EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
If an employee sees anyone breaking the rules or not following the legislation to the effect, there would be whistle-blower legislation to protect an employee. If it was under D-4 and I could ask that question, Mr. Chairman, I would like to get a response as to whether that would apply.
Yes, you’re on the right page. It is going to be part of the Public Service Act and it will be reviewed in June of this year.
Of course, we can’t comment on anything on the Public Service Act or make any changes here until the negotiations are complete with the union.
We’re on page D-4. $3,935,000. Directorate.
Recruiting and Staffing. $6,949,000.
I don’t want to just bring up a trivial matter, but I was wondering how the minister would respond to this question if I were to raise it.
When we talk about every position that is created by the Nunavut government, you have to open them up for competition, right?
These positions that are advertised in various media, such as newspapers and radio announcements, are for the public. The positions that are not advertised via the media are usually interim transfer assignments where existing staff members move temporarily.
Additionally, when we get direct appointment requests by various departments, we also appoint an employee directly through this process.
I don’t like to just seem as if I am unhappy with the system while asking questions, but I want to understand and have it answered for the benefit of my fellow Nunavummiut, and that’s why I raise these issues from time to time.
I am not necessarily against the government’s processes.
Now, when there is a direct appointment requirement for a department, why do they need a direct appointment? What causes these positions to require a direct appointment procedure?
I’ll let the deputy minister answer that.
A variety of reasons are used for these requests for direct assignment.
If the position has been vacant for too long or if the position is extremely important or if you need an employee immediately, then this becomes a priority.
Sometimes, as the minister stated earlier, some positions are vacant for 131 days for different reasons.
Positions are placed into the priority file and the position is then filled with these processes.
Thank you for that very understandable response.
Up to today, if you have the figures or information handy, how many positions have been assigned or filled through an interim transfer assignment and how many are held by Inuit?
For the fiscal year 2011-12, there were 14 approved, 11 were beneficiaries and 3 were non-beneficiaries.
This question I want to ask next is one that I don’t know whether it’s true or not, but I think that I’m not the only one who has heard about this issue.
Sometimes we have heard that a lot of positions, such as when a non-beneficiary employee gets a position from outside of Nunavut such as from the south, all of a sudden, it seems the rest of his relatives can come up and obtain jobs, especially when they’re holding higher level positions.
I hope this isn’t true, especially when it was stated that sometimes these positions are vacant for a long time and have to be filled.
I would like to hear from the department that this does not occur in these types of situations, Mr. Chairman.
We do use the Priority Hiring Policy.
I have no more names on my list. We’re on page D-5.
Mr. Curley (interpretation): Yes, I want to ask a short question.
As your department is considering a bilingual policy, does this include preparations for the Public Service Act upon agreement or is this a separate bilingual policy for the public service of the Nunavut government that we would approve?
Yes, we deal with the NEU on that.
Mr. Curley (interpretation): Now, does that mean we can state to those Nunavutmiut who are bilingual both in Inuktitut and English that this particular department does not have a bilingual policy applicable to them to date?
Hon. Fred Schell: Yes, there is a bilingual bonus policy.
Mr. Curley (interpretation): Yes, I understand that (interpretation ends) it’s a bonus policy. It’s not an Inuktitut-speaking job required.
It may be bilingual, but it is not a Nunavut-wide policy. It is probably applied throughout Nunavut, but you cannot convince us, I don’t believe, that it is a bilingual policy for Nunavut.
It only is an essential kind of service. Whether we have a bilingual policy, I hope that provision will always continue to exist.
I think the priority of the government should be that we clearly establish a policy at all levels of positions of the public service.
You indicated that it will be addressed through the Public Service Act. Am I right?
Hon. Fred Schell: Yes, we have to review it first, and then we have to go to the union.
We are on page D-5.
Turn the page. Community Operations.
D-6. $3,111,000.
D-7.
Total Operations and Maintenance. $7 million.
If I can raise a question on page D-7, Mr. Chairman, it’s enjoyable to hear about the various mining companies and exploration companies that are trying to develop mines and minerals in Nunavut. A lot of people wonder whether they will be able to get a job with these mines.
In particular, a lot of youth are expecting that there may be job creation possibilities since we’re so short of jobs here.
When we look at the possible mines, a lot of them require higher qualified positions, such as drivers, electricians, and it also calls for what I consider less difficult jobs, such as a cook. However, a cook would probably say that you need more education than a driver to be a cook.
So with these positions that may be opening up in this sector, does the Department of Human Resources look at the kinds of impacts it may have on the department?
Hon. Fred Schell: Well, all of these programs that he is talking about are with ED&T and Nunavut Arctic College.
Mr. Enook (interpretation): Perhaps I wasn’t very clear, Mr. Chairman.
What I was trying to say is isn’t there any kind of number that shows whether or not… .
I imagine there’s a central database for all employees. Does every department have their own database about their employees?
If there happened to be a central database about every Government of Nunavut position, I was trying to ask: looking at the employment figures, has it become clear as to whether or not your department has lost employees due to other jobs being created, let’s say, in the mining sector?
That’s the Bureau of Statistics and that’s with the Department of Education.
We are on Training and Development. $7,279,000.
Turn the page. D-8.
Employee Relations and Job Evaluation. $2,846,000.
We will now go back to page D-3.
Detail of Expenditures. Department Summary. Human Resources.
Total Operations and Maintenance, to be Voted. $24,120,000.
Do we agree that the Department of Human Resources is concluded?
Minister Schell, do you have any closing remarks?
I appreciate the committee with all their good questions. I also want to thank the officials for doing all the hard work and getting ready for this Committee of the Whole.
Hopefully we will see you next time.
It is obvious that once you have been in this portfolio for several months, you will have learnt the workings of the department, so members will want to hear reports from your department.
Sergeant-at-Arms, please escort the witnesses out as they are blocking the next review, plus they are done.
We will now begin our review of the Department of Environment.
Does the Minister of Environment, Mr. Arreak, have opening comments?
Bill 24 – Appropriation (Operations & Maintenance) Act, 2012-2013 – Environment – Consideration in Committee
Yes, I have opening comments.
Please proceed with your opening comments.
I am pleased to be here today to present the Department of Environment’s business plan and main estimates for the 2012-13 fiscal year.
Mr. Chairman, the Department of Environment’s proposed budget for 2012-13 is $22,353,000.
This represents a $75,000 increase from the 2011-12 fiscal year.
The increase is required to keep pace with an increase in fur prices and the volume of furs sold through the Fur Pricing Program.
Prices for long fur species (fox, wolf, wolverine, and polar bear) have increased steadily over the past three years and are currently at record high levels.
This program, which supports Nunavut’s traditional economy, exists as a service to hunters and trappers by facilitating the shipping and marketing of their harvested furs.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Chairman, the Department of Environment works with various organizations and by partnering with these organizations whenever possible, we have continually been successful in maximizing the impacts of our funds.
In the 2011-12 fiscal year, we obtained over $1.9 million from outside sources for various projects and we expect to be equally successful in leveraging funds again in 2012-13.
In order to maximize the benefits of our funding to Nunavummiut, the Department of Environment’s business plan and main estimates are focused on the priorities and goals outlined in Tamapta.
They also uphold specific obligations and areas of responsibilities under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement that relate to the management of natural resources.
Wildlife harvesting is of critical economic and cultural importance to Nunavummiut and the stewardship and maintenance of healthy wildlife populations are two of our most important responsibilities.
We continue to work with partners, including hunters and trappers organizations, regional wildlife organizations, the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, to ensure sustainable management.
One project of particular note is the ongoing Baffin Bay polar bear study, which employs biopsy darting, a method that gathers the necessary data but does not require that bears be drugged or handled.
This follows on the heels of developing a new aerial survey technique that was used in 2011 to assess the western Hudson Bay polar bear population. These non-invasive research techniques were developed and implemented in direct response to concerns raised by Nunavummiut about wildlife handling.
Other projects that will take place in the coming year include a caribou survey of all of Baffin Island, disease monitoring of caribou and muskoxen in several parts of Nunavut, and a report on the availability of wildlife for local consumption.
Protecting the environment and mitigating possible adverse impacts of development continue to be key areas of focus.
Through proactive pollution prevention initiatives and inspection and enforcement activities under the Environmental Protection Act, we will continue to minimize environmental impacts.
This coming year, several major development initiatives, including the Baffinland iron project and the Areva Kiggavik uranium project, will be undergoing review by the Nunavut Impact Review Board.
The Department of Environment will be participating in these reviews to ensure that all possible impacts are identified.
The number of exploration and development projects requiring review has increased substantially in recent years and we are currently reviewing the human and financial resources dedicated to this activity.
For the past several years, the Department of Environment has been working to help Nunavummiut adjust to the potential impacts caused by climate change.
We have been working with our partners to develop community-specific adaptation plans and this year, we will coordinate implementation of Upagiaqtavut, Nunavut’s strategic direction for climate change adaptation.
In the 2012-13 fiscal year, we will advance our development plans for potential parks in the non-decentralized communities of Kugaaruk and Clyde River and continue with feasibility studies for possible parks in Sanikiluaq, Arviat, and Axel Heiberg. In addition, we will look at the potential of having the Back River nominated as a candidate for Canadian Heritage River status.
To ensure residents and visitors have the best possible experience while in Nunavut, we will continue to upgrade facilities at all of our existing parks and campgrounds and will complete promotional work for territorial parks and Canadian Heritage Rivers through the development of brochures, websites, maps, and displays.
We will also continue to work with the fur industry and value-added producers to develop markets and actively represent Nunavut’s interests.
In 2012-13, we plan to initiate inshore fisheries projects in all regions and conduct assessments to determine the need for fish processing and handling regulations for Nunavut.
Mr. Chairman, as you can see, the Department of Environment’s 2012-13 main estimates and business plan support the obligations and priorities of the Government of Nunavut and provide real benefits to Nunavummiut.
Thank you and I will be pleased to take any questions you may have. (interpretation) Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Chairman (Mr. Ningeongan) (interpretation): Thank you, Minister Arreak.
Hon. James Arreak (interpretation): Yes, I do, Mr. Chairman.
Thank you. Minister Arreak, please introduce your witnesses.
To my left is David Akeeagok, Deputy Minister, and to my right is Niki Nweze, Director of Corporate Services of the Department of Environment.
Chairman (interpretation): Thank you, Minister Arreak. I welcome your officials.
Chairman: Proceed, please.
I am pleased to provide opening comments on behalf of the Standing Committee on Community and Economic Development on its review of the 2012-13 main estimates and 2012-15 business plan of the Department of Environment.
The standing committee notes that the department’s proposed 2012-13 operations and maintenance budget of $22,353,000 has increased by approximately 0.3 percent since the introduction of the department’s 2011-12 main estimates.
The number of positions in the department is 124.5.
The department’s proposed 2012-15 business plan provides an update on one of its previous priorities.
It indicates that “The Elders Advisory Committee has been engaged and provided input into all major DOE initiatives.”
The standing committee supports the department’s continuing efforts to integrate Inuit societal values into its programs and look forward to ongoing updates on these initiatives.
Members note that on February 11, 2011, the Government of Canada announced that it had taken formal action at the World Trade Organization against the European Union’s ban on trade in Canadian seal products.
The news release indicated that the federal government would request the establishment of a World Trade Organization dispute settlement panel on this issue.
During the minister’s recent appearance before the standing committee, members were informed that the World Trade Organization has not yet reviewed this issue and that the department has provided funding to assist with the legal costs associated with this issue.
Mr. Chairman, Nunavut’s Wildlife Act was passed by the First Legislative Assembly in 2003.
The department’s proposed 2012-15 business plan indicates that one of its priorities in 2012-13 is to “Complete implementation of the Wildlife Act and regulations.”
The standing committee encourages the department and its partners to work on resolving any issues that have delayed finalizing the regulations and looks forward to the Wildlife Act regulations being approved.
Mr. Chairman, on December 19 of 2011, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated issued a news release titled “Narwhal Tusk Trade Restriction Partially Lifted.”
The release indicated that the “Department of Fisheries and Oceans partially lifted international trade restrictions on narwhal tusks this week.”
It also indicated that “Inuit in Arctic Bay, Clyde River, Qikiqtarjuaq, Pangnirtung and Iqaluit can now resume international trade in narwhal tusks and are no longer going to be economically penalized by DFO’s former data.”
On February 15 of 2012, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated issued a news release titled “NTI to Participate in DFO’s Narwhal Consultations.”
The release indicated that “NTI will participate in community consultations with officials from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in order to gain feedback on a draft Integrated Fisheries Management Plan for narwhal, and to discuss the total allowable harvest levels for narwhal.”
The standing committee notes the announcement in October 2009 regarding the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Greenland and the federal government on the Baffin Bay polar bear population.
The department’s 2011-14 business plan indicated that “The joint committee expects to finalize an action plan by the end of the 2010-11 fiscal year.
Pilot studies including a feasibility assessment of aerial surveys are expected to be reported on in winter 2010-2011.
A new recommended harvest level should be available by early 2012-2013.”
Mr. Chairman, the department’s 2011-14 business plan also indicated that “One full scale and two pilot aerial surveys were conducted in 2010.
Preliminary results from aerial surveys in the Foxe Basin indicate the method will work for that population. Aerial surveys are planned in 2011-2012 for the Western Hudson and Baffin Bay populations.
Research and development of alternative less invasive research methods is ongoing.”
Members are encouraged to see that the department is incorporating concerns from elders and hunters to use less invasive methods for wildlife research in Nunavut and look forward to the minister providing the results of the aerial surveys in the western Hudson Bay and Baffin Bay polar bear populations with members at the earliest opportunity.
It indicates that the territorial polar bear management plan “has been initiated and it is anticipated to be finalized and in place by 2013.
Community consultations to be conducted in spring 2012.”
On June 8 of 2010, the minister tabled the 2006-07, 2007-08, and 2008-09 annual reports in the Legislative Assembly.
The standing committee looks forward to the minister tabling the 2009-2010 and 2010-11 annual reports under this section of the Act.
Mr. Chairman, the department’s proposed 2012-15 business plan provides an update on one of its previous priorities concerning caribou management.
It indicates that the department “Completed all community and stakeholder consultations.
It is anticipated the” Caribou Management Strategy “and implementation plan will be completed prior to the end of the 2011-12 fiscal year.”
The department’s proposed 2012-15 business plan provides an update on one its previous priorities.
It indicates that “Work continued on each of these initiatives.
Under the Nunavut Fisheries Science and Research Agenda, DOE continued to implement research programs of offshore and inshore projects.
Detailed multi-year branding and marketing strategies were developed for the Nunavut Fisheries and Nunavut Seal and Long Fur sectors.”
On January 19, 2011, the minister issued a news release titled “Minister Shewchuk promotes Nunavut products in China.”
The minister announced that “China demonstrated a significant level of interest in both Nunavut’s fur and fish products which could potentially develop into real opportunities for the fishing and sealing industries.”
The standing committee was pleased to note that the minister and his officials are promoting Nunavut’s seal and fish products internationally and looks forward to ongoing updates on this initiative.
It indicates that the department is “Supporting major multi-year Arctic char research project with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) aimed at increasing commercial supply in all regions.
Also working with fish plants to support commercial fishing trails in new communities/areas.”
The standing committee encourages the minister to table an annual report in the Legislative Assembly on the department’s expenditures and activities under its Fisheries Diversification Program, Commercial Fisheries Freight Subsidy Program, and Fisheries Training Consortium Program and looks forward to receiving ongoing updates on these initiatives.
Members note that on October 31 of 2011, the minister delivered a statement in the House detailing the 2011 Commercial Fishery Results.
The minister indicated that “Nunavut holds more than 9,350 tonnes of turbot quotas in these adjacent waters, which will be fully harvested in 2011, providing income and jobs for Nunavutmiut.”
He also indicated that the new research vessel conducted “research in Cumberland Sound and areas near Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq.”
The standing committee was pleased to note the department’s efforts to support a sustainable fisheries industry in Nunavut and looks forward to ongoing updates on this important issue.
Mr. Chairman, the department’s proposed 2012-15 business plan provides an update on one of its previous priorities, which was to “Develop a Spill Level II Course (Environmental Investigations for Enforcement Officers) for Nunavut.”
It indicates that “With the recent staffing of the Enforcement and Compliance Manager this priority is expected to be complete in 2012.”
The department’s proposed 2012-15 business plan also indicates that the department will “Develop Used Oil and Waste Fuel Management Regulations.”
The standing committee is pleased to note that the department is working on enforcement and compliance issues and looks forward to ongoing updates on these initiatives.
The standing committee also notes that the Department of Environment is working with the Department of Community and Government Services on an inventory of all sewage and waste management facilities in Nunavut and looks forward to the completion of the Waste Management Strategy.
The standing committee notes previous issues relating to the water use inspection licences prepared by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada in all Nunavut communities.
Members encourage the minister to review the adequacy of these funding levels.
Mr. Chairman, this concludes my opening comments on the 2012-13 main estimates and 2012-15 business plan of the Department of Environment.
Before we go to the page-by-page review starting on page I-4, the floor is open for general comments.
I just want a bit more information on the minister’s opening comments. On page 2, in the last paragraph, it speaks about planned population studies.
It talks about a particular study that’s planned for the Baffin Bay polar bear population.
Could I get some more information on why this is different?
I believe this is the first of its kind. The reason why it’s different is because they will utilize biopsy darting for the study of the Baffin Bay polar bear population, which excises a little piece of their skin and blubber that can then be used for sampling the DNA.
That is why it’s different from the other population studies that have been conducted in the past.
If you go to the next page, there are other activities related to population studies.
Mr. Chairman, I apologize because I’m reading them directly from the English version and I’m translating them in my own mind.
It talks about other projects that will take place in the coming year, which includes a caribou population survey of all of Baffin Island.
Just for our information, animals do walk and they can go very far, and Baffin Island is a very large area to be studied.
How are they going to be conducting this caribou population survey on Baffin Island?
We have heard many times about caribou moving away from a lot of communities in Baffin Island to different areas.
There will be an aerial survey on the caribou population.
Due to the immense size of Baffin Island, it will take more than one year to complete such a study.
I believe the population study will be initiated this month, starting shortly in South Baffin. We will have a separate population study for North Baffin.
I’ll ask another question so that I’ll be clear on it.
Baffin Island is a very large and immense island. For instance, Pond Inlet, Arctic Bay, Clyde River, and Qikiqtarjuaq could be looked after with one portion of the survey, and then they could do another survey from Cape Dorset up to Pangnirtung.
During the summer, will the survey on Baffin Island be separated in that manner? With these two separated, are there plans to meet in the middle?
Is that how you plan to conduct it?
That is, indeed, the way we have planned it.
From the time they start, it will take a year to complete the aerial survey on Baffin Island caribou.
Anything else, Mr. Enook?