EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
During the March meeting, IQK members provided advice to the GN’s Poverty Reduction Working Group around the issue of poverty and how it should be addressed in Nunavut.
Mr. Speaker, IQK committee members have once again convened this week in Iqaluit.
Topics to be covered during their meeting include:
Inuit healing processes  Inuit perspectives on counselling
Presentations from the Nunavut Court for family intervention, which has recently been passed in the House
NTI Harvesting program
Update on the poverty working group
Presentation on Taiguusiliuqtiit
Mr. Speaker, IQK members are individuals who have garnered tremendous respect in their communities for their wealth of knowledge and experience they have accumulated. They know the tremendous hardships our forefathers have experienced and what is happening today.
I met with the committee members two days ago and I am inviting my esteemed colleagues to a special dinner with them tonight so they can meet them in person.
Mr. Speaker, I look forward to tabling the IQK annual report at the appropriate time.
Minister’s Statement 215 – 3(2): Tribute to the High Arctic Exiles (Aariak)
I rise today to pay tribute to the Inuit who were relocated to the High Arctic by the federal government in the 1950s.
On August 18, after more than 60 years, the Government of Canada apologized to those who were relocated to the Nunavut communities of Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord.
The Hon. Duncan, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, on behalf of the Prime Minister, the Government of Canada, and all Canadians, expressed his regret for the suffering caused by the mistakes and broken promises that led to this dark chapter in our history.
Mr. Speaker, on September 19, me and my colleagues, Minister Curley and Minister Tapardjuk, travelled to Grise Fiord to witness another tribute to these individuals.
The Member for Quttiktuq was also there.
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated unveiled one of the two monuments commissioned to honour the sacrifices made by the High Arctic exiles.
I want to thank Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated for commissioning these two monuments: one in Resolute Bay by artist Simeonie Amagoalik and one in Grise Fiord by artist Looty Pijamini.
Mr. Speaker, the formal apology given by Minister Duncan to those affected by the relocation was, no doubt, due to continuous advocacy by Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and for that we are deeply grateful.
It is my great hope that these long-awaited words from the federal government and these monuments will help to heal the pain still felt by so many. My thoughts are with them, their families, and those who suffered who are no longer with us today.
>>Applause  Speaker (interpretation): Thank you. (interpretation ends) Ministers’ Statements.
Minister’s Statement 216 – 3(2): Upcoming DEA Elections (Tootoo)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform my colleagues about the upcoming district education authority elections, which will take place later this fall in all communities.
December 13 is Election Day in Nunavut and our territory’s DEAs are looking for new members.
Mr. Speaker, our community DEAs play a crucial role in shaping and elevating our education system.
Their contributions at the community level guide language of instruction, inclusive education, attendance policies, and the hiring of teachers, principals, and elders.
DEAs work to direct the school program and establish local programs based on Inuit societal values and the needs of their communities.
They encourage student participation to ensure positive school environments and are responsible for the finances associated with the operation of the DEA.
Now more than ever, we need committed, enthusiastic Nunavummiut to become involved in their local DEAs, to help the Department of Education implement the new Education Act and make our dreams of a truly successful made-in-Nunavut system a reality.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my fellow members to encourage their constituents to become involved and put their names forward.
The nomination period for these DEA elections is open on September 25 to November 8.
Education in Nunavut is about learning with culture, tradition, and innovation, and we need participation from Nunavummiut in all of our communities to ensure our success.
Minister’s Statement 217 – 3(2): Arnait Nipingit Summit (Aariak)
I rise again. Last month, the Government of Nunavut co-hosted the Arnait Nipingit Summit in Iqaluit together with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, and the Qulliit Status of Women Council.
The aim of the summit was to increase women’s leadership skills through plenary cessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
The summit brought together 150 women from across Nunavut and other Inuit regions, as well as federal ministers and national organizations.
The summit was very well received.
The event was a successful exercise in collaboration between our government, Inuit organizations, and women’s groups and agencies.
Mr. Speaker, events like these are important as it is essential that women be equally involved in and responsible for leadership development on every level.
This initiative has ensured that women will return to their communities with increased skills and knowledge, stronger networks, and confidence.
Next steps will be a summit report and a continued partnership with the various organizations involved to explore the possibility of implementing community-level initiatives.
Mr. Speaker, it is my hope that through events like this, women will feel a sense of empowerment so they can take on leadership positions and claim a stronger voice.
This is certainly a very promising beginning.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the partnering organizations and sponsors who helped in making the summit a success and all of the women who participated in the summit.
Our communities are home to many inspirational women and showcasing their strength, capacity, and resilience at the summit was an incredible opportunity to demonstrate to all participants that they too can have leadership skills.
Minister’s Statement 218 – 3(2): Five Pangnirtung Turbot Fishers Visit Ilulissat, Greenland (Shewchuk)
This week, five turbot fishers from Pangnirtung are embarking on a knowledge gathering journey to Ilulissat, Greenland.
During this trip, Nunavut fishers will learn inshore turbot fishery skills and techniques from Greenlandic fishers.
Greenland maintains prosperous inshore fisheries and harvests thousands of pounds of turbot annually.
Nunavut’s Cumberland Sound winter turbot fishery was developed using methods and gear types learned from Greenlandic fishermen back in 1986, and we are looking forward to repeat that success as we continue to develop inshore, open water turbot fisheries.
Through funding from the Department of Environment and the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), the delegation will observe the techniques, gear types, and vessels utilized in the inshore turbot fisheries of the Disko Bay area. They will observe the fishing activities of two different vessel size classes and will tour local turbot processing facilities. This trip will be followed by a visit from Greenlandic fishers to Pangnirtung in the summer of 2011 for further learning and mentorship.
Mr. Speaker, this trip represents a very positive and necessary step in the continued development of Nunavut’s inshore, open water fisheries.
Minister’s Statement 219 – 3(2): Partnership with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (Aariak)
I think I’m trying to make up for yesterday’s absence as I was in Rankin Inlet.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to acknowledge our important partner, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated.
I was happy to travel to Rankin Inlet yesterday to address their annual general assembly and to take their questions.
I would like to thank my colleague, Jeannie Ugyuk, MLA for Nattilik, who joined me yesterday.
I am proud to say that our government’s working relationship with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated has never been better.
I am proud of many accomplishments that NTI and the GN have achieved together and the work we are currently undertaking.
For example, the Suicide Prevention Strategy is an excellent example of partnership between NTI and the GN, as well as the Embrace Life Council and the RCMP.
This collaboration is our best effort to address one of the largest challenges in our society.
Another example is the Poverty Reduction Strategy in which NTI and the GN will use a public engagement process.
We want communities to play a leading role in this process.
No one person or organization can reduce poverty on their own.
It is through partnership and hard work that we can achieve this.
And yet another example of cooperation between the GN and NTI is the establishment of Piqqusilirivvik, our Inuit cultural learning facility.
Construction started in August 2009 and should be completed during the winter of 2011.
This entire project, the design of the unique building in Clyde River, as well as the concepts for the programming are the result of close cooperation of the members of the Piqqusilirivvik Steering Committee.
The committee consists of members from NTI and the GN, which has been guiding this very original and valuable project for many years.
Finally, our successful partnering in Nunavut Day every year provides not only an important reason to celebrate but also nourishes us when we have to work on tougher issues.
The GN/NTI protocol is almost complete.
Once both parities have signed the document, we will have an official document that identifies priority areas, evaluates through our annual reviews, and sets the course of our future annual work plans.
As NTI and the GN renew and continue our working relationship, I am confident a more established and increased cooperation will occur between us.
You were right on the two-minute mark.
I just want to get up and say that my eyesight is not what it used to be. I mistakenly said September 25 for the opening of the nomination period for DEA elections; it is October 25. So I just want to get that correctly on the record.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you, Minister. (interpretation ends) Item 3.
Member’s Statement 332 – 3(2): First Air to Ship Trigger Locks (Schell)
I rise today to express my appreciation to First Air for its support of our communities.
As members will recall, I made a statement last week in which I committed to helping acquire trigger locks for any resident of Cape Dorset or Kimmirut who cannot afford them. As I noted last week, the safe storage of firearms in our communities will help to improve public safety.
Mr. Speaker, I also noted that I had discussed this issue with the Minister of Justice and I am looking forward to the government playing its part.
Mr. Speaker, First Air held a community event today which was very positive.
I am extremely pleased to be able to report that in my discussions with First Air management, they have committed to transporting new trigger locks free of charge to any community in Nunavut.
Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in paying tribute to a good corporate citizen.
Member’s Statement 333 – 3(2): Where is Nunavut’s Child and Youth Representative? (Elliott)
I rise today to once again address Nunavut’s commitment to establish the position of a child and youth representative.
Mr. Speaker, almost one year ago today, Full Caucus, that is, all of us here who are committed to representing the people of Nunavut, young and old, agreed, together, that one of our priorities as the Third Legislative Assembly of Nunavut was to establish an independent position to represent and articulate the needs of children and youth.
Mr. Speaker, imagine my surprise when, exactly one year later, our Premier tables a document in this House which identifies her government’s strategic directions and does not make a single mention of the child and youth representative.
Mr. Speaker, the government’s Tamapta document also made promises and commitments, such as the establishment of an office for advocacy and action.
Strangely, this new “Direction” document does not make a single mention of establishing the Social Advocacy Office which was to represent and advocate on behalf of challenged and disadvantaged individuals in our society.
Mr. Speaker, what has happened to these commitments? Why are the needs of the most vulnerable groups in our society no longer a priority?
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, this House approved over $6 million in residential care contracts for services provided out of territory. I am confident that a significant amount of this funding goes towards care for children and youth.
Who knows how much pain and suffering could have been avoided with the support and assistance of a child and youth representative.
Mr. Speaker, I have risen on this topic many times in this House. I remain committed to my position.
I am disappointed, disheartened, and discouraged by the government’s failure to demonstrate a continued commitment to this important issue.
Member’s Statement 334 – 3(2): Thank you Premier for Trip to Rankin Inlet (Ugyuk)
I say “hello” to the people of Nattilik. I say “good day” and I love them dearly to my older sisters in Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak. I am appreciative of your continual support.
I was grateful that I was invited to go to Rankin Inlet with the Premier.
They were very hospitable and welcomed us with open arms, and we had a community feast. It really taught me a couple of very good lessons about government operations.
Previously I had never partaken in the AGM of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, so I am very thankful that I had that opportunity.
Member’s Statement 335 – 3(2): Resigning from Executive Council (Tapardjuk)
Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Additionally, I mentioned this earlier, the residents of Igloolik were unable to tune into the proceedings for quite some time.
I would like to thank the staff and people who worked to ensure that the proceedings are now available on television in Igloolik as well as my constituents in Hall Beach.
First of all, I would like to acknowledge quite a few people who worked extremely hard on the land claims agreement for Nunavut.
There are quite a few that we know who have passed away and those who are still living who worked really hard on making the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement a reality.
Now, this one person I want to acknowledge who helped to initiate the land claim happens to be my hon. colleague, Tagak Curley.
We are very appreciative and thankful to you for your efforts on behalf of Nunavummiut.
He had a vision on how we could get Inuit rights recognized, especially our dream of self-sufficiency. I wanted to acknowledge that.
Secondly, another person who was one of the chief negotiators happens to be our first Premier as well, Paul Okalik.
I am very thankful for his hard work and dedication because, even though he was young at the time, he was deeply committed to that cause.
Now that we have finally embarked on self-sufficiency, there is no question that we have much to thank him for.
Back in those days, with the land claims, we assumed that we would start taking more control of our lives and start making decisions with regard to the land and resources.
We were administered by governments that were quite far; first in Ottawa and then in Yellowknife.
When the government got moved to Yellowknife, it was felt that it would be a lot closer than Ottawa.
When Nunavut became a territory and they chose the capital, they chose Iqaluit.
We wanted the government to be closer to the people of Nunavut and to work towards fulfilling their interests.
I would like to ask for unanimous consent to conclude my statement, Mr. Speaker.
Our colleague, Mr. Tapardjuk, is seeking unanimous consent to conclude his statement.
You may conclude your statement, Mr. Tapardjuk.
Hon. Louis Tapardjuk (interpretation): Thank you, my colleagues. My Annuraaqatik, Mr. Speaker, thank you.
When the Nunavut government was created, the larger communities got the benefit of decentralization by virtue of the separation of the departments. This was also to ensure that the government was closer to the residents of Nunavut. At least that was the purpose that I was led to understand.
The government should be approaching their residents and not the other way around since this government is theirs and they have to have a collective perspective that this government is our own.
In the past, the continuous message we heard was that it was their government. Today, we have to celebrate our ascension into having our own government.
When the decentralization process was being initialized, the departments with their positions were allocated to the communities and employment opportunities opened for their residents.
Mr. Speaker, this significant milestone which I have alluded to and which I keep reiterating makes me quite proud and gratified, Mr. Speaker and my colleagues, for being a Nunavummiuq.
Furthermore, not just for being a resident of Nunavut, I’m also quite satisfied that in this House, I am able to partake in the decision-making process, especially in providing direction and strategies for our future priorities.
I am justifiably proud of that participation and I wanted to note that here.
I have twice agreed to represent my constituents when I was first elected in 2004, and later on in 2008.
In agreeing to undertake these duties twice, these are what I agreed to: I personally, in all truthfulness and honesty, agree to represent my constituents to the utmost of my capability and capacity in the House. All of my skills and knowledge would not be set aside but put towards fulfilling the trust given to me by my constituents.
I agreed to never abuse this privilege and I committed to these two principles while I was in the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut.
Further, I have also stated, “God help me,” when I made that oath.
These are the two instances whereby I have committed to representing my constituents.
In 2004, I was elected to the cabinet and I was selected by the regular members to sit on the cabinet.
I was extremely proud and appreciative for that selection because they believed in my abilities to handle certain portfolios. That was very gratifying.
When I was first elected, the Premier at the time was Paul Okalik, and he gave me a portfolio that was dear to my heart, especially related to cultural issues when we were trying to get the operations going.
In 2008, when I was re-elected, I was again selected to sit on the cabinet. I was very happy and gratified that my colleagues had selected that for me, so I thank my cabinet colleagues and Premier Eva Aariak.
Ever since that time, my constituents in Igloolik and Hall Beach have believed in me, and they have elected me to represent them here in the Government of Nunavut, and they felt that I had the ability to continue my ministerial portfolio.
I am trying to fulfill my duties to the utmost of my capability so that I can represent my constituents and try and make their lives easier.
To my constituents in Hall Beach and Igloolik, I will continue to try and meet your concerns and interests here in this House, especially as it applies to cultural issues.
I keep mentioning it and I’m sure some of my colleagues are tired of my statements regarding cultural issues.
Now with health, youth, the justice system, housing, education, and in particular, the culture, language, elders, and youth are priority issues for me.
I keep mentioning to the government the same statements and positions that I’ve had in the past that all of the services that we provide as a government have to be closer to the Inuit.
Once that happens and the government can realize that yes, we’re trying to make improvements, and yes, if the government feels closer to the people, then that can happen.
Our elders, I know, are trying to pass along their knowledge and legacy, and they want the younger generations to know about their history.
It has been 40 years that our ancestors were put under severe stress when they were moved to the communities.
I will continue to work to represent all Inuit in this legislature, especially the Hall Beach and Igloolik residents whom I represent.
Mr. Speaker and my hon. colleagues, I want to inform the House that I submitted a resignation letter for my membership in the cabinet to the Premier.
The Premier accepted my resignation letter and my reasons for resigning. I am thankful for the Premier.
I stated in my letter that I wanted to resign from the cabinet so that in the fall of 2010, I will be resigning my ministerial portfolio here at the end of this session.
The Premier has approved it, so I would like to thank her for that.
The reason for my resignation is one that I have deliberated for a lengthy time and it’s not something I thought about just recently.
I felt it was easier to represent the interests of my constituents here in the House. I wanted to give the opportunity for the regular members to select a new executive member for the new fiscal year.
That is how I have made my decision.
It seems to just happen to fall in line.
Basically I am trying to go along with the interests of the regular members.
In the future, I want to help resolve a lot of the problems with the help of my colleagues. Furthermore, I want this to be heard. I am happy and I am expecting that I will now become a regular member.
I have never been a regular member ever since I was first elected.
I want to become part of the Regular Members’ Caucus.
I want people to know that I want to find out what it’s like at that side of the House.
Mr. Speaker, I am very appreciative of the past Premier because he gave me the portfolio of CLEY.
I was very passionate about that, especially those of us who were sent to residential schools. They really tried to assimilate us and take out the language and culture of the Inuit.
Back then, the government felt that the Inuit customs and knowledge were not worthy and they had to be assimilated into the general public. Again we were living in an environment that had no trees.
That was absolutely not relevant to the southern mentality.
Again I am very passionate and committed to this cause, and I will continue that.
I would like to thank everybody at this time because they have been very hospitable and has worked well during my time in the executive. I will continue to make these my priorities and will continue to be committed to representing the Inuit of Nunavut. The Inuit of Nunavut have to be proud of their culture and identity.
This is the strength of Inuit because we continue to retain our cultural pride and identity. We have to be proud of that. We have to feel that.
Again we have to continue what our ancestors’ dream was to ensure that we leave a legacy for our descendants.
Lastly, Mr. Speaker, I have been advised by many elders that in those days, they worked really hard to survive. Sometimes they would go through hunger and hardships, but they survived.
I think that’s one thing I see down the road. Our descendants will be going through a difficult time, especially here in the House.
There are a lot of issues we have to resolve in order to work towards our dream. We have to ensure that priorities for Nunavut are still followed and we have to commit ourselves to realizing that dream.
I would like to thank my constituents and my colleagues in the various portfolios I have been in.
I want to thank Simon Awa and my assistant, Eileen Kilabuk-Weber. She has been a tremendous resource to me as minister, so I would like to thank her. I would also like to thank the Clerk here at the House.
I will end my statement for now.
I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, and it is quite obvious that I will no longer be a minister, but I will continue to represent the interests of Nunavummiut, wherever they are, and assist them however possible.
Speaker (interpretation): Thank you very much, our esteemed colleague, Minister Tapardjuk. I know that many youth, elders, and cultural advocates are very appreciative of your tremendous hard work.
At this time, as we all want to thank the hon. minister, we will take a short break.
The bell will be rung once we’re ready to resume our proceedings.
>>House recessed at 14:11 and resumed at 14:24
Member’s Statement 336 – 3(2): Letter from Young Constituent (Curley)