The structure of the water-sewer program appears to penalize certain communities, and overall funding is inadequate. We have concerns regarding airport jurisdiction, and Nav Canada safety in the Arctic. With the lack of a Territorial Economic Development Strategy, and at the federal level, the absence of an Economic Development Agreement and Northern Economic Development Strategy, community economies are suffering. We need programs that target specific sectors, such as tourism, arts and crafts, renewable resources, and minerals. The creation of jobs, and promising futures for our children will help address the social problems that are impacting our communities.
Communities are concerned about the ongoing shortage of nurses and doctors.
We see social problems as one of the most important issues facing our communities. Social problems are damaging our communities, and putting a huge drain on limited financial and human resources. No doubt, local elected officials will arrive in Rankin Inlet looking for answers. But we will also welcome the opportunity to have input into the GN decision-making machinery, and to participate in a process that often seems to disregard our views. Communities are the lifeblood of Nunavut, and must be heard.