative Assembly. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is important that Members of the Legislative Assembly and the public know how the government is responding to these resolutions.

Does the Premier share my position? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the member. I agree that we have to work closely together with the different entities and I do thank those different organizations, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, regional Inuit organizations, and the committees and subcommittees. The copies of the resolutions get tabled here in the House and we review them carefully.

If the various departments are involved, they try to provide a response or see if they can provide support to the issues that have been mentioned. However, we are very open to working with those organizations and some resolutions cannot be responded to right away because there is a need to do some research on the subject, but we do scrutinize those resolutions that are sent to us. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for the response. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I have raised concerns during our current sitting about elder care, issues facing our hunters, and the high cost of living in our communities. A number of resolutions concerning these issues were passed at Nunavut Tunngavik’s recent annual general meeting which was held in the Kitikmeot community of Cambridge Bay. Will the Premier commit to ensuring that the government’s formal responses to these resolutions are tabled in the Legislative Assembly during our upcoming winter sitting? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J.

Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again I thank my colleague for bringing forward that concern. We do have structures in place with the partnerships that we do have. As I had indicated prior, specifically to Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, I believe that’s the member’s question, where we do have a protocol where we allow and look at the joint priorities that we do have with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated.

I am eager to be meeting with their leadership with our cabinet as well as part of that process where, through that mechanism, we do look at from a joint priority exercise what we both could do to address the issues that are important to Nunavummiut.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4133 The member is right and I really appreciate the priorities he has brought forward here, whether it was elder care. The airline discussion, obviously, is top of mind of many Nunavummiut. Through really those structures is where we put together the work plans to be able to address the joint priorities that we have identified. To commit to table any responses, obviously there are many resolutions that pertain to government and that doesn’t pertain to government as well that do come out.

We take those very seriously, but right now I look forward to having the discussions with NTI through the partnership committee structure that we both agreed to. Through that mechanism, I do look forward to providing updates of what we are jointly providing and I would commit to bringing forward the action items that we have been able to come together through that structure. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Anavilok. Mr. Anavilok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) I want to congratulate the mayor and council of Kugluktuk for their work on behalf of the community. As the Premier is aware, the Nunavut Association of Municipalities brings together mayors from across the territory to address issues facing all of our communities. Will the Premier commit to ensuring that the government’s formal responses to resolutions passed by the Nunavut Association of Municipalities at its most recent annual general meeting are tabled in the Legislative Assembly during our upcoming winter sitting? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again I thank my colleague for that question. I, too, can’t appreciate enough the incredible leadership we have with the council. I am very pleased with having been to Kugluktuk personally to meet with the previous mayor as well as the council. I really take those relationships to heart and I really appreciate the hard work that they do at the community level. I commend the strong leadership in particular that Kugluktuk has as well.

With that, further, I was very happy to accept the invitation again to be able to appear before the association, NAM, and the municipalities across the territory. I’ll be joining the Minister responsible for Community and Government Services at that. I look forward to being able to share and listen to the priorities that are from all the communities during our appearance and to see where we could jointly prioritize action items, obviously, that we have heard here in the House through the Katujjiluta mandate.

I could commit to looking at what resolutions do come from that and the responses we have as a government to be able to share with the member. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4134 Question 681 – 6(2): Community Morgues (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services and they concern the very serious issue of community morgues. Mr. Speaker, as you know, I have raised this issue on a number of occasions during the current Legislative Assembly. Mr. Speaker, when I raised this issue during our spring sitting, I spoke about the importance of ensuring that the recently departed are treated with dignity and respect. Mr.

Speaker, at that time, the minister confirmed that some of the funding is availble from his department to provide to municipalities that submit proposals. Can the minister provide an update today on how much funding has been provided to date during the 2023-24 fiscal year to municipalities for the purpose of upgrading existing morgue facilities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the Member for Netsilik. The hamlets are responsible for morgue facilities in the communities. Mr.

Speaker, some of the funding is given to hamlets as contributions and some of it is provided through proposals. We increased the (interpretation ends) municipal capital block funding (interpretation) for Kugaaruk and Taloyoak. It is $81,000 for Taloyoak and $80,000 for Kugaaruk. Those are the amounts that are set currently. Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, we make sure that there is an ongoing review done with the hamlets with regard to morgue facilities at the community level. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

When I last raised this issue during our spring sitting, both the minister and I noted the importance of working closely with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to thank the members of the association’s board of directors for their hard work on behalf of our territory’s 25 communities. Mr. Speaker, can the minister update the House today on what progress has been made towards conducting a feasibility study on this issue in partnership with the association? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon.

David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My department continues to work with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities on our shared priorities. This is one of the areas that we are looking at in the community integrated sustainability plans. Each hamlet provides and prioritizes what they would like to see for their communities. I can state that we have, I believe, 10 out of 24 communities have listed morgues or mortuaries within their sustainability plans and they rank them at different levels. We’re trying to work within what

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4135 are their priorities and what are the resources that we can provide them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Quqqiaq. Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My colleague from Iqaluit-Sinaa has asked a number of questions recently about the important work that is performed by the Office of the Chief Coroner. I completely agree with her that the government needs to resume the practice of tabling that office’s important annual reports. Mr.

Speaker, I sincerely thank all of Nunavut’s community coroners for their dedication in this very challenging role. Mr. Speaker, when it comes to addressing the issue of community morgues, it is essential to get the input and insights of our community coroners. Mr. Speaker, can the minister indicate how his department is working with the Office of the Chief Coroner on the issue of community morgues? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My department and again, we continue to work with all agencies, but first and foremost, with the municipalities on what their needs are, and if there are other agencies that we would like to get input and advice on this matter, then we will have those talks. At this time, I don’t have any specific details around how my department works with the office of the coroner, but I can bring some details to light with my colleagues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, Mr. Hickes. Question 682 – 6(2): Curriculum Development (Hickes) Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As mentioned yesterday, I would like to direct my question today to the Minister of Education. The minister yesterday spoke to some of the challenges that the department has going, specifically within the curriculum and resource development division. I would like to ask the minister to start off: what are the current staffing levels of the curriculum and resource development division overall, but specifically positions supporting Inuktut curriculum development? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for the question.

Out of memory, I believe we have four positions filled out of 22 for curriculum development and for the remaining positions, we outsource to Inhabit Media, who are providing educational curriculum development and have expertise in the subject matter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Hickes.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4136 Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There was a lot of concern raised with the updated legislation on education, when it was passed, on meeting the obligations of Inuktut curriculum. Since the updated legislation was passed, how many programs or courses have had updated or new curriculum completed? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Education, Ms. Gross. Hon. Pamela Gross: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for that question. We do have curriculum that is ongoing and being developed.

With the Education Act, the work is supposed to be concluded in 2039. I’m pleased to say that since the implementation of the Katujjiluta mandate, we have been able to work to accelerate the curriculum development and we are able to have the curriculum be implemented by 2036. We’re able to be three years ahead of

schedule for the implementation of the curriculum. We have been working on the curriculum from K to 6 since 2020. This month, there is going to be a language education gathering in Arviat and they will be coming together to work on the grades 7 to 9 curriculum and starting the implementation of that. To create the curriculum, there are four phases for the development of this curriculum. They’re all at different stages as we speak, but I can provide detail to our colleagues on where the curriculum is, what subject matter is at what stage, and we have a very detailed accurate tracking of the entire curriculum.

For example, the implementation from kindergarten, I can say that the new curriculum will be implemented in August 2025 and go through the breakdown of each grade level and course. Mr. Speaker, just quickly, there are four phases, as I mentioned, to developing the curriculum. The first phase is drafting a curriculum, including learning outcomes, and that has four steps to it. We have a second phase, which is creating assessment and evaluation and reporting tools that align with curriculum learning outcomes. This phase has eight steps.

The second two, phase 3 is creating resources that align with curriculum learning outcomes and that has five steps to it, and then the fourth and final phase is developing and delivering training to support teachers in the implementation of the curriculum. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Hickes. Mr. Hickes: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do appreciate the minister’s response with the level of detail and I do look forward to seeing correspondence on the status of the different types of curriculum developed.

I just can’t emphasize enough the controversy that surrounded the updates to the Education Act, and very bravely, the Legislative Assembly put faith in the Department of Education to meet the new deadlines, and I am excited to hear that’s on track to surpass that deadline. I can’t emphasize enough how important is it for the department to maintain that level of trust from the population, from parents, from students, our Inuit organizations and our language

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4137 specialists across the territory. I’ll just leave it as a comment for now and I do look forward to following up after receiving more information on this. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Thank you. It’s just a comment. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Question 683 – 6(2): Nunavut Development Corporation Priorities (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the (interpretation ends) Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister is aware, I represent two non-decentralized communities that suffer from high rates of poverty. Mr. Speaker, I believe that the best cure for poverty is a job, which is why I continue to advocate for my constituents in this area. As the minister is aware,

section 3 of the Nunavut Development Corporation Act states very clearly that the purpose of the corporation is to “create employment income for residents of Nunavut, primarily in small communities.” Can the minister indicate if he is fully satisfied with the Nunavut Development Corporation’s performance in creating employment incomes for residents of Naujaat and Coral Harbour? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon, Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

With the Nunavut Development Corporation, I applaud the work that they do and I encourage them to do more, especially for the smaller communities. I have been encouraging the board, and as of yesterday or a few days ago, the letters of expectation were just delivered. More work needs to be done, but the work that they do, I think, can be enhanced to various communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) As the minister will recall, he recently signed the 2023-24 Letter of Expectation to the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Nunavut Development Corporation. In his letter of expectation, the minister directed the corporation to “seek new projects and investments in our commercial fishery and harvesting sectors that will lead to enhanced employment and income earning opportunities for Nunavut hunters, fishermen and processing plant workers”.

As the minister will recall, my college representing Rankin Inlet North- Chesterfield Inlet recently asked questions about the potential for new commercial fishing opportunities near Southampton Island. Can the minister indicate if the Nunavut Development Corporation is actively pursuing opportunities in this sector? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4138 Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Nunavut Development Corporation is already processing arctic char in a few of their facilities, and we always try to find ways of increasing and enhancing that.

When the board met just this month, I was given the opportunity to speak to them and I continue to encourage them that we need to do more, especially in the areas of freshwater fisheries, and look at options of not just focus on one market but focus on other markets such as our Nunavut communities that are in dire need for food security. From my perspective, we do have a potential market and that’s within our own communities.

I continue to work with the Nunavut Development Corporation and our departments to find ways because, within the Department of Economic Development and Transportation, we have the Country Food Distribution Program which we should be using to gear towards putting processing plants and community freezers. That’s what’s needed in order to kick-start our market. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) As the minister is aware, the Nunavut Development Corporation has a venture equity investment in Sudliq Developments, which is located in Coral Harbour. I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the hard-working constituents who operate this successful business. Can the minister confirm if the corporation is actively considering making any new venture equity investments in companies that are located in Naujaat and Coral Harbour? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister responsible for the Nunavut Development Corporation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon.

David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m not intimately involved in the board’s decisions and the board’s deliberations when it comes to pursuing other potential sectors that they are pursuing, but I am a strong advocate and continued advocate to encourage the board of directors to pursue different and other sectors. I continually remind our board of directors that through the Katujjiluta mandate, everything is possible. Through this government, it has been proven that when we form partnerships and look for others, we get support from this House and we get support from my cabinet colleagues.

I want to stress to our board of directors for the Nunavut Development Corporation that anything is possible. I want our directors to pursue those and I encourage them, and I will very gladly provide any updates to this House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4139 Question 684 – 6(2): Whole-of- Government Position on Mining (Simailak) Mr. Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) This morning my questions are for the Premier. Mr. Speaker, the Premier often talks in this House about the importance of bringing a “whole-of-government” approach to different issues. I want to focus today on the extent to which this is being done in respect to mining in Nunavut. Mr.

Speaker, I have spoken many times in this House about the genuinely transformative and positive change that has been achieved in Baker Lake through the incredible training, employment and business opportunities that have accompanied the mines in the Kivalliq region. However, I have still not heard the Premier make a sound and clear statement of support on behalf of the government as a whole in respect to responsible mining in Nunavut. Mr. Speaker: will the Premier clearly and unequivocally state today that the Government of Nunavut fully supports responsible mining in the territory? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Hon. Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank my colleague for that question. Mr. Speaker, I believe I have been clear that we are very open to responsible mining and I have said it many times in this House that we are very open to that. I’ve had the pleasure of actually being just recently in Baker Lake; further, going to Rankin Inlet, where I actually visited the mine site and met with the representatives of Agnico Eagle. We have a very strong relationship in terms of the communities but also the mining sector as well.

I think I have been very clear that we are very open to resource extractive mining in the territory as long as it’s done in a responsible way, as outlined, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On Tuesday of last week, the Government of Canada launched a $1.5 billion infrastructure fund to support the critical minerals sector of the economy. Earlier in our sitting, I questioned the Premier about the recent meeting of the Council of the Federation at which this issue was addressed. Mr.

Speaker, I am profoundly concerned that Nunavut will not see so much as a nickel from this new fund, given the mixed messages that the federal government is getting about support for mining in the territory. Mr. Speaker, once again I would like to ask: will the Premier clearly and unequivocally state today that the Government of Nunavut rejects the anti- mining position of our Member of Parliament, yes or no? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4140 Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to stress the high importance I put. I think we all understand mining has really played a key cornerstone of our economy. It provides incredible job opportunities, employment opportunities, and contracting opportunities. I see it first- hand in the communities and I think I have been very clear around that. Mr.

Speaker, I am also very proud to be directing my ministers to bring forward a mine training strategy that really highlights the importance of what we could do to secure more opportunities from these resource extractive industries to allow us to be able to truly see the benefits that come with it as well. With that in mind, I will be meeting with the Member of Parliament tomorrow and I look forward to that engagement around the bill that she brought forward in the House of Commons.

I have stated right here in this House that I have full confidence in the regulatory process when I was previously asked of the incredible work that the Impact Review Board does early on to engage the communities, of work that the Nunavut Water Board and their boards and the consultations that they lay out. Again, I can’t stress enough how much faith I have in the process as outlined in the Nunavut Agreement, where Inuit at those tables have an opportunity to voice immediately if there are any concerns and it is through those processes that I have full confidence.

To the member’s question, I will be meeting with the Member of Parliament tomorrow and be able to have a deeper discussion about what’s important from her viewpoint that she feels that isn’t captured in the regulatory processes that are in place at this point in time. I will allow that conversation to happen to ensure that I have the viewpoints of the Member of Parliament’s position, as it has been debated here in this House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I’m glad that the Premier will be meeting with our Member of Parliament tomorrow. I would like to know, following that meeting, if our Member of Parliament, who is the voice for Nunavut down in Ottawa, still has the mind of the anti-mining position, will the Premier clearly state that he rejects her position on mining in Nunavut. The Premier just said how many positive effects it has had in our territory, and if our Member of Parliament is of the mind of the anti-mining position, it is sending mixed messages to Ottawa, where we keep begging Ottawa for money. Mr.

Speaker, will the Premier commit to saying, “Yes, I will reject her position on anti-mining,” if that is still her position? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Premier of Nunavut, Mr. Pauloosie Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again I thank the member for bringing that forward. I very much look forward to and I have always worked very collaboratively with all levels of government. As an elected official in Ottawa, she is a voice as duly elected by Nunavummiut to serve in that very important capacity. I think we understand that as Nunavummiut, we

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4141 only have one voice in Parliament and it is important to ensure that the priorities of Nunavummiut are funnelled through. Mr. Speaker, I can’t commit without having that conversation with the Member of Parliament at this point in time. I think I have been very clear of where our position is. I believe that I have been very clear on the faith we have in the institutions of public government of how voices of concern of Nunavummiut are channelled through those mechanisms.

I very much look forward to having that conversation with the Member of Parliament and sharing the concerns that I’m hearing here right in this House as well. I can’t commit without having that conversation with the member first, but I look forward to being able to continue to have this conversation with my colleague here on what the next steps look like, as the Member of Parliament is independent and she is duly elected by members of Nunavummiut to serve that.

If there are any concerns that any member has here, they can directly meet with the Member of Parliament as well to voice their concerns, as we all are free to do so, whether it’s any member here or the general public has that right, right now. I trust that I will provide the member the opportunity to reach out to the member herself and share the viewpoint that the member has. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 685 – 6(2): Nunavut Employee Benefits Services Pension Plan (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My questions today are for the Minister of Community and Government Services and they concern the subject of the Northern Employee Benefits Services Plan. Mr. Speaker, as the minister is aware, a significant number of Nunavut employers belong to this pension plan. These include the Iqaluit Housing Authority, the Uquutaq Society, the Nunavut Planning Commission, and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. I can go on and on; those are just to name a few. I think it’s really important for different organizations that are smaller to know about this plan and join it. Mr.

Speaker, the most recent annual report indicates that the pension plan “has been working with both the Government of Nunavut and the Government of the Northwest Territories” with respect to the potential expansion of the plan into the Yukon. As the minister is aware, the potential passage of “mirror legislation” in a third Canadian jurisdiction would be quite unprecedented. Can the minister provide an update on the status of his discussions with his counterparts in Yellowknife and Whitehorse? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon.

David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Northern Employee

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4142 Benefits Services operates a defined benefit pension plan for public sector employees. We work in concert with the Government of Northwest Territories around our shared work in this area. Mr. Speaker, if I have it right, I believe the process is at a point where they’re looking at approving the coming into force for the same date for this legislation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I will take this opportunity to acknowledge the Minister of Community and Government Services for catching up earlier in our sitting on three years’ worth of outstanding annual reports on the pension plan. It’s good to see that these statutory obligations are being respected. Mr. Speaker, although the minister is responsible for the Northern Employee Benefits Services Pension Plan Act, I recognize that the day-to-day administration of the plan is conducted on an arm’s-length basis. I was happy to note that the pension plan’s most recent annual report indicates that a number of board meetings were held in Iqaluit.

I think that all Members of the House were happy to hear the recent announcement that the new president of the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission will work out of the commission’s Iqaluit office. Can the minister indicate if he has had any discussions about encouraging the pension plan to establish an office presence in Iqaluit to work with its existing headquarters in Yellowknife? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As this is an arm’s-length organization and it does represent people from both jurisdictions, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories, we are mindful in trying to allow for as much presence within the territory as we can and the door is always open for that. Of course, the idea of having Nunavut when it was created is to have things done and decided here in Nunavut. Of course, things are still progressing towards that, and this is another area that my department continues to try to push for that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, minister.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Almost 4,000 residents of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories are members of the pension plan and depend on it for their retirement security. I think that’s why it’s so important to raise awareness about this plan because people who work for smaller organizations are entitled to enroll in this plan. The pension plan’s most recent annual report indicates that although it did suffer “a net loss of 9.8% in the investment funds” for the year 2022, it remains on “a solid financial position going forward.” As the minister is aware, the majority of Nunavut municipalities belong to the

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4143 pension plan. Does he also consider the pension plan to be in a solid financial position? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If the member is asking about my position on this, as it is financial, I am not an expert in this field, but I’ll say that, for those organizations that are enrolled through the pension plan, I think they try to get the most expert advise on dealing with their fund. Mr.

Speaker, these annual reports that we have tabled, we do want to show that as a public government, these are people’s funds and their future that they want to have secured. We are on that path and I acknowlege the member for the fact that we tabled the annual reports and actuarial valuations that contain a whole lot of detail. I encourage members that are tied to those plans to take a close look at that and then offer their input to any concerns that they have, either throught their department or their plan organizaiton. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee.

Question 686 – 6(2): Airport Infrastructure (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee: (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Department of Economic Development and Transportation and they concern the issue of airport infrastructure. My colleague from Kugluktuk asked a number of questions last week concerning air transport issues in the Kitikmeot. I want to take this opportunity to raise similar concerns regarding air transportion in this region. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, as the member will recall, he recently tabled the Nunavut Airports 20-Year Capital Needs Assessment Update.

The report indicates: “From consultations with air carriers, the ATR 42-500 will not be able to serve Pangnirtung due to its runway length. Clyde River can only be served by the ATR 42-500 in the winter when the runway is frozen, as the combination of gravel performance penalties and inadequate runway length during the reminder of the year will prohibit operations.

To ensure future ATR 42- 500 operations at Clyde River and Pangnirtung, runway extensions at both airports may be required.” Can the minister indicate what plans his department has to extend the runway at Clyde River’s airport? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We are always concerned about those things, the fact that some airstrips are too short or cannot be used for a while. We are always studying them and working on them.

With regard to the plans to extend the runway in Clyde River, I don’t have the

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4144 information in front of me. If it’s going to be looked at, then the funding that was approved for that purpose can be drawn from. That’s all I can say right now, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We would like the runway in Clyde River to be worked on and have a study done on it. It’s important that a study is done on that. It’s causing the community not to be served properly because Clyde River needs to be served. Mr.

Speaker, (interpretation ends) the Nunavut Airports 20-Year Capital Needs Assessment Update indicates that Clyde River’s current runway is 3,501 feet in length and Qikiqtarjuaq’s runway is 3,803 feet in length. Can the minister confirm whether or not Qikiqtarjuaq’s runway can accommodate the newer variant of the ATR aircraft? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The first question as to whether the airstrip can be studied and the fact that it sometimes cannot be used, we can look into it. As to whether or not the runway in Qikiqtarjuaq can accommodate ATR 500s, I’m not sure which airport doesn’t have the proper infrastructure. However, I know that the airplane can go to one of the communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As you stated that you are not sure about something you said, I would appreciate it if you could come back to us with that information.

In regard to airports, (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the Nunavut Airports 20-Year Capital Needs Assessment Update also indicates that “onsite assessments are required to determine removal costs” for the old airport terminal buildings. In Clyde River it has been sitting abandoned for 10 years plus, up to today. Can the minister confirm when this work will begin? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The work will start this coming summer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak. Question 687 – 6(2): Public Safety (Nutarak) Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the Minister of Justice and they concern the important issue of public safety. Mr. Speaker, during the Legislative Assembly’s sitting of October 19, 2023, I had the opportunity to table my recent exchange of correspondence with the Minister of Finance.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4145 Mr. Speaker, the correspondence concerned the impact of alcohol abuse and the trend of violent incidents in Pond Inlet. This letter was also addressed to the Minister of Justice. Can the minister indicate when he will reply to my letter of July 27, 2023? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I try to respond to every one of the correspondences that I get from my member colleagues.

If I recall, I may have responded to it and, if I have not, I do sincerely apologize and I will respond properly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your first supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister. I look forward to the response. Mr. Speaker, on May 31, 2023, the minister tabled the government’s most recent Shared Directional Statement with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police “V” Division. Mr. Speaker, the shared directional statement indicates that one of the government’s priorities is to reduce and prevent crimes in communities.

The shared directional statement also indicates: “Alcohol is a major factor in the majority of crimes and call for service in Nunavut. The Government of Nunavut and Royal Canadian Mounted Police commit to addressing the harmful effects and the crimes associated with bootlegging and substance abuse in our communities.” Can the minister describe what actions his department has undertaken to make progress on this important priority? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Justice, Mr. David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As I stated yesterday during our mandate review, this is a very serious issue that needs to get addressed. Bootlegging is unacceptable and it is rampant in our communities. With that, I just want to share my working relationship with the “V” division on our shared directional statement and one of them is to combat that. When Canada Post did a pilot project for 90 days, it was a very successful project that took place between the Qikiqtaaluk region and the Nunavik region.

I have sent a letter to Canada Post and I also mentioned that to my colleague from the federal government and the importance that those tools need to be enacted. The “V” division commander has also sent a letter to Canada Post in that support. Both of us are willing to provide resources to Canada Post for the three outlets that bring mail and products to Nunavut. That’s something that I hope that we get a positive response because we’re combatting from all fronts. I know there are tools that could prevent drugs and alcohol coming into our communities. I want to utilize those

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4146 tools, but those tools are not of our control. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister, for all the hard work you’re doing to keep our communities healthy. Mr. Speaker, it is very important that Nunavummiut be safe and feel safe in our communities. I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for their ongoing efforts to keep Nunavut safe.

As the minister will recall, my recent letter indicated the need for more Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers to be permanently stationed in Pond Inlet. Mr. Speaker, I fully appreciate, recognize, and understand that the minister does not have the authority to unilaterally determine policing levels in Nunavut communities. Can he clearly explain how he works with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s “V” Division to determine policing levels in detachments where community leaders and representatives have identified a need for more resources? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Justice, Mr.

David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for raising this very important issue. With the Department of Justice, I have an assistant deputy minister who is dedicated to working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s “V” Division. They hold regular meetings and look at areas where there are concerns and whether the RCMP needs to redeploy their resources or not. Those are left with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and I have full faith in them.

When they do require more members and, as illustrated in the last two budgets, our government has been very supportive in enhancing the RCMP. I want to continue that with the support from our House when it comes to needing additional resources or redeployments. It’s something that I will remain in a very close working relationship with the commander of the “V” division and our Department of Justice. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Manirajak, Mr. Lightstone. Question 688 – 6(2): Mental Health and Addictions in Iqaluit (Lightstone) Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

My questions today are for the Minister of Health and they are regarding the complex treatment needs of those suffering with mental health and addictions. Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned on the first day of the fall sitting, there is a growing concern in Iqaluit about the state of public safety in the community. It’s apparent that we need a strategy to both improve public safety and address complex treatment needs of those who are suffering from mental health and addictions.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4147 I would like to ask the minister: has the Department of Health had any discussions prior to or since my comments in this area? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the member. First of all, I would like to thank him because he asked questions about mental health and the fact that the most vulnerable people need help. Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) in terms of the Iqaluit mental health and addictions services, there is a comprehensive suite of services available.

The mental health and addictions team provides assessment, crisis intervention, stabilization services, outreach support, and psychotherapeutic services. Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment and thank all the members of that team. Some of them work just across the street at the Greenstone Building and they are spread in different facilities in Iqaluit. They do work on establishing connections with different organizations in the community and it’s those connections that help to build partnerships, which in the end serve residents of this fine city. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: Your first supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for his response as well as the Iqaluit mental health and addictions staff here. Mr. Speaker, studies have shown that a majority of crime and violence is committed by a small number of persistent offenders. Many individuals contributing to the growing concerns of public safety in Iqaluit likely have regular interaction with the RCMP and may also be regular visitors of RCMP holding cells.

The minister had indicated that the mental health and addictions team does provide a suite of services, including outreach support. I would like to ask: can the minister indicate how the mental health staff collaborate with the RCMP to provide outreach? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. (interpretation ends) Unfortunately, specifically on the mental health team and the RCMP link there, I don’t have any detailed information to provide, but I can elaborate a little bit more in terms of the outreach work, which I believe the member was enquiring on. The mental health and addictions team works with the Department of Family Services, the men’s and women’s shelters, the elders’ home, the YMCA, the Umingmak Centre, and also with corrections facilities. Mr. Speaker, what does this look like? It means things like drop-in counselling sessions at the schools and also an after-school program.

It also means a weekly drop-in that’s offered at the Uquutaq Society. There’s a weekly program at the Qimaavik shelter in Apex.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4148 Mr. Speaker, there is so much excellent work happening in terms of all of our partners. It’s really encouraging to see all the different organizations contributing to the needs and to serving people who need help. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Lightstone. Mr. Lightstone: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the minister for providing the details of the outreach that is currently going on and that is very great to hear. It sounds like there are a lot of proactive measures being incorporated there.

One area that the minister hadn’t mentioned was the interaction between mental health staff and the RCMP. If these discussions have not happened, I would like to ask the minister to commit to initiating these discussions between health officials and the RCMP to allow mental health staff to visit RCMP holding cells to inform individuals there of what programs and services are available should they make the choice to get there life in order and just be aware of the options, and more importantly, that it is possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Minister of Health, Mr. Main. Hon.

John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker. I also thank the member for that question. As I responded earlier, we currently work with the correctional staff and we go to the holding cells or correctional facilities. With respect to our working relationship with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, I agree to work with my ministerial colleague, Minister Akeeagok, on this subject and then I will get back to the member to discuss the details. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Members, be aware that the time allotted for question period is now over. Ms. Nutarak. Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Speaker.

I would like to go back to Item 5. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: The member is seeking to return to Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Are there any nays? There is none. Ms. Nutarak. Revert to Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Ms. Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s not very often that I get visitors in the House, so I am proud to recognize my husband, Harvey Nutarak, and my son, Allan. >>Applause Entering the House now are my grandchildren, Inuujaq and Colden, and Sula, my daughter. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Speaker: Welcome to your Assembly. Item 7.

Written Questions. Mr. Savikataaq.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4149 Item 7: Written Questions Written Question 006 – 6(2): Modular Units (Savikataaq) Mr. Savikataaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My written questions today are for the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation and they concern the subject of modular unit purchases. Mr. Speaker, my written questions are detailed, so I ask that they be entered into the record as read. Mr. Speaker, I know that the Minister of Housing is not here, but this is an early Christmas present for the minister. 1.

With respect to the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s announcement of June 6, 2023 concerning the purchase of modular units from Sakku Innovative Building Solutions for the purpose of “temporary accommodations for construction workers” employed by NCC Development Limited: a. How many modular units have been purchased? b. What is the design of each unit? c. What is the community allocation of the modular units? d. What is the status of delivery of each modular unit? e. What is the landed cost per unit to purchase and ship to the designated community? f.

What are the approximate monthly utility costs (water, electricity, sewage, etc.) for each modular unit? g. Which entity is responsible for paying the monthly utility costs? 2. With respect to the Nunavut Housing Corporation’s announcement of June 6, 2023 concerning the purchase of modular units from Sakku Innovative Building Solutions for the purpose of “transitional housing or staff housing for Department of Family Services critical staff”: a. How many modular units have been purchased? b. What is the design of each unit? c. What is the community allocation of the modular units? d.

What is the status of delivery of each modular unit? e. What is the landed cost per unit to purchase and ship to the designated community? f. What are the approximate monthly utility costs (water, electricity, sewage, etc.) for each modular unit? g. Which entity is responsible for paying the monthly utility costs? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Laughter Speaker: Do members agree that Mr. Savikataaq’s written question be entered into the record as read? Some Members: Agreed. Speaker: It is agreed. Item 8. Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. Item 10. Petitions. Item 11.

Responses to Petitions. Item 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committee on Bills and Other Matters. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Family Services, Ms. Nakashuk.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4150 Item 13: Tabling of Documents Tabled Document 201 – 6(2): 2022-23 Minister’s Annual Report on Poverty Reduction (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I am pleased to table the 2022-23 Minister’s Annual Report on Poverty Reduction. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister David Akeeagok. Tabled Document 202 – 6(2): 2022-23 Grants and Contributions (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the finance minister is not here, on behalf of him, I am pleased to table the Government of Nunavut 2022- 23 Grants and Contributions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Laughter Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Ms. Nakashuk. Tabled Document 203 – 6(2): 2021-22 Public Service Annual Report (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do apologize that I can’t talk with a deep voice. >>Laughter (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I am pleased to table the 2021-22 Public Service Annual Report. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabling of Documents. Hon. Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College, Mr. Qavvik. Tabled Document 204 – 6(2): 2020-21 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Report (Qavvik) Tabled Document 205 – 6(2): 2021-22 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Report (Qavvik) Tabled Document 206 – 6(2): 2022-23 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Report (Qavvik) Hon. Daniel Qavvik (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s finally my turn to rise. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, I am pleased to table three reports: the 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022- 23 Nunavut Arctic College Annual Reports. Mr. Speaker, the Inuktitut version of the reports will be tabled once the translations are complete. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Member for Netsilik, Mr. Quqqiaq. Tabled Document 207 – 6(2): Correspondence from the Taloyoak Housing Authority (Quqqiaq) Mr. Quqqiaq: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I wish to table a copy of correspondence from the Chairperson of the Taloyoak Housing Authority’s Board of Directors addressed to the Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation and the federal Minister of Housing.

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4151 Mr. Speaker, the correspondence highlights the urgent need for new housing in the community, which is an issue that I have raised on many occasions in the Legislative Assembly. I am very pleased that in April of this year, the Nunavut Housing Corporation announced that 20 new units will begin construction in Taloyoak during the fall of this year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Speaker: Tabling of Documents.

Tabled Document 208 – 6(2): 2024 Sitting Calendar for the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut (Speaker) Tabled Document 209 – 6(2): Report on the Payment of Indemnities, Allowances, Expenses, and Benefits to the Members of the Sixth Legislative Assembly for the Period April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023 (Speaker) Tabled Document 210 – 6(2): Speaker’s List of Outstanding Tabling Requirements (Speaker) I have three documents to table today. The first document is the 2024 Sitting Calendar for the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut.

The second document is the Report on the Payment of Indemnities, Allowances, Expenses, and Benefits to the Members of the Sixth Legislative Assembly for the period April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. The third document is a list of outstanding statutory tabling requirements. Thank you. Item 14. Notices of Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Item 18. Second Reading of Bills. Item 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. There are no items to be considered. Item 20. Report of the Committee of the Whole.

There is no report. Item 21. Third Reading of Bills. We will take a 20-minute break. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House recessed at 12:30 and resumed at 12:46 Speaker: Welcome back, everyone. Item 21. Third Reading of Bills. Mr. Clerk, will you please ascertain if the Commissioner of Nunavut is prepared to enter the Chamber to give assent to the bills. Assent to Bills Commissioner Eva Qamaniq Aariak (interpretation): A very good afternoon to you. I am very pleased to be here.

As Commissioner of Nunavut, I am pleased to give assent to the following bills: • Bill 23, Nursing Professions Act; • Bill 26, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act; • Bill 27,

An Act to Repeal the Area Development Act; • Bill 28, Opioid Damages and Health Care Costs Recovery Act;

Thursday, November 9, 2023 Nunavut Hansard 4152 • (interpretation ends) Bill 29,

An Act to Amend the Engineers and Geoscientists Act; • Bill 30,

An Act to Amend the Revolving Funds Act; • Bill 31, Appropriation (Capital) Act, 2024-2025; • (interpretation) Bill 32, Supplementary Appropriation (Operations and Maintenance) Act, No. 2, 2022-2023; • Bill 33, Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 3, 2023-2024; • Bill 34, Write-Off of Assets and Debts Act, 2022-2023; and • Bill 36,

An Act to Amend the Nunavut Elections Act and the Plebiscites Act. The change of seasons is part of the rhythm of life, and we look forward at this time of the year to festive gatherings of families and friends in the weeks ahead and you will be coming back after the Christmas season. We will be getting back to our families, friends, and fellow community members. We will be able to see them during Christmastime. As you prepare to return to your constituents and families, I know your families are expecting you and I wish you safe travels. Thank you. >>Applause Speaker: Item 22. Orders of the Day. Mr. Clerk.

Item 22: Orders of the Day Clerk (Mr. Quirke): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Orders of the Day for February 22, 2024: 1. Prayer 2. Ministers’ Statements 3. Members’ Statements 4. Returns to Oral Questions 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery 6. Oral Questions 7. Written Questions 8. Returns to Written Questions 9. Replies to Opening Address 10. Petitions 11. Responses to Petitions 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters 13. Tabling of Documents 14. Notices of Motions 15. Notices of Motions for First Reading of Bills 16. Motions 17. First Reading of Bills 18.

Second Reading of Bills 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters 20. Report o