EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
I believe it was unofficially announced back in March. I just read a report from CBC that we were opening it in 2017, although we haven’t formally announced it.
However, I can assure Ms. Angnakak and the listening public in Iqaluit that the government is making significant progress and moving forward to opening a beer and wine store in 2017.
I wonder if the minister, in his deliberations, can indicate today what specific factors are causing the delay and what is the cabinet considering.
There has been some concern from some quarters that we don’t have a treatment centre anywhere in Nunavut and that’s true.
There was a treatment centre years ago in Iqaluit that closed for other reasons that I wasn’t privy to; I wasn’t here.
The fact of the matter is we can’t afford to open a treatment centre in Nunavut.
However, our cabinet is cognizant of the concerns of people in Iqaluit and possibly elsewhere. They directed my department and other departments to work together to develop an action plan on how we could work together as a government to help people who have problems with handling alcohol responsibly.
Later today in fact, perfect timing, I will be tabling an action plan that will outline how we intend to help people in Nunavut who have drinking problems.
Question 568 – 4(3): Future Plans for Elder Care (Qirngnuq)
Mr. Qirngnuq (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for recognizing me.
I would like to my direct my question to the Minister of Health.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, last week I rose in this House to address the need to support and care for our elders.
It is important that our government make elder care a priority.
It is frustrating to hear that we are too short of funds to address this issue when it needs immediate attention.
If no effort is made to access funding, then of course nothing will be done.
Can the minister provide an update on what steps are being taken to help our elders stay in Nunavut to receive the care they need?
I thank the member for raising this issue again. Caring for seniors in-territory is absolutely our first priority.
When we’re dealing with senior issues, we want to make sure that they are receiving the level of care that they’re assessed as a need.
Unfortunately a lot of the services and the assessment needs exceed the capabilities of what we can provide in the territory.
Specifically we are taking steps to address the shortage of beds available and access to care in the Kitikmeot where in Cambridge Bay we’re in the process of opening more beds available there.
I responded to a question from the member from Gjoa Haven the other day that we’re looking at a pre-feasibility study to expand the facilities that we currently do have under our authority.
We’re looking at making improvements to our home and continuing care component.
I have spoken to the federal minister as recently as a few weeks ago at a federal-provincial-territorial meeting.
It is a recognized priority of the federal government and a lot of the jurisdictions across the country that we need to improve our home care and continuing care so that we can provide services in residents’ homes as long as we can.
This government is taking a very serious approach to how we can increase the level of services.
As the member stated, there are a number of competing fiscal interests of running a territory where we do have other financial obligations to all demographics across this territory.
I would like to assure the member that senior care is a very important file that I’m responsible for.
He partially answered my supplementary question, so I’ll go on to my second supplementary.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, it is important that this issue be addressed as a priority.
Will the minister commit to working towards accessing funds and building a new elders’ care facility in Nunavut in the near future?
I do appreciate the focus on this file because I think it’s very important for people and organizations that are out there to be able to say the message again that I’m very open to exploring partnerships and working arrangements with other entities such as what we currently do have.
We do have facilities that we do a fee for service.
One of the member’s colleagues is working very hard to try to promote the construction of a seniors’ facility here in Iqaluit.
There are also other communities out there that have approached me fairly numerous times.
We have been able to discuss what level of care their community desires and what type of construction models would be needed to provide the level of care.
Again, when we look at assessing the level of care, it can be quite extreme when we’re seeing more and more dementia-related patients who require 24-hour constant care that we’re unable to provide.
We do have to work with outside organizations that provide very good care.
Again, some questions were raised on the cultural component and we’re working to address those concerns. I think it’s very important for all people listening and all groups out there that I am very open to discussing any potential partnerships or potential arrangements that we can work together to provide better levels of care for our seniors in the territory.
It’s one of the things that I campaigned on.
I would very much like to see the level of care increased in-territory so that we can make sure that we keep people at home, where they belong, with their support networks, their family, friends, and their language and culture.
Motion 040 – 3(3): Extension of Question Period (Okalik)
Pursuant to Rule 39(7), I move a motion to extend question period, seconded by the Member for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu.
Speaker: There is a motion on the floor to extend question period. The motion is in order and is not subject to debate.
Question 569 – 4(3): Foster Parenting Policies (Okalik)
Actually it was yesterday where I was reading the online version of Nunatsiaq News and I saw an article about an accused foster parent here in Iqaluit who had two accusers, one youth and one child who were being fostered.
The accusation was that it was sexual interference and it also stated that the man stated he had an alcohol problem.
How does the Department of Family Services allow such an individual to assume the role of a foster parent?
Yes, it is indeed a challenge in identifying foster parents.
Perhaps if I say it to apply to all cases, yes, we search for safe environments where no concerns jump out.
It is the first criterion used by the Department of Family Services. Due to that reason, the department does attempt to find safe environments as a rule.
Now, with that being the situation, the Department of Family Services takes this very seriously as protection of children is the priority. The onus is on the foster parents to take good care of their foster children and that is why we treat it very seriously, Mr. Speaker.
I want to ask the minister again now with respect to foster parents.
If the investigations are that comprehensive, how did a foster parent with an admitted alcohol addiction, as it states in the story, even get considered for fostering these children?
Yes, they attempt to follow all the rules related to foster parents, as the investigation into prospective foster parents is comprehensive. It can include a criminal records check and if any untoward behaviour was noted or if they have addictions.
Any indication of possible danger to the child is looked at as foster homes are also investigated.
The officials do try to ensure all the checkmarks are completed under the Department of Family Services to ensure children under their care are safe.
The story relates that the judge actually made a statement that he suspected that the person may have committed sexual assault who was acting as the foster parent for the Department of Family Services.
However, due to the lack of evidence and the criminal law process being very stringent, the judge could not convict him.
With that story being published with references to the judge’s suspicion, will the Department of Family Services learn from this case? Will this lead to more comprehensive investigations of all prospective foster parents?
The foster parents have to protect these children.
Indeed all of these details are considered when prospective foster parents apply. That is why I stated earlier that a criminal records check is undertaken and they also inspect the house or they look into the foster parent applicants to see if concerns are triggered.
They are investigated on several fronts and it includes an agreement that has to be read and signed about the confidentiality of their work. Further, they check all areas when the home is inspected, which includes an annual inspection.
As per the member’s question and statement, what I am speaking of will not change, but based on information coming to light and as we learn of more cases, I can tell my colleague now that I have directed my officials to look into this case to ensure it does not happen again. I will work with my officials on this issue.
Question 570 – 4(3): Qualifying Criteria for Damage Compensation (Akoak)
My question is to the environment.
Earlier today my colleague, Mr. Rumbolt, asked you about WSCC for injured hunters and also last week he asked you about compensation for lost equipment.
In both of the answers you stated that 25 percent has to come from the land or out of hunting.
Can you clarify to the viewing public what does that mean, 25 percent has to come from the land?
I thank the member for a chance to clarify that. In general it means that if you have full-time employment and a full-time job, then you probably will not qualify. 25 percent of your income from the land could be from trapping, selling fish, selling fur, or selling country food and there is a value set on the amount of country food that you take in yourself to eat.
If you have full-time employment and you’re paid well for your job, then the odds of a person qualifying under those programs would be very slim.
A lot of us do hunt and we have a good income, but we do lose equipment or we do get injured.
It’s not the fault of the hunter that gets hurt or loses equipment, but I’m hearing that we do not apply and it won’t apply to anybody that has a good job or trying to provide food for the family.
This program is aimed at helping people who have a harder time replacing equipment or that spend a majority of their time out on the land trying to provide for their family through getting money off the land.
As for people who have good employment, they have other options. For their equipment, they can insure it through insurance agencies.
There’s only so much money available for these hunter support programs. Therefore we try to target it to the ones that are the most needy of these programs should they be unfortunate in having to use these programs.
Question 571 – 4(3): Meetings of Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers of Agriculture (Angnakak)
My questions are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation since we haven’t asked her a question today.
In July of this year the minister attended the annual meeting of federal, provincial, and territorial ministers of agriculture. One of the topics that were addressed at this meeting was the issue of aquaculture, which involves such activities as fish farms.
Mr. Speaker, one of our most important natural resources is our sustainable fishery and our reputation for wild-caught seafood.
Can the minister indicate what our government’s position is regarding the development of aquaculture in Nunavut?
Question 572 – 4(3): Seal Tannery in Nunavut (Okalik)
I also have a question for the Minister of Economic Development.
In our past prior to Nunavut becoming a territory, a sealskin tannery was established in Qikiqtarjuaq and the skins produced were in high demand.
Today, if we want skins tanned to be sewn by our artisans, even when the skins come from Nunavut, we have to send them out to get tanned.
I wonder if the Department of Economic Development can review this issue with the idea to revive a tannery to assist smaller communities to benefit from a regional tannery for our skins.
The tannery in Qikiqtarjuaq has been closed for approximately 10 years. The Department of Economic Development is open to hearing of anyone who is interested in setting up a tannery. You can ask our department if you would like further information.
Question 573 – 4(3): Inuktitut Language Issues (Joanasie)
Mr. Speaker, the Government of Nunavut’s 2016-19 business plan for the Department of Culture and Heritage mentions the 2012-16 Uqausivut Plan.
I would first like to ask the minister what programs in GN departments and agencies worked best in promoting the Inuit language in the workplace.
I can’t tell the member which program worked best, as I don’t have the information in front of me.
As the Minister of Languages, I would assume that he would know which programs were operating well.
Using Inuktitut in the workplace is something that we have been looking forward to, so I urge the minister to look at the information and do an assessment.
With the previous governments, this was an issue that was brought up quite often and the previous governments indicated that they would like to see Inuktitut as the language in the workplace by 2020.
Is that still the goal of your department?
This is an issue that I haven’t thought about, but the department is watching and listening.
We have given funds to each department to promote the usage of the Inuit language in the workplace.
Each department has a language coordinator, but I can’t respond to where we are at with the usage of Inuktitut in the workplace.
I would like to urge the minister to find out where they are at on this issue.
My last question is on the 2016-19 business plan. One of the priorities for 2016-17 is to “Update the Uqausivut Plan…” My question to the minister is: can he give us an update prior to the new year whether they’re going to revise the Uqausivut Plan?
I can tell the member that four or five sections have not been enacted. We are working with the other departments like the Department of Education.
Once the plan is completed, I can give you an update in 2017.
Written Question 016 – 4(3): Small Craft Harbour Capital Contributions (Enook)
My written questions today are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation and they concern the subject of small craft harbour capital contributions.
With respect to the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet that has been approved for funding during the 2016-17 fiscal year under the Department of Economic Development and Transportation’s Small Craft Harbours Capital Contributions Program (Schedule ‘B’ of the Community Transportation Initiatives Program Policy),
What is the total budget for the project?
What percentage of the total budget for the project has been approved for funding by the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
What percentage of the total budget for the project is being funded by entities other than the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
What entities other than the Department of Economic Development and Transportation are funding the project?
Within the meaning of Schedule B of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation’s Community Transportation Initiatives Program Policy, on what date did the department receive the formal proposal for the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet?
What entity formally submitted the proposal?
Who formally signed the proposal on behalf of the submitting entity?
On what date was the proposal formally approved by the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
Who formally approved the proposal on behalf of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
On what date did the Department of Economic Development and Transportation formally communicate its approval decision to the submitting entity regarding the proposal?
By what means was the decision communicated?
On what date was the contribution agreement for the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet signed?
Who signed the contribution agreement on behalf of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
Who signed the contribution agreement on behalf of the Municipality of Pond Inlet?
As of November 8, 2016, how many instalment payments have been made under the contribution agreement?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by specific expenditure, how much has been expended on the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet?
What entity or entities have been awarded contracts to perform work in relation to the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet?
What is the value of each contract awarded to date?
Within the meaning of the Government Contracting Regulations made under the Financial Administration Act, what contracting process was used to award each contract?
Who formally approved the awarding of each contract on behalf of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
Who formally signed each contract on behalf of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
As of November 8, 2016, how many residents of the Municipality of Pond Inlet have been employed and/or contracted to perform work in relation to contracts awarded for the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet?
How many of these residents are beneficiaries of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement?
What is the scheduled completion date for the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet?
On what date is the final financial statement concerning the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet scheduled to be submitted to the Department of Economic Development and Transportation?
What is the process by which a resident of the Municipality of Pond Inlet may obtain copies of all proposals, design concepts, contribution agreements, budgets, financial statements, audit reports, and evaluation reports produced in relation to the “Installation of Mooring Bollards” project in Pond Inlet?
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) The member has asked that the written question be entered into the records as read.
Written Question 017 – 4(3): Ministerial Travel (Okalik)
Again my written questions are directed to the Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs and they concern the subject of ministerial travel.
How many trips on official ministerial business were undertaken between March 4, 2016 and November 7, 2016 by:
The Hon. Monica Ell-Kanayuk, MLA;
The Hon. George Hickes, MLA;
The Hon. Paul Quassa, MLA; and
The Hon. Joe Savikataaq, MLA?
What was the total cost of each trip broken down by:
Within the meaning of the “Home Travel” provisions of the Government of Nunavut’s Ministerial Benefits Policy, how many trips were undertaken between March 4, 2016 and November 7, 2016 by:
With respect to the periods of time between March 4, 2016 and November 7, 2016, during which members of the Executive Council were not on official ministerial duty travel status, home travel status within the meaning of the Government of Nunavut’s Ministerial Benefits Policy, or attending sittings of the Legislative Assembly and/or meetings of its committees and caucuses, what mechanisms were used to track ministerial attendance in the workplace?
Written Question 018 – 4(3): Public Service (Okalik)
Once again my written questions today are for the Minister of Finance and they concern the subject of the public service.
Mr. Speaker, my written questions once again are very detailed, so I ask that they be entered into the record as read.
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many indeterminate employees of the Nunavut public service had been on approved sick leave for 11 to 20 consecutive working days?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many indeterminate employees of the Nunavut public service had been on approved sick leave for 21 to 50 consecutive working days?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many indeterminate employees of the Nunavut public service had been on approved sick leave for 51 or more consecutive working days?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many indeterminate employees of the Nunavut public service were receiving disability benefits within the meaning of Section 1605 (“Disability Insurance”) of the Government of Nunavut’s Human Resources Manual?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many term employees of the Nunavut public service had been on approved sick leave for 11 to 20 consecutive working days?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many term employees of the Nunavut public service had been on approved sick leave for 21 to 50 consecutive working days?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many term employees of the Nunavut public service had been on approved sick leave for 51 or more consecutive working days?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many term employees of the Nunavut public service were receiving disability benefits within the meaning of Section 1605 (“Disability Insurance”) of the Government of Nunavut’s Human Resources Manual?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many investigations were underway within the meaning of Section 1010 (“Harassment-Free Workplace”) of the Government of Nunavut’s Human Resources Manual?
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many investigations into allegations of wrongdoing were underway within the meaning of section 41 of the Public Service Act?
Written Questions. The Hon. Member for Uqqummiut, Mr. Pauloosie Keyootak.
Written Question 019 – 4(3): Marine Infrastructure (Keyootak)
My written questions today are for the Minister of Economic Development and Transportation and they concern the subject of marine infrastructure.
With respect to the “business case” for the “Qikiqtarjuaq [marine] facility” that is referenced on page 201 of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation’s 2016-19 business plan,
On what date was the business case completed?
On what date was the business case submitted by the Government of Nunavut to Infrastructure Canada for consideration under the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component-National and Regional Projects program?
On what date did Infrastructure Canada formally communicate its decision respecting the submission?
What specific rationale did Infrastructure Canada provide for its formal decision to approve or reject the submission?
With respect to the “business case” for the “Iqaluit [marine] facility” that is referenced on page 202 of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation’s 2016-19 business plan,
With respect to the “business case” for the “Pond Inlet [marine] facility” that is referenced on page 202 of the Department of Economic Development and Transportation’s 2016-19 business plan,
Speaker: The member has asked that the written questions be entered into the record as read.
Written Question 020 – 4(3): Inuit Employment Initiatives (Joanasie)
I’m sorry, my documents were not ready.
Mr. Speaker, my written questions today are for the Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs and they concern the subject of Inuit employment initiatives.
Mr. Speaker, my written questions are very detailed, so I ask that they be entered in the record as read.
As of November 8, 2016, broken down by Government of Nunavut department, territorial corporation, and Crown agency, how many individuals have completed internship programs that have been organized by the Sivumuaqatigiit Branch of the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs?