EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
Maybe there could be something done to specifically give the public information exactly where the zones are because if we are going to keep on drawing zones and limits information has to be given out to the public.
There are hunting zones currently that are in place based on previous Legislation and we do make efforts to make sure the hunting public is aware of those areas.
It is more important for some species than others, in particular, with polar bear.
As some Members may be aware, we also have built in a visible boundary so that hunters can cross the line one way or the other.
We have tried to accommodate the hunters’ needs, but any future changes to the hunting zones will be made by the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board and it is not a matter that is clearly, it is not really within the Government’s jurisdictions that we would put into place a boundary they decide upon.
So, we do make all efforts to make sure the hunters know where the zones are.
Mr. Anawak: That is the problem.
I think, as far as I am concerned, the Government of Nunavut is paramount and therefore, determine, to put in place a Bill determining the hunting areas.
So, but you are telling me that whatever the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board decides is what we would put in place rather than the Government of Nunavut putting it in place on their own because they have the expertise, they have the wildlife officers and all that.
I guess I am just worried that there are too many chiefs and not enough Inuit here.
So, are you saying that we have no choice but to follow the dictates of what Nunavut Wildlife Management Board might want us to put in place as a Government?
Mr. Orr: Mr. Chairman.
The Land Claims says that when putting in a total allowable harvest for a species, which we say for polar bear, it does so on a basis of a population or a stock of that species.
So for those, in the future, are to be designed in terms of the population, or stocks of population of the animal that is being controlled.
That decision would be made by the Board when it makes its decision about, say what the limit would be for harvesting a particular species, like polar bear.
There is a complicated process for how the Government and the Board deal with disputes over decisions of the Board and that was alluded to in the report from the Standing Committee which, and that process laid out also in the Land Claim, how it would be done, but the initial responsibility is with the Board when it makes a limit on harvesting a species, it designs the area.
Now, of course, we have attempted in this to assert the jurisdiction of the Government of Nunavut, and where we have been able to do that, we have done so, but there are some limits within the Land Claim.
Chairman (interpretation): Thank you. Mr. Premier.
I just want it clear that as a public government there is no guarantee that Inuit will always be a majority in this Legislature, so that could be a consideration that we thought about.
But, under the Land Claim Agreement, Inuit are always guaranteed half the membership of the Wildlife Board, constitutionally there is that safeguard that we have.
So in the event that we would become a minority in this Legislature, as Inuit, we will at least have a guarantee that half the Board members, at least, will be Inuit.
So that is where this issue is quite sound for us as Inuit.
Chairman (interpretation): Just a comment.
Yeah, for that reason there was an explanation from the Witness Table that the boundaries are there as a geographic control, such as a) and b) zone for polar bears and stuff.
If it is summertime the polar bear in the Kivalliq region usually are in around Northern Manitoba.
When the Fall comes, they follow through the shore up to the northern communities, because they cannot read, because you know if I go to Rankin Inlet they have no way of knowing so and they do not know whether they are in within the boundary, or be on a boundary or something.
So I think it should be up to the people in a community. Because Inuit do not know where the line is, because the line is not visible, the polar bear is not going to know whether he is within or outside the boundary. A bear that could be shot in Whale Cove, then go all the way up to Chesterfield Inlet and be shot there, and they are charged with an offence, or whatever, but I am just telling the Minister that this geographic control, or zones will have to be reconsidered.
Just to inform the Minister to see whether he can look into it again, and reconsider it.
The Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, we will consult them with this issue to see how we can better deal with boundaries and yes, we are aware that they do migrate to different areas.
Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit will be considered and recognized more through this Act, and that we will consider the local knowledge.
When we’re all here and not being controlled by anyone else, those of us who are Inuit have travelled traditionally in search of more wildlife and that is our way.
Because we lived the nomadic life in search of wildlife we always travelled to the next camp where we thought there would be more wildlife and once we reached that place with the wildlife then we would camp there, and it doesn’t state exactly where we should live and because that was our tradition the boundary, I can say does not apply to Inuit.
It has created a problem between different communities where they have gone into a struggle of the different zones and because of that we traditionally travelled to places where there was more wildlife and I think that should be one of the foundations.
As a resident of Clyde River, if I went to Sanikiluaq, I should be able to hunt because I will get hungry sooner or later.
I think there should be a bigger consideration through the Wildlife Management Board will also have to consult us.
As it states, no person shall harvest any wildlife contrary to any licence, regulation, or order that controls are prohibits the person from harvesting.
So, because of the tradition that I just talked about, I think it does not respect traditionally the nomadic ways of Inuit where they travel to where the wildlife and we as Nunavummiut, we consideration each other as one and I think we should just do away with the zoning and boundaries.
We do have quotas that will protect species and so I think we should just do away with boundaries and zones all together.
But it’s a concern, perhaps a minister, the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board will have to be versed as MLAs that we are concerned about this and that in the future if they’re going to go by those boundaries, our children will start fighting over the lands in the different zones where they are allowed to hunt.
Mr. Akesuk, would you like to respond?
Hon. Olayuk Akesuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In Clause 8(a), it states in one of the concepts that Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit according to one of the concepts, it states in there what we can do to ensure there is no conflict. It is one of the principles of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and that would apply in the act, once enacted.
Chairman (interpretation): Geographic control.
Agrees?
Wildlife Control.
Swimming Big Game.
Mr. Iqaqrialu (interpretation): We have big game that have really grown in population and when we’re boating in the summer time it’s becoming a danger, and there was an accident that resulted from these marine mammals.
There were tourists who died not long ago as a result of such an encounter.
According to this Act, how will this impact the marine mammals?
It states in there that no person, other than an Inuk shall hunt big game while it is swimming.
In the Bill, it states directly that no person shall hunt big game while it is swimming and this Bill does not apply to marine wildlife.
Chairman (interpretation): Swimming Big Game.
Birds’ Eggs.
Clause 72, Mr. Netser.
Mr. Netser: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
What eggs are you talking about, which bird?
On this unlawfully harvesting eggs, how do you lawfully or unlawfully harvest eggs?
Mr. Pinksen: Qujannamiik.
It applies to all bird species that are covered by the Act.
But that would include all birds, but it does state that if you are harvesting eggs, it is not a problem.
It just protects eggs except when you are harvesting.
Inuit are permitted to harvest some eggs, maybe all and that is not a problem.
In Coral Harbour area, there are many eggs for snow geese, Canada geese, guillemots and all those other waterfowl.
There are many birds in our area.
So, does this cover all those birds and does this allow us to go egg hunting in the spring?
Yes, it does not stop you because that is traditional; we have done that so we can still harvest eggs.
Birds Eggs.
Mr. Chairman, given the time, I would like to move that we report progress.
Continue another day with this.
Maybe two or three.
Chairman (interpretation): There is a Motion on the Floor to report progress and the Motion is undebatable.
All those in favour, against, Motion is carried.
Thank you, for being here this evening and all your staff and those observing the proceedings, thank you and you ascertain the Minister or the Speaker.
Chairman (Mr. Puqiqnak) (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, your Committee has been considering Bill 49, and Bill 35, and would like to report that Bill 49 is ready for Third Reading as amended.
And, Mr. Speaker, I move that the report of the Committee of the Whole be concurred with.
There is a motion on the Floor, is there a seconder for the motion? Mr. Iqaqrialu.
Orders for the day for Thursday, December 4th:
In accordance with the authority provided to me by Motion 2-1(6) this House stands adjourned until Thursday, December 4th, 2003 at 10:00 a.m.
>>House adjourned at 20:04.  Nunavut Canada
DAY 72
Thursday December 4, 2003
Pages 4811 – 4923
Simanek Kilabuk  Hansard Production
Report of the Committee of the Whole 4071
Thursday December 4, 2003 4071
239 – 1(6): Reduction in Fuel Rates (Kattuk) 4071
240 – 1(6): Housing Maintainer Program – Kivalliq Campus (Thompson) 4071
241 – 1(6): Expansion of Turbot Fishery (Akesuk) 4071
242 – 1(6): Agreement with Federal Government on Funding for Sport Strategy (Kilabuk) 4071
243 – 1(6): Trichinosis Testing Supports Cultural Eating Habits (Picco) 4071
244 – 1(6): Acknowledging December 6th National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (Kilabuk) 4071
245 – 1(6): Government of Nunavut Employee Orientation Program CD-ROM for New Employees (Thompson) 4071
246 – 1(6): Sustainable Infrastructure for Nunavut (Kilabuk) 4071
760 – 1(6): More Job Opportunities for Qikiqtarjuaq and Clyde River (Iqaqrialu) 4071
761 – 1(6): Gratitude and Thank Constituents (Okalik) 4071
762 – 1(6): Kugaaruk Grade 12 Graduates (Alakannuark) 4071
763 – 1(6): Jobs for Gjoa Haven (Puqiqnak) 4071
764 – 1(6): Condolences to Kusugak Family (Anawak) 4071
765 – 1(6): Alcohol Abuse (Havioyak) 4071
766 – 1(6): Condolences to Igloolik Family (Irqittuq) 4071
767 – 1(6): Child Rearing Today (Nutarak) 4071
768 – 1(6): Honouring Inuit Teachers (Netser) 4071
769 – 1(6): Thanks Constituents (Thompson) 4071
770 – 1(6): Going to School as a Child (Kattuk) 4071
771 – 1(6): Five Years as an MLA (McLean) 4071
772 – 1(6): Thanks Constituents and Colleagues (Kilabuk) 4071
773 – 1(6): Nunavut Government in the Last Five Years (Picco) 4071
774 – 1(6): Growing and Learning as Members of the First Legislative Assembly (Akesuk) 4071
725 – 1(6): Liquor Distribution Centre Positions (Puqiqnak) 4071
726 – 1(6): Family Counselling for Abusive Relationships (Nutarak) 4071
727 – 1(6): Equal Job Opportunities for Disabled Women (Anawak) 4071
728 – 1(6): Ads or Posters on Alcohol Abuse (Havioyak) 4071
729 – 1(6): Support Group for Men (Iqaqrialu) 4071
730 – 1(6): Safe Shelters Within the Communities (Alakannuark) 4071
731 – 1(6): Appointment to the Tribunal – Bill 12 Human Rights (Williams) 4071
732 – 1(6): Special Needs Assistance Funding for Chesterfield Inlet School (Netser) 4071
004 – 1(6): (Havioyak) 4071
005 – 1(6): (Williams) 4071
025 – 1(6): Bill 53 – Write Off of Assets and Debts Act, 2003-2004 To Committee of the Whole (Iqaqrialu) 4071
026 – 1(6): Bill 54 – An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act to Committee of The Whole (Iqaqrialu) 4071
166 – 1(6): Eulogy for Mr. Ralph Ritchey (Anawak) 4071
167 – 1(6): Fire Prevention Brochure (Kattuk) 4071
168 – 1(6): Sustainable Infrastructure for Nunavut (Kilabuk) 4071
169 – 1(6): Maligarnit Qimirrujiit Nunavut Law Review Commission Second Report to the Premier (Okalik) 4071
170 – 1(6): Government of Nunavut Department of Education Student Loan Revolving Fund for the Years Ended March 31, 2002, March 31, 2001 and March 31, 2000 (Thompson) 4071
171 – 1(6): Report on the Review of the 2002 Report of the Auditor General of Canada to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut (Ng) 4071
172 – 1(6): Nunavut Business Credit Corporation 2000-2001, 2001-2002 (Akesuk) 4071
173 – 1(6): Nunavut Development Corporation Annual Report 2002-2003 (Akesuk) 4071
174 – 1(6): The First Report on Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit in the Government of Nunavut 1999-2003 (Kilabuk) 4071
175 – 1(6): Pension Administration Report for the Year Ending March 31, 2003 (Speaker) 4071
176 – 1(6): Annual Report on the Information and Privacy Commission for the Year Ending March 31, 2003 (Speaker) 4071
022 – 1(6): Clause 160 (1) of Bill 35 of the Wildlife Act be Amended to Delete the Word “may” and Substitute the word “must” (Williams) 4071
023 – 1(6): Clause 207 of Bill 35 of the Wildlife Act be Amended (McLean) 4071
024 – 1(6): Clause 209 of Bill 35 of the Wildlife Act be Amended (McLean) 4071
025 – 1(6): Clause 211.1 Be Added to Bill 35 – Wildlife Act (McLean) 4071
026 – 1(6): Clause 232 of Bill 35 be Amended by Striking out “Superintendent” and Substituting it with “Minister” Wherever it Appears (Okalik) 4071
Bill 35 – The Wildlife Act – Third Reading 4071
Bill 49 - An Act to Amend the Safety Act – Third Reading 4071
Honourable Olayuk Akesuk, Mr. Ovide Alakannuark, Mr. Jack Anawak, Mr. Donald Havioyak, Mr. David Iqaqrialu, Mr. Enoki Irqittuq, Honourable Peter Kattuk, Honourable Peter Kilabuk, Mr. Glenn McLean, Mr. Patterk Netser, Honourable Kelvin Ng, Mr. Jobie Nutarak, Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Honourable Paul Okalik, Honourable Ed Picco, Mr. Uriash Puqiqnak, Honourable Manitok Thompson, Ms. Rebekah Williams.
Speaker: I would like to call on Mr. Netser to say the prayer.
Minister’s Statement 239 – 1(6): Reduction in Fuel Rates
Hon. Peter Kattuk (interpretation): Good morning, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to send my regards to my constituents.
Jack Novalinga is on medical travel and so he is on my thoughts.
Today I am very pleased to announce in the House that effective December 5, the price of all fuel products in Nunavut will be reduced by 2 ¢ per litre.
Mr. Speaker, fuel plays an essential role in all of Nunavut, in our lives and any reduction in the fuel prices will have a positive impact on a family’s income.
As a result of the new fuel supply and the transportation contract that was negotiated by my department earlier this year, the Government of Nunavut was able to reduce their costs and pass on the savings to all Nunavummiut.
Minister’s Statement 240 – 1(6): Housing Maintainer Program – Kivalliq Campus
Mr. Speaker, as the Minister responsible for Arctic College, I would like to advise the House today that Nunavut Arctic College in partnership with the Rankin Inlet Housing Association, and the Nunavut Housing Corporation has been successful in the development of a Trades Training Pilot Project based in Rankin Inlet.
The local housing authority in Rankin Inlet was able to contribute $77 thousand to this project through a grant from the Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation (CMHC).
Nunavut Arctic College is currently delivering the first year of an apprenticeship program to four students in Rankin Inlet.
Students who complete the program will achieve Journeyman status as certified Housing Maintainers.
They will be able to take advantage of the employment opportunities with the local Housing Association.
Nunavut Arctic College has developed a strong working relationship with the Aurora College and was able to access curriculum because of a memorandum of understanding between Nunavut Arctic College and Aurora College.
Based on the success of this Pilot Project, Nunavut Arctic College will explore the possibility of offering the Housing Maintainer Program in other communities.
Mr. Speaker, partnership arrangements such as this make it possible for Nunavummiut to complete trades training in their communities.
Minister’s Statement 241 – 1(6): Expansion of Turbot Fishery
Good morning colleagues, and my constituencies.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to advise Members of this House about the developments that have occurred in Nunavut’s turbot fishery this past year.
I am pleased to announce that our fishing industry has had another successful year in terms of our offshore turbot fishery.
To date, the Baffin Fisheries Coalition has harvested more than 4,100 tonnes of turbot in NAFO Division 0A (Davis Straight/Baffin Bay).
Approximately 250 tonnes of this quota was shipped to Pangnirtung for further processing, which created and extended employment opportunities in the community.
In addition, more than 20 Nunavummiut were trained this past summer to work in this rapidly emerging industry.
I am also pleased to announce that our turbot fishery quota in Division 0A was increased from 4,000 tonnes to 4,400 tonnes this year.
We are currently on target to harvest the entire quota and this 400 tonne increase will provide more than a quarter million dollars in benefits this year.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, on another front, a delegation of Nunavut fisheries, including representation from my Department, recently returned from a forum on Northern Fisheries held in Labrador.
More than 100 delegates from Nunavut, northern Quebec, northern Newfoundland and Labrador attended the forum.
It was the first time northern fisheries groups came together to discuss issues of common concern such as science, access and allocation and Aboriginal involvement in the fishery.
We hope to build on the relationships established during this forum.
Mr. Speaker, we have been making major advances in our fishing industry and we anticipate significant further development over the upcoming years.
I am very pleased with the rapid progression to build this new sector of Nunavut’s economy.
Minister’s Statement 242 – 1(6): Agreement with Federal Government on Funding for Sport Strategy
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to announce hat I have signed an agreement on sport with the Honourable Paul DeVillers, Secretary of State for Physical Activity and Sport.
This agreement for $840 thousand will assist in developing programs that encourage participation and athletic excellence.
Under this agreement, the Government of Canada and the Government of Nunavut will each provide $140 thousand over three years to support the Pan-Territorial Sport Strategy.
These programs will include the Nunavut Youth Olympic Academy, Aim High, Coaching Certification, Community Sport, and Aboriginal Coaching Resource Development.
Mr. Speaker, our communities face unique challenges in the areas of sport development.
I am delighted at the contribution from Canada under this partnership.
It will allow us to provide better opportunities to our athletes, coaches and volunteers.
It will help our sport system overcome barriers that can hinder participation and will promote excellence of children and youth in sport.
I look forward to the introduction of the programs made possible by this funding, which will substantially benefit Nunavummiut.
Minister’s Statement 243 – 1(6): Trichinosis Testing Supports Cultural Eating Habits
Mr. Speaker, I have good news for Nunavummiut who enjoy eating iguunaq.
New laboratory equipment in Rankin Inlet is now able to confirm trichinosis parasites in iguunaq (fermented or aged walrus meat), and has recently identified a cluster of five trichinosis cases in Chesterfield Inlet.
The Environment Officer has contacted the Hunters and Trappers Associations in both Coral Harbour and Chesterfield Inlet to emphasize the importance of having walrus tongues tested as soon as a walrus is harvested.
Information concerning trichinosis infection is being prepared to distribute to the affected communities.
This is similar to the information that was distributed to Repulse Bay when trichinosis outbreak took place there in 2002.
Mr. Speaker, it is very important to point out that prior to this equipment in Rankin Inlet, walrus samples were sent either to Kuujjuuaq in northern Quebec or Saskatoon for testing.
The issue with this in sending samples outside of Nunavut meant longer response times.
For example, when patient blood tests are used to confirm a trichinosis infection, confirmation can take up to two weeks.
Mr. Speaker, the window for treatment of this infection is a matter of weeks from the consumption of the infected meat.
Mr. Speaker, Nunavik has not had a case of trichinosis infection since their testing program became widespread.
That is our hope for Nunavut as well.
Mr. Speaker, Country food is an important cultural and nutritional part of life for many Nunavummiut.
Walrus meat in particular, raw, aged, or boiled, is rich in vitamin A and iron.
The Department of Health and Social Services supports Nunavummiut in their country foods choices, and the new trichinosis testing equipment in Rankin Inlet is just one way we help make food choices easier, also following on, Mr. Speaker, with our country food chart which we put out also.
Minister’s Statement 244 – 1(6): Acknowledging December 6th National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Mr. Speaker, I want to call Members’ attention to December 6th as National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
Since December 6th, 1989 when fourteen women were shot dead at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal, the Parliament of Canada has established this day as a day of remembrance and action.
Mr. Speaker, violence against women is a serious issue.
Here in Nunavut, our rate of violence directed at women is well over 10 times the national rate.
And I'm sad to add that many cases do not even get reported.
This means that in Nunavut, we have more women living under the threat of violence than any other place in Canada.
Mr. Speaker, December 6th is a day to think about what actions we personally can take to ensure that the women are safe and secure.
Each of us can make a difference by supporting women’s rights to choose their own paths and achieve their own goals.
In facing up to the facts of this pressing issue in our communities, it is important that we recognize the people who work on it every day, the RCMP, the volunteers and staff of women’s shelters and crisis lines, the Department of Health and Social Services and the Department of Justice, and other.
We also must recognize Nunavummiut who stand up against violence.
People across Canada will be wearing white ribbons to commemorate this day.
I have made ribbons and an information sheet available for Members and the public in the anti chamber.
I ask my colleagues to observe a moment of silence to remember those we have lost to violence and acknowledge that each one of us can make a difference and stop the violence.
>>Moment of Silence
Minister’s Statement 245 – 1(6): Government of Nunavut Employee Orientation Program CD-ROM for New Employees
Mr. Speaker, I would like to update my colleagues on the Department of Human Resources’ Employee Orientation Program.
(interpretation) Mr. Speaker, the Government of Nunavut recognizes the importance of ensuring that all employees are provided with relevant and timely information regarding their employment and are made to feel welcome in their new positions.
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Human Resources in consultation with all departments and the Interdepartmental Training and Development Committee, has developed a CD-ROM to provide to new employees.
The CD-Rom contains thorough and interesting information and resources about working for the Government of Nunavut.
The CD-Rom can be viewed in all GN offices, without requiring an internet connection.
It is available in Inuktitut, Inuinnaqtun, English and French.