EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
14 from the Administrative Professional Program (with their Canadian Administrative Professional designation).
Mr. Speaker, please join me in acknowledging the dedication of our employees in pursuing these valuable educational opportunities and their contributions towards building excellence in our workforce capacity.
Motion 030 – 3(3): Referral of Minister’s Statement 155 – 3(3) to Committee of the Whole (Tapardjuk)
Pursuant to Rule 34(5), I move, seconded by the Hon. Member for Tununiq, that Minister’s Statement 155 – 3(3), Developing the New Uqausivut Plan, be referred to the Committee of the Whole for consideration.
The motion is in order and is not subject to debate or amendment.
The motion is carried and Minister’s Statement 155 – 3(3) is referred to Committee of the Whole.
Moving on to our orders of the day. Item 3. Members’ Statements.
Member’s Statement 254 – 3(3): People of a Feather Documentary (Rumbolt)
Good afternoon to the people of Sanikiluaq who are enjoying plus 22-degree weather over the next few days.
However, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to the negative effects that numerous hydroelectric projects in the James Bay and Hudson Bay are having on Sanikiluaq.
Mr. Speaker, during our last sitting, I provided a pre-release copy of the documentary to the Legislative Assembly’s library called “People of a Feather: A film about survival in a changing Canadian Arctic.”
This documentary was filmed in Sanikiluaq and I encourage those with access to the library to view this film.
This film has won awards at numerous film festivals, including the Vancouver International Film festival, the San Francisco Ocean Film Festival, the New York International TV and Film Awards, the Reel Earth Film Festival, and most recently, at the Leo Awards, for Best Feature Length Documentary Program.
Mr. Speaker, as you can see from the list of awards, this documentary is opening eyes around the world on the effects that these hydroelectric projects are having on the Arctic.
This film clearly illustrates how the massive hydroelectric dams are changing the hydrological cycle in my region and potentially to the world’s hydrological cycle.
Mr. Speaker, for the last 20 years, the people of Sanikiluaq have struggled to have their voices heard on this issue, and thanks to the efforts and vision of director Joel Heath, these voices are now being sent around the world.
Mr. Speaker, the Arctic Eider Society was created and its three main goals are to assist Inuit in community-based environmental monitoring programs; education, outreach, and research on sea ice ecosystems; and support the development of energy solutions that work with the seasons of the hydrological cycle.
I encourage all Nunavummiut to visit the People of a Feather and the Arctic Eider Society websites for more information on this important issue.
Mr. Speaker, I believe it is time for the Government of Nunavut to seriously look at the effects of hydroelectric projects from other jurisdictions and their impact on Nunavut.
Member’s Statement 255 – 3(3): 30-Hour Famine in Arviat (Shewchuk)
I, too, would like to say “good afternoon” to the people of Arviat and the beautiful weather over there.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tell you and this House about an initiative that 16 youth from Arviat have been involved in.
On June 1 and 2, they held a 30-hour famine, skipping food for 30 hours, and an auction at the Levi Angmak Elementary School to raise and bring awareness of the issue of famine around the world.
The four causes of famine they would like to highlight are:
Water. One in eight people don’t have access to safe drinking water. 1.4 million children die every year from diseases caused by unclear water;  Safety.
One in six children around the world are forced into child labour and girls as young as 13 are being trafficked as mail-order brides;  Education.
There are 120 million children in the world who want to go to school but can’t. Without an education, children are vulnerable to child labour, violence, and sexual exploitation.
Food. The drought in the Horn of Africa is the most severe food security emergency in the world today.
More than 13 million people’s lives are threatened.
Mr. Speaker, the money raised from this event will be distributed to the needy through World Vision.  The young participants led by Nuatii Kablutsiak are:
Jimmy Ishalook
Jillian Kavion
Celina Issakiark
Scott Alagalak
Meagan Netser
Nancy Tassiuk
Eden Okatsiak
Gwen Ishalook
Joshua Alagalak
Christopher Shamee
Rebecca Gibbons
Kirsten Kaludjak
Deanna Uluadluak
Andrea Kablutsiak, and
Mary Ulimaumi.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the thoughtfulness of these young people and congratulate them on their efforts to raise awareness and donate to the cause of dealing with famine throughout the world.
Member’s Statement 256 – 3(3): Addressing Family Violence (Ugyuk)
I send my greetings to Nattilik residents.
Even though it’s the middle of the session, we’re getting homesick.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the issue of family violence. Statistics show that Nunavut has one of the highest rates of domestic violence across the country.
Mr. Speaker, in traditional society, there were unwritten laws and measures to prevent family violence. Sadly, we have lost much of the old ways.
Mr. Speaker, we have departments, organizations, and other entities working on poverty reduction, food security, suicide prevention, even on business incentive policies.
I would like to see the same level of effort go into addressing family violence. I would like to see a change in trends so that the statistics tell a different story with low rates of family violence in Nunavut.
Mr. Speaker, I know that the government cannot simply fix the problem and make it go away. I appreciate that there are competing demands for time and resources. I just feel that much more could be done to reach out to individuals, families, and communities and reduce the amount of family violence that our friends, neighbours, and fellow Nunavummiut suffer.
Mr. Speaker, I recognize that we cannot simply turn to the government or to a representative organization like NTI and expect those entities to take care of everything.
I understand that it also requires effort and support from each and every one of us.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to encourage victims of family violence not to be victims anymore.
I would like to encourage our government to provide more programs to educate and empower its citizens so that they are no longer victimized.
Mr. Speaker, everyone has the right to stand up and not accept abuse. Everyone has the right to live in a safe and secure manner. Society as a whole must stand up and refuse to accept family violence in our communities and in our families.
Mr. Speaker, I call upon our government to increase efforts in this area and at the appropriate time, I will have questions on this issue.
Item 3. Members’ Statements. Member for Pangnirtung, Mr. Oshutapik.
Member’s Statement 257 – 3(3): Congratulations to Attagoyuk Ilisavik Graduates (Oshutapik)
I rise today to congratulate a number of my young constituents who are graduating this month from Pangnirtung’s Attagoyuk High School.
Mr. Speaker, graduation ceremonies will be taking place on June 15. The entire community of Pangnirtung is very proud of this year’s graduating class.
Mr. Speaker, this year’s graduates are:
George Akulukjuk;
Roseanne Alivaktuk;
Bobby Dialla;
Daniel Duval;
James Evic;
Doreen Kanayuk;
Aimo Kilabuk;
Billy Kilabuk;
Joseph Kilabuk;
Lily Kilabuk;
Tyler Kilabuk;
Samson Kokseak;
Trevor Kooniloosie;
Pauloosie Maniapik;
Mark Mosesee; and
Livena Nakashuk.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, these 16 young men and women deserve our support and praise for their efforts.
As the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pangnirtung, I believe that it is important to send the message to our youth that learning does not stop when you graduate from high school; it has only just begun.
I encourage all of this year’s high school graduates to pursue further educational opportunities.
Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in congratulating the 2012 graduating class of Pangnirtung’s Attagoyuk Ilisavik. Qujannamiik, Mr. Speaker.
Member’s Statement 258 – 3(3): Recipients of Diamond Jubilee Medals in Cambridge Bay (Peterson)
On Monday, May 21, 2012, in the presence of the Commissioner of Nunavut, I was privileged to present Diamond Jubilee medals to two very deserving Cambridge Bay residents who brought pride and honour to our community and territory.
Ms. Daisy Eyegetok received a medal in sports as a basketball coach. She is an inspirational leader and role model to young girls. In Cambridge Bay, she has coached the junior girl’s basketball team since 1999.
Her girls’ teams have participated in Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Alberta tournaments and held a territorial title from 2003 until 2011. Ms. Eyegetok coached the Nunavut Arctic Winter Games girls’ basketball teams in 2006, 2008, and 2010.
Mr. Speaker, her girls’ teams have made us all very proud over the years. The many banners hanging at our high school gym are evidence of their tremendous commitment and dedication to excellence.
Ms. Angela Philips received her medal in the health category. She is a breast cancer survivor and warrior. Her personal story of courage and determination inspires and encourages women that cancer can be beaten.
Ms. Philips is a staunch advocate for early prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer. To this end, she annually participates in “Weekend to End Breast Cancer” walks in Edmonton to raise awareness of breast cancer. The donations she has raised for the Alberta Cancer Foundation continue to help cancer research and treatment.
Mr. Speaker, in a packed high school gym before 300 family members, friends, and community residents, Daisy and Angela proudly received their Diamond Jubilee medals. It was an once-in-a-lifetime achievement and I’m sure they will always remember it.
Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me in congratulating these two ladies for receiving their Diamond Jubilee medals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Member’s Statement 259 – 3(3): Iqaluit High School Graduates from Rankin Inlet (Kusugak)
The weather is beautiful, especially for residents of Rankin Inlet and Whale Cove.
Mr. Speaker, this past weekend marked a large number of youth completing their studies.
I attended a graduation ceremony and I wish to say that I am proud of them all.
I know that my colleagues will add their own congratulations to graduates.
There are a large number of youth who attend school from various communities while their parents are attending college or working here in Iqaluit.
There are four individuals who I particularly wish to congratulate and are from Rankin Inlet.
I am proud of them for finishing school and I would like my colleagues join me in congratulating the following:
Terry and Amanda Ford-Rogers’ son completed high school.
Saumik Darehshoripour also finished high school, whom I, along with Nazie and Pelagie, congratulate.
Christine Tootoo also finished high school.
Terrie Kusugak, our youngest child, completed high school and I am especially proud of her.
I also congratulate all those who completed school with them.
Member’s Statement 260 – 3(3): Congratulations to Baker Lake High School Graduates (Aupaluktuq)
I wish a good day to all Baker Lake residents in particular and indeed, all elders in Nunavut, as well as my nieces, nephews, my maternal and paternal cousins.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my constituents on the successes they have achieved.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, although there are students who still need to take the departmental exam in order to graduate and the graduation ceremony is not set until August 24, I would like to congratulate the 14 high school students from the Jonah Amitnaaq Secondary School from my community of Baker Lake.
Surya Angatajuak,
Theresa Aylward,
Alannah Ikinilik,
Erik Ikoe,
Gage Inukpak,
Charmaine Kasaluak Angoo,
Chris Kashla,
Malachi Kashla,
Anoee Nanauq,
Brandon Owingayak,
Joseé Stasila-Boyer,
Samo Tookoome, and someone you’re acquainted with,
Chris Tootoo, and
Gail Uqayuittuq.
I would also like to acknowledge one student in particular, Ms. Joseé Stasila-Boyer.
She has received a gold medal at the Nunavut Skills Competition for graphic design and was awarded “Best in Territory” at the National Skills Competition in Edmonton.
They should be very proud of their success. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating them. (interpretation) Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Aupaluktuq. (interpretation ends) Item 3.
Member’s Statement 261 – 3(3): Iqaluit High School Graduates 2012 (Ell)
I would like to say “good afternoon” to my constituents in Iqaluit West, especially to my youngest daughter, who is celebrating her birthday today.
I wish her a wonderful birthday.
Mr. Speaker, this past Saturday, I had the privilege of watching over 50 students graduate from Inuksuk High School, some of whom my colleague mentioned.
One of my children graduated previously and as I well know, there were proud parents attending their children’s graduation. I share in the sense of accomplishment all parents feel on graduation day, with all the challenges parents face.
I thank all the parents who supported their children’s efforts to complete their high school education and passing this milestone.
There were many proud friends and relatives of the graduates.
(interpretation ends) I wish all the graduates good luck in their future endeavours and again, congratulations on their achievements.
Some of the many graduates were already mentioned, but I’ll quickly mention them.
Jari Aariak;
Jamesee Alainga;
Jonathan Alexander;
Chelsea Arnold;
Nigel Audla;
Carter Barney;
Megan Blair;
Kira Bychok;
Anny Chislett;
Margo Crawford;
Saumik Murtesa Darehshoripour;
Simon DeMaio;
Theresa DeMaio;
Jackie Eegeesiak;
Levi Enuaraq-Strauss;
Jesse Flaherty;
Wager Ford;
Thomas Ford-Rogers;
Maleetoo Fortier-Alainga;
Aaron Douglas Fraser;
Julie Hanson-Akavak;
Alexander Ikkidluak-Suvega;
Jessica Inookee;
Oolamie Joamie;
Patrick Juralak;
Geela Kango;
Emily Kenneally-Sloan;
Joshua Kilabuk;
Neoma Kippomee-Cox;
Andrea Kootoo-Gray;
Jacob Kunuk-Blackburn;
Terrie Kusugak;
Jayko Lyall-Ritchie;
Brittany Masson;
Mary Margaret Mike; and
Lynn Mike.
(interpretation) I only have a few more names left and I would like to ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement, Mr. Speaker.
The member is seeking unanimous consent to conclude her statement. Are there any nays? There being none.
Please proceed, Ms. Ell.
I’ll just repeat some of the names. I believe I was about to mention Emily Kenneally-Sloan next.
I mentioned Joshua Kilabuk and Neoma Kippomee-Cox.
My ministerial colleague mentioned Terrie Kusugak;
Mary Margaret Mike;
Lynn Mike;
Crystal Mullin;
Thomasie Murray;
Geneva K. Noble;
Emmanuel Omole;
Leah Onalik;
Jessica Janet Penney;
Maxwell Piercey;
Theresa Qaqqasiq;
Tina Qaunirq;
Sye Qavavauq;
Nicholas Rowe;
Tommy Tikivik;
Christine Tootoo;
Jennifer Tulugak; and
Eelai Amy Uniuqsaraq.
These are the students who graduated from the high school, Mr. Speaker, and we’re also proud of the graduates at Arctic College and other post-secondary institutions. We’re all proud of them and others whom I did not mention.
Congratulations to the class of 2012, especially my niece, Christine.
Member’s Statement 262 – 3(3): Correspondence from Rankin Inlet Youth (Curley)
Mr. Curley (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A good afternoon to all Rankin Inlet residents.
I wanted to make a side comment prior to my statement.
To Pangnirtung residents, we share in the sense of loss and grief that the community is experiencing and they are in our thoughts today.
I rise today to comment on the letters I have received in my capacity as the MLA for Rankin Inlet North.
They instil a deep sense of pride for their ability to write and convey their thoughts on matters dear to them.
I am extremely gratified by this letter, so I would like to read it and as the student wrote it in English, I will switch languages.
(interpretation ends) “My name is Olivia. I’m 17 years old, living in Rankin Inlet, and I’m writing this letter for a subject in school and I will be talking about the main problem in this community.
There are so many little problems that it’s insane.
For example, I have come to know that the roads here are occupied mostly by small children and teenagers, which can get pretty dangerous at times and cause some little incidents.
The solution for this would be to make wider roads, perhaps paved ones, and some cement sidewalks for those who like walking and biking all year round.
This would be a huge relief for the adults and for the drivers in Rankin Inlet.  Also, the playground needs some repairing too, like a bigger one with more things to do that would let kids know and also respect the environment and the town around them.
Moving to a different subject now, the schools here are fine, but it would be pretty awesome if there was a cafeteria and an arts and drama room, only because I have noticed that teenagers are very creative and intelligent when it comes to arts and drama.
Focusing on the cafeteria now, it would be a great help for those who usually cannot afford breakfast.”
Mr. Speaker, I would like to conclude my statement and would ask for unanimous consent to proceed.
“It would be a great help for those who usually cannot afford breakfast, lunch, and also supper.
Now for the biggest problem in Rankin Inlet…” It’s important that all of you listen to this one. “…the arena.”
“I know you get this topic a lot, but it is way too small for public events. For example, at the hockey tournaments, we all get pushed and shoved around because of how small it is. It can even get pretty dangerous for kids and elders.
If we want this to be fixed, we must stand together as one and maybe, just maybe, we can achieve all of these goals.
Another solution for this would be to talk about it more often. Let more people know about these small problems and they will listen and maybe do something about it.
I would like to thank you for taking some time off and reading this short letter and I will be waiting for a reply back from you.”
And I would like to thank all of you for listening as well. Thank you.
Member’s Statement 263 – 3(3): Iqaluit High School Graduates from Constituency (Aariak)
Hon. Eva Aariak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I say “good afternoon” to my constituents in Iqaluit East.
We had a very busy weekend here in Iqaluit, with different activities going on.  First of all, I want to mention that my sister-in-law, Joannie, and my son had a baby.
I hope they are well rested now.
I also wanted to mention the member for Uqqummiut, who made some excellent comments about education. I would like to also mention my colleagues, Minister Kusugak and Minister Ell, who were talking about the graduating students.
During the weekend, kindergarten students at Nakashuk School graduated.
We’re very proud of them and I thank their parents.
Some of these names were mentioned and I am very proud of them. I’ll probably mention some of them again because they are from my constituency. It was a very interesting graduation.
My son, Jari Aariak,
Jamesee Alainga,
Nigel Audla,
Margo Crawford,
Jackie Eegeesiak,
Levi Enuaraq-Strauss,
Julie Hanson-Akavak,
Alexander Ikkidluak-Suvega,
Oolamie Joamie,
Geela Kango,
Joshua Kilabuk,
Theresa Qaqqasiq,
Sye Qavavauq,
Nicholas Rowe,
Jennifer Tulugak.
We’re also very proud of Minister Kusugak’s daughter for graduating.
It’s very good to hear students graduating and that they’re going to continue their education in the future because there are more students now who want to take higher education.
This is very good for us because they will be the workers of Nunavut in the future.
Member’s Statement 264 – 3(3): Congratulations to Arctic Bay’s 3045 Royal Canadian Army Corps (Elliott)
I rise today to pay tribute to the excellent work undertaken by Arctic Bay’s 3045 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, which recently had its annual cadet review to highlight the achievements of the cadets over the 2011-12 cadet training year.
Mr. Speaker, the annual cadet review was held in Arctic Bay at the Qaggivik Hall on Wednesday, March 28.
Mr. Speaker, the cadet program is a national program for youth ages 12 to 18 who want to participate in fun and challenging activities while making friends. The cadet program promotes teamwork, leadership, and citizenship.
Mr. Speaker, the Hamlet of Arctic Bay is the proud sponsor of the 3045 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, which is affiliated with the Royal Regiment of Canada in Toronto, Ontario.
Mr. Speaker, during the annual cadet review, we had the honour of hosting Nunavut Commissioner Edna Elias, who was able to attend and serve as the reviewing officer for the ceremony.
I would like to thank Commissioner Elias for taking the time to come to the High Arctic and attend this review in recognition of the hard work of our youth.
Mr. Speaker, there were a number of awards presented and I would like to share a few.  Top Cadet Award was presented to Warrant Officer Bruno Attagutsiak; Most Improved Cadet was presented to Cadet Jessie Olayuk; and the award for best boots and deportment was presented to Corporal Andrew Reid.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of Arctic Bay’s army cadet staff under Commanding Officer Lieutenant Frank May. They are Officer Cadet Patricia McNeal; civilian instructors Mickey Iqqaqrilu and Irene Swoboda; and volunteer Barb Huminchuk.
Mr. Speaker, since 1992, this fine army cadet corps has produced national star cadets, participated in cadet exchanges, including summer camp travel on international exchanges, and had a number of staff cadets at Whitehorse Cadet Summer Training Centre.
The Army Cadet League presented a 20 years-of-service award to the Hamlet of Arctic Bay in recognition of its support as a sponsor over the years.
I ask all members to join me in congratulating Arctic Bay’s 3045 Royal Canadian Army Corps on their fine work.
Before we proceed with Oral Questions, I would like to remind all members to try and keep your preambles brief and get your questions out as quick as possible and be mindful that all members will have time to ask questions.
Question 368 – 3(3): Resources to Stop Family Violence (Ugyuk)
Mr. Speaker, earlier today, I rose in my place to call upon the government to allocate more resources and implement more programs to prevent family violence. I also called upon individuals to stand up and refuse to be victimized any longer.
In October of 2011, this House approved a transfer of $177,000 from the Department of EIA to the Department of health and Social Services for the purpose of completing the Family Violence Prevention Strategy.
Can the minister provide an update on the current status of that strategy and indicate what the money was spent on specifically?
I thank Ms. Ugyuk for asking the question.
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate Ms. Ugyuk’s recollection of that funding.
As Ms. Ugyuk will recall, I was just appointed as the Minister of Health just shortly after that. When I became the Minister of Health, I asked to review a number of policies that were in the draft stages, strategies, implementation plans, frameworks for agreement, and God knows what else was out there. There are different names for everything.
That was one of the strategies I had an opportunity to review.
It was quite long. I was not satisfied with it. I asked for it to be reviewed again and shortened up so that it would be understandable.
I also wanted to ensure that we did not raise expectations with a strategy and implementation plan that we could not roll out and support.
Since 1999, the government has had many strategies and policies that have raised expectations.
This is one that is so critical to our territory that I feel that it’s important that we do it right. The funding has been used for the purpose of writing the draft strategy and implementation plan and I’m very close to taking it to cabinet for their review and approval.
Ms. Ugyuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (interpretation ends) I am very pleased to hear that he wanted it back on the drawing board because the victims need help.