Nunavut Hansard — 24 May 2024 (6th Assembly, 2nd Session, Day 82, Official Report, pp. 5234–5267)

2024-05-24, 6th Assembly 2nd Session, Day 82

Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)

Nunavut Canada LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NUNAVUT 2nd Session 6th Assembly HANSARD Official Report DAY 82 Friday, May 24, 2024 Pages 5234 – 5267 Iqaluit Speaker: The Honourable Tony Akoak, MLA

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut Speaker Hon. Tony Akoak (Gjoa Haven) Officers Clerk John Quirke Deputy Clerk Stephen Innuksuk Law Clerk Michael Chandler Sergeant-at-Arms John Topic Hansard Production Uqausirmit Uqausirmut Inc. Box 1200 Iqaluit, Nunavut, X0A 0H0 Tel (867) 975-5000 Fax (867) 975-5190 Toll-Free (877) 334-7266 Hon. David Akeeagok (Quttiktuq) Minister of Economic Development and Transportation; Minister of Human Resources; Minister responsible for the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Hon. P.J.

Akeeagok (Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu) Premier; Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs; Minister responsible for Immigration; Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs; Minister responsible for Seniors; Minister responsible for the Utility Rates Review Council Bobby Anavilok (Kugluktuk) Janet Brewster (Iqaluit-Sinaa) Hon. Pamela Gross (Cambridge Bay) Deputy Premier; Minister of Education 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 Joelie Kaernerk (Amittuq) Mary Killiktee (Uqqummiut) Hon. Lorne Kusugak (Rankin Inlet South) Minister of Finance, Chair of the Financial Management Board; Minister responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation Adam Lightstone (Iqaluit-Manirajak) Hon. John Main (Arviat North-Whale Cove) Minister of Health; Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation; 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 responsible for the Status of Women Hon. Karen Nutarak (Tununiq) Minister of Justice; Minister responsible for Labour; Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College Hon.

Daniel Qavvik (Hudson Bay) Minister of Culture and Heritage; Minister of Environment; Minister of Energy; Minister of Languages 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) Website: www.assembly.nu.ca

Table of Contents Opening Prayer ...........................................................................................................................5234 Ministers’ Statements .................................................................................................................5234 Members’ Statements .................................................................................................................5239 Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery ........................................................................................5246 Oral Questions ............................................................................................................................5246 First Reading of Bills .................................................................................................................5265 Second Reading of Bills .............................................................................................................5266 Orders of the Day .......................................................................................................................5266

A. Daily References Friday, May 24, 2024 .................................................................................................................5234 B.

Ministers’ Statements 426 – 6(2): First Portable MRI in Nunavut (Main) ....................................................................5234 427 – 6(2): High Arctic Visits (Nakashuk) ................................................................................5235 428 – 6(2): Qilaut Winners 2023 (Qavvik) ................................................................................5235 429 – 6(2): Team Nunavut – Arctic Winter Games Highlights (Joanasie) ................................5236 430 – 6(2): Updates on Rankin Inlet Air Terminal Building (Akeeagok, D) .............................5237 431 – 6(2): Remember, Educate, Dedicate (Nakashuk) .............................................................5237 432 – 6(2): Appointment of New President and Chief Executive Officer (Main) .....................5238 C.

Members’ Statements 570 – 6(2): Congratulations to Practical Nursing Graduates (Sammurtok) ...............................5239 571 – 6(2): Community Screening for Tuberculosis in Naujaat (Malliki) .................................5240 572 – 6(2): Early Learning and Child Care Legislation (Quassa) ..............................................5240 573 – 6(2): Transportation for Medical Clients (Killiktee) ........................................................5241 574 – 6(2): Long-term Service Awards in the High Arctic (Akeeagok, D) ...............................5242 575 – 6(2): Recent Visits to Pond Inlet (Nutarak) ......................................................................5243 576 – 6(2): Pangnirtung’s Joseph Akulujuk (Nakashuk) ...........................................................5244 577 – 6(2): Go Edmonton Oilers! (Qavvik) ...............................................................................5244 578 – 6(2): Long-term Service Awards in Kinngait (Joanasie) ..................................................5245

D.

Oral Questions 848 – 6(2): Airport Security Services (Sammurtok) ..................................................................5246 849 – 6(2): Search and Rescue (Malliki) ....................................................................................5247 850 – 6(2): State of Mining Sector in Nunavut (Simailak) ........................................................5249 851 – 6(2): Search and Rescue (Quassa) ....................................................................................5251 852 – 6(2): Medical Vans for Communities (Killiktee) .............................................................5253 853 – 6(2): Nunavut Carbon Credit (Brewster) ..........................................................................5256 854 – 6(2): Medical Travel Issues (Malliki) ...............................................................................5257 855 – 6(2): Cancer Screening (Killiktee) ...................................................................................5260 856 – 6(2): Natural Resources Conservation Trust Fund (Brewster) .........................................5262 E.

Motions 035 – 6(2): Early Adjournment (Malliki) ...................................................................................5266 F. Bills Bill 41 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act – First Reading ...........................................5265 Bill 42 –

An Act to Amend the Dental Profession Act – First Reading .....................................5265 Bill 43 –

An Act to Amend the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation Act – First Reading .....5265 Bill 44 –

An Act to Amend the Creditors Relief Act and the Public Service Garnishee Act – First Reading ................................................................................................................................5265 Bill 45 –

An Act to Amend the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act – First Reading ................................................................................................................................5265 Bill 46 –

An Act to Amend the Coroners Act – First Reading ...................................................5266 Bill 47 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025 – First Reading ........5266 Bill 47 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025 – Second Reading ...5266

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5234 Iqaluit, Nunavut Friday, May 24, 2024 Members Present: Hon. David Akeeagok, Hon. P.J. Akeeagok, Ms. Janet Brewster, Hon. Pamela Gross, Mr. George Hickes, Hon. David Joanasie, Ms. Mary Killiktee, Hon. Lorne Kusugak, Mr. Adam Lightstone, Mr. Solomon Malliki, Hon. John Main, Hon. Margaret Nakashuk, Hon. Karen Nutarak, Hon. Daniel Qavvik, Ms. Joanna Quassa, Mr. Alexander Sammurtok, Mr. Craig Simailak. >>House commenced at 8:59 Item 1: Opening Prayer Deputy Speaker (Mr. George Hickes): Ms. Killiktee. >>Prayer Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Ms. Killiktee. Item 2.

Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Item 2: Ministers’ Statements Minister’s Statement 426 – 6(2): First Portable MRI in Nunavut (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to my colleagues and Nunavummiut. (interpretation ends) Uqaqtitsijii, our health care team at the Qikiqtani General Hospital made history last week by performing the first head magnetic resonance imaging exam, or MRI, in Nunavut. This breakthrough was made possible by the new portable MRI machine which arrived in territory this month.

Our department is using this advanced medical device to deliver essential services and lessen the equity gap in health care between northern and southern Canada. I would like to thank all the dedicated staff who have supported this leap forward in diagnostic imaging for Nunavut. This new machine provides safe, reliable imaging, is easy to manage on an iPad, and can be moved through the hospital to wherever it is needed, including straight to a patient’s bedside. Right now, in Nunavut, we do approximately 80 brain computerized tomography scans per month.

The new MRI machine will allow Health to continue to do these scans in territory while our current CT scanner is being replaced. While the cost savings by continuing in- territory scans is significant, it is the benefit to patients that is most important. The new machine has an open layout and is designed to decrease anxiety associated with conventional high-field MR imaging. Clinical staff and loved ones can remain at the patient’s bedside throughout the scan, bringing comfort and keeping them calm. This is especially important when scanning children.

Please join me in celebrating this significant advancement in medical imaging for Nunavummiut. Brain imaging can now be done on patients of all ages, including babies and pregnant women and vulnerable patients such as those in intensive care on ventilators or unable to undergo conventional scans due to anxiety. Again, a sincere thank

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5235 you and ma’na to all the staff who have made this possible and who keep pushing for continued improvements within our health care system. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, minister. Minister of Family Services, Minister Nakashuk. Minister’s Statement 427 – 6(2): High Arctic Visits (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning. Earlier this month I travelled to Arctic Bay, Resolute Bay, and Grise Fiord to present Family Services’ staff with their long-term service awards.

I would like to thank my colleague, Human Resources Minister Hon. David Akeeagok, for inviting me to participate. Mr. Speaker, during the tour, I visited the local Family Services offices to gain a better understanding of challenges faced by the employees in those communities. To ensure that Family Services is able to deliver on its mandate, I want to engage as much as possible with frontline staff. Meeting with people to discuss individual community needs provides us with an opportunity to listen and learn about what improvements need to be made. I look forward to visiting more of our staff across the territory.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Culture and Heritage, Minister Qavvik. Minister’s Statement 428 – 6(2): Qilaut Winners 2023 (Qavvik) Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. Mr. Speaker, Qilaut is the Department of Culture and Heritage’s annual Inuktut songwriting contest. The purpose of the contest is to celebrate our vibrant Inuktut music scene and inspire the creation of more original music in Inuktut. Mr. Speaker, the 2023 theme was “Naglingniq” and over 30 songs were submitted.

Each year, ten songs are chosen based on their originality, creativity, melody, and lyrics to be professionally recorded to make the annual Qilaut album for distribution. I would like to express my gratitude to all the individuals who submitted songs. Mr. Speaker, I have the pleasure today of recognizing the artists whose songs have been chosen for the 2023 Qilaut songwriting contest.

The winners are: • 1st - Molly Angootealuk, Coral Harbour • 2nd - Joey Nowyuk, Pangnirtung • 3rd - Abraham Eetuk, Arviat • 4th - Amanda Ishulutaq, Pangnirtung • 5th - Grace Metuq, Pangnirtung • 6th - Harry Iyerak, Arctic Bay • 7th - Monica Qattalik, Igloolik

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5236 • 8th - Shauna Seeteenak, Iqaluit • 9th - Monica Qattalik, Igloolik • 10th - Jocelyn Malla, Coral Harbour Mr. Speaker, the artists are currently recording their winning songs for the Qilaut album and will perform them at the concert in early summer 2024. The venue and date will be announced through the Government of Nunavut’s social media page and website. Mr. Speaker, I encourage Nunavummiut to continue to promote and celebrate Inuktut every day. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2023 Qilaut winners. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Minister Qavvik. You missed an artist. Mr. McDavid in his double overtime last night was quite an artistic move on that too, as a fellow Oilers fan. Next name I have on my list: Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Minister’s Statement 429 – 6(2): Team Nunavut – Arctic Winter Games Highlights (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, MLAs and Nunavummiut. Mr.

Speaker, my department would like to congratulate the members of Team Nunavut who participated and competed at the 2024 Arctic Winter Games in Mat- Su, Alaska. Team Nunavut had over 280 participants, including athletes, coaches, managers, cultural participants, and youth ambassadors. Team Nunavut competed in 13 sports and successfully brought home 66 ulus, including 23 gold, 18 silver, and 25 bronze. That’s excellent. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, Team Nunavut had some incredible moments during the Games.

I would like to send a special congratulations to Akutaq Williamson Bathory, who secured four gold ulus in speed skating, and Danica Taylor, who secured three gold ulus in Arctic Sports. >>Applause (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, our futsal teams also had an exceptional games experience. Our male and female teams worked their way through a series of memorable matches to bring home two ulus, a silver for the males and a bronze for the females. It was an exciting time for them. Mr.

Speaker, seeing the return of Team Nunavut competing in cross-country skiing was a highlight for me as it is a sign of the commitment and growth to our sport sector. Additionally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the 2023-24 cohort of youth ambassadors who represented Team Nunavut and volunteered for the host society. Team Nunavut had a delegation of 12 youth ambassadors who performed a variety of assignments to support the host society by doing a variety of jobs during the Games and acted as ambassadors for Nunavut. Also, as part of the Youth Ambassador Program, eight youth ambassadors successfully

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5237 completed their Recreation North training. (interpretation) Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all the volunteers both at home and the volunteer coaches and mission staff that worked tirelessly to ensure our team was supported to have the most successful games possible. A great big thank you goes out to all the Team Nunavut friends, family, and fans who organized send off well wishes to athletes and also welcomed them back home. It was great to see the cheering and community/team spirit. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, minister.

Ministers’ Statements. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Minister David Akeeagok. Minister’s Statement 430 – 6(2): Updates on Rankin Inlet Air Terminal Building (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Good morning. I say “good morning” to everyone. Mr. Speaker, summer is nearly here and construction projects in many of our communities are either starting up or entering their busiest season. The airports in Kugluktuk, Naujaat, Chesterfield Inlet, Rankin Inlet, Whale Cove, and Kimmirut all have major air terminal building projects underway, and I urge all Nunavummiut to be very cautious near any of these sites. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to draw special attention to the work underway at Rankin Inlet Airport.

This is by far the largest project we are doing and it is the most complex one. Throughout the course of the summer, the routing of the airport access roads and the parking areas at the airport will go through a series of changes as the utilidor systems and other underground services are being connected to the new building. Mr. Speaker, my department will be issuing public service announcements as these changes are being made, and we will be doing our best to make sure that temporary road closures, detours, and other changes are being clearly communicated in advance.

I want to remind residents to keep an eye out for announcements on these changes and to practise extra caution and some extra patience as well when they are going to and from the airport. There will be some inconveniences, but I’m sure that Kangiqlinirmiut and all Kivallirmiut who use the airport on their travels will be pleased once the project is complete, and we want everyone to be safe while the work is underway. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for the Status of Women, Minister Nakashuk.

Minister’s Statement 431 – 6(2): Remember, Educate, Dedicate (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5238 (interpretation ends) On May 5, 2024, we commemorated Red Dress Day, the National Day of Awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. For many of us, this is a painful day that reminds us how precious our lives as Inuit women are. This year in Iqaluit, with community members and some of my colleagues in this House present, the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council unveiled a collection of art called RED: Remember, Educate, Dedicate. Mr.

Speaker, when we launched RED last year, our goal was to give Nunavut’s artistic community an opportunity to express their pain, grief, hope, and action. Now it gives Nunavummiut the opportunity to look at these pieces and allow themselves to remember, heal, and feel empowered in the memory of those women and girls we lost too soon. We were so impressed by the powerful contributions of the artists that we plan to add more pieces to the collection. Over the next year, we will ask Nunavummiut to submit their art so that we can continue to Remember, Educate, and Dedicate.

This collection is also available at www.rednu.ca and will begin to travel around the territory starting with a show in Iqaluit at the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum in September. Mr. Speaker, I ask that we hold our murdered and missing Inuit women and girls in our hearts and continue to fight for a Nunavut where everyone is safe and well. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. An Hon. Member: Hear, hear! >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Minister Nakashuk, for hosting that event. I attended with members of my family. There were some very powerful people and some fantastic artists.

The next name I have on my list: Minister Main, Minister responsible for the Qulliq Energy Corporation. Minister’s Statement 432 – 6(2): Appointment of New President and Chief Executive Officer (Main) Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to the Qulliq Energy Corporation on the appointment of their new President and Chief Executive Officer, Ernest Douglas, by Premier P.J. Akeeagok, effective May 21, 2024. Mr. Douglas is sitting in the gallery this morning, so please extend a warm welcome to him. >>Applause (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, this leadership transition marks a new

chapter of growth and excellence for our territory’s only utility. Mr. Douglas joins the Qulliq Energy Corporation after 14 years as a leader with Eastward Energy in Nova Scotia, including six with parent company TriSummit Utilities, and almost two decades in the energy sector. In those years, Mr. Douglas brought a forward- thinking commitment to the well-being of people and the environment, and we

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5239 look forward to his work for the benefit of Nunavut and Nunavummiut. Mr. Douglas’s appointment comes after former president and chief executive officer Rick Hunt was appointed as the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission’s first Nunavut-based president and chief executive officer. Qulliq Energy Corporation Vice- president of Operations and Engineering Bill Nippard has been acting in the role since October 2023. I would like to thank both Mr. Hunt and Mr. Nippard for their service. Mr. Speaker, I have full confidence that under Mr.

Douglas’s capable leadership, the Qulliq Energy Corporation will continue to uphold and advance its mission of providing safe, reliable and efficient electricity and planning long- term affordable energy for Nunavummiut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Minister Main. I’m looking forward to it. We will go to Item 3. Members’ Statements. Member for Rankin Inlet North-Whale Cove, Mr. Sammurtok. Item 3: Members’ Statements Member’s Statement 570 – 6(2): Congratulations to Practical Nursing Graduates (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Good morning to the people of Nunavut, Chesterfield Inlet, and Rankin Inlet. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nunavut’s first graduates of the Practical Nursing Program delivered by Nunavut Arctic College. >>Applause Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize -- hopefully I’ll pronounce their names right – Allysha Tologanak, Claire Tookanachiak, Katyna Kolola, and Joelle Airut. Mr.

Speaker, National Nursing Week was celebrated a couple of weeks ago with the theme “Changing Lives, Shaping Tomorrow.” I don’t think it is too late to take the opportunity now to thank all these recent nursing graduates for their dedication in educating themselves to take on important roles in the nursing profession. Mr. Speaker, Nunavut Arctic College provides a number of learning opportunities in this area. These individuals are role models for future generations of Nunavummiut to enter the health care profession.

I know they will bring positive contributions to the health of Nunavummiut. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Mr. Malliki, Member for Aivilik.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5240 Member’s Statement 571 – 6(2): Community Screening for Tuberculosis in Naujaat (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, my colleagues, Nunavummiut, and my constituents. On April 15, Naujaat had a visitation by Minister Main and NTI Vice-president Paul Irngaut and Health Canada officials were also there in attendance of the tuberculosis screening. They were able to arrive and I thank them, and I thank the community of Naujaat that they were able to go through the event.

I believe this concerns not only TB and I gather that terminal illnesses are included. It’s not just a project towards TB; many terminal illnesses are included that are taken attentive care. I would like to show my appreciation that our residents can make appointments and, if an illness is not found out, there are other ways they can be traced. The community or hamlet also provides information. I would like to express my appreciation to the work done by the Department of Health. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa.

Member’s Statement 572 – 6(2): Early Learning and Child Care Legislation (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I rise today to acknowledge the Department of Education’s efforts to consult with Nunavummiut on the development of new early learning and child care legislation. Mr. Speaker, a couple of days ago I received a letter from the Minister of Education inviting me to a public consultation session to be held in Igloolik on June 4, 2024.

As the minister will be aware, we are scheduled to be sitting in this House that day, so I will not be able to attend, but I thank her for the invitation nonetheless. For my constituents who are watching these proceedings, I encourage you to attend the consultation session which will be held at Igloolik’s Aboriginal Head Start building at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4. Mr. Speaker, made-in-Nunavut legislation must take into account Inuit societal values, culture, and language.

These consultations will provide an opportunity for Nunavut residents to express their views on how Inuit child- rearing practices should be reflected in the legislated standards for the operation of child care centres and in the delivery of early learning programs. Mr. Speaker, many parents have to go to work to provide for their families, and being able to place their children in a safe and reliable child care program is important. For those who are unable to attend the public consultation sessions, it is my understanding that individuals can provide input through an online survey. Mr.

Speaker, as a parent myself, I appreciate the importance of having

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5241 strong legislation to guide the delivery of early childhood education for our children. I look forward to seeing the results of these consultation activities as soon as they are completed. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Member’s Statement 573 – 6(2): Transportation for Medical Clients (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to address the need for transportation services for medical clients. Mr.

Speaker, many small communities do not have a taxi service and many individuals don’t have their own means of transportation, such as a car, a truck, an all-terrain-vehicle (ATV), or skidoo. If a local organization or business doesn’t provide transportation services for the community, it is a big hindrance for medical travellers to make it to the airport to catch their flight out. The airstrip in Clyde River is well over a mile away from town. While this distance may not seem far according to the policy-makers, for a person with health issues, this distance is a long way to walk. Mr.

Speaker, this situation puts additional hardship on community residents who need to travel for medical services. There is a great need for transportation services in Clyde River and this need must be addressed now. (interpretation ends) Uqaqtii, most health centres have vehicles that they use to pick up supplies or for health care staff to use. In past years, this vehicle could be used to help clients get to and from the airport.

I recognize that there are insurance issues and other considerations that led to the decision of health centre vehicles no longer being permitted to transport medical clients. (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Thank you. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The member is asking for unanimous consent to conclude her statement. Are there any nays? Please proceed, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank you for allowing me to conclude my statement. (interpretation ends) However, I believe that the decision should be revisited and I urge the Minister of Health to meet with his staff and find a way to change the policy. Mr. Speaker, many medical clients with serious health issues are elders. I appreciate that the government has committed to provide elder transportation in every Nunavut community. A dedicated elder van will be a big help in bringing elders to the airstrip to catch their plane when travelling to medical appointments.

At the appropriate time, I will have questions on this issue. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5242 Deputy Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Member for Quttiktuq, Mr. David Akeeagok. Member’s Statement 574 – 6(2): Long-term Service Awards in the High Arctic (Akeeagok,

D) Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My ministerial colleague, Ms. Nakashuk, alluded to this earlier in her comments. I wish to first voice my appreciation to her for having gone up to the High Arctic region, including the Minister of Human Resources, who had space on the flight for us to participate. I also wish to voice my appreciation to the minister who had human resource accomplishments to celebrate. We jumped aboard the flight they were using to formally recognize the long-term commitment and services provided by many of our government employees in the region.

In Arctic Bay, we acknowledged the long-term services provided by 26 employees, in Grise Fiord, we acknowledged 13 employees, and in Resolute Bay, we had five employees to recognize. This many individuals meant the communities all had someone to celebrate with, and we thoroughly enjoyed our sojourn to recognize the contributions of these dedicated employees. Many of these people had over 20 years of service, and for that category, I wish to quickly name some of these people with over 20 years. I will not mention the ones that haven’t attained this level.

Employees with over 20 years include Naomi Kuluguqtuq, Meeka Kiguktak, and both work in Grise Fiord, specifically at the health centre for over 20 years. In the category of 25 years is Morty Alooloo, who had unfortunately now retired from her long-time position as a teacher in Arctic Bay. Rebecca Kalluk, Kango Akittirq, “my daughter” Eunice Tunraluk, Claudette Qamanirq had 30 to 35 years of service. In Grise Fiord, although this person only has attained ten years’ service recognized, prior to that, she was a teacher for over 30 years and I wanted to acknowledge that.

Iga Kiguktak, a teacher for many years, sometimes had to stop her employment due to circumstances and this led to her reaching 10 years. Even prior to the listing of the long service awards, Mary Kalluk who was never acknowledged for her service, served as our lighter of the qulliq in Resolute Bay, and she served as a teacher for over 30 years there, but is now comfortably retired in her home. Additionally, this person who has served as one of the longest serving teachers in Arctic Bay, 45 years of teaching, is Piuyuq Enoogoo, who served as a teacher for many years. Mr.

Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement. Are there any nays? Hearing none, please proceed. Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): I thank all of my colleagues.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5243 To return, this person was a teacher for one of the longest periods ever recorded in our history, and I am quite proud of their dedication. Some of the people who attended the ceremony had grandchildren attending their long service awards as their child started school when they were teachers, and now they are teaching the next generation, their grandchildren. With our continual efforts to promote Inuktitut, she has advocated this need for bilingual ability and here I am referring to Piuyuq Enoogoo.

When we were travelling to the communities, we often run into hilarious episodes and funny stories. I was very happy to be included in the work by the Department of Human Resources to recognize the long-standing employees as some of them went to Grise Fiord for the first time and they saw what a grouping of icebergs are, as there were many icebergs in the sound. If you have heard about the superior quality of potable water derived from icebergs, which they did, the visitors just walked offshore of the hotel and chipped some ice off the grounded icebergs.

When my younger brother saw that, he approached me and told me, “Your employees are picking up salty ice,” but there is a clean iceberg they can chip some good ice off. I ended up quickly taking them to the right iceberg and these were Minister Nakashuk’s employees who were unable to discern the difference between ocean floe ice and actual iceberg ice, so we took this opportunity to teach them the difference. They have now learned the quality of the water derived from iceberg ice. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Member for Tununiq, Ms. Nutarak.

Member’s Statement 575 – 6(2): Recent Visits to Pond Inlet (Nutarak) Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. After their recent visit in Naujaat, the team arrived to Pond Inlet on April 16 to continue the work to promote awareness of tuberculosis and this included the famous television personality Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief medical officer who many watched during the pandemic, and her team included Dr. Wong, who is Nunavut’s Deputy Chief Public Health Officer, as well as Minister Main, as well as the vice- president of NTI and their staff.

The community warmly welcomed the team to Pond Inlet, and we appreciate the hospitality offered by our residents, so I want to thank them here. This is again a crisis affecting our residents. This is just a message to those in Pond Inlet: if any symptoms manifest that are related to tuberculosis, please inform the health centre as we want to be rid of tuberculosis. We can certainly do that because I know it was not easy, but we did reduce COVID, so we can do the same thing with tuberculosis.

Additionally, I wish to belatedly offer my thanks as a week after, Minister Kusugak arrived as the Minister of the Nunavut Housing Corporation and his team, who also went to the community from April 23 to 25 for a meeting with the local housing association to better

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5244 understand the concerns and to discuss the issues with housing. I wanted to thank my colleagues for these ministerial visits to our community of Pond Inlet. Thank you. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. The Member for Pangnirtung, Ms. Nakashuk. Member’s Statement 576 – 6(2): Pangnirtung’s Joseph Akulujuk (Nakashuk) Hon. Margaret Nakashuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I take great pride in rising today as I feel adamant that this person requires absolute recognition in this case especially being a resident of Pangnirtung.

After a period of two years of intensive training, which was interrupted by the COVID pandemic, leading to three years of studying at the (interpretation ends) First Nations Technical Institute (interpretation) in Ontario. He took this program which was a pilot training course, and after the completion of his studies and certification process, I believe it was over two years, but last year he started working for the Canadian North airline as a (interpretation ends) first officer (interpretation) in the cockpit last year.

He made history as the first local resident who landed a plane into Pangnirtung, albeit he is still quite young, but he returned home for the first time this Saturday May 18 with his mother one of the passengers. He landed and then returned to Iqaluit, and while he was on the landing break, his relatives quickly gathered to celebrate the event at the airport. Joseph Akulujuk is his name. I wanted to recognize him. He’s a young person from Pangnirtung, and he’s now able to be a pilot a commercial plane and he’s now one of the pilots who are working with Canadian North. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: That’s a great story. Thank you, Ms. Nakashuk. The next name I have on my list, member for Hudson Bay, Mr. Qavvik. Member’s Statement 577 – 6(2): Go Edmonton Oilers! (Qavvik) Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have been very fortunate to be able to be a member of the cabinet executive council, and that has allowed me to travel across our country. Mr.

Speaker in the week of May 15 to May 18, I visited the beautiful country of Yukon, and on my way back to Nunavut, I was lucky enough to be overnighting in Edmonton, Alberta, and that night, on Saturday, I attended the Edmonton Oilers hockey game. I was on the 14th row and it was the best experience, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for myself. Game 6 was intense. We were on the brink of elimination, and we, the Edmonton Oilers won that night and it was a good experience. Game 7 this week was also intense. The Edmonton Oilers managed to eliminate the Vancouver Canucks on game 7,

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5245 where Vancouver almost came back and Oilers won 3-2. And last night, of course, Edmonton Oilers won the second overtime. That was also intense, because in the first, start of the second overtime, McDavid had a penalty for a double minor and I thought the game was over, but in the end McDavid pulled off a really nice goal and I would say I slept well last night. >>Laughter Mr. Speaker, as a Canadian fan, as a Canadian citizen, we are hungry for the Stanley cup to come back to our country.

It’s been 31 years and I’m hopeful and I’m confident that Edmonton Oilers will bring the Stanley cup to our Canadian country. I would like to acknowledge Edmonton Oilers today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Qavvik. I’m sure there are a few tired people around the country right now. Next name I have on my list: Member for South Baffin, Mr. Joanasie. Member’s Statement 578 – 6(2): Long-term Service Awards in Kinngait (Joanasie) Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good morning” to the people of Kimmirut and Kinngait. Mr.

Speaker, my fellow MLA for Quttiktuq congratulated the long-term service award recipients, and I also want to thank the Department of Human Resources. They were able to go to Kinngait at the end of March, on the 27th, for the long-term service awards ceremony that was held in Kinngait. There were long-term service awards for five years, 10 years, and 15 years of service. They received certificates and pins to commemorate the occasion, and we celebrated with a feast. It was a nice ceremony.

Local employees from the Department of Community and Government Services and the department of Economic Development and Transportation, Education, Family Services, Health, and the housing corporation are numerous, as there are 19 of them. I will not mention all of them, but I’m very grateful for the long-term service that they have provided to Nunavummiut on behalf of our government. Furthermore, the employees of the Department of Human Resources have worked really hard to bring back the long-term service award ceremonies that were held prior to the COVID pandemic.

We are planning for a ceremony in Kimmirut, for the information of the residents of Kimmirut, to present long- term service awards and to celebrate with the long-serving employees in Kimmirut. This ceremony was a successful event and I thank them for that, and it’s nice to see our employees being recognized for their service, as we must be grateful to them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Members’ Statements. Being none, orders of the

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5246 day, Item 4. Returns to Oral Questions. Item 5. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery. Premier of Nunavut, Premier Akeeagok. Item 5: Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you. I say “good morning” to my fellow MLAs and Nunavummiut who are listening to the proceedings. I rise to recognize this individual. Although he was already recognized, I truly believe in the commitment of Mr. Ernest Douglas to work with Nunavummiut because he believes in Nunavut. I want to welcome him to the House.

I would like to warmly welcome him to Nunavut. Furthermore, I’m very happy that our elders are here in the House. I would like to warmly welcome to their House: Mr. Lew Philip and Becky Mike. They are in the House once again and I want to recognize them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Welcome, everyone, to your House, and especially I would like to welcome Mr. Douglas for his first appearance and likely not his last appearance here in the Assembly. We will move along to Item 6. Oral Questions. Member for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet, Mr. Sammurtok.

Item 6: Oral Questions Question 848 – 6(2): Airport Security Services (Sammurtok) Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation. As the minister will recall, I recently tabled my exchange of correspondence with him and the Minister of Health concerning the issue of the security services at Nunavut airports and health centres. In March of this year, the Department of Economic Development and Transportation issued a request for proposals for security services at the Rankin Inlet airport.

The request for proposals closed on April 22, over a month ago. Information published by the department indicates that the contract was anticipated to be signed on May 14. For the record, can the minister confirm which company has been awarded the new contract for security services at Rankin Inlet Airport? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That contract is in the process of being signed right now.

I don’t want to, what do you call that... . (interpretation) It’s too early to indicate (interpretation ends) to advance, in terms of advising who the contractors are at the moment. It is operationally being worked on between our department and

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5247 those that have won the tender. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) As the minister will recall, my recent letter to him emphasized the importance of hiring Inuit residents to fill security positions at the Rankin Inlet airport. Information published by the department indicates the new contractor will be required to provide a plan for local hiring.

Can the minister clarify what penalties will be imposed on the contractor for failure to meet local employment targets? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Each of these tenders and RFPs has different clauses in terms of Inuit requirement. I don’t have the specific details for this particular contract. Once I do, I’ll be really happy to share with the member in terms of what are the contracts and what are the penalties. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Sammurtok. Mr. Sammurtok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the minister will recall, his letter to me on March 5, 2024 indicates that there have been “A number of incidents where travelling public and people working at the airport were exposed to potential violent situations including intoxicated people.” Can the minister confirm the extent to which the opening of the Rankin Inlet beer and wine store has impacted the number of incidents at the airport? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Minister David Akeeagok.

Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We don’t keep data in terms of how those incidents are related to the beer and wine store. Throughout our facilities in our territory it’s sad that we are requiring more and more security in our facilities, and for a number of reasons, but I don’t have that particular connection between the beer and wine store and to the airport.

Airports I believe throughout the country have been experiencing similar disruptions with passengers, and Rankin Inlet is no different from any of our airports throughout the country, and this is the reason why we had to put that security contract into Rankin Inlet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Question 849 – 6(2): Search and Rescue (Malliki) Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) My questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5248 and they concern the important issue of search and rescue. As the minister will recall, I last raised this issue with him during the Legislative Assembly sitting on October 30, 2023. At that time, I noted that discussion has been underway with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities concerning the creation of a new search and rescue association of Nunavut. The minister noted that he was looking forward to discussing this initiative with our mayors. Can the minister provide an update today on the status of this initiative? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague from Aivilik for asking questions on this matter in regard to search and rescue and the Nunavut Association of Municipalities, and in regard to emergency services, we have initiated dialogue with the Nunavut Association of Municipalities on how we can go forward with this matter. I will give further details at a later time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr.

Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I would like to thank the minister. Some searches are quite hard. (interpretation ends) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the minister will recall, he recently wrote a detailed letter to me concerning search and rescue activities in Nunavut. I want to thank the minister for taking the time to provide me with an update which contained very useful information.

In his letter to me, the minister wrote that his department had “Applied to Indigenous Services Canada’s Pathway Funding Program to support the development of community safety liaison pilot program in up to 10 communities. If approved, these positions would be responsible for coordinating of local ground search and rescue recruitment training and development at the local level.” Can the minister provide update on the status of his department’s application, and can he confirm which Nunavut communities will be participating in this project? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, my department did apply for a pilot project to support municipalities in having this resource available to them, and this is an area that we want to try to bolster local resources for. Mr. Speaker, for the application we are still awaiting a response, but we do want to... . Once we do have it, and hope to have a favourable response for that proposal, and as for the 10 communities that we’re trying to identify, it’s still yet to be seen.

We are going to be working again with, again, municipalities are our partners, on which communities will be targeted for that and I hope to bring

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5249 some updates to my colleagues as soon as practicable. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I would like to thank the member.

I would like to include the communities that I do represent. (interpretation ends) In his letter to me the minister wrote that the Municipal Training Organization received $248,000 from the Department of Community and Government Services during the 2023-24 fiscal year to provide search and rescue training programs a number of communities including Kinngait, Pangnirtung, Clyde River, Cambridge Bay, and Kugluktuk.

Can the minister indicate how much funding is being provided to the Municipal Training Organization during the current 2024-25 fiscal year for training, and can he confirm which communities will be receiving the training? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We do provide this training fund to allow for access, to have individuals in this sector acquire additional skills.

We do want to prepare our local ground search and rescue associations and groups to the best of our abilities. The funding amounts that we do have, is equal... . Or I will have to get back to the member, but equal to the same if not more than what has been identified. Further to that, Mr. Speaker, we do coordinate training with the MTO on which communities they will be going into. We do also work with the municipalities. They request that training for example, so we solicited their request as well. So we hope to have ongoing training opportunities at the local level. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Next name I have on my list: Member from Baker Lake, Mr. Simailak. Question 850 – 6(2): State of Mining Sector in Nunavut (Simailak) Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, all. Good morning to the people of Baker Lake. Mr. Speaker, I’ve got some thoughts or questions on the state of the mining sector in Nunavut. This morning my questions are for the Minister responsible for Mines. Mr. Speaker, as the minister is aware, the 2024 Nunavut Mining Symposium took place in April of this year.

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the organizers of the event which brings together job creators in the mining sector and decision-makers in government. Mr. Speaker, information published at the symposium makes it perfectly clear how critically important mining is to our territory’s economy, communities, and the people. For example, over 400 positions at Agnico Eagle’s Nunavut

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5250 projects are filled by Nunavut Inuit, who collectively received over $34 million in wages and benefits in the year 2023 alone. The Government of Nunavut received over $12 million in payroll taxes in the year 2023, which went toward providing programs and services to all Nunavummiut. For the record, can the minister tell the House what message he brought to this year’s mining symposium on behalf of the Government of Nunavut? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Mines, Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I do applaud the member for raising this. It is critical. This is one of many sectors that our territory needs in order to have employment throughout the territory. During the mining symposium I was fortunate to do a number of events with our mining sectors, and one of the key things that I did and made the presentation was on our newly, what I tabled here in the House was the mining training strategy. That’s the work within our whole of government, mainly with our three departments, in terms of how to ensure that those jobs that are being made available by the mining sector do go to Nunavummiut.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary question, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, minister. Mr. Speaker, as the minister will recall, I raised concerns during our recent winter sitting about the importance of critical minerals to the future of Nunavut mining sector. At that time, I noted that serious concerns have been recognized that the proposed Nunavut land use plan in its current form will result in significant quantities of critical mineral deposits being stranded and unavailable for development. Mr.

Speaker, I’m wondering: was this concern discussed during the mining symposium? I’m wondering: what is the minister’s position on that concern regarding the proposed Nunavut land use plan? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Mines, Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Yes, that topic was discussed, and in fact the Nunavut Planning Commission were one of the presenters, and had allowed for questions and answers from the mining sector and from all the sectors, too, and they gave presentation in terms of what’s contained within the draft land use plan and had what changes can be entertained in terms of as part of the draft land use plan. Those were discussed amongst a lot of things, the Nunavut planning commission had their own specific presentations and questions and answers to those that attended. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Your second and final supplementary, Mr. Simailak. Mr. Simailak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the minister is well aware, the communities of the Kivalliq and

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5251 Kitikmeot have welcomed the prosperity that mining sector has brought to our people. Although we are sensitive to the need to ensure that mining is done in an environmentally responsible manner, we believe that balance is achievable, and that development should not be blocked because of a general opposition to the sector. Mr. Speaker, I also believe that Nunavut Mining Symposium is an important annual event that should not be confined to only one community and one region.

Will the Minister responsible for Mines join me in calling for the next Nunavut Mining Symposium be hosted in a Kivalliq or Kitikmeot community? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister responsible for Mines, Minister David Akeeagok. Hon. David Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Nunavut Mining Symposium has a society that plans and prepared for these symposiums. I’ll definitely encourage that society to look outside of Iqaluit. This is a huge event, where over 300 participants do take part, and that becomes the determinant, where the symposium needs to take place.

So we need to take those into consideration. There are other avenues that we do take opportunities to try and promote mining and work, and that’s through our trade shows. We have one in every one of our regions, and so there are good opportunities. There are different symposiums that we can mirror into, to try and focus. I’m really proud yesterday when I announced that we are entering with Government of Canada and NTI our regional roundtables which will give us the focus on those regional socio- economic opportunities this this beautiful territory has to offer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Oral Questions. Member for Aggu, Ms. Quassa. Question 851 – 6(2): Search and Rescue (Quassa) Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions are for the Minister of Community and Government Services and they concern the issue of search and rescue. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to all of the volunteers and first responders across Nunavut who risk their lives on the land and on the water during times of emergency. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister is aware, his department administers the Community- Based Search and Rescue Contributions Policy, which provides funding and other support in this critical area. This policy was last updated in January 2017 and expired in April 2022. Can the minister clearly indicate the timeline for updating this policy? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague for asking questions about search and rescue.

I want to thank the people who do search and rescue because they really help the

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5252 communities when they take part and we want to support them more. The Nunavut Emergency Management division operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and they have a phone that is available at all times, so that everybody knows 1-800-693-1666, and the local search and rescue committees are well aware of that phone number. Yes, we have tried updating the policy for 2023-24, and we expect that through working together with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated under

Article 32, this is being reviewed and I’m confident that changes and updates, we’ve asked to request for new information from the hamlets on how they operate their search and rescues. It is still a work in progress and I will keep everyone involved when this is completed. Thank you. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the minister for the fact that they are trying to improve change the situation.

There is always room for improvement. (interpretation ends) Concerns were recently brought to my attention by the Sanirajak community search and rescue committee that a snow machine used in searches was recently lost due to fire. It is my understanding that the machine was the property of the organization.

Can the minister confirm how much funding is provided annually by his department for the acquisition of mobile equipment by local search and rescue organizations, and can he clarify the process by which local search and rescue organizations can apply for assistance in the event that their equipment is lost or destroyed? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The policy review will be dealing with these very topics that the member raises. Mr.

Speaker, we do have a policy in place, and there are eligible expenses that local search and rescue groups can apply for funding for, and they are looked at on a case-by-case basis. Mr. Speaker, there are, also from what I understand and I’ve heard, there are equipment capital assets that, for example, snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicles that get surplused and donated to the local search and rescue groups. As far as I know, I’m not aware of our Community and Government Services providing these types of assets when they are, I’ll have to look at it better.

Perhaps, if they were insured and eligible under our existing policy, I believe that’s when it will be covered, but I’ll have to look at that specific case, if my colleague will allow. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary Ms. Quassa. Ms. Quassa (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the minister. Search and rescue organizations are very important, and they should be provided

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5253 with adequate equipment because the search and rescue organizations use their own equipment. Search and rescue organizations should be provided with this equipment. (interpretation ends) Earlier this month, a number of federal ministers visited Nunavut to discuss the issue of arctic and northern security.

The announcement from this visit indicated that the Government of Canada will provide $218 million over 20 years for: “Northern Operational Support Hubs to better ensure Canadian sovereignty by establishing a greater year-round presence across the Arctic and the North, and invest in multi-use infrastructure that also meets the needs of territories, Indigenous peoples and Northern communities.” Mr. Speaker, I strongly support strategic investments of this kind.

Can the minister clarify the extent to which the new “Northern Operational Support Hubs” will enhance the operations of local search and rescue organizations in Nunavut? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Community and Government Services, Minister Joanasie. Hon. David Joanasie: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member on this topic. Mr. Speaker, any new infrastructure funding that comes to Nunavut is always a good sign and news. When we do have a lack of facilities or equipment, it does pose challenges, and search and rescue is no exception. Mr.

Speaker, these are ongoing discussions that our government is having with other stakeholders, and for search and rescue in particular, I think we are trying to work with, for example, like the Rangers patrol. They do have assets and do get deployed here from time and again for search operations, as an example, so trying to maximize and optimize our resources, pooling them together. The multi-use facility that was announced with that one, I think it’s still yet to be seen, but we are actively engaging and hoping for the best outcome once those facilities are up and built. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Question 852 – 6(2): Medical Vans for Communities (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, may I say, I did mention earlier in my member’s statement the Minister of Health, but the intention being to work more closely with him. That was the point of my address. My question to the minister, a question on the point I made earlier, I just want to mention that first because I would like you to commit to this, but my attention, however, focuses on intergovernmental affairs. Mr.

Speaker, as the Premier will recall, this past March I expressed the need for a vehicle for the elders in Clyde River because there is no mode of transportation for them in the

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5254 community. At that time, the Premier stated that five communities would be receiving elders’ vans on this summer’s sealift. I am glad that the planning started in March because it takes time to make arrangements for the sealift. Can the Premier tell us which five communities will be receiving an elders’ van on the sealift this summer? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, Premier Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I also thank my colleague for the hard work she had put into this and the urgency that is realized, in particular for our elders. Mr. Speaker, it closed on May 10. We had 13 expressions of interest to work with us, and we are reviewing the proposals, but we have not decided which five communities will be receiving the vans. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank you for clarifying this. Mr.

Speaker, this is really needed to have transportation for elders, not just elders, but disabled people and those with no means for transportation. The need for local transportation for our elders is not just to assist them with shopping or visiting; it is critical for such needs as getting to the health centre or going to the airport if they have to travel out for medical appointments. (interpretation ends) The Premier indicated that this was being worked on as an ‘urgent’ issue. He stated that his staff were working on a policy with respect to providing elder van transportation in Nunavut communities.

Can the Premier provide an overview of what is covered under the elder van transportation policy and whether he will be tabling it in this House during the sitting? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, Premier Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank my colleague. You are correct; some communities have transportation and most communities have none. Clyde River is an example she cited that don’t have any transportation, and it’s unfortunate and it becomes an obstacle in urgent situations.

When we met with elders, this was one of the issues raised and included in our report. As an urgent issue, we have planned to start with the five communities this summer. Mr. Speaker, we are reviewing the five communities that will be selected. We will first have to look at the 13 expressions of interest. We have not identified which communities will receive these vans. We will have to meet with them and look at the policies and the little details that may have, and we are hoping that this spring we may not be ready, but I can tell my colleague that

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5255 we are working on the issue and as an urgent issue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary question, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I agree. This is long- standing, and I make effort to visit the community and I observe the community and the road to the airport, and you really feel for members in the community having to be transported up by snowmobiles, especially elders. Mr.

Speaker, on May 6 the government issued a public service announcement calling for expressions of interest to administer the elder van initiative. The announcement (interpretation ends) stated that funding was allocated for the purchase and shipment of wheelchair- accessible vans, but the funding did not include the provision of transportation services. Mr. Speaker, I note that interested parties had to submit their written expressions of interest by 11:59 p.m. on May 10, 2024. That is only three and a half days for community organizations to collect information and put together a submission.

In saying that, can the Premier tell us how many expressions of interest were received and if the lack of submissions will impact communities expecting to receive their elder van this summer? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, Premier Akeeagok. Hon. P.J. Akeeagok: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I again thank my colleague for that question. As I indicated, we are very thankful and I want to mention the urgency that we have placed and the support we received for us to purchase the five vans.

Time is of the essence, especially in the communities that we serve. As I noted, we had received 13 interested groups that are interested in exploring this. We are reviewing the submissions that we had received on the 10th of this month, and I am very hopeful in the coming weeks that we’ll be able to select, of the 13 that are interested, to do the operations of the buses in the communities. Mr. Speaker, I just would like to say I was very privileged to have just been up in Mittimatalik, in Pond Inlet, when we brought the Northern Premiers’ Forum where there, the community through the hamlet has a van for elders.

I met with the elders up there, and just the impact that it has of them to be brought to the health centres or even to the grocery store, just I saw firsthand the impact. I can’t wait to see these five elder vans in the next communities that require them as we go through, but I take the urgency from the member and I look forward to updating the House at an appropriate time when the selection has been made. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5256 Question 853 – 6(2): Nunavut Carbon Credit (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would just like to acknowledge our elders who are present today, Mr. Philip and Ms. Mike. I think a lot of people don’t realize how nerve-wracking it can be to stand up and ask questions, and of course answer questions. For me I’m always filled with a lot of anxiety, and your presence here helps to ground me, so I really appreciate that. Mr. Speaker, my questions today are for the Minister of Finance, and they concern the Nunavut Carbon Credit. Mr.

Speaker, as the minister will recall, the Legislative Assembly passed amendments to the territorial Income Tax Act in March 2023. The purpose of these amendments was to introduce a new quarterly payment for Nunavummiut in response to the federal decisions regarding the use of carbon tax revenues. As the minister will also recall, he subsequently issued a number of public announcements and news releases concerning the introduction of the Nunavut Carbon Credit, which was originally valued at $308 per year for eligible individuals. Mr.

Speaker, I know we all like to announce good news and that’s the nature of things here. Mr. Speaker, a few weeks ago the government very quietly published changes to the income tax regulations which decreased the annual value of the Nunavut carbon credit from $308 per year to $100 per year. If my math is correct, that represents a decrease of almost 70 percent. Can the minister explain why he has not issued any public announcements or news releases about this decrease? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Finance, Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I almost went two days without a question. I appreciate the question. Good morning colleagues, Mr. Speaker. The carbon credit payments do not start for next year’s program are to start in June 30 and between now and then, we are trying to finalize exactly the amounts of the tax credit that will be paid out to Nunavummiut. I look forward to having an announcement as soon as we have that done, hopefully well before June 30. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary question, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Can the minister explain how the final amount will actually be determined? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Finance, Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The math I believe is quite simple. It will be how much money it brings into our territory and we divide that by how many members of the territory will be receiving it, and we will distribute it quarterly as per the last time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5257 Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In one of the minister’s previous announcements, he stated that Nunavummiut already pays some of the highest costs of living in the country. The Nunavut Carbon Credit provides direct financial relief to our harvesters, homeowners, and residents who rely on fuels to provide for their families and communities.

I recognize that the government has acted on recommendations made by members to enhance the value of the Nunavut household allowance, and I also recognize that especially at this time of year that many households are expending a lot of money on harvesting, and the impact of that is that the benefits of harvesting have such a great impact on food security. I know I’ve been collecting goose feet for one of my artist friends. And all of that harvesting also impacts the arts and the economy in so many great ways.

Can the minister indicate what new measures he is actively considering to mitigate the impact of the decrease in the value of the Nunavut Carbon Credit? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Finance, Minister Kusugak. Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the recognition from my colleague of the hard work we are doing to try to help the homeowners and private sector, and Nunavummiut as a whole, in dealing with the rising and continually rising cost to live in Nunavut. We recently heard that it’s going to cost more money to bring more luggage up to the north.

It just never seems to stop, Mr. Speaker. When there are announcements and increases in any kind of funding to Nunavummiut, the other side of it also increases very quickly. Mr. Speaker, it has been a privilege to stand here and make announcements in the last two years of fuel rebates for homeowners across Nunavut. We recently made an announcement about increasing the northern allowance for Nunavummiut, and also including the long-term casuals in getting their assistance for home ownership. As much as we do, these other price increases in cost of living seems to come on us very quickly. Mr.

Speaker, our staff are constantly trying to find ways which we could increase the amount of income or benefits we could give Nunavummiut. Dealing with the carbon tax is one where we are also trying to see how we could increase that as much as possible to benefit Nunavummiut. We continue to seek ways to pass on some funding to Nunavummiut so that they could make it a little easier for Nunavummiut. Any ideas and suggestions I welcome from my colleagues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Aivilik, Mr. Malliki. Question 854 – 6(2): Medical Travel Issues (Malliki) Mr.

Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I would like to direct my questions to the Minister of Health.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5258 Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that the Department of Health is working hard to address the many issues with medical travel, but it seems that the problem continues to arise. Can the minister provide an update on status of medical travel review which has been ongoing for some time? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the member for that question. With regard to the policy for the medical travel that he’s right on that.

It has been an issue that has been ongoing where we were going to provide an update, but we’ve had different factors that are considered. (interpretation ends) We have had a bit of a delay in terms of advancing our medical travel policy comprehensive review. It is continuing, so we are under the

Article 32 of the Nunavut agreement engaging with Nunavut Tunngavik, and the goal, Mr. Speaker, of this review is to improve and enhance medical travel services for Nunavut clients. There are a number of areas that we will be looking at. And Mr. Speaker, just in terms of the size of the program, we’re looking at in 2023-24, just the past fiscal year, health booked over 49,000 return scheduled airline trips. Looking at the number of residents in the territory, that’s more than one trip per resident. It’s a number that continues to increase.

In addition to the policy side of things, we are always continually looking for operational improvements we can make to the program. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Mr. Malliki. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you for that. (interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, one issue that is often brought to my attention by my constituents and Nunavummiut when I’m travelling is that they travel south as a medical client, but when they get there, there is no appointment for them.

This is a waste of everyone’s time and must be a big expense for the government. Can the minister clarify if he is aware of this type of problem occurring with medical travellers, and if he is aware, can he explain why it keeps happening? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) In terms of the policy and the program and how it’s operating, we are aware of ongoing issues, and it varies from region to region.

In the Kivalliq region, we’ve been encountering a lot of issues in terms of the bottleneck in Rankin Inlet. We’re looking for ways around that and trying to improve that experience. In terms of the scenario where a patient traveller is booked south and then arrives to find that there is no appointment or there’s been a mistake made, that is something that happens from time to

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5259 time when you’re looking at 49,000 round trips. It’s not a frequent issue, to my knowledge. One of the biggest issues that we do have around medical travel is when, for one reason or another, a medical traveller who has a ticket, who has an appointment, has a booking at the medical boarding home, doesn’t make it to their appointment. That by far is the larger, the more frequent issue that we’re encountering, so no-shows. It can be due to weather. It can be due to a mechanical failure. It can be due to breakdown in communication.

So that’s a scenario that’s far more common, and it’s one that we are very concerned about. In fact, Mr. Speaker, we’ve had some clinics express hesitation around booking clients from Nunavut into their clinics because of the frequency of no- shows. They are basically telling us, if we’re going to give a Nunavut resident an appointment, we would like to see them show up, because as you can understand, there’s high demand for some specialty clinics. Like I mentioned earlier, we are continually looking for ways to improve services.

In terms of the coordination piece, our Nomadis computer system that is now in use across Nunavut is improving coordination of the different pieces of the system. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary. Mr. Malliki (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the minister for responding to my question. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, with the advancement in computer technology, it should be possible to have a tracking system that can monitor whether or not appointments have been scheduled and to inform medical clients before they get on the airplane to travel south, that their appointment is confirmed. Will the minister commit to look into developing such a tracking or perhaps updating a system that is currently being used so the medical travel client don’t leave their communities to travel to a medical appointment that does not exist. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the member for that question. It’s like considered no status, and we already use computer systems to keep track of our clients, but perhaps how we operate the system in terms of the manpower may be needed to be looked that as well as the number of times or how many patients, or who’s all going, all those kinds of things. They need to review that.

In the past years, those that are managing the system, sometimes they’re just provided a paper, instantly, even sometimes through technology, but we do know that technology can always improve. With regard to the policy and reviewing that and how to improve communication

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5260 between patients and also the times that they need to see their appointments, so perhaps we could improve on that and to review that so that they could have a few days ahead of time to know that they are indeed booked to see their doctor or health care provider, wherever that may be, and so it sometimes happens where a patient knows only the day of. These are things that are needed to be reviewed, and we are trying to do our best to improve how we manage patients and when they are booked to see somebody.

Those in Nunavut, in terms of what their concerns are, they will have an opportunity for sure to provide input on this review, and that’s something that we look forward to, and it’s going to be open. We are looking forward to hearing from Nunavummiut. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Uqqummiut, Ms. Killiktee. Question 855 – 6(2): Cancer Screening (Killiktee) Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to apologize to the interpreters for speaking too quickly. I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Health regarding cancer screening. Mr.

Speaker, during the winter sitting, the minister noted that progress is being made on providing more options for cancer treatment within the territory. This is good news for those Nunavummiut who are facing this disease and may be able to receive cancer treatment without having to travel south. This is something that’s quite important. I also want to add that (interpretation ends) it is also important that those most at risk for cancer be screened so that the disease can be detected as soon as possible. The minister has provided a number of updates regarding the colorectal cancer screening program.

Can the minister provide an update on what other types of cancer screening programs are being considered for the territory? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for your question in regard to cancer screening. I hope I got this word correct; I’m just learning the name for cancer.

There are different types of screening processes that we go through and looking at the rest of Canada and in the provinces, the Nunavut government is looking at setting up a cancer screening process because we’re the only ones in Canada that do not provide this service. In regards to colorectal cancer, we are currently starting a screening process in three communities, which will be a pilot project. Under this program we will provide this screening process to the people of Nunavut. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, in terms of the pilot that was run on colorectal cancer screening, we did run into a number of significant challenges, including staffing, follow-up processes,

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5261 and accessing population-level data. Those pilots have been completed and we are looking to learn lessons from those pilots in the three communities and further develop our approach before we roll it out to more communities in Nunavut, in terms of the colorectal cancer screening program. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I find it very interesting in listening to your response.

The reason why I brought this question up is to get an update on the screening program. Mr. Speaker, some types of cancer screening procedures require specific machinery. Well, the reason why I’m bringing this question up is to talk about breast cancer. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancers in Canada. With that, Mr. Speaker, (interpretation ends) can the minister tell us if there is a mammogram machine in Nunavut and, if not, how does the Department of Health ensure that Nunavummiut have access to breast cancer screening on a regular and consistent basis? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I thank the member for the question. We do have capacity, a mammography machine here at the Qikiqtani General Hospital in Iqaluit, so we do have that capacity in territory. When we’re talking about screening for breast cancer or diagnosing breast cancer, there are two different types of mammography that can be done. There’s screening, which is done generally high-risk patients.

Similar to colorectal cancer screening, we don’t yet have a formalized screening program for breast cancer in Nunavut. There’s screening mammography and then there’s diagnostic mammography. We do have the capacity here at the Qikiqtani General Hospital. We follow national guidelines in our approach to diagnostic imaging. Mr. Speaker, a territorial breast cancer screening program would require not just funding for travel, but it would require experienced staff to monitor and evaluate the program.

Our plan is to use the colorectal screening initiative to build expertise in other areas of cancer screening and look to expand that in the future in coming years. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I would like to thank the minister for elaborating on the details. I’m very pleased to hear that. (interpretation ends) Mr.

Speaker, a recent Facebook announcement on the Government of Nunavut advertised a new service at the Larga Baffin Boarding Home in Ottawa, providing cancer support services to clients staying there. This is a great step towards

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5262 support and individuals’ healing and recovery process. It is very good news. However, it is not clear to me what cancer support services are available to Nunavummiut after they have been returned to home in Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, can the minister elaborate further on what support services are provided in Nunavut, and most importantly at the community level, for individuals who are in risk of cancer who have received a positive test result for cancer, or who are being treated for cancer? (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Minister of Health, Minister Main. Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank the member for her question. (interpretation ends) I think, from the member’s line of questioning, it’s clear that the member understands that cancer treatment or the experience of going through dealing with cancer, it doesn’t end when the medical travel ends, or when chemotherapy or when treatment ends. It can be a very long process, starting with testing, diagnosis, treatment, recovery, ideally, and so we do have a partnership with the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer.

They have been an important organization for Health to work with in terms of learning from other jurisdictions in terms of precisely the types of supports that can be provided. We within the department are increasingly emphasizing team-based care, which includes staff from different parts of the department. Looking at a cancer patient, that means pulling in potential mental health supports, if that’s identified as a need. It could look at extending to a sister department at Family Services, in terms of social work supports if that’s needed.

There is a variety of different supports that are available at the community level in terms of clinical side, mental health side, as well as from other departments in some cases. It’s not necessarily formalized in terms of here’s the supports that are available in every community in Nunavut, but we do our best to support Nunavut residents who are dealing with cancer, no matter what type.

We know that it can be very difficult for families, and we do everything we can to support them through their cancer journey, and look forward to sharing more news on the colorectal screening initiative as it is progressing. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Oral Questions. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, Ms. Brewster. Question 856 – 6(2): Natural Resources Conservation Trust Fund (Brewster) Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for recognizing me a second time today. My questions are for the Minister of Environment. Mr.

Speaker, one of the many essential elements of our daily question period is the opportunity that we have as members and ministers to get important information into the public domain through our exchanges in this House.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5263 Mr. Speaker, I think the minister will be happy to know that I took time to review with care his recently tabled annual report on the administration of the Natural Resources Conservation Trust Fund. I will be happy to acknowledge that I was not completely familiar with this special purpose fund, and I anticipate that many Nunavummiut would also like to learn more about it. Mr. Speaker,

section 181 of the Wildlife Act outlines the statutory purpose of the fund, which includes the requirement to “conserve or enhance wildlife and habitat, including biological diversity.” That sounds to me like a very, very important objective. Mr. Speaker, as the minister is aware, the annual report that he recently tabled indicates that the balance of the fund currently stands at almost $1.5 million. Can he clearly explain why his department did not spend so much as a penny from the fund during the 2021-22 fiscal year, and can he clarify whether his department has ever undertaken projects with this funding?

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Environment, Minister Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member for the question. Those are very excellent questions. The annual report is one that the Department of Environment produces annually. Mr. Speaker, the level of detail is not readily in front of me, but I can commit to getting back to the member with the information she’s asking. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your first supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The most recent annual report and audited financial statements for the Natural Resources Conservation Trust Fund indicate that a total of $139,410 was paid to the fund for the fiscal year in question. That’s not a huge amount in comparison to the government’s total budget, but it still works out to almost $400 a day of revenue, every single day of the year. Mr. Speaker, the report indicates that “fines and surcharges in relation to offences under the Wildlife Act collected under the

Summary Conviction Procedures Act” are paid into the fund. Can the minister tell us today how many convictions for violations of the Wildlife Act took place during the 2021-22 fiscal year and can he give us an indication as to their severity? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Environment, Minister Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again, I thank the member for the very good questions.

The penalties and fines in regard to the Wildlife Act is an operational question that is not readily in front of me, and also pre-dates my time, but that’s not an excuse to say that I do not know those information, but I can certainly commit, again, to getting back to the member with fines and penalties in regard to the Wildlife Act within my department. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5264 Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Your second and final supplementary, Ms. Brewster. Ms. Brewster: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate that commitment from the minister. Mr. Speaker, the same

section of the Wildlife Act that I referenced earlier mandates the minister’s department to “promote education and training respecting Iqaluit Qaujimajatuqangit, safe and humane harvesting methods, harvester education and wildlife conservation.” I think everybody can tell by my lack of tan that I haven’t been out doing much on the land this spring; however, my sons have been spending a lot of time out there, and they benefit from the knowledge that I share with them, that our family and community members share and it’s so important. I would like to know, Mr.

Speaker: can the minister highlight what specific initiatives in these areas are planned to be undertaken in the Iqaluit area during the 2024-25 fiscal year? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Minister of Environment Minister Qavvik. Hon. Daniel Qavvik: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thank the member for that question, again. Mr. Speaker, it is this time of the year we enjoy the spring season. We’re totally committed to our roles and the sacrifice that we understand to be the members of the Legislative Assembly.

In regard to the member’s question for the programs offered by the Department of Environment, there are education modules, for example, the Fox Trapping Education Program that is offered by the Department of Environment. That’s one of the programs that we offer to the Nunavut territory. The program has three components: A trapper education manual for the community-based workshop; a video series depicting, for example, fox pelt handling; and also a hands-on trapper workshop. But in regard to the question for the member’s constituency, that information again is not readily in front of me.

I can certainly commit, and my third time to get back to the member, and possibly of course I can share amongst my colleagues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Members will note that the time allotted for oral questions has expired. Ms. Killiktee. Ms. Killiktee (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to extend question period, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. There’s a request to extend the time allotted for the time in question. Are there any nays? An Hon. Member: Nay. Deputy Speaker: There is a nay. We will move on. Item 7. Written Questions. Item 8.

Returns to Written Questions. Item 9. Replies to Opening Address. Item 10. Petitions. Item 11. Responses to Petitions. Item 12. Reports of Standing and Special Committees on Bills and Other Matters. Item 13. Tabling of Documents. Item 14. Notices of

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5265 Motions. Item 15. Notices of Motion for First Reading of Bills. Item 16. Motions. Item 17. First Reading of Bills. Minister of Justice, Minister Nutarak. Item 17: First Reading of Bills Bill 41 – Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act – First Reading Hon. Karen Nutarak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Quttiktuq, that Bill 41, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, be now read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? Motion is carried. Minister of Health, Minister Main. Bill 42 –

An Act to Amend the Dental Profession Act – First Reading Hon. John Main (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Quttiktuq, that Bill 42,

An Act to Amend the Dental Profession Act, be now read for the first time. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? Motion is carried. Minister of Economic Development and Transportation, Mr. David Akeeagok. Bill 43 –

An Act to Amend the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation Act – First Reading Hon. David Akeeagok (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the member for Rankin Inlet-South, that Bill 43,

An Act to Amend the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation Act, (interpretation) be now read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? Motion is carried. Minister of Justice, Minister Nutarak. Bill 44 –

An Act to Amend the Creditors Relief Act and the Public Service Garnishee Act – First Reading Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Member of Quttiktuq, that Bill 44,

An Act to Amend the Creditors Relief Act and the Public Service Garnishee Act, be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried. Minister of Community and Government Services, Mr. Joanasie. Bill 45 –

An Act to Amend the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act – First Reading Hon. David Joanasie (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the member for Pangnirtung, that Bill 45,

An Act to Amend the Cities, Towns and Villages Act and the Hamlets Act be read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5266 Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? The motion is carried. Minister of Justice, Minister Nutarak. Bill 46 –

An Act to Amend the Coroners Act – First Reading Hon. Karen Nutarak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Quttiktuq, that Bill 46,

An Act to Amend the Coroners Act, be now read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? Motion is carried. Minister of Finance, Minister Kusugak. Bill 47 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025 – First Reading Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member from Quttiktuq, that Bill 47, Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-25, be now read for the first time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order. All those in favour. Opposed.

Motion is carried. Item 18. Second Reading of Bills. Minister of Finance, Minister Kusugak. Item 18: Second Reading of Bills Bill 47 – Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025 – Second Reading Hon. Lorne Kusugak: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move, seconded by the Hon. Member from Quttiktuq, that Bill 47, Supplementary Appropriation (Capital) Act, No. 2, 2024-2025, be read for the second time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This bill makes supplementary appropriations to defray the capital expenditures of the Government of Nunavut for this fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker: Thank you. Motion is in order. All those in favour? Opposed? Motion is carried. Bill 47 is referred to Committee of the Whole. Item 19. Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters. Mr. Malliki. Motion 035 – 6(2): Early Adjournment (Malliki) Mr. Malliki: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Rule 46, I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Iqaluit-Sinaa, that the House adjourn for the day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Deputy Speaker: Thank you. The motion is in order and not subject to debate. All those in favour? Opposed? Motion is carried.

I will now proceed to Item 22. Mr. Clerk. Item 22: Orders of the Day Clerk (Mr. Quirke): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Orders of the Day for May 27: 1. Prayer

Friday, May 24, 2024 Nunavut Hansard 5267 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 • Bill 41 • Bill 42 • Bill 43 • Bill 44 • Bill 45 • Bill 46 19.

Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters • Bill 38 • Bill 47 20. Report of the Committee of the Whole 21. Third Reading of Bills 22. Orders of the Day Thank you. >>Applause Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Clerk. This House stands adjourned until Monday, May 27, at 1:30 p.m. Sergeant-at-Arms. >>House adjourned at 11:08

Document details

Collection	Nunavut — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	2024-05-24, 6th Assembly 2nd Session, Day 82
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	20240524 Hansard
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	TERRITORIAL
Identifier	aa45df50da0ff77c6fc58429fc8ce0baf06f9f57

Source file is stored in the law ingest library (pdf).