EdinburghNLP/nunavut-hansard-plusplus huggingface dataset:
Stay in school to achieve your dreams and take to heart the knowledge of your Elders.”
(interpretation) The posters are being distributed to schools, health facilities, RCMP detachments, courts, government offices, Hamlet offices and MLA constituency offices among others throughout Nunavut.
I welcome you in joining me in thanking our role models for being part of this worthwhile endeavour.
Speaker: Thank you, Mr. Okalik. Ministers’ Statements.
Minister’s Statement 088 – 1(6): Fisheries Development and Diversification Fund
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, the fishing industry is a rapidly expanding sector of Nunavut’s economy.
I rise today to announce the implementation of the Fisheries Development and Diversification Fund.
Nowhere else in Canada is the potential of emerging fisheries stronger than in Nunavut.
Most of the waters in the territory are untouched in terms of experimental and exploratory activities.
The recent development of the new turbot fishery in Davis Strait and Baffin Bay is a good indication of this potential.
The purpose of the Fisheries Development and Diversification Fund is to provide a strategic investment of funds to support Nunavut’s emerging fishing industry and to provide immediate benefits to the communities where opportunities are limited with an emphasis on non-decentralized communities.
Mr. Speaker, a policy has now been established to administer this program with a total of $350 thousand dollars available to be delivered through contributions.
To encourage the maximum use of this program, applicants can access a maximum of $50 thousand per project.
This type of program is typically funded by the Federal Government on a cost shared arrangement, 80% by the Federal Government and 20% by the Provincial jurisdiction.
This program is currently funded solely by the Government of Nunavut.
In addition, all funding provided under this program will be approved on a cost shared basis, thereby increasing the funds available to support the development of diversification of this industry.
Eligible activities under this program include:
technology transfer,
test fisheries and commercial surveys,
product development initiatives,
quality improvement activities,
harvesting and value added processing technology,
export market development and
inter-settlement trade development and opportunity identification initiatives such as feasibility studies and pilot projects.
Mr. Speaker, we have come a long way over the past couple of years in our efforts to develop this sector of Nunavut’s economy for the benefit of all Nunavummiut.
However, we still have a long way to go to reach the full potential of this industry.
I am quite confident that this new program will set us down the road to achieving the maximum benefits from this source over the coming years.
Minister’s Statement 089 – 1(6): Job Descriptions
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide this House with the information on the pro-active measures that are being undertaken by the Government of Nunavut to ensure beneficiaries are provided with job opportunities and career advancement in the Government of Nunavut.
The Department of Human Resources is currently undertaking an Employment Systems Review to identify and analyze both human resources policies, procedures and practices which potentially slow the recruitment, promotion and employment opportunities of beneficiaries.
Mr. Speaker, one of the key areas for this review is how the Government of Nunavut departments prepare job descriptions.
The review will make recommendations on the removal of artificially inflated requirements in education and experience needed to do a specific job in the Government of Nunavut.
In addition to the Employment Systems Review currently underway, the Department of Human Resources is assisting other departments in the critical review of specific job descriptions and will work closely with the departments in identifying the priorities of positions for review beginning early in 2003.
Mr. Speaker, by identifying and addressing the issue of artificial barriers to employment and promotion of beneficiaries the government will be better able to fulfill its obligations under Article 23 of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement.
Member’s Statement 277 – 1(6): Need for Elders’ Facility at Clyde River
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss some issues that were brought to me by my constituents regarding the elders who do not have homes.
It would be a lot better for the elders if they were properly housed.
In Clyde River there is a couple that are having a very hard time and they are living in an overcrowded house.
I have to speak about these concerns we have in our community about getting an elders’ facility.
It would better their lives and they would be more secure and peaceful if they were properly housed.
At times there is a large nuclear family living under one roof including the elders.
Because of overcrowding in housing there is also the issue of suicide amongst our youth.
We will have to look for solutions as a government.
The housing shortage at times creates a lot of problems.
It creates problems for the family units and I think it’s up to the government to look for some solutions.
We know the issue of suicide was brought up and it’s true.
We also have to know that there were a lot of problems but even if we seem to be going in the right direction, people can take us to court because of actions that we have taken.
It breaks up the Inuit society and I think we have to communicate once again in order to improve our lives.
Member’s Statement 278 – 1(6): More Planning Needed on Leadership Review
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to revisit an issue that my community of Kugluktuk has been concerned about for quite some time.
Uqaqti, during the mid-term leadership review that we held in November last year, I raised the issue of the lack of permanent space for Nunavut Arctic College to deliver training programs and courses.
During the Leadership Review the Minister indicated that he would be reviewing this issue.
Uqaqti, in March of this year, I spoke in the House about the need for a permanent facility in Kugluktuk.
Although some communities are getting funding for Community Learning Centres in the Five Year Capital Plan, Kugluktuk is not.
Uqaqti, courses have been delivered out of a building owned by the Hamlet, but this is not a permanent solution.
Uqaqti, other Members and I have talked on numerous occasions about the need to develop a plan to train our residents for employment in such fields as the Mining Sector.
Uqaqti, the Minister of Sustainable Development has told me that his Department is committed to develop a Mining Strategy within the next year.
Uqaqti, I would suggest that any Mining Strategy must also include a plan for training.
Uqaqti, lifelong training is supposed to be a core goal of the Government.
If we are truly committed to helping Nunavummiut gain the education, skills, and training that they need, then we must also make the necessary investments in the basic infrastructure that supports training.
Member’s Statement 279 – 1(6): Congratulations to Youth
I rise today with pride for the residents of Baffin that had games on September 6, 2002.
Mr. Speaker, they had Athletes come in from Tunnuniq, my riding.
I would like to congratulate Jimmy Merkosak 99 points, Chris Merkosak 79, Ernie Merkosak 62 points, and Brandy Killiktee 59 points.
Jimmy Merkosak was in the junior category, and Chris Merkosak was one of the juvenile athletes for Tunnunirmiut.
They got 290 points and captured first place for community points during the Games, and I would like to congratulate them.
Member’s Statement 280 – 1(6): Female Inmate Facility Needed
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the need for adequate correctional facilities for female offenders in Nunavut.
Mr. Speaker, I have been concerned for some time now about the lack of space to house female offenders in Nunavut.
Mr. Speaker, as all Members are well aware, female prisoners, including many awaiting trial, are housed at the women’s correctional centre in Fort Smith.
Mr. Speaker, the Government has been talking for some time now about long-term plans to address the institutional needs of Nunavut.
(interpretation ends) Mr. Speaker, our efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate female offenders are not helped by the fact that many of them are so far from Nunavut.
I am unaware of any other jurisdiction in Canada where female offenders serving territorial sentences or awaiting trial have to be shipped to another province or territory.
(interpretation) Mr. Speaker, we will be examining the five-year capital plan of the Department of Justice later this week, and I will be vigorously pursuing this issue with the Minister and his officials.
Member’s Statement 281 – 1(6): Continuing Education and Funding Not Available
Mr. Speaker, I have received more than one letter from Repulse Bay Arctic College students concerning the delivery and process of funding for Arctic College.
Today introduction of education in a formal setting is very important.
We all encourage further education and more people who are willing to take up further education.
Mr. Speaker, there are people who want to get into the workforce and there are those who want to earn a living doing arts and crafts and the number is rising.
Let us support these people.
I’ve heard that there are many opportunities and there are many individuals that are having to continue their education.
The problem in Repulse Bay is many students are now discouraged because the funding process is too slow, not enough or there is no sponsorship at all.
Mr. Speaker, when the students have a problem with the process there should be an administrative office in the Nunavut government where a student could seek help without delay.
Member’s Statement 282 – 1(6): Funding to Continue Education
Mr. Alakannuark already made a statement in regards to funding for Arctic College students.
What we wanted to do is help the people that want to continue their education through Nunavut Arctic College.
But the problems that arise most times are because of the policies of Arctic College of Nunavut even though some students want to continue with their education.
We heard from the Minister of Education’s statement about the job descriptions and other things that they are reviewing.
There are a lot of people that have taken Arctic College training or through Universities and they get employment through the Government of Nunavut and that’s why they want to continue their education to get employment from the government.
At the time of the GNWT after they took their training they did not get a job, but it’s not that way with the Nunavut Government now.
The Premier also made a statement regarding role models and he stated the names of those individuals that are good role models in the Nunavut Government.
I know there are a lot of people who would like to take the opportunity of having employment with the Government of Nunavut and to be good role models.
We want this to continue and I will be asking the Minister of Education during question period as to how the policies can be implemented to make it easier for those individuals.
Member’s Statement 283 – 1(6): Recognition of Home Care Providers
Hon. Peter Kilabuk (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yes, I will be responding to the questions of the members.
The members know that I just came back recently from Pangnirtung and I visited some people that are sick and also some elders while I was in Pangnirtung.
I rise today to recognize the people that support individuals that are alone or serving people that are sick and elderly people who need help.
I would like to recognize those people in Pangnirtung for caring for those individuals that are sick and elders that are alone.
I would like to also on behalf of the members, thank my constituents.
I would also like to say hello to my grandchild from Qikiqtarjuaq.
Member’s Statement 284 – 1(6): Excellent Community Work – Iqaluit Music Society
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tell Members of this House about excellent community work performed by the Iqaluit Music Society.
In my Member’s Statement last Thursday, I spoke about the generosity of Nunavummiut in supporting charitable organizations.
The Iqaluit Music Society is an organization that is most deserving of this support.
Mr. Speaker, music is a part of every culture in the world.
Music is the universal language that brings people together.
In our schools, where available, music is an important part of our children’s education.
Mr. Speaker, the Iqaluit Music Society has been actively involved in supporting a number of very worthwhile events.
These include the spring musical, The Children of Eden and the fall musical, the Wizard of Oz. I’m sure everyone is looking forward to this year’s performance; I believe it’s a musical comedy called Anything Goes.
The 2002 Music Camp brought together over 80 young people and adults for several days of learning, sharing and playing.
The Inuksuk High Music Program received several thousand dollars worth of new musical instruments, as did the community orchestra.
The music society is active in supporting local musical talent through its regular series of coffeehouses that are held approximately every 4 to 6 weeks and are now, they don’t even need to advertise anymore, usually they have a full house, a great evening out for any members that are in town when it’s here, you should take it.
Mr. Speaker, special recognition is due a number of hardworking community members, including Madame Justice Bev Browne, Peter and Marilyn Scott, Lorraine Thomas, Heather Daily and Colleen Walsh.
Mr. Speaker, the last coffee house I attended they had these bumper stickers that they were giving out.
“Please note” it says, “…schools need music.”
I will be tabling these today so every member has a copy, one for them and I think there are even a few extras here for the Minister of Education that he can hang on to.
Mr. Speaker, at this time I would like to ask all Members to join me in a harmonious salute to the Iqaluit Music Society.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize a young individual; my 7 year old son Trenton who has come to spend a weekend with me here in Iqaluit.
I would also at the same time recognize and thank my colleague Ed Picco, for having himself and his son Paka be able to entertain my son so my son wouldn’t have to hang out with his dad all weekend.
Question 276 – 1(6): Meeting with Arctic College Officials
Mr. Havioyak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I thought we were on item 7.
In regards to my Member’s Statement a while ago, I want to ask about Arctic College.
I am going to be asking the Minister of Education if he has had a meeting with the Arctic College Board of Governors recently.
I also want to ask him if there are going to be some facilities or housing for those adults that are going to Arctic College in our communities.
If I understood his question, he asked two questions.
For his first question, if I have met with Arctic College officials.
The response that I can give you is yes I appeared before the Committee during the review of the capital estimates for Arctic College.
We are working very well with the Board of Governors for the Arctic College when they prepared for their capital estimates, but I have not met with them just recently.
I do know what their requests are.
For his second question; if he can clarify his second question for me in regards to the adult education centres as I was not too clear on his second question.
Speaker: Mr. Havioyak, clarification.
I am sorry that I did not really clarify myself. (interpretation ends) I guess that my question is if you had met the Arctic College Board of Governors with the idea of having a facility in Kugluktuk and if that has arisen from that Board, and how soon will they be planning.
As I just last week introduced the new Board of Governors I will have to meet with them.
I do want to elaborate to my colleague here that Kugluktuk’s request for Arctic College, our officials know about their requests and they are reviewing the request at this time.  I also would like to elaborate to my colleague that Kugluktuk was not the only one that had requested facilities, but my officials are working with the Board of Governors of Arctic College.
Mr. Havioyak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and the Minister.
I am going to be talking in Inuinnaqtun.
We have been encouraging the Minister to try and that Arctic College  …audio not available...
As I was stating, the young people in Kugluktuk have the education and they have gone through the Grade 11 and Grade 12 programs.
We have been encouraging our young people who have graduated to look for employment within the mining Industry and with the Government.
I would like to ask the Minister when the Arctic College facility will be in place for Kugluktuk.
Unfortunately at this time I cannot give you an accurate time frame as to when we are going to look at building a new facility for the Kugluktuk residents.
However Mr. Speaker, I assured the member that we’re aware of the need for a new facility or the request for a new facility for Kugluktuk.
And as members know in the House, there have been opportunities where we’ve been able to advance projects depending on going to a Supplementary request.
But however at this time, Mr. Speaker I am not in the position to commit to a timeframe as to when we will be looking at a new facility in Kugluktuk.
Mr. Havioyak (interpretation): Thank you, Mr. Speaker and I thank the Minister for his response. (interpretation ends) Maybe I’ll try another way.
The timeframe I can understand.
Maybe within this five year capital plan, that can be slated for one of those spots in the five year capital plan.
I will definitely commit to sitting down and meeting with my colleague to look at what’s in the plan and to make sure that this information can be forwarded to the community of Kugluktuk.
Question 277 – 1(6): Breakwater Incident in Pond Inlet and Funding for Boat Loss
I apologise Mr. Speaker, I didn’t think you were going to call my name right away.
I will direct my question to the Minister Responsible for Sustainable Development.
In the Pangnirtung session I made a Member’s Statement in regards to the breakwater in Pond Inlet and I made a statement about an individual that passed away in Pond Inlet.
I told the minister that I would ask him a question in regards to this issue.
The Department of Sustainable Development’s boat, how much money did they lose because of the breakdowns of the engines?
As to how much money was lost, I don’t have that information with me for that boat.
I’m sure it’ll become evident how much money was lost when the boat capsized as the engine was brand new and was just put in this summer; it broke down too.
I’m sure the engines will probably need replacement, so I was wondering if the minister is willing to give support to the Hamlet council of Pond Inlet when they start working on that because I’m sure they will start paying from their O and M, if they are not supported.
We are quite concerned about the breakwaters; not just in Pond Inlet but both of my constituencies are quite concerned about the breakwaters also.
The Department of Transportation is responsible for breakwaters, but I’m sure it’s going to have an impact on us and we would have that jurisdiction if it concerns tourism or fisheries.
So the Department of Sustainable Development doesn’t have the jurisdiction to deal with the breakwaters.
I mentioned before about the Department of Sustainable Development’s boat.
The Minister stated that he doesn’t have the information at hand.
Perhaps the Minister would be willing to give me that information as soon as possible so that we will know how much it cost for the loss of that boat.
Yes, we will look into it.
Question 278 – 1(6): Contact Person for Housing for Potential Arctic College Students
In regards to my Member’s Statement, the Arctic College students when they want to apply to go to Arctic College and they don’t know where they will be staying, who would these potential students who would like to further their training at Arctic College, who would they consult at the local level?
In the three regions in Nunavut, the Baffin, Kivalliq, and the Kitikmeot, in Cambridge Bay we have the headquarters for the Kitikmeot region, Rankin Inlet, for the Kivalliq, and Iqaluit for the Baffin region.
You can either contact these three headquarters, or contact the individual in Arviat who works for the Income Support Program.
They are all in Arviat.
You can consult with any one of these.
The reason I am asking this question is that in one of my ridings there was an individual who does not know who to contact, and I myself don’t know who the contact people are.
The individuals working in Rankin Inlet, are they Government of Nunavut employees?
They are Arctic College staff and they have been hired by the Arctic College.
Since my colleague asked who the contact people are I will give all the information and the phone numbers and addresses of the three regions.
Also I will give him the phone numbers and addresses in Arviat so he will have all that information.
Oral Questions. Supplementary. Mr. Alakannuark.
Briefly, my last supplementary.
Whether you are in the Keewatin region, could you contact the other regional offices?
Or are we allowed to contact the other regions as a contact even though we come from a different region?
If you want to get information, any kind of information, you can contact either one of the three regional offices.
It is at the discretion of the individual whether they want to contact the other three regions.
They are all open.
Question 279 – 1(6): Funding Nursing and Teaching Programs with Supplementary Appropriation
I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Education in regards to the Minister’s statement that he made earlier.
What I want to ask him is - there were two Supplementary Appropriations that we have dealt with so far.
In Pangnirtung we tabled a motion, which was unanimously agreed to by the Members, that Nursing and Teaching programs would be funded with Supplementary Appropriations.
Why is it not included in here?
In the budget discussions, this winter we will be reviewing the two programs that you mentioned when we are dealing with the main estimates.
I will look into it further and give you an update on what is happening and I will give you the proper answer when we come to deal with the main estimates.
Mr. Arvaluk (interpretation): I didn’t quite understand the Minister and he didn’t even respond to the question that I posed.
Are you talking about the February main estimates discussions?
Speaker: Minister. Kilabuk.
My colleagues know that there was a time when I tabled a document on the Teaching and Nursing Programs that are held at the Arctic College.
I have already notified the House that there was an increase in the FANS and like I said earlier I will do a review of what has been happening to date and you will get your answer at the winter session.
My question was about the wording in the motion that was tabled in Pangnirtung.
We have seen two Supplementary Appropriations and my question was why it wasn’t included in the supplementaries.
Would the FANS for the Nursing and Teaching Programs, you did mention an increase on the FANS?
Does that mean that the students now have adequate living allowances?
Is that why it is not included in the supplementaries?
Mr. Speaker, maybe I didn’t respond to the Member appropriately but Mr. Speaker, we will be discussing this issue during the main estimates.
Mr. Arvaluk (interpretation): That was very short Mr. Speaker.
As the minister indicated, he said that they would be doing a review before the February sitting.
Is the minister saying that the increase in the FANS is adequate or are we looking at increasing the amount at the February sitting?
Just to point out that was asked about earlier.
The Arctic College programs are different and we try to keep a close eye on their expenditures.
We continually try to ensure that there are adequate resources and funding.
Because of the shortage of funds we cannot always meet the financial needs the students would like to get or for the operations of the Arctic College facilities.
Question 280 – 1(6): Adequate Housing for Arctic College Students