EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
I am very pleased to welcome back all members to our capital city of Iqaluit and, as has been said before, we look toward a very productive sitting.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today and offer some thought on connections between two announcements that have recently come to our attention.
As you may have recalled, I had the pleasure to rise on several occasions in this House to express my appreciation to all Nunavummiut for their generosity in making charitable donations to worthy causes.
Once again, Mr. Speaker, Statistics Canada has confirmed that Nunavummiut lead the country when it comes to opening their hearts and their wallets. For the fifth year in a row, the donations from our territory were the highest in the country.
In 2004, a total of 1,690 tax filers made charitable donations. I would like all members to join me in expressing our appreciation of these efforts.
Mr. Speaker, it should be noted that a relatively small percentage of our population was in a position to make a donation last year.
While those who are fortunate enough to have the means to help others do so with commitment and generosity; too many of our residents cannot.
Mr. Speaker, every member of this House knows that strong literacy and numeracy skills are absolutely essential for people in order to take advantage of education and employment opportunities. Without these skills young people simply have less chance of succeeding in today’s world.
Without these skills they will not be in the position to successfully compete in jobs that will in turn put them in positions to help and support others. That is the hard truth, Mr. Speaker, but it is something that we must face head-on.
Speaker (interpretation): The member is asking for consent to conclude his statement.
There are no nays. Mr. Tootoo continue.
Last week Statistics Canada also revealed some very disturbing figures. Nunavut’s performance in a recent international adult literacy and skills survey exposed our weakness in the areas of literacy and numeracy.
Mr. Speaker, I would not be surprised to hear the same old excuses being offered to explain why we are not measuring up. However, I firmly believe that when it comes to performance in these areas we need fewer excuses and more investments and action.
Mr. Speaker, the Yukon Territory did very well in this survey.
I do not think that it is a coincidence that they invest significantly more than we do in literacy initiatives and programs.
It is a disgrace that literacy is not more of a priority for us.
Mr. Speaker, we have a choice.
When it comes to poor performance in standardized tests in our schools we can go on making excuses and trying to discredit the tests themselves, or we can take action to improve the situation.
In the recent public hearings of the Standing Committee on Health and Education, witnesses told us over and over again that literacy skills were much stronger in the past.
We need to face this issue directly and not be satisfied until we see real improvement.
We need action to ensure that our kids grow up with strong literacy and numeracy skills in both English and Inuktitut. We cannot bow our heads and pretend that this problem will go away if we simply avoid any kind of standardized test.
Mr. Speaker, national figures on charitable donations confirm once that Nunavummiut are second to none when it comes to caring for their neighbours, their communities, and their country. We must not rest until we are second to none in helping our people gain the skills that will allow them to seize the opportunities that they deserve.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. Please stick to one subject if you are making a statement.
Member’s Statement 010 – 2(3): Concerns for Hunters and Trappers (Alagalak)
I rise today to touch on an issue of concern, but first of all I would like to thank Mr. Ed. Picco, who went to Arviat to open the new school.
It’s fully utilized and I think the floor is just about done right now. Because it is being used so much it will probably have to be renovated pretty soon.
I was a little out of place a little earlier. I wanted to look at Peter Kilabuk but he was sitting at the wrong place. I then looked for Louis and he was sitting at another place.
I saw Leona instead, sitting on his chair.
(interpretation ends) I rise this afternoon to raise the concerns of our hunters and trappers. This is a concern that I have.
The elders know Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, but today what they are saying is that there are no animal tracks at all in our area. There are no fox tracks around our community and they are not sure if they are going to be making any money this coming winter. Even though that is the case the elders never give up but at times they do look for some type of support from the government.
I would like to say that the Government of Nunavut should consider solutions.
The population has grown tremendously in Arviat.
We have a large number of hunters and I’m not sure exactly how they’re going to survive if there are no foxes around our community.
The Government of the Northwest Territories used to set up programs for hunters. I think we, as the Government of Nunavut...Mr. Speaker, I apologize.
Speaker (interpretation): The member is seeking unanimous to conclude his statement.
There are no nays. Mr. Alagalak.
Mr. Alagalak (interpretation): I apologize, Mr. Speaker.
I would like the Government of Nunavut departments, possibly Economic Development, to set up some programs for our hunters.
I think this is a unique situation for Arviat.
We all know that the price of gasoline has increased and that is going to add additional hardship for the hunters.
There is not only the increase to the price of gasoline; there are no animals around so I would suggest that the government look around for programs to help the hunters.
Member’s Statement 011 – 2(3): Liquor Plebiscite in Gjoa Haven (Aglukkaq)
I would like to welcome everyone back as well to the House.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to draw attention to the recent liquor plebiscite held in Gjoa Haven. As we are all aware, the issue of alcohol is a major concern to most Nunavummiut due to the inherent problems associated with its use.
In the case of Gjoa Haven, the community recently held a plebiscite to determine whether or not they would like to make adjustments to the liquor restrictions in that community.
Mr. Speaker, I am happy to say that after much debate and informed discussion on the issue, the community voted 72.5 percent in favour of keeping restrictions in place.
I would like to highlight the fact that the community debated the issue extensively and I would like to commend the students of Gjoa Haven for getting involved in the process of making their thoughts known.
Mr. Speaker, the recent plebiscite sent a very strong message to all the residents of Gjoa Haven. People want to have the community free of alcohol and the problems associated with its use. I am happy to say that the residents of Gjoa Haven conducted a healthy debate in reaching their decision on the use of liquor in the community and I want to congratulate all the individuals that participated in the plebiscite.
Member’s Statement 012 – 2(3): Congratulate Students of Sanikiluaq on their Construction Project (Kattuk)
I rise today to congratulate some individuals from my community.
The ministers were able to come to our community and I can tell the others that the lakes aren’t even frozen yet.
I would like to invite the ministers again and to possibly bring the winter down there with them.
Mr. Speaker, this past winter we heard about construction going on in our community.
A number of students participated in building a house and it was completed in June.
It was very well built and is completely finished.
It is now able to be used and since we’re in a bay and the house is facing the sea, it’s got a very good view.
I’m very proud and I congratulate the students who built that house.
Today, there is another group that are constructing a house and they started the construction last month. We look forward to the completion of this housing project. Again, I can tell you that the outside is finished and the roof has been completed.
This is the second housing project that is being built in Sanikiluaq and the students are involved and making an income.
On behalf of all of my colleagues here, I would like to congratulate those students who participated in the housing project in Sanikiluaq.
Member’s Statement 013 – 2(3): Concerns over the Gun Legislation Issue (Arreak)
I would like to thank the people of Iqaluit for welcoming us too.
I would also like to thank the people of Nunavut for the support they have given us over the years.
I would like to touch on the issue of gun legislation.
When we were visiting the communities there were a lot of concerns brought up on the issue of the gun legislation.
Initially when you apply you have to wait for many months and you have to take safety training, or take a safety course. There are some people who can’t go out hunting because they don’t have the permit.
We definitely need to make a change on the firearms legislation. I would also like to say that it’s especially hard on the unilingual Inuit.
Member’s Statement 014 – 2(3): On his Son Catching his First Beluga Whale (Kilabuk)
You probably all know my son Joseph. He is 11 years old now.
Of course I have to leave a lot of the time to come to meetings here but this spring and summer we went boating.
This summer he caught his first beluga whale at 10 years of age.
Mr. Speaker, I think I was 14 when I got my first beluga whale, quite by accident. At that time when I caught my first beluga at 14 years old, they had surfaced quite far away and I fired to make them go down again but I accidentally shot one.
That was my first beluga.
Mr. Speaker, I stood up today to congratulate my son on his first beluga catch.
Going back to Orders of the Day. Item 5.
Bear with me, Mr. Speaker; I have a whole lot of names to recognize.
The Third Annual Youth Revival Conference began November 9 to 13.
I have here (interpretation) Mr. Speaker, from Arctic Bay from the Arsarniit Choir, some of the students aren’t here but I will recognize them anyway.
I would like to recognize at this time Tina Atagutaluk, if you could stand up, please. Iga Ikarialuk, David Oyukuluk, Inga Muckpa, Katie Kalluk, Evelyn Kalluk, Debbie Oyukuluk, Jeremy Turngaluk, Jenifer Isigaituq, Maxine Oyukuluk, Mavis Barnabas, Amy Barnabas, Amanda Barnabas, Valerie Taqtu, Margaret Audlakiaq, Rayla Qaqqasiq, Enid Joseph, who is the daughter of our mayor, Becky May, Anita Olayuk, Benita Ejangiaq, Lena Qaunaq, and Bruce Pauloosie.
The escorts are Leah May and the guitarist, my uncle, Piugatuq Ettuk and Ron Elliot, Nunavut Arctic College Adult Educator, June Shappa
I would like to take this opportunity to recognize some individuals.
I believe we all know him, Donat Milortok, who is the Mayor of Repulse Bay and his Senior Administrative Officer, Imelda Angootealuk, and the Deputy Mayor of Repulse Bay, Helena Malliki.
I would like to recognize some constituents that are in the Gallery here today.
Rachel and Shaun, sitting back here.
Betty, no stranger to this House, is sitting right over here.
Jocelyn is here covering the Assembly for the local francophone radio station.
He shares the same disposition as a couple of members on the other side of this House, as far as who he cheers for in hockey. I think those two members know who they are over there. He is still a good constituent of mine.
Mr. Speaker, also, I would like to recognize Rick Lefebvre, from First Air.
A good friend of Mr. Picco, a great friend of mine, and a great supporter, Mr. Brian Twerdin, is here from the Grind and Brew here in Iqaluit; a great place to go down and have a cup of coffee and catch up on what’s going on in the community.
I would like to welcome them all to the Gallery.
Speaker (interpretation): Welcome to the Gallery. Recognition of Visitors in the Gallery.
I would like to recognize an individual from Kugluktuk who is working for the Department of Community and Government Services. Steve Barnable is the manager of lands administration in Kugluktuk.
Although they were recognized I would like to recognize them again, especially Donat Milortok.
Over 20 years ago I started working with him when it was Tungavik Federation of Nunavut and we were still pushing forward for Nunavut.
Also Betty Brewster who has been recognized, she has been interpreting since the land claim negotiation days.
I would like to send condolences to her family and we love them.
Also, I would like to recognize a fan of the Boston Bruins and also my constituent, Brian Twerdin.
I apologize that my team always wins.
I am sure your team will win again.
I don’t have many relatives that come in here to the gallery; my cousin, Qaqqasiq, from Arctic Bay.
He is my relative.
I would like to welcome him and also the rest of the people that are sitting in the Gallery.
I would like to recognize two individuals. Piugatuk lived in Arviat for quite some time and all the dog team races are missing you because you also developed the dog teams and enhanced them in our community.
As well, Donat Milortok who is my first cousin and I have known him for many years.
He started working for the land claim negotiations and we recognize him for his hard work.
I would like to recognize Rachel in the gallery.
I would like to thank them for coming.
I tried to stand up so quickly I almost hit my knee.
When you talked about hockey Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to recognize a big fan of the Montreal Canadiens and remind him who won last Saturday’s overtime hockey game.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome all the people who are visiting here and I would like to acknowledge them also.
During the session, I will be making a members’ statement in regard to a golf tournament in Pangnirtung and I would like to acknowledge Rick Lefebvre for giving us support for the tournament.
I will be making a statement under members’ statement. I will recognize them as well at that time.
I don’t want to be left out in recognizing visitors here.
I would like to recognize and welcome everyone who helped in opening the session today and I was very proud of them for opening the ceremonies here.
I would like to welcome Betty Brewster who is my relative, Donat Milortuk and his family who live in the Kivalliq region and whom I have known for many years, and also Imelda Angootealuk. Welcome.
My mother was your step-mother and I thank you Helen Malliki.
It is really good to recognize an individual in the House.
Also, Sean <indecipherable> and his wife Rachel Qitsualik, and also Rick Lefebvre, welcome.
I also would like to welcome Brian from the Grind and Brew.
I apologize if I don’t really know your name, but I would like to acknowledge everyone here although I’m not going to mention their names.
I’ve known Ron Illiam for many years; I think he’s the President for Canada Day and he’s been a member of that board for quite some time; planning for Nunavut during the NWT days.
Going back to Orders of the Day. Item 6.
Question 001 – 2(3): Tabling of Public Accounts (Peterson)
Mr. Speaker, as the minister knows, the government is required by law to table the public accounts each year in the Legislative Assembly. This critical document is required by our tax paying constituents so they have confidence that the government’s finances are in order.
As of today, the Government of Nunavut has not tabled the 2003-04 or the 2004-05 public accounts. By contrast, the governments of both the Northwest Territories and Yukon have recently tabled the 2004-05 public accounts.
We are now seriously behind and I understand that the Auditor General’s report has been impacted by the government’s delay in producing its financial statements.
Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories’ public accounts were tabled in October.
My question for the speaker, or for the minister, Mr. Speaker is: what is the minister doing to address this situation so that the government obeys the law and meets its legal tabling requirements in this area?
Speaker (interpretation): Minister of Finance, Mr. Simailak.
Hon. David Simailak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes we’ve been working on the public accounts.
The 2003-04 public accounts have just recently been signed off by the Auditor General this year, on May 24, but we couldn’t find translators in Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun so we’re now concluding the report fully translated into Inuktitut.
Today we just received the translated document.
The Auditor General had to review the report and before it could be translated into Inuktitut. So it will take approximately a month for the Auditor General to make sure that it has been translated.
We expect the 2003-04 report to be tabled on December 9.
I would like to thank the minister for that response. I believe the statutory filing requirements are December 31 following the year-end of the year for which they are reporting.
I’m looking forward to seeing those tabled accounts.
I’m not sure if we’ll be sitting on December 9, but perhaps we could get them sooner.
Mr. Speaker it’s been seven and a half months since the end of the 2004-05 fiscal year of March 31.
When will the government table the 2004-05 public accounts?
Hon. David Simailak (interpretation): Thank you Mr. Speaker.
I cannot really say when we will be tabling the report.
I can say that they have been deferred for 2004-05. The main reason is that the territorial funding from the feds is being reviewed.
Once that review has been completed, then we will be able to deal with them and the Auditor General, who is in support of the new funding formula, at the same time. It is going to have an impact on Nunavummiut.
I cannot really tell you when we will be able to table those reports.
Last year the former Minister of Finance was telling us that the delays were due to a year-end of one of our crown agencies. This year we are told that they were doing the translations.
The fact remains, Mr. Speaker, that there is a statutory time requirement, December 31.
I just asked the minister when we would expect the 2004-05 Public Accounts. The statutory requirement is December 31 of this year. I think it is very important that we get these things on time.
It is a bit of an embarrassment if the other northern territories are filing theirs. Even the federal government has a 180 billion dollar budget and managed to file theirs for the 2004-05 year.
My question again to the minister is can he tell us when we will get the 2004-05 public accounts?
No, I cannot say definitively on what date the 2004-05 public accounts will be available.
This is ongoing work.
The member is absolutely correct that we have a deadline of December 31. I don’t know if we will be able to meet that this time around.
We haven’t in the past but we are continually working on those issues to bring it to where it should be.
I cannot say at this point exactly when those public accounts for 2004-05 would be available.
Question 002 – 2(3): Literacy Programs and Initiatives(Tootoo)
My question is for the minister responsible for education and literacy, or illiteracy, it sure looks that way.
As I indicated in my member’s statement there are some disturbing revelations from Statistics Canada in their survey. Also, the fact that when the Standing Committee on Education was doing its community consultations around the communities some of the biggest factors and problems that they were running into were the literacy levels that were very, very low for most of the people trying to take the programs.
This results in a lot of the adults dropping out of the programs and maybe not having the success that we would like to see out there.
A while ago, literacy levels were high and now they’re low.
My question to the minister is, and I had also indicated that the Yukon has done very well in literacy and we know that they spend almost $1 million a year on literacy initiatives and programs: can the minister tell us if he is proud of the fact that we invest significantly less than they do in literacy programs and initiatives in our territory?
I want to start off the session in a good light and I would like to stand up and say that what Mr. Tootoo has said is wrong.
Let me explain it this way. Almost 42 percent of Canadians who took that same literacy test were below potential literacy levels, meaning that they did not have a standard literacy level.
That test was done for ages 16 to 65.
The majority of our people in Nunavut, 85 percent of our population are Inuit; English is a second language, not a first language, so right away we would expect the numbers to be wrong. To use a correlation of the Yukon which is the closest thing we have in Canada to a city state where 85 percent of the population is located in Whitehorse, which is urban, and to try to say that that’s some kind of comparison to Nunavut where 70 percent of our population is actually rural, it begs the question of why it would be raised.
Mr. Speaker this government has moved very aggressively in the last year in the way of adult literacy. We have just tabled, Mr. Speaker, to the public with NTI, the Adult Learning Strategy, which I will table in this House in the next few days. In May of this year we hired for the first time ever, an adult literacy coordinator to coordinate our literacy programs across the territory.
And Mr. Speaker, I think this is a good news story.
This year in 2005 we had the highest graduate levels ever in Nunavut. Grade 12 graduates, which means they had to pass through grade 12 of their exams. Of 173 students 156 of them were Inuit, up from 128 in 1999.
As I said in my member’s statement, we need to quit looking at excuses and ways of discrediting these kinds of tests. They are disturbing.
Mr. Speaker, people that the standing committee met with told us that 10, 15 or 20 years ago, literacy levels were not a problem in Nunavut, but now they are.
What’s going on? That’s my point, Mr. Speaker.
There is always an excuse that they are not relevant. We’ve got these great statistics, look how high, by how much our numbers are going up, but as far as the population, Mr. Speaker, we had a lot more people going through the system and maybe we need to look at the quality of the system. What are they graduating with?
So Mr. Speaker, in light of this dismal performance and I’m not saying that it’s Nunavut alone; we are in there with provinces like New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Labrador, that’s right, the three jurisdictions in Canada that scored significantly below the national average, Mr. Speaker: is the minister, despite of what he said earlier and had already announced what they are working on, going to be looking at committing to pursuing new investments in literacy programming to try to recognize it head on and deal with this terrible situation that we find ourselves in Nunavut?
Hon. Ed. Picco: Mr. Speaker, let’s look at where the facts are. 85 percent of our population has English as a second language.
It was only 10 years ago that a lot of our communities had grade 12. That’s subjective.
Mr. Tootoo, anyone can stand up and say that. 42 percent of Canadians with English or French as their first language fall below that literacy number. That’s a fact.
Mr. Speaker, the Government of Nunavut has moved forward; we have tabled an adult learning strategy; we have hired, for the first time ever, a literacy coordinator; and, we take the issue seriously.
Mr. Speaker, we should be celebrating the successes that we have in Nunavut.
We have over 300 students right now who went through the school system in Nunavut in post-secondary education whether in Nunavut or in the South.
Mr. Speaker, we have seen students who have graduated from K-12, all of their schooling from K-12 in Nunavut, who have gone on to win scholarships, prizes, and so on.
Mr. Speaker, we had the first Inuk graduate from Harvard University, probably one of the best schools in the world.
So Mr. Speaker, lets start celebrating our successes. As I said earlier, very quickly to the answer to Mr. Tootoo’s question, a lot has been done. We have a literacy coordinator in place, with 42 percent of Canadians with first language of English and/or French and that’s what they are tested in.
Of course you expect the literacy rate to be higher.